Manning-Great Lakes Focus i153

Grow a Mo' Save a Bro

November 2019. issue 153

Centre S t a c e y

L e e

2 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS Suite 2 / 42 Wharf St, Forster 2428 PHONE: (02) 6555 3381 FAX (02) 6555 7338 EMAIL annette@focusmag.com.au WEB www.focusmag.com.au TV www.focustv.com.au

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

SALES EXECUTIVE: Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au

SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

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

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Phiranno Chuon phi@focusmag.com.au

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 November issue of Manning-Great Lakes FOCUS.

W

elcome to the November edition of FOCUS. This month we profile talented cover star Stacey Lee from Stacey Lee’s

Centre Stage ... Read all about Stacey’s talent and commitment to the arts, as she gets set to stage an original music production entitled Perfectly Imperfect with her students.

Don’t miss this theatrical retelling of the popular Mary Poppins classic coming up at the MEC in Taree.

This month we also feature the bustling

Wharf Street shopping precinct in Forster, as the retailers prepare for another Christmas season. You will find many Christmas gift giving ideas for yourself and your loved ones.

There is so much choice on offer, and we do encourage you to shop local this year and support our local retailers.

Our regular dining and entertainment pages are all here ready to entice you with their mouth watering food offerings and entertaining schedules. There is certainly a lot happening in our great region, with so much community initiative from our locals - the Manning-Great Lakes is a great place to taste,

sip and celebrate as we head into summer.

You can also read all about Sarah Baker’s preferred holiday destination - the Cook Islands - a definite must for your bucket list if you like sun, sand and tropical weather!

A huge shout out to the tireless work of our local and visiting fire-fighters from around the region. The Manning-Great Lakes community is extremely grateful for your bravery and commitment.

We do hope everyone remains safe and secure during this volatile time.

Until next month!

The new GLC. All kinds of strength.

The new generation of Australia’s favourite medium sized luxury SUV* has arrived. The new GLC is more dynamic, versatile and intelligent than ever. Impressive from within; just say ‘Hey Mercedes’ and enjoy an effortless drive with MBUX intuitive technology. Expressive on the outside; its progressive new body-styling is designed to stand out. Whatever you’re set to achieve, the new GLC is just as driven as you are.

Experience it today at Taree Motorama. www.mbtaree.com.au *Based on highest volume of sales of SUV Medium >60K Segment as set out in VFACTS reports March 2019 – August 2019 inclusive published by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries CAN 008 550 347 (FCAI).

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

Manning-Great Lakes focus 3

contents Issue 153 - November 2019

focusinterviews

8

Perfectly Imperfect.

Take a risk, follow your gut and have a clear vision.

These were the beginning foundations of Stacey Lee’s Centre Stage. After that, as they say, the rest is history. With just over 170 students and counting, Stacey has proved that hard work and dedication really does leave the whole world at your feet ...

feature a special

SHOP LOCAL AT WHARF STREET

at WHARF

30

STREET

12

Sara Croker.

When local Sara Croker found out she had the “big C” Cancer - she found herself wondering how she could bring more awareness to this cruel disease … and, surrounding herself with other cancer sufferers and survivors, set about creating a unique and local Calendar for Cancer Awareness. We spoke with Sara about the calendar.

18

Gifting a hand up, not a hand out.

the Usual

The Vinnies cap sits comfortably on Vince Ryan.

The Regional President for Vinnies is intimately involved in helping the growing number of people in the Manning and Great Lakes who need a hand up, not a hand out, to pay their bills, put food on the table, and feel a sense of hope.

10. WHAT’S ON for November 20. EAT local restaurants 24. NEV’S EDIBLE GARDENING with Neville Donovan 24. FOCUS ON FOOD Donna Carrier 47. STARS with Terri 51. BUSINESS MINDS with Bronwyn Davis 52. REAL ESTATE UPDATE with Amanda Tate 52. TOURISM with Sharon Bultitude 53. MONEY MATTERS with Alan Tickle

41

Share the Dignity Nicole Wiffen Share the Dignity is all about providing essentials to women in our local area when it matters most. We found out more about this fantastic initiative from Nicole Wiffen, who has been involved for a number of years.

4 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Suspects

follow us on

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.

Movember is uniquely placed to address men’s health on a global scale. In truth, there are a lot of blokes out there doing it tough, but the tragedy is - we don’t talk about it.

G

row a Mo', save a Bro is a proactive initiative that provides funding for the three biggest health issues facing men: prostate cancer; testicular cancer; mental health and suicide prevention, with the aim to reduce the number of men dying prematurely by 25% by 2030.

Please introduce yourself and tell us what inspired you to get on board with Movember.

My name is Craig Johnston. I have worked in the health care industry for the past 23 years. I see and experience first-hand the impacts of men’s ill health, both physical and mental, on men as patients, and their loved ones. Four years ago, a staff member’s son committed suicide; seeing and feeling the impact on their family and our workplace motivated me to do what I can to promote the Movember cause. Through raising awareness, if I can encourage men to seek help or talk to someone and stop one person from dying unnecessarily, than I have succeeded in what I have set out to do.

How does Movember work, and are there certain rules to be followed?

Movember.com.au is about growing your mo' and starting conversations

with others to help them feel mentally healthy and well. But for those men who are a little unsure or quiet, what advice would you give to them to help kick start these conversations?

Generally just starting the conversation is the first step; just by asking, "Are you OK?" It is simple and effective; it’s about being consistent with checking in on your mates.

If you have noticed a change in them - say it! If you’re concerned about them - tell them!

As I tell everyone, subtlety doesn’t work; be open and honest.

We find all too often These feelings may pass Awareness and men dismiss their feelings initially; however they open discussion, as something that will often return with greater persistent consistency frequency. If you feel like pass, or they have a I feel is the key. Get something is wrong, tendency to distract men to talk about that you are not your themselves with tasks or their health. Get usual self, physically or go into the "man cave". the conversation mentally, talk with your GP. These feelings may pass started. It’s OK to ask initially; however, they for help, it's OK to often return with greater accept help. It’s even frequency. If you feel like OK to admit that something is wrong, that you are not your you don’t know what is happening with your usual self, physically or mentally, talk with health. The best thing we can do is recognise your GP. we need help or encourage people to get How can we all help make change help. We all joke about “man flu”, but it's happen? probably the men’s health issue we openly

talk about. Imagine what it would be like if men could openly talk about their health issues as easily as we talk about man flu.

What do you hope to achieve by taking part?

For me, it’s all about raising awareness, starting conversations and changing the face of men’s health, with the added bonus of raising money for a great cause.

Where can we donate to your fundraising? moteam.co/mayo-midcoast-choppers Please sign up and join the team - all Mo' bros and Mo’ sistas are welcome.

Thanks Craig.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 5

focusinterview.

UP AND COMING TALENT JORDAN DUNN SPEAKS TO US ABOUT HIS PASSION AND LOVE OF MUSIC.

W

hat drew you to the decks? Can you tell us how you got started?

I've always had a strong passion for music. My father taught me how to play the drums when I was very young, and it all started from there. Throughout primary school I would enter talent shows, performing covers of AC/DC songs. One year I took out second place!

During high school I then began singing after one of my friends heard me and told me I should start doing it more. I'm very grateful that she pushed me to do so, because now I'm able to sing my own songs.

During Year 9, my music teacher bought a small DJ Controller for the music room. It was at that point I fell in love with DJing.

During lunch breaks I would book the music room and just play around with it; I wasn't very good, but I promised myself that I would try to improve, so one day the SRC may let me DJ the school socials - which eventually became a reality, after I bought my own DJ Controller in Year 10.

The rest is history!

You write and produce your own tracks. Tell us a bit about the creative process?

I could go on forever about my process of making music! But I'll try to compress the information (producer pun).

There are two ways in which I approach making a song. Writing the lyrics and then creating the music, or creating the music and then writing lyrics. Each way has their own benefits.

When I choose to start with the lyrics, I ask myself the five Ws (Who? What? Where? When?

Why?) in order to set a scene in my head for the thematic direction of the song. A lot of people have their own method of writing; however, I find this to be very beneficial for me. It gives me all the information I need to start writing. Then I ask myself whether I want to sing it, rap it, or perhaps even program my vocals to sound unnatural and robotic.

Creating the music first is something I do quite a lot. I'll ask myself what mood I want to convey 6 Manning-Great Lakes focus

That can be a very difficult question to answer, actually. It

is very important for a

with the instrumental alone. Almost every time I make a song, I want it to sound uplifting. A lot of lyrical content I tend to write about is already dark enough, so I like to contrast that with a happy sounding instrumental. To do that I will focus on making chord progressions that consist mainly of major chords. I will then create bright and colourful melodies to accompany them.

I tend to focus on programming most of the track on piano, until I have enough to begin working on the structure of the song. Once I have a rough idea where I want everything to go, I will then begin adding all the other instruments to fill out the texture of the track. Instruments vary, depending on the direction I want to take the track, but they may include bass, guitar and synthesizers, to name a few.

Is there a particular artist you admire and why?

I'm constantly being inspired by artists all around the world. However, the one artist who changed the way I thought about music and actually introduced me to dance music and DJing/ producing was Tim Bergling. He was known best by his stage name, “Avicii”.

I was introduced to his music back in 2010, when I heard his single, Seek Bromance on the radio coming home from school one day. I instantly fell in love with his music after listening to the rest of the songs he had put out when I got home. Tim was an absolute genius when it came to making music; the melodies that he could create were so beautiful. It broke my heart when I heard he had sadly passed away in April of 2018. To this day, it still doesn't feel real. Thank you, Tim for inspiring me to follow my passion of making music and blessing us all with your art!

What has been your biggest success to date?

There have been a few moments that come to mind when I think about that. Having the closing set for the Big Day In at Old Bar was a very big deal for me. To be able to play at an event like that was incredible! Having my residency at The Royal, Taree, last year was a huge milestone in my career. I got my name out there, and I had people coming up to me and saying they love what I do, which is always very humbling to me. For me, the little things like that

DJ to be able to read a make me happier than the music, I know that crowd. The setting of the anything else.

I've done my job as a DJ gig is an important factor What do you find most and a performer. There's that comes into play. challenging about being honestly no feeling quite Are you at a wedding? A 60th a DJ? like it. birthday party? A nightclub?

This is more of a Where would you like personal answer about to see your music take performing in general. I you? Do you have big would say the anxiety of plans for the future? performing is the toughest thing for me to deal I would love to broaden my audience and have with. It's very easy to ask yourself, “What's going a larger amount of people connecting to my to go wrong?" or, “What if nobody likes your music. I decided earlier this year that I will use music?” I've been doing a lot better than I was two different aliases for my music. All my club this time last year, for sure! It's barely a problem and dance music will be released under the name anymore, as my confidence in my abilities has “Velocity”. I recently released my latest single, grown.

The Jungle, on all music platforms, and I've been To anyone struggling from anxiety when they getting amazing feedback from dance music perform, all I can say is to just be you; you have lovers. your own artistic integrity, so just be comfortable I'm actually also in the final stages of finishing with what you do and worry less on the negative! an album that I will be releasing later this year!

What type of music generally gets the crowd It will be released under my birth name, “Jordan pumping?

Dunn”. I have three singles out already! You can That can be a very difficult question to answer, find them on iTunes, and all streaming services. actually. It is very important for a DJ to be able This album is focused on my songwriting, singing to read a crowd. The setting of the gig is an and rapping. I've been lucky enough to work important factor that comes into play. Are you at with some amazing artists and friends for these a wedding? A 60th birthday party? A nightclub? songs. Stay tuned for more information on my Different settings will result in a different Instagram page. crowd that may favour a certain genre of music.

Do you have any upcoming gigs? Are you Also ask yourself questions like, “What is the available for hire? prominent age group dancing?” “How much I do! Every month I have a gig at The Lakes have they had to drink?” “What time is it?” & Ocean Hotel in Little Street, Forster. I often I do find that, especially in a nightclub setting, update my schedule on my Facebook page. a lot of people don't want to dance too early, so I am available for hire too. If you have a party, some old school R&B like Usher or Nelly can get wedding, engagement party, or would even like them at least singing along to begin. Then as the to collaborate on some music, look no further night progresses and they've had a few more than DJ Velocity! drinks, pretty much anything you play will have Where can we find out more information? them up and dancing.

As I mentioned earlier, I have an Instagram If you're ever struggling with getting people account, “Jordunn610”. There you can get to up, put on The Horses by Daryl Braithwaite. know a little bit more about my music release What do you love about performing and schedule and you can contact me directly! I also why? have a Facebook page, “DJ Velocity” which I Honestly, the best part of performing, for me, mentioned earlier too. You can also email me on is seeing the crowd dancing and having a good “jordunn610@gmail.com” or call me on time! There's nothing better than feeling all the 0474 809 629 with any enquiries you may have. positive energy of everyone you're performing Thanks Jordan. to. As soon as I see everyone dancing along with Interview: Bronwyn Davis.

28 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

Take a risk, follow your gut and have a clear vision.

These were the beginning foundations of Stacey Lee’s Centre Stage. After that, as they say, the rest is history. With just over

170 students and counting, Stacey has proved that hard work and dedication really does leave the whole world at your feet. Her newest production, "Perfectly Imperfect", brings together the students' strengths to create a fantastic empowering production that shares happiness, love and a little bit of magic!

Stacey Lee’s Centre Stage Presents

Perfectly

IMPERFECT An Original Music Production

P

erfectly Imperfect is a appearance, social status and showing the modern take on a very world their perfect highlight reel. Behind special classic. Tell us more closed doors, it is anything but perfect. When about the show ... It's so things really take a turn for the worse, a special young lady magically that appears in their lives. our students get to The audience will be see what can happen taken through all the ups I STARTED HELPING when you combine a and downs through our FRIENDS' CHILDREN IN classic and A LOT of recharacters, with some MY LOUNGE ROOM WITH imagining. very real issues brought THEIR PERFORMANCES They all have to light throughout AND SLOWLY BUILT TO fantastic imaginations, the production ... The THE POINT WHERE WE and the show really comparison game we play HAD TO MOVE TO A HOME complements where through social media, the WITH A GRANNY FLAT, SO I they're at in their living to work mentality, COULD TEACH IN A MORE abilities to take on well and the lack of joy some PROFESSIONAL MANNER. known characters, but now feel. make them their own.

Never fear! There are Our original musical some inspirational songs theatre production is set in our current throughout the production, with happiness, year, 2019. It is about a young family who love and a little magic triumphing after all! are obsessed with perfection - their home, Being a performing arts studio, our

8 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

audience is in for a real treat! They will experience some incredible acting, singing and dancing from our students, with vibrant colours, magic tricks, a great set and even some red English telephone boxes for our Covent Gardens scene!

As far as the music component goes, we have some reimagined favourites and current hit songs throughout the production.

Myself and one of my students, Jess Hickey, have written one of the songs especially for her role as Mrs Law, and teacher Kyle Shilling wrote a rap for another song we have rewritten. We really don’t do things by halves!

There is so much that goes on behind the scenes. How much preparation goes into the production of the performance?

After we were told that the rights had been retracted for the show we had originally planned to do, we knew we would have a five week delay on starting rehearsals, waiting for another to be approved. We then decided we would write our own show in the July school holidays. My family and I were on the Gold Coast for the weekend when we got the news, so I spent the drive home writing and planning while the kids were sleeping. This included many phone calls and emails with Liz Hall, who played Mary Poppins on the Taree Arts Council production.

From that point on when lessons were finished and my kids went to bed, I stayed up and kept writing, creating characters, writing songs and reimagining a stage plot, props, and how many rehearsals it would take to pull a show like this together! Liz and I liaised with Chris Tippett from the MEC and knew it would be the perfect space for us and our performance.

From here we held auditions with our students. In a musical like this, we look for all three musical theatre components (singing, acting, dancing) in each prospective lead role.

We would never put anyone into a role that felt uncomfortable or if it just wasn’t their thing. Some of our students are incredible writers, country singers, jazz singers, pianists, hip hop dancers - and that’s awesome, as we pride ourselves on making sure the students plays to their strengths, so they stay in love with their chosen passion.

With these students, we provide other ways for their light to shine, like busking and performing at community events.

After the auditions, we selected the students who fit each role best and then allocated our classes to ensemble pieces.

Our parents/volunteers have been absolutely incredible in supporting their children and the SLCS team in this process.

We work closely with parents of lead characters to ensure they will feel comfortable and confident on the stage, as we know first hand how it feels to learn loads of lines, choreography plus work on their accents and

character development.

Many parents have been making costumes, helping at rehearsals, offering help with taking measurements of the kids for their costumes, handing out info sheets and so much more.

Each Saturday we rehearse from 9 - 4pm, with Sundays being added in the last three weeks. It has been a lot of hard work from everyone involved, and I’m so excited to see it all come together!

What makes this show so special to you?

It really is something special. Just like the show’s tagline says, “Amazing things can happen if you just believe!”

With so many of us just trying to keep up with the advances in technology and the fast pace of life these days, we often forget to look for the joy and stop to enjoy what we have right in front of us. I find it difficult myself being in the start up phase of the business, taking care of a family, making sure staff, students and parents are happy, looking after the home - the list goes on!

WHEN THEY ARE HERE, I know I am not alone THEY CAN TRULY BE in this, and I’m lucky THEMSELVES. THE that I get to create TEACHERS AND I HAVE at once. My husband, something that captures A VERY CLEAR VISION Shane, me, my kids Téa how many of us feel and OF EMPOWERING EACH and Tyler, friends Troy put it on a stage. There STUDENT THROUGH THE and Shanna plus one of is something cathartic PERFORMING ARTS AND WE our teachers, Kyle and about watching and FIND PARENTS COMMENT his mates turned an feeling something like ON IT EVERY DAY. empty warehouse into this that can really hit what you see today in home and maybe even three weeks! allow for some of us to It seriously felt like course correct. we were on The Block and finished painting The creative arts is and always will be an on the day we opened the doors! amazing way to express what is happening It was crazy, but so so worth it. within ourselves and our communities.

You open not only your studio doors, but You have 170 students, which is inspiring your heart to these kids. How has this considering you only opened the studio been accepted within the community, in February. How excited are they all for and what impact does this make on them this major performance? personally?

There have been a couple of times I’ve This is where I could write for pages and caught myself standing out front before pages. The best thing for me I guess is that opening the doors, simply staring at the we have created a community. The fact the studio in disbelief. Never in my wildest kids know that the studio is a no judgement dreams would I have imagined this zone, they always have each others' backs, happening! support one another when they feel a I started helping friends' children in my little down or make a little mistake is just lounge room with their performances and beautiful. slowly built to the point where we had to When they are here, they can truly be move to a home with a granny flat, so I themselves. The teachers and I have a very could teach in a more professional manner. I clear vision of empowering each student finished up at my full-time job in real estate through the performing arts, and we find when I had around 20 students, and from parents comment on it every day. there it grew to 50 in six months!

Some of our students have had previous It was impossible to teach any more mental health issues, social anxiety, children on my own, and I was still getting depression, lack of self esteem, but together loads of enquires. So, I ran with what my gut we gently work through it. Whether it be instinct told me and decided to open a studio positive self expression, finding songs that where we could have several classes running make them happy, writing about their

feelings or simply knowing they “belong” can really change their life.

Their school teachers have even commented that they have seen a huge improvement in their school work and general social skills.

I figure if thousands of years ago, music and creativity brought villages and tribes together, we can continue the tradition. It truly is something special to see the kids talking to each other in such positive and encouraging ways and notice the ripple effect that it has.

I’ve been fortunate to work with local schools, the PCYC Taree and other local programs where we can help empower through the creative arts. Kids need self expression and to find the joy from within.

My goal is to help build our area into a creative arts hub and really put the Barrington Coast on the map. Sitting on the Cultural Planning Group has helped me to see there are many other community groups that feel the same way, and together we can achieve anything.

When and where will the show be held, and where do we go to grab tickets?

The show is just about sold out! How exciting for our students! It is at the Manning Entertainment Centre on the 16th November.

Tickets can be purchased through the Manning Entertainment Centre's website: mec.midcoast.nsw.gov.au Next year, we are planning on doing three shows and really getting the community involved!

Thanks Stacey.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 9

focus_What’s On Manning-Great Lakes

N O V E M B E R

2 0 1 9

Health & Wellness Expo

United spiritualism - join this exciting community initiative for an event of health and wellness products, psychic mediums and readers, holistic medicine and guest speakers for an insightful insight into health and wellness.

When Saturday, November 2nd, from 9am to 4pm.

Where Club Forster, Strand Street, Forster.

Tickets FREE ENTRY.

Forster-Tuncurry

Lakeside Festival

2

All Abilities Kids Triathlon

Melbourne Cup

Hallidays Point Car Boot Sale

Car boot sale operating on the first Sunday of each month all year round. Run by Hallidays Point Lions Club.

Stall holders are welcome.

When Sunday 3rd November, 7am to noon.

Where Hallidays Point Shopping Village, Black Head.

Info Alan Stewart. 6559 3043 or 0488 160 126.

Email: bearlove1@bigpond.com

10 Manning-Great Lakes focus

5

Open to kids of all abilities, kindy through to high school.

Entry $10 - drink, sausage and medal included!

When Sunday 10th November.

Where Great Lakes Aquatic Centre - YMCA, 51 Lake St. Time 8:30am: drop off bike and mark name off.

Start 9am: kids will start in class groups.

What to bring: swimmers, goggles, towel, bike, helmet, shoes, shirt for bike and run leg.

Enquiries 0437 655 458 - Register online www. forstertriclub.com.au (on the day registrations available.)

at Forster Tuncurry Golf Club

Best dressed lady, best dressed man, best hat, sweeps, wooden horse racing. Two course meal - $30pp.

When Tuesday 5th November - 11am - 4pm.

Where Strand St, Forster.

Info (02) 6554 6799 / forstertuncurrygolf.com.au

Weaving Collaboration

It’s all here - everything we love about the Mid North Coast region and more. Featuring headline acts GANGgajang, Round Mountain Girls, Floyd Vincent & The Temple Dogs, The Swamp Stompers and The Big Fins, enjoy local street food and drinks, art, music and community.

When Saturday, November 2nd from noon.

Where John Wright Park, Tuncurry.

Tickets $25 online, or $35 at the gate.

Website www.lakesidefestival.com.au

3

10

Lifestyle Solutions

9

Halloween Ball

You’re invited to our annual fundraiser, and this year it promises to be a scream!

There’ll be food, boos and scares galore. Music by The Big Fins will get you on the dance floor. Come one, come all for a spooktacular night, and if you’ve got it, haunt it, make sure you look a fright.

When Saturday 9th November, 6pm ‘til late.

Where Club Forster, 19 Strand St, Forster.

Tickets $55 each or $500 for a table of 10.

RSVP and ticket collection 6555 7744.

Each Saturday in November the gallery will run a series of casual drop in opportunities to collaborate on a concept driven weaving work that will travel with the Saltwater Freshwater exhibition. Bookings essential.

Where Manning Regional Art Gallery.

When Saturdays - 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th November, 10:30am - 3pm. Phone (02) 6592 5455.

Email art.gallery@midcoast.nsw.gov.au Website mrag.midcoast.nsw.gov.au

23

Harrison Craig Sings Elton John Love Songs

Australia’s prince of crooning and love ballads, Harrison Craig returns in 2019 to embark on a national tour honouring the emotional, intimate and soulful love songs of the great, Sir Elton John.

More info themec.com.au When Saturday 23rd November, 8pm - 10pm.

Where Manning Entertainment Centre.

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 our shopping, we will head to East Maitland Bowling Club for dinner before heading home (dinner included in cost).

Cost $60 per person.

LIVE SHOWS (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 both. Matinee show, Lyric Theatre, Sydney.

Inc. dinner. Cost $150 per person.

(April 2020) Wed 15th to Thur 16th - La Traviata, Opera on the Harbour Cost $600 per person; add an extra $180 for single room.

(May 2020) Wednesday 13th - Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 1pm show at the Lyric Theatre, Sydney. Includes dinner. Cost $140 per person.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 11

SARA Croker focusinterview.

A

bit about you … your history in the area, and when did your battle with cancer begin?

I’m a born and bred country town girl originally from Cootamundra, moving to Cundletown in 2014 with hubby to be close to our parents. Happy securing a full-time job as an early childhood educator at Cundletown Preschool, I led a gold star team, having an absolute blast in the baby/ toddler room. My passions led me to take the next step in my own learning, studying for my Bachelor through university online. Hubby and I also decided to start training to become foster parents last year.

Everything was going well, until I started to get run down at the end of last year (2018).

2019 began with bowel issues, tummy pains and rapid weight loss. I thought to myself, “Something isn’t quite right. This isn’t just life pulling me down”. So, I went to my local GP and following some thorough questioning, I was sent to undergo a range of tests. My CT scan showed a large blockage in my colon and a 50cent sized spot on my liver. With some concerns, I went for a colonoscopy, endoscopy and biopsy at the end of March.

Upon waking up from my hour-long procedure, I was told I was staying in hospital for a couple more days for observation, and that my surgeon would see me later to explain. I was told the colonoscopy could not be done; the blockage in my colon had made it impossible.

Two days later, I underwent surgery to remove the blockage. After that, I had a week to wait

12 Manning-Great Lakes focus

When local Sara Croker found out she had the “big C” - Cancer - she found herself wondering how she could bring more awareness to this cruel disease … and, surrounding herself with other cancer sufferers and survivors, set about creating a unique and local Calendar for Cancer Awareness. We spoke with Sara about the calendar. offered loads of ideas, to see the surgeon and I HAVE NOT information and support. find out my results. Then, ONLY CREATED A How did you manage BOOM - the news nobody FUNDR AISER TO HELP to find so many ever wants to hear …!

CANCER PATIENTS AND willing subjects for the “Sara, your tumor and THEIR FAMILIES, BUT calendar? sixteen of the forty nodes HAVE MADE THE BEST I set up a Facebook page, we took were cancerous”.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS IN “Manning Valley Cancer From here, I had a PET WHAT WE CALL OUR Awareness 2020 Calendar” scan and was referred ‘WARRIOR TRIBE’. and distributed flyers at to the oncology unit at oncology, plus through Taree Base. It was here word of mouth. that I meet the lovely What’s been the Giovana, who told me as experience so far in getting this calendar sweetly as she could, “You have terminal colon together? Have you found that it brought a cancer, which has metastasized to your liver and sense of support and positivity with it? lymph nodes throughout your abdomen. Your It’s been a creative, busy and inspiring life expectancy is two to five years. But I am experience which has brought support, laughter, going to do all I can to help you”. This meant strength and purpose to the lives of the women chemotherapy for three days every two weeks involved. I have not only created a fundraiser for six months and possibly more surgery down to help cancer patients and their families, but the track. have made the best circle of friends in what On Wednesday 16th October, I had my we call our “warrior tribe”. I am truly humbled twelfth chemo treatment, followed by another by all the local and distant support through CT scan and possible laparoscopy procedure in donations, time given by hairdressers, makeup Sydney next month. artists and photographers to create the amazing How did you first come up with the idea of photos for our calendar, local media for creating a calendar like this?

Receiving a wealth of information, I was given spreading our story, and businesses supplying prizes for our raffle. a flyer about the “Look Good, Feel Better” What are you the major outcomes you workshop. Filling out the form online and are hoping to achieve as a result of this receiving a booking for June, I thought it would project? be nice to get photos taken. Then it hit me: “A The major outcome I want to achieve is calendar. A local cancer awareness calendar!” around cancer awareness: that the disease From here, I approached our local Can Assist comes in so many forms, affecting anyone, at branch, as I wanted to donate the funds to any age; that it has a domino effect, touching them. They were so excited about my idea and

family, friends, work and study, and we all need to pull together to support one another.

Also, raising much needed funds to support our local community. It is a very expensive process for some, especially when you can’t work. And, creating a local cancer support group, which is well on its way with my new circle of friends!

Are there any people you’d like to particularly thank for assisting with this project?

My hubby Mark, Ma and Big Fella, Mum Croker, bestie Bec, Cundletown Preschool friends and family. My warriors: Bron, Jen, Dale, Donna, Julia, Marilyn, Carol, Karen, Samantha, Debbie, Dianne, Kacee, Jodie and Sam. As well as Can Assist, Hairworks at Harrington, Admire Skin Care and Beauty, Lauren Molloy, Ambiance Day Spa, ST Imagery, LySar Photography and Captured by Me Photography.

Where can people purchase your calendar from?

Pre-orders are available through contacting me via the Facebook group - Manning Valley Cancer Awareness 2020 Calendar - or by contacting me on 0422 132 155.

Any other thoughts you’d like to share with our readers?

Cancer takes away goals, independence, opportunities and loved ones, but through a great supportive network and a positive approach, anything is possible. I am proof of that!

Thanks Sara.

Interview: Ingrid Bayer.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 55

focusinterview.

Helen Holliday - Health Hub Taree/Harrington

YOUNG

Indigenous Artist award

Inspired by the recent artwork commission and collaboration between St Clare’s High School, its students and the Health Hub Taree to commission an artwork with cultural significance, Helen Holliday and the Health Hub Taree and Harrington has launched an annual "Emerging Young Indigenous Artist Award", which is to be awarded to the student for outstanding achievements and commitments to their work in art.

H

i Helen. Congratulations on the recent launch of the Health Hub here in Taree. This was a project very close to your heart.

How does it feel to now see it come to fruition?

For Simon and I, seeing the results of our hard work and planning for stage one of our medical practice is both rewarding and energising. This project will be an ongoing one, developing and progressing as the community grows and changes.

Tell us a little about the design concept of the Hub and what you were aiming to portray?

Our design vision was to create a homely, more relaxing space in our waiting areas, by including a warm colour palette with our seating fabrics, seating pods with sofas, comfy wing chairs, coffee tables, and a range of different chairs and benches. Our builders created a long padded bespoke bench for the kids to stretch out and rest on or on which to use their devices.

There are tables for people to sit around in family or friendship groups for a catch up if need be.

There is also a corner kids' space for drawing and playing (under gorgeous fairy lights).

Thanks to our designer, Amanda from Gather and Place, we have been able to provide a comfortable, welcoming, calming and visually beautiful space in which to accommodate our patients, and for our staff and doctors to work together in.

While designing the Health Hub, you commissioned four Indigenous students from St Clare’s High School Taree to create the mural artwork which now hangs proudly as an amazing focal point in the waiting room. Can you tell us a little more about how this came about?

Our artwork was painted by Kartika, Brooke, Ella, Jade (and Finlay, who painted 14 Manning-Great Lakes focus

an individual work) who are all students at St.Clare’s High School, Taree. Our boys are both ex students of the school, and we have always appreciated the love, care and support for the arts and Indigenous culture by the teachers and the executive staff there. We felt that by commissioning an artwork of cultural significance, encompassing wellbeing and connection to community by the students, we could support and encourage further development and acknowledgement of culture in both the school environment and beyond.

I have Indigenous heritage and feel very strongly about our need to reconnect with our environment spiritually, physically, and artistically in order to promote health and wellbeing for all people.

Collaborating with St Clare’s High School and their students was so well received, that you have now decided to offer an annual Indigenous Art Scholarship. How will this encourage and benefit students?

Collaborating with the St. Clare’s students was a mutually positive and healing experience.

Through the care and encouragement of their support teacher Chris Beal, the students were able to learn about their totems and began to tap into the stories of the Biripi here in the Manning.

I was then invited by the school during NAIDOC week to speak bout my great grandmother’s story and my family’s discovery of our Indigenous heritage. During that speech, I was also able to talk about the need for Indigenous recognition within the Constitution and the importance of following through with the conditions put forward in the Uluru Statement. Uncle Will and Aunty Wilma were also present on that day, and both of them connected beautifully with all of the students and teachers at the school.

There is such a strong respect and

acknowledgement of all healing and inspiration of the Aboriginal leaders from the discovery of my THROUGH THE CARE here in this community. beautiful ancestor and AND ENCOURAGEMENT I personally feel that feel empowered through OF THEIR SUPPORT because of Australia’s greater knowledge of her TEACHER CHRIS BEAL, difficult past, so many story.

THE STUDENTS WERE of us have been left Both Simon and I ABLE TO LEARN ABOUT not knowing about our hope that by providing THEIR TOTEMS AND the St. Clare’s Emerging ancestry. I discovered BEGAN TO TAP INTO THE Young Indigenous Artists 10 years ago that my STORIES OF THE BIRIPI Award as an annual prize, great great grandma HERE IN THE MANNING. the students may feel was a Cabrogal woman, inspired and encouraged from the Georges River to participate in further in Liverpool. Lucy had art and cultural studies, married an English to create beauty, and to reconnect with their farmer named William Leane, and they raised 13 traditional stories and history. Our hope for them children on their flourishing farm. She was able is that they will find resilience, strength, healing to hold on to country during the late Eighteenth and a connection to country.

Century in a very unique way, being able to fish This is only the beginning for the and gather food traditionally, as well as having scholarship and the Health Hub. Can you a basic education and help to run a vineyard share some of your dreams and aspirations and orchards. She was able to pass through into settler society, whilst maintaining her culture. She for these in the near future?

Our future hopes and dreams include building also lobbied the colonial government for both a yarning room in phase two of our renovation, recognition and for the acquisition of a boat to so that we can extend hospitality to our Aunties, transport produce up and down the river, so that Indigenous counselling groups and other she could provide employment. community groups for their use in planning, Lucy’s handwritten letter was printed in meeting, or in just supporting each other over a the book Rivers and Resilience (Goodall and cuppa and chat.

Cadzow). Lucy was one of many activists seeking We are also hoping to then be able to rights and recognition at this time. She was accommodate more allied health professionals denied the use of a boat; however, she remained with some extra consulting rooms. committed to her community and family until All in all, we hope to maintain our her death. The Leane family held on to their land commitment to good health care for everybody until 1925. Australia had by that time become and to continue to learn from, acknowledge and a place of hardship, racism and stolen children. support our traditional custodians.

That’s when I believe that parts of the Leane Thanks Helen. family silenced their stories of heritage and lost their connection to country. I have found

Manning-Great Lakes focus 15

focusinterview.

St Clare’s High School

YOUNG

Indigenous Artist award

CHRIS beal

Abo ri g i nal Educati o n Teach er / Em erg i n g You n g I n d i gen ous Artist Award

P

Chris Beal, local Aboriginal Education Teacher at St Clare’s High School, is passionate about inspiring and sharing his knowledge with his students to help grow their connection to all aspects of existence. He has helped his students refine their naturally gifted selves to create artworks which are now being shared within the wider community.

lease introduce yourself and share a little about your role within the school.

I am the Aboriginal Education Teacher with responsibility for Community Liaison. I am of Aboriginal descent, and I’m passionate about preserving, celebrating and passing on the riches of Indigenous culture to both Indigenous and Non-Indigenous people. We have one of the oldest and richest systems of spirituality, philosophy, education and environmentalism on the planet right in our midst, and many of us don’t know or haven’t been shown this truth.

I also teach Indigenous art, and it’s great to see students who have never painted before quickly becoming proficient artists.

It’s innate.

With the recent opening of the Health Hub here in Taree, four of your students from St. Clare’s High School were commissioned to create the amazing mural that hangs proudly in the new premises. Tell us what this meant for you all.

The Aboriginal Studies Class of St. Clare’s High School - Taree produced the mural in the new Health Hub with my supervision.

The students are Kartika Donovan, Ella Lees, Jade Page, Finlay O’Connell and Brooke Taylor, all from Year 10. After just 18 months, these students are producing art works of a professional standard. They are naturally gifted, and I have simply focused their own talents.

16 Manning-Great Lakes focus

The students told me they found the by footprints, as intrinsically connected to experience very rewarding and a strong all of the ecosystems and fauna and flora spiritual experience. They have put their own of the region. The humans and animals hearts, minds and spirits into the work. are connected with streams of water and Can you share the story and cultural circles of earth. The truth of the painting is significance of the mural that was that when we begin to heal the connection created? between all things, then Traditional we will begin to heal all Aboriginal people see things. the human in this way: The Health Hub THE STUDENTS WILL firstly spiritual, secondly shares this vision of NEED TO DEMONSTRATE emotional, and health through its rich OVER THE COURSE OF thirdly physical. Many and varied offerings of THE YEAR COMMITMENT Aboriginal people health care, spiritual, TO IMPROVING THEIR believe that when our emotional and physical.

TECHNIQUES AND METHODS, spirit is unwell, then A great gift to Taree.

SKILL IN COMPLETION OF our emotional life will The collaboration WORKS AND AN ENTHUSIASM be unwell and that was so inspiring, TO CONTINUE TO DEVELOP these afflictions will the Health Hub has THEIR ART SKILLS. then be evidenced decided to offer an in our physical body. annual Emerging They see that these Young Indigenous aspects of our being and existence are all Artist Award to students at St Clare’s interconnected and make us a sacred being, High School as an acknowledgment alongside other sacred beings on this sacred of culture. What will this mean for the earth. student who receives this award?

Connection is a very important word and The award is a cash prize of $500 given experience for Aboriginal people. And, all of annually, and it will be an enormous us are quickly losing connection with each encouragement to an emerging young other and the earth, to the detriment of all.

Indigenous artist in the region. Some of our Aboriginal wisdom has much to offer us here students have already sold a number of their in their emphasis on connection, belonging, works to people in the Taree community. relationship, earth and the spiritual nature What will be required to participate in of existence. This belief system was not the running of the award? invented yesterday, but has been developed, The students will need to demonstrate tried, tested and refined over millennia. over the course of the year commitment to The mural depicts humans, symbolised improving their techniques and methods,

skill in completion of works and an enthusiasm to continue to develop their art skills. They must also demonstrate a preparedness to work on their artworks outside of class time.

Has participating in the commision inspired you to further develop cultural Indigenous art offered within the school and the wider community?

Most definitely. St. Clare’s has been most encouraging of local Indigenous students and people over many decades, demonstrating a commitment to celebrating, respecting and passing on culture, as well as enabling Indigenous students to get the best education available to them. The school has student art on display around the school, and students recently contributed to the Biripi Shark mural on the wall of the TIDE building in the Main Street of Taree.

The art program builds the students’ self-esteem and sense of achievement, whilst enabling them to engage in cultural activities, and thus promotes their spiritual, emotional and physical health.

Is there anything further you would like to add?

I am deeply proud to be of Australian Aboriginal descent. It is a treasure in my life worth more than any amount of money or gold. It is the essence and foundation of my existence and sense of identity. It is essential to my sense of who I am. It sustains me spiritually, emotionally and physically for my journey through this world and into the Dreaming. It connects me to life.

Thanks Chris.

Patrick Auto Group ohn Patrick Prestige Cars opened its doors in May 1992 on a small car yard in Gordon Street, selling and servicing Prestige Used Cars. Since John and Chrissy began the business, they have witnessed a lot of change in the motor industry. Part of this change has been the enormous growth in Port Macquarie and the Mid North Coast region. This has allowed the business to grow organically, servicing the local community and gaining more franchises as they progressed.

They are embarking on the next phase of the business, which includes the recent purchase of Mazda, Subaru, Holden and HSV in Port Macquarie and Toyota and Mercedes Benz in Taree and Tuncurry. The acquisition of these franchises will complement the current brands, being Honda, Peugeot, Suzuki, and Isuzu Ute in Port Macquarie.

Toby Patrick is the Dealer Principal of the Port Macquarie business, and John Patrick is the Dealer Principal of the Taree business. John and Toby bring with them a wealth of knowledge in the auto industry and look forward to working with the already accomplished teams of both these businesses.

John Patrick Prestige Cars and John Patrick Used Cars have enjoyed a long and well respected history, with a high profile on the Mid North Coast. The group has re-branded as Patrick Auto Group, as it embarks on a new era in motoring on the Mid North Coast. Patrick Auto Group looks forward to opening its doors, welcoming past, present and future clients into the business.

www.patrickauto.com.au | 46 Victoria St, Taree | 144 Manning St, Tuncurry

focus_guest contributor Ainslee Dennis from

G I F T I N G

A H A N D U P,

not a hand out

The Vinnies cap sits comfortably on Vince Ryan. The Regional President for Vinnies is intimately involved in helping the growing number of people in the Manning and Great Lakes who need a hand up, not a hand out, to pay their bills, put food on the table, and feel a sense of hope. innies is a trusted charity that works to feed, clothe and assist people who are forced to the margins of society.

How do you serve the community as its Regional President?

I support the conferences, which are volunteer groups, in Taree, Wingham, Forster, Tea Gardens, and the staff and student conference at St Clare’s High School in Taree. I am also a member of the Vinnies State Spirituality Advisory Committee, which focuses on maintaining the spirituality of St Vincent de Paul amongst the wider organisation of the Society. I recently handed the presidency role at Taree conference to someone else, who has kindly taken over that role for me after 18 months.

The conference is where people come to see us, we interview people, and try to help address their needs ... it might be giving them food, helping them with their bills, advocating on their behalf, or connecting them to other support services.

What is your experience of supporting vulnerable men and women who seek Vinnies for help?

When a person is stressed and they come to us, it is because they are desperate.

They are awake at night worrying about their bills, their future, their income, and if they have children, it complicates it even more. They come in really distressed and vulnerable.

We could simply address their physical needs, but that doesn’t solve their pain. We need them to know that they have been heard, that they are among friends, and 18 Manning-Great Lakes focus

they are not going to be judged by their situation.

One of the things that I have always said that I do as a Deacon and Chaplain at St Clare’s High School with families and students is that I sit in their pain. It’s such a gift and a wonderful thing to do, because you can connect on an intimate level. There is a deep sense of empathy, and compassion, and the real need people have is to be accepted as human beings and encouraged.

You know, the sense of hope is a really important thing for people; to be able to offer hope, to encourage them, and to be able to say, look, it’s OK, we are here for you if you need assistance. We are not about keeping people dependent on us; we provide people with some wonderful support, to enable them to get on their feet. So if we need to make phone calls, if we need to do things, if we need to access services for them outside of Vinnies, then that’s what we do to give them the best chance of getting a hand up.

Is there a shift in the number of people seeking help from Vinnies?

We have definitely noticed an increase in the number of people needing help, and it’s very challenging. Taree is a very poor area and has a low socio-economic rating, so there are a lot of people who struggle here.

Part of my vision for Vinnies was to move into better premises, because we could only interview one person at a time. The office was very small and impersonal, the walls weren’t sealed, so if people were in the reception area they could hear the conversation - it was just everything it shouldn’t be if you were trying to provide

have a few bits and pieces that we can offer people with dignity. in an emergency.

Vinnies has provided us with a new How does your faith inform how you premises in Macquarie Street, and it has help people? three beautiful offices, a big training area, I’m not a confident person; I have an storage and a kitchen, which is really essence of shyness about me. I’m a gentle wonderful - because we want to get into mover; I integrate and then see where I am enabling and educating people. St Vincent needed and that’s how I best work, and I’ve De Paul is about giving people a hand up, learned that over the years of sitting with not a hand out, and that was part of my people and hearing vision for moving into their painful stories. new premises.

I don’t do this on my What is the major own; God and I are driver of increasing partners and we do demand on Vinnies?

We need them to know this together - it’s Our biggest challenge that they have been never about me. is Newstart. It is a real heard, that they are Given my life and His problem. People cannot among friends, and involvement in it, I possibly survive on they are not going to be never see what I do as Newstart; it is nigh on judged by their situation. just me. When people impossible. The only way come to me and say they can do it is to miss Vince, that was truly out on basic services like beautiful, I’ll wink at electricity, and that’s now Him. Along with the become a big issue. love and support of my wife, Denise and The demand in our old premises was horrendous. I was looking at the statistics for three children and five grandchildren, I have a realistic appreciation of the challenges last year, and I would say 30 to 40 per cent families have. They also reflect God’s love to of people who came to see us over the last financial year were on Newstart. So then you and for me.

God is goodness. Wherever goodness encounter a lot of people who couch surf, is happening, while ever people are doing who are homeless. It’s not young people good things, in the biggest things, the that we see the most on Newstart; it is the medium things and even the tiniest little older people in their 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s who are struggling. In Taree, where are the things … the smile, the look of love, the jobs? compassion felt in our hearts, God is there Fortunately, Taree Community Kitchen run and that’s God’s work, and how our God operates. All of those millions and millions,

by CatholicCare is doing a great job feeding and myriads of good things that happen people five days-a-week, which means they every day - that’s God. can get one good meal a day, and then we

Get Ready For A New View SE NO LL W IN G !

....to start your day in Forster Tuncurry

www.rockpoolapartments.com.au

To: Tuncurry Golf Course Forster Tuncurry Racecourse Great Lakes College

Tuncurry Public Shcool

Tuncurry Sportie & Leagues Club

Tuncurry Bowling Club

Cinema

Refle 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

Wallis La

Manning-Great Lakes focus 13

TUNCURRY

Greenhouse CafĂŠ - Stacked corn fritters.

20 Manning-Great Lakes focus

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

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, seven 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 November - especially Melbourne Cup celebrations!

Manning-Great Lakes focus 19

focus

DISHES of the month

CAFÉ GIARDINO 139 VICTORIA STREET, TAREE 6557 8689 WWW.THESICILIANRESTAURANT.COM.AU

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

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

22 Manning-Great Lakes focus

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

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

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

Taree Film Society

Old Bar Tavern Old Bar Tavern has been undergoing some super exciting changes and renovations lately, and we can’t wait to share them with you. Our wonderful kids’ area is coming together nicely, with our sand pit and mini footy field all ready for the kids to enjoy while mum and or dad enjoy a catch up with friends over lunch or a few quiet drinks.

T

watch

Movie: Parasite (MA)

aree Film Society screens the acclaimed Parasite (MA) at 6:30pm, Monday 4th November at Fay’s Twin Cinema. Bong Joon Ho brings his work home to Korea in this pitch-black modern fairytale. Meet the Park family: the picture of aspirational wealth. And the Kim family, rich in street smarts but not much else. Be it chance or fate, these two houses are brought

As we head into Christmas, why not talk to us about holding a family function or your work Christmas party? Don’t forget 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.

together, and the Kims sense a golden opportunity. Masterminded by collegeaged Ki-woo, the Kim children expediently install themselves as tutor and art therapist to the Parks. Soon, a symbiotic relationship forms between the two families. The Kims provide “indispensable” luxury services, while the Parks obliviously bankroll their entire household. When a parasitic interloper threatens the Kims’ newfound

comfort, a savage, underhanded battle for dominance breaks out, threatening to destroy the fragile ecosystem between the Kims and the Parks. Parasite was voted best film at the Sydney Film Festival and won the top award at Cannes this year.

Tickets are $16, including coffee and cakes. and chatting. Fore more info visit www.tareefilmsociety.org.au or call 6552 3476.

Me & My

Shadow

We have moved on from just having a Chinese restaurant to having a bistro that caters for all tastes. The menu ranges from ribs, pizza, schnitzels to curries, with daily blackboard specials.

Pizzas can be ordered at the tavern and take away if needed.

T i m

W

ith cabaret seating, complimentary drink on arrival, cheese platters and the many wellknown tunes performed inside the Manning Regional Art Gallery; this is a night you will fall in love with.

ME AND MY SHADOW is the oneman show that brings back the traditional form of the saloon singer.

Maddren and Port Macquarie pianist, RUSSELL DICK, will perform many of the songs of FRANK SINATRA,

BOBBY DARIN, SAMMY DAVIS Jr and more. Come and enjoy this unique experience that recreates the sounds, style and performance techniques that transformed these great saloon singers. You will hear classics such as MACK THE KNIFE, MR BOJANGLES and NEW YORK, NEW YORK. “MADDREN is the full package” Stage Whispers.

Have the rare opportunity, with wine in hand, to enjoy this intimate cabaret in one of Taree's most beautiful settings.

M a d d r e n

Me and My Shadow November 8th @ 7:30pm November 9th @ 7:30pm Manning Regional Art Gallery - 12 Macquarie St, Taree.

Tickets at the door. $40 for registered friends of the gallery/ under 18 years. $45 adults.

Or online: www.gotyaback.productions Manning-Great Lakes focus 23

focus_contributor

WITH DONNA CARRIER FROM BENT ON FOOD

focus_contributor

HORTICULTURALIST NEVILLE DONOVAN - GREENPATCH ORGANIC SEEDS

on

FOOD

Nev ’s

Well, time has flown ... I have been writing articles for What’s in Season for over five years. It’s been most enjoyable focusing on a variety of edible plants during that time. WELCOME TO THE NEW COLUMN: NEV’S EDIBLE GARDENING.

AFTER OVER 10 YEARS WRITING THE SOCIAL SCENE, IT’S TIME FOR A CHANGE. The lovely Brooke Heath from Heath and Hoff will take over the page, and I will have the opportunity to write about something that is close to my heart: food!

I

thought I would start off with a bit of a So I know I sound like a stuffy old woman, spiel on what food means to me. Food but to me dining is a social exchange; it’s a is my life - it is how I make my living, great opportunity to chat about our day. We but it is much more than that. I prefer break bread, share some wine, appreciate our food to be simple, casual, and not too food and give thanks to the person who grew fussy, and I am a firm believer that the produce it for us, appreciating the preparation that went makes the meal and as much as I appreciate into making it. and respect chefs, they are not always the only Often in the café I go to serve a table, and heroes in this equation. The real hero is the some of the guests don’t look up from their produce. True, a great chef can turn a sow’s ear phones to acknowledge that it is time to order. into a silk purse, but most Parents give their children of the chefs I have worked a tablet to keep them with appreciate the ability quiet, but to be honest, I to use fresh local produce. would rather see a noisy Whilst casual food child interacting with Whilst casual food makes makes me happy, the their family with vegemite me happy, the dining dining experience is getting all over their face. experience is getting far far too casual. I grew up I recently spent a too casual. I grew up in in a family that ate at the month in Greece and a family that ate at the dining table, like many of Croatia with my beautiful dining table, like many of my generation. My parents sisters and niece. For my generation. taught me how to put my one week we sailed on a cutlery together when I small boat on the Adriatic finished my meal, and we Sea; we took our mobiles enjoyed family time. A to the table in case we few years ago when I moved to my small farm wanted to take a photo, but we didn’t use house, we fell into the trap of eating off the them, because we talked; we talked to each coffee table whilst sitting on the lounge. Our other, we met new people and enjoyed every dining table was always covered in paperwork, dining experience. I can just about remember and I was too lazy to move it unless we had every meal. guests. Now we have a big dining table, so Let’s all consider leaving our phones aside Grahame and I have made a pact that we dine and spending valuable time together; I am sure together, and the other pact? No phones at the we will enjoy each other’s company more than table! our screens.

24 Manning-Great Lakes focus

T

he aim is to cover a broader clumping perennial that forms an excellent range of gardening information, screen and wind break that grows to 3 m in with monthly and seasonal tips, just one season. It is tolerant of dry and poor touching on the important role soils, and provides an abundance of excellent all plants have towards a garden that is mulching material. The new leaves can be successfully thriving, with many aspects grazed by livestock. linking the edible garden.

Here are a few tips to keep your perennial November’s warm temperatures are a great plants going during the big dry, most time to establish many perennials, including importantly conserving what we have: fruit trees and herbs. Prior to planting, ensure Place saucers under plants to hold the the soil is prepared well, without overloading excess water, capture water with buckets, use with too many goodies. shade covers to reduce This quite often does heat intensity on plants, more harm than good. fix dripping taps, re-use Mulching is helpful household grey water The most suitable location around plants, with a where possible. to grow ginger is a sunny 5 - 6 cm thick cover If you are short on position, with ample of organic matter. The water, consider pruning watering when actively plant roots will develop back certain plants by growing if possible. It does and establish in the up to one third to half, enjoy a fertile soil, and coming months, with reducing the amount of preparation is essential the aid of watering water required. Adding for good drainage. Ginger two to three times per a layer of mulch and just does rot with a waterweek. watering the root zone logged soil.

This is an ideal only is ideal. Plants will be time to plant a small able to survive in a semi patch of ginger, as the dormant state until more rhizomes start to activate and new shoots favourable weather conditions occur. begin to grow. The most suitable location to You may find the native Rutherglen Bug grow ginger is a sunny position, with ample insect homing in on your garden, and it’s watering when actively growing if possible. attracted to gardens where the bush and It does enjoy a fertile soil, and preparation is grasslands are dry. This 4 mm small brown essential for good drainage. Ginger does rot flying insect forms swarms, feeding and with a waterlogged soil. sucking on vegetables and flowers and By now your tomatoes will be flourishing ends up decimating plants. An effective with green leaves, strong stems and some soft knockdown organic spray would help yellow flowers showing. For a successful towards reducing insect numbers. tomato harvest, continue training tomatoes What to plant now: veges - beans, corn, by pinching out excess side shoots, tie main chilli, capsicum, cucumber, eggplant, green stems to timber stakes, or train through a orach, melons, pumpkin, spinach ceylon, wire frame. Once fruit set begins, protect the tomato, zucchini. crop with Exclusion Net to keep fruit fly and Herbs - basil, perilla. birds away.

Flowers - cosmos, marigold, sunflower.

Banna Grass is a fast growing, hardy, Happy Growing!

C

assegrain Wines recently GM of Wine Australia - introduced Little Ripples partnered with a new start-up wines throughout the event. wine company, Little Ripples - in Little Ripples CEO Dustin Leonard is a tenured hopes to shed light and bring social-enterpriser, finding success through Hero positive change to communities Condoms, a social enterprise company donating abroad. To do this, Cassegrain profits of condom sales to providing reproductive hosted a Charity Gala / Product Launch, in health initiatives around the world. which a goal to fundraise $5,000 to go towards Dustin reached out to John and Alex building wells in Uganda’s Mukono District was Cassegrain in the hopes of branching out into a set. Over 75 people were in attendance and new product and partnership. Now Little Ripples ended up collectively raising over $10,000. wines have just been released for sale, a journey Various items were of over 10 months. auctioned, thanks to the Their range [for now] is donations from local Port comprised of Cabernet Macquarie businesses such Sauvignon, Shiraz, as Kenny Little's, Your Life Sauvignon Blanc and THE EVENT WAS ATTENDED Fitness Centre, Akubra, Chardonnay. Their lofty

BY THE HON. MELINDA PAVEY, The Rare Tide, Cue Deli, target - providing drinking NSW MINISTER OF WATER, Beach to Bush Trike Tours, water for one individual PROPERTY AND HOUSING AND Comboyne Avocados, for a year with every MAYOR PETA PINSON, WHO Yoga One Nine, Drury bottle sold. This is done SHARED THE STAGE WITH Lane Eatery and Petrie’s through the construction FOUNDER WENDY TISDELL, Mitre 10. of wells implemented OF THE BRIDGIT WATER The event was attended through the charity FOUNDATION. by the Hon. Melinda BridgIT Water Foundation Pavey, NSW Minister and through the expert of Water, Property and winemaking from Alex Housing and Mayor Peta Pinson, who shared the and John Cassegrain seeing the product from stage with founder Wendy Tisdell, of the BridgIT grape to bottle, all on the winery premises in Water Foundation - three powerhouse females in Port Macquarie. their roles exemplifying strength in moving their Cassegrain Wines and Little Ripples are respective regions forward in sustainability and grateful for the support and engagement from development. our local community. The strength of our region As well, we were fortunate to have Hon Pat is now evidenced in the provision of water for Conaghan, Federal Member for Cowper, Hon needy communities abroad. Little ripples turn Dr David Gillespie, Federal Member for Lyne into a sizeable swell in the way of enabling water and Akubra CFO Roy Wilkinson in attendance. for those less fortunate, by making and selling Additionally, Paul Henry - wine judge and retired delicious wine. Who would have thought!

Manning-Great Lakes focus 25

Club Forster The legendary Dragon is coming to you in 2019, back by popular demand, bringing a special two-hour concert packed with all your favourite hits and Dragon classics, plus some of the #1 hits you have loved from their Countdown tours.

The Young Years of April Sun in Cuba and Are you old Enough; the chaos of five crazy guys from The Land of The Long White Cloud crashing the music scene in Australia in the mid-seventies; the glory years of Rain and Speak No Evil, when Todd and Marc, older and only slightly wiser reformed the band on the back of a new sound. Two special hours of unforgettable music brought to you by Dragon, the living legends who love to keep these songs alive.

26 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Gina Jeffreys In January 1991, Gina Jeffreys burst on to the Australian Country Music scene, taking over the reins as the new Star Maker winner from Keith Urban at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Gina soon became Australian Country Music’s Golden Girl and went on to become a household name. And now, Gina is back with her first new originals album in 12 years.

To say a lot has happened in Gina’s life since she last stood under the spotlight would be an understatement, and the fastest way for you to catch up would be to listen to the lyrics on Gina’s long awaited new album, Beautiful Tangle. “I’ve written every single song with some great writers - and every song is a page out of my life”.

The Tuncurry Forster Jockey Club The Tuncurry Forster Jockey Club's “Christmas Party Race Day” - 9th December. This is a great opportunity for local business to bring along their staff for the annual work party. Book seats in the Pavilion for $55 per head, with six course finger food severed at your table. The pavilion has a terrific atmosphere, with reserved seating, your own private bar, TV monitors, live music, bookmaker, and you are situated right on the winning post, all adding up to a wonderful day out at the

Tuncurry races. On the other hand, there are gazebos sitting along the ridge or running rail with a great view of the track.

A gazebo sits 10 people comfortably. For $165 you can rent a gazebo, table and ten chairs. You will always find plenty of fresh food, very cool refreshments, large competitive betting ring and a six window TAB. All of this adds up to a big seven race day event at the Tuncurry Forster Race Course; bring along your staff and have a very merry Christmas party race day.

24 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

Bass B lues ‘n’

Sarah Baker speaks with Tanya Brown of the iconic music store in Taree ahead of the Christmas season.

H

i Tanya. It’s been another big year for the music megastore.

What have been some of your highlights?

Hi Sarah! It’s been a huge year. Highlights would be running the Instrumental Section of the eisteddfod in June this year, our mid year concert with Manning Valley Concert Band, a visit from Hunter Wind Ensemble after their tour of Central Australia, playing Coomba Park Ball - and it’s not over yet. We are preparing for a big Christmas Concert at the Manning Entertainment Centre on Sunday 8th December. That’s going to be a wonderful event to finish the year. We also had Ensemble Offspring visit Taree and conduct workshops in September. We had about 45 musicians at that workshop, and we had so much fun.

For those who don’t know, tell us about what the store is renowned for product-

E S K I D L N U O S

wise?

EVERYTHING musical. We would have one of the largest displays of musical instruments in Australia and certainly the largest in regional areas. Our guitar display is truly impressive across Fender, Gretsh, Gibson, Ibanez, Epiphone, Maton, Cole Clark, Faith, Cort and Tanglewood. Our ukulele wall is ridiculous! We have many customers who travel a long way to come and see it.

As summer approaches and we get set for “silly season”, what is hot in-store for gift giving?

Ukuleles will be massive again this year.

We have great keyboard products new from CASIO, which are making a strong impression, as well as Yamaha and Roland. We have just finished restocking our drum kit display with Pearl, TAMA and Yamaha. We are running three catalogues over Christmas, so any musician new or old will be spoilt for choice.

We know one of the best things you can

give a child is the The Queensland State gift of music. How Government is increasing A MUSIC does music positively funding to the arts for this EDUCATION IS ONE impact a child’s reason. Their education OF THE GREATEST development? system is full of music from GIFTS YOU CAN A music education is a very young age. Victoria GIVE A CHILD. one of the greatest gifts and Perth are moving in MUSIC DEVELOPS you can give a child. the same direction. But THE BRAIN LIKE Music develops the not NSW, which is REALLY NOTHING ELSE! brain like nothing else! sad. We are missing a huge Music is like beautiful opportunity to improve the maths! It teaches quality of our education discipline, working with others, develops social system from kindergarten right through to skills and interaction with others, encourages high school. teamwork, teaches reward for effort and it’s Thanks Tanya. fun! But mostly teaching music makes us Interview: Sarah Baker better human beings. Music is full of emotion.

TANGLEWOOD CROSSROADS

TANGLEWOOD

AROMA 15W

GUITAR PACKS!

TIARE CONCERT

RECHARGEABLE

UKE PACKS!

AMPLIFIER $199

$79.95

Electric Acoustic HOT DEAL!

$299

AROMA 25W RECHARGEABLE

AMPLIFIER $399

HOT DEAL!

$399

TANGLEWOOD

VIVO NEO VIOLAS &

MANDOLIN $249

VIOLINS FROM

$235

TANGLEWOOD

TANGLEWOOD

ROADSTER II

UNION

WITH PICKUP!

GUITAR PACKS!

$399

HOT DEAL!

ELIXIR 3-PACKS!

HOT DEAL!

$469

3 FOR THE PRICE OF 2!

$499

HOT DEAL!

$119

TANGLEWOOD TIARE SUNBURST

CONCERT UKE

3 FOR 2!

3 FOR 2!

3 FOR 2!

$53.90 $61.90 $65.90 $69.90

Shop 10 / 20 Albert St, Taree

Ph: 02 6551 5067 Advert-156x255mm.indd 1

28 Manning-Great Lakes focus

3 FOR 2!

TANGLEWOOD

UNION 5-STRING

BANJO PACK!

www.bassnbluesmusic.com.au

Sale ends 24th December 2019. Stock substitutions may occur on pack items that are out of stock.

25/10/19 11:10 am

Maximising your income could mean the difference between Port Stephens and Portugal

The time has finally come to be able to live your life. With so many things to look forward to, the last thing you want to be thinking about is whether you’ll have enough money to live the lifestyle you deserve.

Talk with one of our financial advisers for advice on maximising your age pension entitlements in retirement.

Call 6583 1735 or visit morgans.com.au/portmacquarie/maximiseyourpension

Financial Planning | Investment Advice | Superannuation Morgans Financial Limited ABN 49 010 669 726 AFSL 235410

Manning-Great Lakes focus 29

focusinterview.

at WHARF

30 Manning-Great Lakes focus

STREET

A SPECIAL FOCUS ON WHARF STREET

Caine

Loretan

at WHARF

STREET

J e w e l l e r

Design your dream piece of jewellery with Caine Loretan Jewellers in Forster.

Our beautiful and custom made designs can be constructed for a range of precious jewellery, including rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants and bracelets. Looking for a stunning diamond ring for a loved one? Caine Loretan Jewellers has a range of unique, custom made designs that make a stellar statement. We also provide a jewellery clean and repair service. Bring your existing pieces in, and we’ll restore them to their shining glory. We repair chains, as well as offer sizing for rings, to make sure they’re a perfect fit.

Caine Loretan Jewellers is your master jeweller and diamond setter. Visit our Forster store, or call us today to design your next gorgeous piece.

Bluewater Gifts Come in and explore the haven that is Bluewater Gifts.

With treasures gathered from around the globe and across the ages, you are bound to find a unique and special gift for yourself or a loved one.

Stocking an array of beautiful homewares, gifts, jewellery, candles, bags, clothing, paintings, furniture, fossils, crystals, antiques, incense, frames and much more, Bluewater Gifts is a feast for the eyes.

Recent WINNER of the 2019 MidCoast Business Awards for People’s Choice, the staff at Bluewater Gifts offer exceptional customer service and will leave you with a smile on your face!

InHouse

Homewares and Kitchen InHouse Homewares and Kitchen is a must-visit local store in Wharf Street, Forster, boasting an extensive range of kitchenware, unique and beautiful on-trend homewares and furniture and stunning clothing and accessories, including handbags and shoes. You are sure to find a gift for yourself or someone else in time for Christmas, with gift lines and cards also available.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 31

A SPECIAL FOCUS ON WHARF STREET

at WHARF

STREET

love Iguana PJ’s

Cheaper Choice Forster Come in-store to see an ever changing collection of items, including gifts, cards, stationery, homewares, hardware, art supplies and crafts, all at bargain prices. Our Christmas ranges are dropping into store currently.

There is so much to see at PJ’s Super Choice. Talk to our friendly staff about what you’re looking for - we may be able to help!

32 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Shop for women's and men's clothing from popular surf labels, footwear, swimwear and accessories instore. With summer just around the corner, stock up now for your new beach wardrobe, or get into the Christmas spirit early for popular gift items for loved ones. With stores in both Forster and Taree, Iguana is a true shopping experience.

Sampson & delilah

One of the newest fashion and clothing retailers in Wharf Street, Forster, Sampson & Delilah stocks an array of sophisticated and stunning clothing for the modern lady. With expert staff on-hand to guide you with clothing selection, you’re sure to find your new favourite outfit for your next event.

Drop into the store to browse their range, including jewellery, bags and scarves; you can also wander through their garden, stocking plants and vintage pieces.

A SPECIAL FOCUS ON WHARF STREET

at WHARF

STREET

Amcal

+ Pharmacy Forster Connect with Amcal + Pharmacy Forster in Wharf Street for all your chemist and health needs. With services including men's and women's health checks, flu vaccines, weight and health management, quit smoking plans, hearing and sleep management checks, the pharmacy also stocks gift lines, sunglasses and hats, Napoleon Perdis makeup and fragrances. With trained and highly professional staff, speak to a team member today about your needs.

Occasions Modern

Wisdom Modern Wisdom is a retail store with a difference!

The store offers many lifestyle solutions for the mind, body and spirit, with gift items including books, candles, crystals, jewellery, cards and more. The staff are knowledgeable and caring in their approach to service and look forward to welcoming you in-store.

Jewellers

Occasions Jewellers Forster prides itself on our outstanding customer service. Nathan Loretan and his team all have a common goal to provide the best friendly, professional and reliable service with integrity. The Occasions Jewellers team take the utmost pride in being able to offer value through quality within each and every item that is hand picked for our stores. We also offer after sale complementary cleaning and checking of the item, to ensure it's always looking its best.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 33

34 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

W

hat does OOSH stand for, and can you explain the philosophy behind Active OOSH? OOSH or OSHC stands for Out of School Hours Care. The Active OOSH philosophy is constantly evolving to suit the needs of the children, families and wider community. At its core is our belief that time outside of school is for children to explore their interests, build relationships and have time to relax and play (without being put under a microscope).

Can you explain why it is so important to have centres like this for parents and kids?

Mindful out of school hours care programs that give children access to a variety of activities is a great option for working families or for parents who are looking for affordable after school activities. OSHC has changed dramatically in the past decade, moving away from child minding to high quality education and care programs with the My Time Our Place curriculum.

Can you tell us a bit about the programs you have available?

The focus at Active OOSH is a play based, balanced program that suits the needs of all families. Each day the children have access to a variety of sports, art, music, play and relaxation activities. We also help families by offering an after-school activities bus service. This allows children to attend sports training, dance lessons, gym programs and music activities at no extra charge to the families.

During vacation care we offer a wide variety of excursions and incursions for the children. We visit local favourite attractions such as the cinemas and Inflatable World, as well as trips to Port Macquarie and beyond. We are also able to offer new and exciting activities, such as the 9-D cinema that is booked in for January! Last vacation care we took the children to some interesting places, such as buffalo farms and a fish hatchery to complement the sustainable programming.

What's the general reaction kids have from these programs and excursions?

The children guide the programming, so the general reaction is one of engagement and excitement, especially when we head off on new excursions. The smiles were contagious at the buffalo farm, when the children made gelato from the buffalo milk, and we can’t wait to see the reaction when the trucks

turn up with the 9-D cinema these coming holidays.

Active OOSH has established an Environment Club. What are the kids learning about?

This term we had a focus on improving our sustainable practices. This included recycling programs, gardening, reducing the service’s rubbish, as well as linking in with community and government groups that promote sustainable practices. The children learnt how to reduce, reuse and recycle and how small improvements from individuals can have a big impact on the environment. We will continue to implement these practices across all of our services, while maintaining a balanced, engaging and fun program for all.

How will the State Government’s Before and After School Care (BASC) Reform affect Active OOSH? It’s a really exciting time for out of school hours care! We have applied in partnership with our schools to build purpose built OSHC buildings under the BASC Reform Infrastructure Fund. Having extra space within the schools that is purpose built for OSHC will continue to improve the quality of our services, as well as support our Kindergarten Transition Program.

Transition to big school can be daunting for little ones. Can you tell us how your award winning Transition Program makes that easier?

We understand that the transition from day-care and preschool to school can be a very unsettling time for children and parents.

Three years ago, we started the Active OOSH Kindy Transition Program to bridge the gap between school and pre-school.

Children who are enrolled to start school in 2020 can attend our Kindy Transition Program in the January school holidays. The children have a dedicated educator and a separate space from the main program. The kindergarten children integrate for some of the programs, but have their own space that they can retreat to. They also have mealtimes together, school tours and toileting trips throughout the day.

The feedback from parents and teachers has been that the children who attend the January program are more confident and walk into school on day one with a smile on their face. The program continues throughout Terms 1 and 2, with children

being collected from class by an educator for the After School Care programs.

How does being locally owned and operated make Active OOSH different to some other OSHC programs?

Being local means being part of the community. It also means that we give back to the school and community we service. This year we have contributed over $250,000 in rent to our local schools, invested over $200,000 in local businesses that contribute to our program and employed over 80 local people as part of our team.

Where are your centres located?

We are currently located at Pacific Palms Public, Forster Public, Taree West Public, Old Bar Public, Wingham Brush Public, Lake Cathie Public and Centaur Public. We will be tendering for new services such as Hallidays Point Public in 2020.

Where can we find out more information?

Head to www.activeoosh.com.au or call (02) 6554 8905 for more info.

Interview: Bronwyn Davis.

Each day the children have access to a variety of sports, art, music, play and relaxation activities.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 35

focus_contributor - Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

I

Brisbane is booming, outpacing its southern counterparts as our most exciting capital. Do go visit!

. Am. Overwhelmed. Brisbane as a leisure destination 2019-2020 and beyond is enchanting, breathtaking, simply outstanding. The Queensland capital’s buzzing with alluring new “urban resort” hotels, magnetic new city precincts and public spaces, terrific new topline restaurants and cocktail culture, relaxing new riverside boardwalks, enthralling new art and architecture and a captivating outdoorsy ultra-alive vibe of countless head-spinning, can’t-get-enough-of sights and experiences.

In just a few days I’ve: lain in a king bed beneath the northern pylon of majestic Story Bridge, its lacy span and all-night multicolour lights sparkling high above my hotel picture windows, sleeping in fairyland. Ridden a 21-storey lift, all six of its surfaces screening vibrant, pulsing immersive VR videos, a hammerhead shark seemingly snapping at my toes and the simultaneous sensation of traversing San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Frolicked in indulgent open-air sundrenched infinity edge pools. Dined at eclectic locations among tall trees, at waterside venues near-tumbling into ever-humming Brisbane River, at rooftop bars with striking skyline views. From menus featuring the State’s superb seafood and farm produce: fresh, uncomplicated, presented to perfection. I’ve been dazzled by enticing arrays of cocktails of infinite concoction, shapes and colours, garnished with micro herbs, flowers and fruits, lavish foams, tangy dried citrus discs.

36 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Been enthralled by the remarkable juxtaposition of majestic, respectfully-preserved historical buildings set against a manifest affection for ultra-modern design, admirable high-rise restraint, and endearingly quirky abundant street art and performers. A city that maximises assets of its river location and agreeable climate, a “walking” city via uncrowded avenues, malls, intriguing laneways, intimate hole-in-the-wall cafes, wide riverside boardwalks and eight long lean pedestrian-friendly bridges: on one, a coffee spot suspended over the water. It’s for getting around fast, too, if you will, via free jump on-jump off CityHoppers, charming little red ferries buzzing between the dozen distinct waterside precincts naturally created courtesy of the serpentine river’s numerous banks as it snakes its way through the CBD heart. And by free Loop bus, rental cycle, or irresistible fluoro-bright electric scooters docked strategically about: rent by tapping on with your credit card, stop where fancy takes you.

PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE Holidays in Queensland have been largely synonymous with two extremes: Gold Coast beaches and theme parks, and the tropical north’s Great Barrier Reef marine activities, winding southwards to the Whitsundays. Forget traditional destinations, now a supernova’s exploded onto the scene: the State’s capital, the “River City”, has built to a magnificent 21st century climax, slated to climb even further in the next few years with at least ten major central development projects

happening. Since 2017 no fewer than 15 new hotels have opened in Brisbane. In the past five years, the total’s 32. A remarkable five more will be added within three years or so once the city’s $3.6b Queen’s Wharf resort, now in full-on development, opens in 2022. Brisbane Airport (a mere 15 minutes or so via express tunnel; serviced also

by Airtrain) has just been awarded 2019’s Best in Australasia-Pacific. Alliance’s daily flights, the nation’s friendliest I think, from our smart new airport land us in the Queensland capital after just 45 minutes in the air (with scenic views of sand and surf coastline), perfect for weekend jaunts and longer. The four-lane Pacific Highway’s due for completion next year, shaving 2.5 hours off the trip (overall, from Hexham) to the northern border, ideal for “Are we there yet?” families, many new overnight diversions on the reinvigorated route. Brisbane’s chutzpah sees it set to cater increasingly as a port for mega cruise liners when its new International Cruise Terminal opens next year, already some 200 vessels confirmed for season 2020-21. Mooted, among much: a major revamp of sports icon The Gabba and hosting the 2032 Olympic Games. Meanwhile, Brisbane is very much NOW with a Manhattan-like vibe that’s throbbing, thriving, thrilling at every turn.

FREE THINGS Opportunities abound.

Brisbane Greeters, red-shirted volunteers, offer free guided walking tours; they, and commercial counterparts, exhibit a friendly welcome and a love of their hometown with knowledgeable,

fascinating commentaries: tiny laneways pop up, surprising wanderers with an intimate arty cafe in a secret cavern; inspiring installations by the Blue Art Ninja, an anonymous street-art phantom creating electric-blue sculptures - say, dog with top hat and briefcase, tail flying as it dashes to work, or gladiator mouse with sword and shield - placing them randomly high and low on bare city walls under cover of night. Kids will love spotting fairy doors in unexpected spots.

Glittering fairy lights are a Brisbane thing, coming alive in the evenings, lacing tree trunks and festooning outdoor structures, a vivid always-on party atmosphere. Street art and performers, too: find yourself sharing kerbside street furniture with a lounging metallic kangaroo or waiting at a pedestrian crossing beside a 2m-tall canine on hind legs, cast in shimmering silver metal. A la the Louvre, massive modern silver balls sculpted from aluminium kitchen implements contrast in the adjacent square with the sandstone columns, intricate carved tympanum and 88m clock tower (based on St Mark’s bell tower in Venice’s San Marco Piazza) of iconic century-old Brisbane City Hall. Its imposing Italian Renaissance presence stretches along three street frontages amid a cluster of similar colonnaded buildings leading to Parliament House, old Government House and the cool green respite of the Botanical Gardens.

Brisbane offers free entry opportunities at many of its astonishing array of museums and galleries: every exhibit lovingly, carefully curated and

Photo: Richard Greenwood

displayed, as if a personal treasure. Something for everyone: colonial and Aboriginal history; arresting modern art appealing to multiple tastes and fascinations; conventional exhibitions; inventive installations; an intriguing Women in Brisbane Art collection runs to March 2020; be mesmerised by High Rotation (to April 2020), an upbeat display of Brisbane’s pop/rock musicians with guitars, costumes, film/audio clips, souvenirs and ephemera of Sheppard, the Bee Gees, Keith Urban, Kate Miller-Heidke, Dami Im, Powderfinger, Savage Garden, The Veronicas, The Grates and more. Visitors can “re-master” tracks via a special digital facility, taking hands-on control of drums and instrument inputs, altering pitch and tempo of tracks to create their own original compositions. At the city uni, QUT, kids adore The Cube, two storeys high and one of the world’s biggest interactive digital displays, with underwater coral reefs and fish, lifelike dinosaurs and more.

Thanks to a City incentive the verticals-horizontals of many buildings and plazas never languish as mere banks of windows, awning hoardings or bland roofs but notably feature exterior veils or canopies of decorative architectural screens (say, in the shape of 80m-wide hosts of butterflies, or lightning-like geometric zigzags atop a skyscraper) - imaginative eye-catchers. Year-round there’s a calendar of free-entry festivals and events galore and street markets, or budget-value foodie events such as the Bug & Oyster Trail, a progressive alfresco feast.

THE HIGH LIFE Brisbane’s central building boom sees multiple lofty cranes at Queen’s Wharf thrusting against the sky, interlacing strikingly with each other, yet these and the CBD’s taller edifices contrast nicely with and highlight, in what’s a relatively low-rise city, so many well-preserved iron-lace balconied and other modest-height heritage establishments. The comparative lack of a monstrous high-rise “forest” offers grand expansive views from so many rooftop bars and infinity-edge swimming pools edging the river, reminiscent of Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands yet nevertheless now entrenched as a motif belonging to Brisbane. Among them: a massive terrace atop South Bank’s 5-star Emporium Hotel, a mere translucent screen preventing a plunge into the gardens and river way below.

Must not miss: truly sensational dishes and drinks at lofty Eleven Rooftop Bar, Fortitude Valley, on the CBD’s extended Ann Street arm.

THE PRECINCTS Among the many, the newest, Howard Smith Wharves, stretching forever across 3.5ha under Story Bridge north pylon, is a fabulous string of drink-dine venues: Felon’s Brewing (onsite micro-brewery and gastro-pub: beers, ciders, 1kg ribeye, beer/wood-fired pizza); Mr Percival’s overwater perch and amazing octagonal tower bar, topped by a DJ; Arc Dining (Qld’s No 1 restaurant, all Australia’s No 2) and Greek, Italian, Japanese (about to open), juicy Betty’s Burgers and more - definitely Brisbane’s “It” destination. Next-door Fortitude Valley, its former seedy reputation (e.g: the Kinky Klosett) now gentrifying with tremendous new venues, a grand, refurbished 19th century shopping arcade and, ditto, art deco Fortitude Music Hall live music venue. Casual eateries draw diners to long-time financial-district favourite Eagle Street Pier, best of all Matt Moran’s relaxing Riverbar & KItchen, with its gay yellow-stripe brollies, offering knockout fish and chips, crab, steaks, pizza, burgers and drinks. Leafy James Street in The

The George

Valley is the city’s chicest shopping/lifestyle centre, a Cape Cod-Hamptons appeal of design-forward homewares showrooms, indie fashion and shoe boutiques, galleries, restaurants and cafes.

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD Thanks to the State’s abundant seafood harvest, fine farm produce and top-notch chefs, Brisbane cuisine’s signature is uncomplicated dishes showcasing quality ingredients prepared to perfection. I dined at the State’s No 2-rated Hellenika at The Calile, a cuisine and service delight. Order 600g/1.2kg baked Junee lamb, lobster, Greek banquet selections. Joy, No 3 of the State’s “best”, is a new chef’s table for just 10 guests nightly, tucked in bijou Bakery Lane in The Valley. Nearby Baja, also new, is a cosy whitewashed stucco Mexican restaurant and tequila extravaganza. Parisian-style Stanton Restaurant & Bar, among the trees extending over Queen Street Plaza, offers an enormous daytime menu of perfectly-executed top-notch classics. A special experience for wine

lovers and fine cuisine aficionados is new City Winery, its converted The Valley warehouse home to an artisan micro-brewery, barrel room and cellar door, a gourmet heaven where macho tomahawk steaks prepared on an ironbark-fed brick firepit vie for thrills with the delicacy of owners Dave and Chrissie Cush’s delicious tenderly hand-blended wines.

BOUTIQUE HOTELS Brisbane’s newest fivestar low-rises: The Fantauzzo, opened February, and The Calile, one year old, idiosyncratic impressive luxury among a catalogue of many new beauties: forget traditional stuffy corporate hotel design. But ... space dictates they wait till next month. If travelling to Brisbane: book them!

Manning-Great Lakes focus 37

, S E T A M E H T Y Y L L I L M A A R F E RALLY TH PIONSHIP M ALLY CHA R D L R O FI A W FOR THE

INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL

38 Manning-Great Lakes focus

WRC SHOWDOWN | DNSW SUPER SPECIAL STAGE RALLY SHOW | DAILY SPECTATOR POINTS PEDDERS RALLY CENTRAL | SUNDAY RALLY VILLAGE

kennards hire

It’s on again! The world’s fastest rally car drivers return to the Coffs Coast for Kennards Hire Rally Australia from 14 - 17 November - and again one will go home as the 2019 World Champion. One of the greatest contests in world motorsport will be finalised on the forestry and rural roads of this beautiful region.

Organisers and fans are hoping the WRC season finale will go down to the wire, as it did in 2018.

L

ast November, Sébastien Ogier, Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak arrived Down Under, all with a chance of scooping the driver’s title, in a scenario that hadn’t occurred for many years. They battled throughout the weekend, until Neuville and Tänak dropped out on the final morning and it was left for Ogier to climb the podium and claim his trophy after the last stage on the last day on the last rally of the season.

Incredible! Yes, for Ogier and the fans, but heartbreaking for his rivals.

Experts said it couldn’t happen again, but it has - because the WRC is the most unpredictable series in motorsport. The same trio - Ogier for Citroën, Neuville for Hyundai and Tänak for Toyota - has traded blows all season, and each driver has had a turn at the top of the standings.

The Estonian Tänak has held the advantage as the season winds down, but just when he thought the prize might be in the bag, Ogier boosted his own chances of a seventh-straight title with an heroic comeback win in Turkey.

After Great Britain, just three points stood between Tänak and his maiden title, along with only a slim chance of wrapping it up at the penultimate round in Spain.

Now we wait to see how the Estonian, the Frenchman and the Belgian are placed as the WRC arrives here for its grand finale. Many hazards and challenges lie in wait to spoil their party.

The only certainty is ... uncertainty.

WHAT’S THE WRC ALL ABOUT?

It’s often called the Gravel Grand Prix, because it’s the equivalent of Formula 1, the pinnacle of the sport.

The leading teams represent the world’s

biggest auto makers, Toyota, Hyundai, Citroën, Ford - which for marketing glory invest tens of millions of dollars to enter cars that start as $20,000 urban runabouts and end as fire-breathing forest racers costing almost $1 million. Yet the cars must remain able and legal to be driven on the road, and they’re a common sight in Coffs Harbour traffic when transiting between stages during the rally.

Rally crews - driver and co-driver (navigator) - race one at a time against the clock at Kennards Hire Rally Australia over 325 km of “special stages” of varying distance and terrain, from Thursday to Sunday. The crew with the fastest overall time wins the event and earns the most points for their championship tally.

Unlike circuit racing, rally crews are allowed no high-speed practice or qualifying in their cars. Route reconnaissance is done in non-competition cars within the usual speed limits; “pace” notes compiled by the co-driver during this exercise are all that’s available to guide the driver when the light goes green. It’s a recipe for breathtaking displays of wheel skill and bravery and incredibly close competition as drivers trade blows on successive runs.

The wild card is any sort of incident from a spectacular rollover to a mere puncture to a mechanical failure that costs time. The fightbacks can be enthralling.

WHAT TO SEE AT RALLY AUSTRALIA

Rally Show and Ceremonial Start (Thursday 14th November, 3:30pm, Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore. FREE.) The traditional event preview is the place to meet the drivers, grab a selfie or an autograph and check out the amazing cars up-close.

Cars are flagged across November - Sunday Unlike circuit racing, rally 17th November, all the ramp to officially start crews are allowed no day, multiple locations. the rally. high-speed practice or TICKET REQUIRED. Destination NSW Super qualifying in their cars.

CORPORATE Special Stage (Thursday Route reconnaissance is HOSPITALITY 14th November, first done in non-competition AVAILABLE.) car 4:30pm; Friday cars within the usual There are excellent 15th November, first speed limits; “pace” notes viewing spots every day car 5pm; Coffs Harbour compiled by the co-driver where you can enjoy Jetty Foreshore. TICKET during this exercise are all the true, traditional REQUIRED. CORPORATE that’s available to guide rally experience of HOSPITALITY AVAILABLE.) the driver when the light rally cars sliding past, The rally comes to goes green. up-close at hair-raising town for the Destination speed. The highlight is NSW Super Special Stage the NSW Forests Rally around a 1.3 km course Village on Sunday’s flanked by harbour and Wedding Bells stage, which witnesses the ocean. The hill in front of the former Deep event fi nale and podium presentation.

Check Sea Fishing Club allows excellent elevated the Spectator Guide on the rally offi cial viewing of most of the course as cars website for times, locations, maps, ticket negotiate jumps, a water splash and tight prices and even bus timetables for those who turns. It’s the rally’s spectating highlight. don’t want to drive from town. The spectator Pedders Rally Central (Thursday 14th points have all facilities, some including November - Sunday 17th November, open commentary. all day and evening, C.ex Coffs International Stadium. FREE.) The competitors’ service park is where cars - and crews - are replenished and repaired during timed breaks from the competition stages. See some of the world’s best mechanics perform incredible feats in record time. Pedders Rally Central also is where you’ll buy event and team souvenirs, top yourself up at the Taste of the World international food festival and Coopers Bar, watch all-day rally action on the big screens, visit trade displays, see the leading drivers interviewed on stage and, best of all, catch Saturday night’s free DRAGON concert (for four-day ticket-holders).

Daytime Special Stages (Friday 15th

BUY KENNARDS HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA TICKETS AT WWW.TICKETEK.COM

ROCK down memory lane with legendary band DRAGON, who’ll perform a free concert for holders of four-day Ultimate Get Me Everywhere tickets. Supported by local acts D’Boyzos and Kailey Pallas, the show starts at 6:30pm on Saturday night at Pedders Rally Central. Dragon’s set will be preceded by the highly-entertaining Meet-the-Crews session, when the day’s top three drivers and their team bosses will be interviewed on stage.

Grab some food from the Taste of the World international food fair, adjacent to the concert area.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 39

health F E A T U R E

40 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

Share the Dignity is all about providing essentials to women in our local area when it matters most. We found out more about this fantastic initiative from Nicole Wiffen, who has been involved for a number of years.

H

i Nicole. Can you please start by telling our readers about “Share the Dignity” and how it is impacting locals?

Share the Dignity is a nationwide charity that aims to provide essentials to women in need, but focuses on a local area. In April and August every year we run the “Dignity Drive”, where we collect sanitary items, and in November we collect handbags full of goodies to give to a local women in need at Christmas time. All of these items stay local and are dropped to places like the Women’s Refuge, Catholic Care and the Neighbourhood Centre.

If we are lucky enough to collect more than the requested quota from these charities, the excess bags from the Manning are transported over to Gloucester or Kempsey (still quite local)!

For these women, it may mean the difference between having essential sanitary items such as pads, and not having them at all. The bags always bring joy at Christmas, when times can be otherwise dull. It’s something small that is easy enough for everyone to contribute to, but often means the world to someone else.

The bags are always my favourite, because the personal touches people put into them are so very heartwarming.

I’d love to know how you became involved, and what that input means in terms of your time?

Sheros, as we call them (or heros for the men) are the volunteers of Share the Dignity.

The great thing about this charity is that it is really flexible in relation to everyone’s time input. If you only have a little time to spare, that’s great - or a lot, even better. You really can do as much or little as you like, and every little bit helps. Currently in the Manning Valley area we only have three Sheros that cover the whole region, Barbara Green, Susan Ballard and myself. April, August and November are our busy times!

In April and August we visit with participating businesses and set up their collection boxes and posters for them if they like (some like to be

really involved and set up their own, which is always great). Then at the end of these months we visit again, pack down the collections and count how many have come in. After they have been counted, they are distributed out to the local community.

In November a huge box is set up at Bunnings in the front entry area to collect all the handbags. We then go past each day, sometimes a few times a day, to collect bags.

The bags are then sorted, to make sure they have no sharp objects, and have all of the essentials in them.

The Handbag Drive sounds amazing, and is such a great idea to support our local women - and I’m sure many women will have a spare handbag (or two) lying around to contribute! Tell us more about how it all works, key dates, how many actual handbags you’re aiming to collect etc.

This is my favourite, because it means people can put their own touch on the gift. It can be any bag (so long as it’s still useable!)

There are three types of bags we ask for: 1. A Ladies Bag, which should have shampoo and conditioner, soap and deodorant, pads/ tampons or both, plus a toothbrush and toothpaste.

2. A Teen Bag, which should have sanity items suitable for a young body, shampoo and conditioner, roll on deodorant, soap/body wash, toothbrush and toothpaste, face wash, hair brush and hair ties.

3. A Baby Bag or Nappy Bag should have maternity pads, shampoo and conditioner, baby shampoo, baby wash, nappy rash cream, breast pads, dummies, newborn nappies, disposable nappy bags, roll on deodorant, soap/body wash, toothbrush and toothpaste, face wash, hair brush and hair ties.

You can also add things like perfume, baby wipes, brushes and combs, and jewellery. The only request we have is that products are not opened, and no razors or food products that can go off.

Don’t panic if an essential item is missed,

because we check them with the Wingham YOU CAN ALSO ADD THINGS and top up any items that Neighbourhood Centre LIKE PERFUME, BABY WIPES, haven’t been added in, to on top of this.

BRUSHES AND COMBS, AND make sure they all at least Barbara Green is from JEWELLERY. THE ONLY have the minimum! the Commonwealth REQUEST WE HAVE IS We saw some beautiful Bank. Barbara has been bags come through last THAT PRODUCTS ARE NOT involved for a few years year, some with cards and OPENED, AND NO RAZORS and is always going books or makeup. There OR FOOD PRODUCTS THAT the extra mile to make are a lot of generous CAN GO OFF. sure there are plenty people within the of supplies and all the Manning and, for me, pickups have been done it makes it a wonderful she is a kind-hearted lady. community to live in!

And me, Nicole - I became involved quite a Rule of thumb is that as long as you would number of years ago, when the charity was still still use it, it can go in! pretty much brand new. A lady I was working How did last year’s Handbag Drive go? with suggested we participate and have a box in Last year we had a huge collection of bags. our shop; we did this and from that moment on, We managed to surpass what was requested for I knew this was a good cause and something this area and then sent a further few hundred I wanted to be more involved in. I signed up bags to Kempsey. To do this involved a huge and haven’t looked back. I cannot imagine not effort, as some of the extra bags had to come having access to the simplest things, but it is a from Newcastle for Kempsey; we all did a short reality for many women across the Manning and drive and transferred bags between cars and if we can change that for even one lady, well Sheros, resulting in five Sheros all up having a that’s worthwhile. part in the “Dignity Train” How do people in the local area get OK, so what in your opinion would be the involved and/or contribute? best type of “goodies” to include in the Anyone who would like to be involved handbags? What do you think people most with Share the Dignity can simply go to their appreciate? webpage https://www.sharethedignity.com.au/ Best type of goody - what a hard one! Often and register, be it a business as a collection point we are told for ladies it can be hard to just get or as a Shero (or Hero). From there, someone the essentials, so it is nice to see the bags filled will be in contact from the charity to arrange the with these and one or two pieces of something next steps. It’s a very simple process, and there is just for her. Some lipstick or makeup, perfume so much support within the charity too. or a scarf. Just a nice feel good item that she Final thoughts, visions or goals? wouldn’t purchase by herself at this time of I am pleased to be a part of Share the need. I love when people pop a book in, myself.

Dignity. The charity is growing very quickly and There are some other wonderful people becoming bigger each year. There will be some donating their time as well, aren't there? very exciting news for Taree to come from Share Who are they, and how did they become the Dignity within a few weeks, but we cannot involved? let the secret out just yet - except to say that it's In the Manning we have three Sheros (always really great and will mean that Taree will be one looking for more!) of the first regional towns to have this special Susan Ballard is a retired school teacher. thing here.

Susan is a wonderful contributing member Thanks Nicole. of the community and is also involved Interview: Ingrid Bayer.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 41

I N T R O D U C I N G A R E V O LU T I O N A R Y L A S E R T R E AT M E N T FO R G U M D I S E A S E

E

arly stages of gum disease (gingivitis) is the inflammation of the gums. This occurs when bacteria in plaque and calculus are not removed through brushing or regular scale and cleans, causing damage to the gums. Advanced stages of gum disease (periodontitis) occurs when the inflammation of the gums gets worse, causing the bone supporting our teeth to degenerate.

Without any professional intervention and treatment, over time the teeth can become loose and may need extracting by a dentist.

24% of healthy Australian adults aged 18 and over have moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis), while 60% of Australians aged 74 and older suffer.

How to determine if you have gum disease?

• Red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums • Gums have shrunk from teeth • Bad breath or bad taste in the mouth • Loose teeth • Abscesses between teeth and gums

42 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Treatment of Gum Disease The treatment for gum disease will vary with severity; mild to moderate gum disease can be treated with brushing, flossing and regular visits to your hygienists and dentist. With more severe gum disease, treatment can vary from sub gingival cleaning to treatment with a specific laser called LANAP. LANAP means Laser Assister New Attachment Procedure. This laser therapy for the treatment of gum disease is unlike traditional gum surgery; there is no cut and sew. LANAP is a minimally invasive and highly effective treatment. It is used for the treatment of moderate and advanced gum disease. LANAP is the world’s first ever and only FDA approved laser for the treatment of gum disease. Patients have come back with true regeneration of tissue and new bone formation. Traditional gum surgery is a cut and sew procedure and can cause sensitivity, long teeth and requires ongoing maintenance.

Unlike traditional gum surgery, LANAP uses a multi-variable pulsed laser to kill the infected tissue, rejuvenating the gums, connective tissue

and bone that support your teeth. The laser attacks pigments in the infected tissue, leaving healthy tissue undamaged. LANAP treatment not only helps the body to regenerate tissue and heal itself naturally, it also helps patients to keep their natural teeth and save smiles!

How does LANAP work?

Before any treatment, a consultation is necessary, as it allows the dentist to identify diseased tissue and whether LANAP is suitable for you. At this time, a 3D Xray will be taken and a treatment plan will be provided, with all costs, appointment lengths and any follow up appointments necessary.

LANAP usually occurs across two dental visits.

Half the mouth is completed during the first visit, and a week later the other half of the mouth is completed. The process involves: 1. A perio probe determines the degree of excessive pocket depth and helps the dentist better identify diseased tissue and areas of bacterial infection.

2. The laser removes diseased tissue, while the heat of the laser kills the bacteria.

3. The dentist removes the tartar from the root surface using an ultrasonic scaler and special hand instruments.

4. The laser is used to clean the pocket one more time.

5. The gum is sealed closed to prevent further infection.

6. Any high biting spots are smoothed down to create even force on the tooth.

7. Over time, the bone regenerates and the

periodontal ligament re-attaches to the tooth.

Benefits of LANAP • Saves your natural teeth • Safe, precise and effective treatment • Bone regeneration up to 50% in patients who follow the protocol and have normal healing • One-time treatment • Less discomfort • Improved recovery time • Little to no recession in gums and regeneration in bone levels.

• Reduces inflammation and bleeding • Helps long term health • Safer and gentler than traditional gum surgery Contact us to Learn More about this Revolutionary Treatment If you've ever been told you have gum disease or need gum surgery, you can take advantage of the tremendous benefits that LANAP laser gum therapy offers. If your gums have become swollen, red or infected, we can help. Our very own Dr Peter Elfar was the first dentist to study and offer this treatment in Australia, with over eight years’ experience and satisfied patients who travel from all over Australia to be treated by him. Why not take this opportunity to get on top of your dental health? Take action now and call our caring team at one of our four friendly locations, call 6583 3533 or visit our website: www.lanapaustralia.com.au to find out more about this revolutionary treatment.

that it arises spontaneously and is not genetically acquired.

kinetic

Scoliosis, meaning a lateral (sideways) curve of the spine.

MEDICINE

SCOLIOSIS IS A CONDITION MANY OF US HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF, AND WE USUALLY EQUATE THE CONDITION WITH CLEARLY OBSERVABLE CHANGES IN POSTURE AND APPEARANCE.

O

ddly enough, scoliosis is actually more prevalent than you might realise, predominantly because many people have what could technically be defined as scoliosis, yet aren’t aware because they don’t experience pain.

It’s important to know that scoliosis is not always painful, and it is not a condition that necessarily predestines the individual to lifelong pain or disability. Some of the

greatest athletes of all time, in fact, have had scoliosis - including the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt. You might be surprised that 80 - 85% of all Scoliosis diagnosed in Australia falls in to the Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) category.

But what does AIS mean? Adolescent obviously means it becomes apparent in the teenage years, “Idiopathic” is a technical term, meaning

of surgical interventions, none have proven to convey a greater advantage than nonoperative approaches.

A recent study published in June 2019, which compared the effectiveness of A vitally important consideration when scoliosis specific exercises, bracing and noncaring for someone with AIS is that we specialised core retraining exercises found no must take the greatest care with ensuring significant difference in outcomes between that we are treating and describing the any of the groups in the study. This was in condition accurately. Exposing our young a study examining outcomes for changes in people to ineffective, potentially harmful the presentation of the treatments and giving condition (the degree them an inaccurate of curve) and for pain sense that they are in and other measures of some way in possession quality of life of a dysfunction in A recent study published unjustifiable. There So what? It’s vitally in June 2019, which are many widely used important that people compared the effectiveness treatment options; with scoliosis should of scoliosis specific however, it’s important not be discouraged exercises, bracing and we ensure we are using from taking part in non-specialised core sound scientific principles exercise because it’s ‘too retraining exercises found in making treatment complex”. Likewise, no significant difference in decisions. they should not be outcomes between any of deterred from carefully Treating scoliosis is the groups in the study. prescribed and gradually not just about avoiding upgraded exercise as pain long term, but it’s being inherently risky also important for the or harmful. People with young person affected scoliosis should feel empowered to take to be able to have a strong sense of self part in simple exercise and seek guidance as and a positive self image. Interestingly, in would be normally appropriate. the few studies that assess the effectiveness

Manning-Great Lakes focus 43

Dr Paul BRENNAN MIDCOAST SKIN CANCER CLINIC

MELANOMA

MELANOMA

Y

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 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.

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.

NORMAL MOLE

MELANOMA

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.

Phone 5700 5725 Address Unit 4, 29 Peel Street, Tuncurry NSW 2428 Email skincancer29@gmail.com Manning-Great Lakes focus 44

Dr Peter Feldbusch

Make your oral health a priority this Christmas and visit Maven Dental Feldbusch The experienced team at Maven Dental Feldbusch are here to get you and your family’s smile back on track and educate you on maintaining a good oral health routine for life. Dr Peter Feldbusch and the team have been faithfully serving the Taree community for over 40 years and are focused on providing you comprehensive dental care, in a relaxed, friendly environment.

A healthy mouth and a healthy body go hand in hand. Understanding the close relationship between your oral health, general health and the impacts on each other is very important.

Brushing twice a day, flossing, regular visits to

the dentist and limiting your junk food intake are all ways you can protect your mouth from far more than just cavities. These are all an important part of your general health and wellbeing, protecting you from oral diseases and chronic conditions.

Make your oral health a priority before the festive season with Maven Dental Feldbusch.

New patients can receive a No Gap* dental exam, x-rays and clean! For T&Cs or to book online, visit mavendental.com.au/nogap or speak with the friendly team: (02) 6552 1766.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 45

Men roviding timely access to quality health services is priority at Mayo and Forster Private Hospitals, we believe in supporting our locals to receive the best possible care locally, thus reducing the mental and financial burden of travel, accommodation and separation from support networks.

Mayo and Forster are part of the HealtheCare network. Healthe Care is the third largest private hospital operator in Australia, and a leading pan-Asian healthcare services group delivering clinical best practice and positive patient outcomes.

HealtheHeart: Do you have cardiovascular concerns? Need an ECG/echocardiogram or stress test? Want access to a Cardiac specialist in a timely manner? Talk to your GP about a referral to Healthehearts.

Mayo Physio Network & Forster Allied Health Network: Provide access to a wide range of Allied Health Professionals and services: Hydrotherapy programs l Dietitians l Exercise Physiologists l Physiotherapists l Day Rehab Programs Inpatient & Outpatients l Keep You Active Program Respiratory – Did you know there is a lung function clinic at Mayo!! Do you have a persistent cough or noticed a shortness of breath? Have you ever worked in a dusty environment or workplace with paints or solvents? Have you been exposed to silica or asbestos? Have a chat to your GP about having a lung function test with Dr Peter Braude or Dr Krishan Gupta, local Physicians.

Sleep Studies – Do you wake up feeling tired? Snore? Are a restless sleeper?

Ask your GP for a referral for a sleep study available at Forster and Mayo Private Hospitals.

Urology – With prostate cancer being the most common cancer among males, we are very lucky on the Mid North Coast to have access to Specialist Urologist Dr Ben Kwok at both Mayo and Forster Private Hospital. Dr Kwok treats a range of conditions including – incontinence, pelvic floor concerns, sexual dysfunction and kidney stone concerns.

Nephrology/Dialysis – Did you know 90% of Kidney function can be lost without any symptoms? (Source: Kidney Health Australia) Scary isn’t it!! Early detection saves lives – talk to your GP and ask for a referral today. Dr Purvish Patel is our local nephrologist and a really good bloke.

Mental Health Services – Your mental health affects every aspect of your life, sometimes without you realising it. It can negatively affect your physical health, diet and relationships with others. We encourage you to have the conversation with your GP, seek a referral and be on the road to better mental health today.

Range of Surgical & Non-Surgical services: Orthopaedic l General Surgery l ENT l Orthopaedic Spinal l Oral & Maxillofacial l Dental l Pain Management l ECT & TMS l Ophthalmology l Gastroenterology l Urology l Cardiology l Oncology l Neurology

Call: 6555 1333 / Email: info@forsterprivate.com.au

Call: 6551 0722 / Email: referral.mayo@healthecare.com.au

Coffee & Canvas for Mental Health hank you to those people who came to ‘Share the Journey’ with Mayo Private Hospital on National Mental Health Awareness Day, 10th October 2019.

Mayo Private Hospital promoted and celebrated by hosting a free ‘Coffee and Canvas’ morning tea for the Community, Patients, Staff and Visitors to come together and ‘share the journey’. The event was everything our passionate staff had hoped it would be, with approximately 30 participants ranging in age from 3 to 82 years - coming together, enjoying conversation and connecting whilst working on large collaborative art pieces.

Psychologist guest speakers, discussed the importance of connection and social interaction, as well as a range of therapies; including the benefit of art therapy.

A patient spoke about how important the ‘share the journey – Coffee & Canvas morning tea was for her in braking down the ‘stigma barrier’ of mental health.

Planning has already commenced for the 2020 event.

A special thanks goes out to – Woodwizard & Edge Art Supplies Taree, for the use of large easels for the event.

Mental Health Services at Mayo Private Hospital Our evidence-based treatment, comfortable facilities, and skilled and experienced staff, enhance the quality of care and health outcomes for our patients. Our specialised services include: • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation or TMS as we like to call it, is a NEW SERVICE AVAILABLE in the treatment of mood disorders such as chronic depression, bipolar etc. Mayo hosts the only TMS Service available on the Mid North Coast • Neurostimulation – Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) for medication resistant depression and severe depression • Older persons mental health • Acute adult psychiatry • Mood disorders, anxiety and depression • Inpatient therapy programs • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) inpatient and day programs • CBT-based programs • A broad range of day therapy programs to support ongoing recovery and wellness • Out reach programs Our team of Psychiatrists, Medical, Nursing and Allied Health professionals provide expert care to manage and treat a wide range of mental health disorders. We offer a holistic approach with treatment provided in a safe, supportive environment for inpatients, day patients and outpatients.

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.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

November 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

Be patient just a little longer, as your dream is about to come true.

You recently gave yourself permission to have something you may have been without for a long time, but now you need to wait for the timing to be perfect.

Dioptase is powerful for forgiveness, especially toward oneself.

PISCES. FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

As usual, the Pisces is following the magical scent of love! A new love is about to step forward and enrich your life. There is also the likeliness of travel. Work changes will also bring some new adventure - ENJOY! Rose Quartz, the crystal of love, will enrich and nurture any new relationship.

The feeling of suspension is soon leaving your reality. In fact, soon you will be too busy “to have a chat”. New opportunities will find you, but you need to want change, and you need to have a thirst for knowledge. Enjoy!

Rose Quartz is very reassuring when you are venturing into new circumstances.

You are about to embark on a journey of self-discovery. You may have been through a lot of disturbance lately, but you have also brought out your most wonderful gifts and talents. You will like the new you.

Herderite is a powerful transformation stone.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You have recently discovered a level of personal strength that may have surprised you. This is what you have been aspiring to all along.

Take some time out of your busy schedule to pamper yourself, and reconnect with your “passion for life”.

Turquoise brings a feeling of wholeness. Carry it in a pocket.

A new relationship is coming into play; however, your “deservability” is in question. You can have the magic of love in your life if you think you deserve it, or you can sabotage it and go without if you think you can’t have it.

Black Tourmaline is a powerful purifier and cleanser.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Love yourself as much as you can to attract the best of the best in all that life has to offer. Identify and release any beliefs that limit your success, and fill your mind with positive affirmations. Be aware of how limiting you can be for yourself. If you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.

Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

A beautiful surprise awaits. Enjoy a blissful period in relationships, as new friends emerge. These people will help you to show your talents and feel accomplished. New career opportunities are entering the picture mid-month.

Clear Quartz is wonderful at amplifying positive energy.

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

Turquoise has a confidence boosting effect.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

You have outgrown some old beliefs so instead of feeling comforted by your beliefs, you’ll be feeling trapped in them. Sit quietly and debate your beliefs. This will encourage and manifest change. Replace negative thought patterns with uplifting, positive ones.

Danburite connects us to our higher consciousness.

You will soon be free to make your own decisions, without the pressure from another person. Work opportunities are opening up to you since you gave yourself permission to achieve, and now you will be rewarded for something you love to do.

Aventurine is a wonderful crystal for personal change and growth.

Now is a good time to debate your beliefs in life. These rules by which you have lived life have given security and stability, but lately you have been left feeling trapped and contained by these beliefs.

The new you will not be held back.

Azeztulite shows us alternate realities.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 47

focusinterview.

Love a little b y

s a r a h

b a k e r

rarotonga, cook islands

T

he Cook Islands, located in island hub and capital, but is certainly by no amongst the stunning South means busy. The circumference of the whole Pacific, is home to fifteen island is just 32 kilometres and takes just half an remote and picturesque islands hour to drive around, as you explore the white which form the Cook Islands. sandy beaches and pristine turquoise lagoon If you are looking for a relaxed waters. The island is completely flat, except for holiday destination encompassing true island the jungle centre, making it so easy to move time and a real escapism from reality, this is it! around. If you love the simplicity of island life, I have holidayed on Rarotonga four times now the Cook Islands is perfect for relaxing the mind with my husband, and and enriching the soul. each trip brings something Both my husband new and unique for both and I love the unique of us to take away. landscape, for all that At the heart of Rarotonga Rarotonga is the vibrant it has to offer. The is the dense volcanic vibrant sea life is perfect jungle centre, where for endless snorkelling there are many island opportunities. You can treks you can do. Each swim with turtles, get is challenging, but the up-close to bright coral, views from the peaks of the admire the many varieties island overlooking the ocean of tropical fish or bigger are breathtaking. ones just beyond the back of the reef, or just cool down in the tranquil clear waters while you await cocktail hour.

At the heart of Rarotonga is the dense volcanic jungle centre, where there are many island treks you can do. Each is challenging,

48 Manning-Great Lakes focus

focusinterview.

but the views from the peaks of the island overlooking the ocean are breathtaking. Walking through the rainforest, you are likely to see a spattering of roosters and chickens and different coastal bird varieties calling to each other through the trees. A jungle trek is a must do if you are relatively fit. The famous landmark on Rarotonga is The Needle and can be undertaken on the cross-island trek. The views are well worth the effort.

Rarotonga offers a choice of plenty to do or is the perfect destination for not doing much at all. The weather all year round is tropical and warm, making every month the ideal time to travel. There are 50+ cafés, bars and restaurants littered throughout Rarotonga, many with beachfront views and sandy floors. There are no traffic lights, chain stores or fast food outlets here!

One of my favourite food destinations that my husband and I frequent when we’re in Rarotonga is the bustling night markets. These are held in the village of Muri a few nights a week, with beautiful traditional food prepared by the locals and held under fairy lights with live music. It’s a real hub of the island, where locals and tourists come together to catch-up and dine at long tables. The Saturday morning markets in the town centre are also a fantastic opportunity to pick up local food, souvenirs and see some

traditional island dancing and drumming performances.

Getting around is super easy. A bus service operates throughout the day with two travel directions; clockwise or anti-clockwise.

You are free to hop on and off as you please and can Aitutaki means ‘A Little Paradise’ quite easily hail the driver to and is home to arguably stop for you wherever you on the island from the most beautiful are. Alternatively, scooter hire their own personal lagoon in the world. Just is simple and cost-effective. perspectives. a 50 minute flight from Tourists are advised to wear As a culture, Rarotonga, this island will helmets, although the the Cook Island add another dimension to your maximum speed limit is just 50 people are a proud Cook Islands experience. kilometres per hour - laidback community who island style! Next level car welcome tourists hire on offer is a Volkswagen with open hearts Beetle convertible, which I to experience their would love to take advantage of next time for a way of life. Rarotonga’s population stands at just over 14,000 people, who live on the main different experience! island.

Accommodation options are plentiful, but Sundays are predominantly family days, with my husband and I have always used Air BnB the morning beginning with a church service. I stays for our accommodation in Rarotonga was incredibly moved the first time I attended rather than resort style (although there are many a service in Rarotonga. The congregation wear beautiful ones). In our experience, travelling white and the ladies adorn themselves with in this way has always added an extra level large straw hats as they sing traditional hymns, to our trips, where we have met and formed gospel style. great friendships with Air BnB owners who If you would like to experience more of the have recommended many points of difference

world of the Cook Islands, north island Aitutaki is a magnet for honeymooners and those travellers seeking a private escape. Aitutaki means "A Little Paradise" and is home to arguably the most beautiful lagoon in the world. Just a 50 minute flight from Rarotonga, this island will add another dimension to your Cook Islands experience.

Another island on our bucket list is Atiu, which is situated to the east of Rarotonga and more remote again. The third largest of the Cook Islands, Atiu is believed to be more than eight million years old, full of mysterious ancient caves, home to rare tropical bird life and incredible secluded coral beaches. Rich in culture and history, Atiu is an eco-lovers paradise.

The Cook Islands are indeed a rare beauty. Air New Zealand flies direct to Rarotonga twice per week, departing Sydney.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 49

FOCUS ON

48 Manning-Great Lakes focus

BUSINESS

focus_contributor _contributor..

C

Business Minds with Bronwyn Davis of Clui Creative

We chat with Megan Cooke from Midwaste about how we can reduce food waste in our homes and businesses.

an you tell us a bit about Love Food Mid North Coast?

Love Food Mid North Coast is a free program helping local families and food-based businesses reduce their food waste - saving time, money and valuable natural resources.

There are two programs, "Food Smart" for households, and "Your Business is Food" for businesses. Both include easy, step-by-step guides to help you reduce your food waste.

By 2050, it’s expected that the world will need to produce twice as much food in a climate that may be very different to today. It’s a global problem, but the good news is that we can all be part of the solution by making simple changes at home and work to reduce our food waste.

Personally, what do you think about the amount of food we waste?

It surprises many people to know that one in every five shopping bags full of food ends up in the bin. What a waste!

The average family wastes almost $4,000 every year throwing food away. That’s $10 billion worth of food binned by NSW households every year.

And throwing food away not only wastes the food itself, but also the energy, water and natural resources used to grow, package, transport and sell it.

Restaurants, cafés and other food businesses throw away around 30% of their food. Think about all that profit going in the bin!

The reason I’m passionate about this work is that most of this waste could have easily been avoided.

How does the Your Business is Food Program work?

Through Your Business is Food we provide Specials to use up excess ingredients. Another food businesses with simple steps and handy is to label and date all food as it comes in and resources to help them avoid food waste, then store new supplies at the back, so older educate staff and customers and promote their ingredients are used first. positive actions.

Dru from Drury Lane in Port Macquarie The free Your Business is Food program is has always been conscious of waste as part designed to help businesses waste less food and of operating a sustainable business. He went improve profits. through the Your Business It involves a food is Food program recently waste review, to work and said it was really out where food is being educational. wasted. This might be “It was astonishing to THE AVERAGE due to over ordering or see how much food we throwing out perfectly were still wasting and FAMILY WASTES good food during where we could tighten ALMOST $4000 preparation. A lot of food up. I can put money back EVERY YEAR is wasted due to spoilage in my pocket.” from ineffective storage, How is Food Smart THROWING or "plate waste" from helping families save?

FOOD AWAY. excess serving sizes and Food Smart is an garnishes. interactive education Businesses who register program that helps online can also receive families reduce food waste resources to help engage staff and customers, at home, save money and help the environment. an easy to follow action plan, and support to It’s a free, easy program that is helping people achieve measurable success. make small, simple, changes to the way we buy, We’re also encouraging diners to speak cook and save food. up and ask for their leftovers in a takeaway Families sign up online and then complete a container. The good news for businesses is that quick survey. Food Smart kits are available for a recent survey showed 71% of people would collection from MidCoast Council. Once your think more favourably about restaurants that family has followed the simple steps, you can offer takeaway containers for leftover food. share your success with us.

What steps or action plans can a business It’s a great opportunity to get your kids put in place to reduce waste? involved, to create a lasting change to the way When businesses sign up to Your Business is we think about food.

Food, they receive a simple Action Plan based How can we reduce food waste in our own on their food waste review that includes tips homes? Any food saving tips? for Smart Ordering, Savvy Storage, Creating a The Food Smart program takes families Clever Menu, and Reducing Plate Waste. through five key ways to avoid food waste. The One easy idea is to offer changing Chef kit provides information and ideas on how you

can make significant savings by planning your meals, sticking to a shopping list, keeping it fresh, serving perfect portions and loving your leftovers.

One great tip is to change your thinking from “what do we want to eat?” to “what can we make with what we have?” If you’ve run out of ideas for that bag of green beans left in the fridge, ask Google! You can search for recipes based on the ingredients you have. How about green bean and potato salad, or a green Thai curry? Or get creative with a family favourite, like bolognaise, by adding things in, rather than throwing them in the bin.

And don’t forget to take your leftovers for a tasty lunch. Leftover roast vegies make a great salad when mixed with some leaves and balsamic. And send that leftover pasta to school in a thermos container - the kids will love you for it.

What workshops do you currently have running?

Everyone is invited to come along and learn how to put food saving tips into practice at a free Food Smart Workshop at Forster Library on 16th November and Taree Library on 30th November. Contact the library to book your spot.

Where can we find out more information?

Love Food Mid North Coast is delivered by MidWaste, a forum of six Councils including MidCoast Council, that supports communities to reduce waste and improve resource recovery.

It’s quick and easy to sign up for the free programs online. Food Smart www.midwaste. org.au/food-smart and Your Business is Food www.midwaste.org.au/your-business-is-food This project is a NSW Government Waste Less Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 51

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

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

LJ Hooker Taree.

It is really encouraging to see so many first home buyers back in our market, especially the young ones, with parents in tow - literally helping to set them up for their future. We all know the first property purchase is the hardest, so with the banks lowering the required deposit back down to 5% for first home buyers, this should bring welcome relief and provide encouragement all round. Our local market is one of the best in Australia for affordability, so the younger generation are definitely the lucky ones growing up in an area they can afford to buy into. Unfortunately, managing money is not part of our school syllabus, so if we are not taught at home, purchasing your first property may seem so daunting that it just

52 Manning-Great Lakes focus

never happens. With credit so available, it is too easy for people to fall into the bad debt trap with car loans, credit card debt and personal loans preventing home ownership, even for high income earners.

We can provide information and pathways to assist this process and help you plan towards that goal of owning your own home. The first step is education and learning to change your spending habits and allow money to work for you. Register for our next First Home Buyers Information Evening, where you can talk directly with a mortgage lender, plus a conveyancer will be on hand to discuss the legal process so you can start planning now. Home ownership could be just months away.

“Destination Managementpeople, organisations can noinnovation, longer hide behind Events connect breed the tiredbuild old linecommunities that ‘our role is just promotion’.

Thosechange days are over” and spark William Baker, 2019.

JE

veryone loves a good event, produce, can provide leverage and impetus for ust like many businesses at this of stakeholders in a coherent and intuitive way, whether it’s a quirky rolling developing new destination product and new time of year, the Barrington Coast to ensure our experiences are authentic and tell pin throwing competition, a year-round experiences. tourism team has been busily our local “story” in a way that resonates with fun running festival or an art Traditionally we’ve attracted events to the reviewing and developing its our target markets. gallery exhibition launch. In the region that have broad appeal and depth, business and marketing plans for On one end of the experience scale is the Barrington Coast region, we’re provide a solid resource base, spread visitation the next fi nancial year.

During this big idea that becomes game-changer for the extremely blessed with a wide range of eclectic between regions, time ofa year and operators, process, what really struck me was how much destination, like a Great Walk.

At the other and exciting events, which lure visitors to our increase yield and attract/develop new events.end the tourism environment has changed in a it can something finding destination.

The be economic valueasofsimple eventsas cannot be the relatively short period of time. micro moments that can make the difference Events contribute to the local economy, underestimated. For example, Tourism Research Many ofpeople today’s leading to someone’s experience. bringing that need destinations goods, services, Australia estimates that someone attending a are recognising the reality that a focus on Experience development accommodation and entertainment. They sporting based event spends also $257doesn’t per person promotion is notenhance enoughthe to profile succeed. always from it might attract visitors, of A theshift per day.mean Add instarting the spend of scratch; an overnight stay, toward destination just destinations and foster and therequire returnssome quickly management and The creative thinking.

The community pride. multiply.

Each overnight most successful events are experience development stay with an event boosts opportunity to leverage those activity in the region. isalways no longer upthat for engage existing experiences the local community There is also a significant debate. to create new news Events are vitally important for Ultimately, as aaredestination inJust which are held. added return from events likethey destinations is often overlooked. communities and linked to we can’t separate Benefits of world, holdingwe events which is often unseen, that around the Collaboration between wellbeing and a sensedevelopof place. ment from promotion.

We are thus far and wide. of advocacy and sentiment.

Places and communities are being challenged a number of businesses need to themselves walk the talk with Events are a window Events to define by their to ask ourselves “are that take offervisitors different into a community’s heart places they would not a holistic approach that events.

Events in our region are we equipped to create services in different and soul. Many visitors normally go could to andresult bring in includes allwe branding and a part of how live - we love a experiences?”

Without locations come to our region for "new" people to the marketing activities. good excuse to celebrate. a unique story told a bundling of offers that events, as they get to region. These visitors then consistently and by together can create a be a part of something go home talking about all, a destination and whole new experience. more than just a holiday. their fantastic experience, its products become Ultimately, as a Events help to break post about it on their simply a commodity, with price as the only destination we can’t separate development down barriers, as well as create opportunities. social pages and plan their next visit. So, the battlefield. This becomes a slippery slope to from promotion. We need to walk the talk with They influence a community socially, culturally, destination benefits from this positive sentiment increasing irrelevance in what is a very dynamic a holistic approach that includes all branding environmentally, economically and politically. and invaluable word of mouth advertising. marketplace. and marketing activities. Since a brand is the Events are vitally important for communities This is important for the businesses that may So as a destination management team, sumsee of "on all stories thatreturn are told byan and about and are linked to wellbeing and a sense not the day" from event. how are we making this shift to the visitor our destination, the experiences we provide of place. Places and communities define Events can assist with long-term sustained experience, to deliver the right must match our words. themselves in byorder their events.

Events in our region growth for the region, and in turn, individual destination experience that creates brand If we’re making promises and appeals in are a part of how we live - we love a good business. advocacy visitors and locals alike? our marketing communications, we need to excuse tofrom celebrate.

Moving forward, events will continue to play Well, we ensure that we clearly emphasise ablerole to in keep those when peopleobjectives. arrive Events have always been important for abevital delivering our tourism the experiences a visitor hasforinattracting our destination, in ourwill region.

To to overpromise while not tourism; they are catalysts They be used showcase our people rather than purely the product found here. delivering the experience isn’tthe the right visitors, increasing spend and stay.

They are and places;on provide platforms for visitor More fundamentally, weprofile, are starting to help thing to dowith ... remembering tooand that our visitor image-makers, creating position, to interact our local culture produce; providing competitive marketing activate new of experiences and new visitor shape and abuild these positive and advantage, inspiring perceptions our destination aretarget almost a point of difference added reason to markets andshaped of course; build awareness of the experiences.

But, this and shiftan has demanded exclusively by the opinions of millions visit.we Increasingly visitors arehistoric seekingrole "real", Barrington Coast brand. that step outside of our of of individuals, communicated through word authentic and experiences - and events can provide next time there today is an event in town, marketing promotion. of So mouth, primarily via digital andgo social these too. has become absolutely one of and check Just it out.

Better still, why notdon’t enter have or Our role channels. like the adage “you Events can also be a catalyst for new volunteer?

Not only will you be supporting your “management”. It’s about development, a brand until your customers say you have development.

For example, building a and own community and local economy, buttalked you bringing the whole experience together a brand” - “an experience that is not reputation for a particular event such as will also meet new people and enjoy a different guiding collaboration across a wide spectrum about might as well be invisible”. trail running or one that showcases local experience.

f

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

m ney matters. with Alan Tickle

legal

Aged Care and Granny Flat Provisions

light.

T

with Justin Stack

Conflict of interest concerns in administering deceased estates These days, most people have superannuation. Indeed, some people have hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars in superannuation. Not surprisingly, when such large amounts of money are involved, conflicts can arise over the ownership of a person’s superannuation death benefit when they die.

Tony Mitchell, lawyer with Stacks Law Firm, said one such conflict arose in the 2018 case of Burgess v Burgess, which had to be resolved by the court.

“At the core of the case was the dilemma thrown up when Mr Burgess died without a will,” Mr Mitchell said.

“Mr Burgess was survived by his wife, who was also the administrator of his estate, and by two young children.

“As there was no will, the distribution of the estate came under the relevant intestacy laws, which state that Mrs Burgess and the two young children were entitled to an equal share of the estate of Mr Burgess.”

The issue was whether Mrs Burgess could claim the superannuation death benefit of Mr Burgess herself, or whether, as administrator of the estate of Mr Burgess, she was obliged to claim superannuation death benefits for the estate.

“This issue was important, because if Mrs Burgess could claim the superannuation death benefits herself, they would be hers

to do with as she wished.

“However, if Mrs Burgess was obliged to claim the death benefits for the estate, then the superannuation death benefits would have to be shared equally between Mrs Burgess and the two young children.”

The Supreme Court of Western Australia decided that a conflict of interest existed between Mrs Burgess acting personally in relation to the superannuation death benefit of Mr Burgess, and her acting in the capacity of administrator of the estate of Mr Burgess.

Further, the court held that this conflict of interest had to be resolved by Mrs Burgess claiming the death benefit for the estate, not for herself personally. Accordingly, Mrs Burgess was required to account to the estate of Mr Burgess for the death benefit which she claimed for herself while she was the administrator of the estate.

The case highlights just how easily conflicts of interest can arise in the course of administration of the estate of a deceased person where superannuation is involved.

The case also highlights the importance of a person's estate planning intentions being properly documented, with a carefully drafted will and independent persons appointed as executors, as well as a death benefit nomination.

here are incentives for families to step up and provide care for their loved ones, rather than aged care facilities. One of those is the “Granny Flat Provision”.

The term “Granny Flat” when it comes to provision of accommodation for a Centrelink recipient is not to be confused with Council’s definition of a “Granny Flat”, but it simply means making available accommodation for someone else to reside. The test is the genuineness of intent of the provider of the accommodation to provide life-time care and accommodation.

If for example, care is provided for six years, before care of a more personal nature such as palliative care is needed, then the intent is genuine. The receiver of the care can gift an amount of money to acquire that care, without it being counted as an asset or regarded as a gift when determining pension entitlements.

The amount that is permissible is based on a reasonableness formula that multiplies the combined annual partnered aged pension rate by a conversion factor. The conversion factor is related to the age next birthday on the date that the right of occupancy was established.

As an example, the conversion factor and allowable purchase for a 79 year old is annual partnered pension x 10.04 = $334,653 For an 88 year old, it reduces to $175,326.

Real Example A real example is the 88 year old, who sold her modest home and moved into the home of her single daughter, who was not yet of age pension age. The 88 year old’s assessed assets were reduced for Centrelink purposes, by gifting $185,326 to the daughter, made up as follows: $175,326 the purchase of life time care and accommodation, $10,000 gift.

A further $10,000 was placed to a funeral

bond and a further amount to an annuity which had the asset value for assessment purposes discounted by 40%. There were discussions with an estate specialist solicitor, where there was fair provisioning for other family members in the aged person’s Will and Testament. The residue of the sale proceeds was invested to supplement what was close to full pension being received by the aged person.

Other Benefits The daughter was successful in obtaining Carer's Pension and Carer’s allowance for the care of her mother. The money received from her mother was added to the daughter’s superannuation, and as this amount is not assessable until the daughter turned 67, which was not for another five years, full carer's pension was paid.

Family Attitude The family was happy, because their mother was being cared for in a family environment.

They acknowledged that their sibling sister was stepping in for an aged care facility at a lower cost than what might otherwise have occurred, had accommodation costs been paid to an institution.

ACAT Assessment An assessment had been completed that entitled the aged person for other assistance, which allowed the daughter some time out for shopping and her own personal needs.

Get Advice Families often become shell shocked when talking to aged care providers when the cost of care confronts them.

The aged care providers are not aware of the financial capacity of the aged person.

Often, advice before decisions are made can minimise the impact or at the least allow consideration of viable funding options.

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

If you have a case, Stacks has the expert

02 6592 6592

stacklaw.com.au/taree Manning-Great Lakes focus 53

A

I NN

•

R E T I R E M E N T

N G G R E AT

L

A K

M

L I F E S T Y L E

ES

to

infinity FO

54 Manning-Great Lakes focus

CU

S F E AT U

RE

•

A G E D

C A R E

Love to live here!

I’d

We caught up with long time locals Bill and Brenda Berg to find out about their experience moving to Evermore, having made the change a couple of years ago.

S

o Bill; tell us about your move to Evermore …

We retired about six years ago. I had a back operation and wasn’t able to do much around the place and I said to Brenda …

“Let’s downsize and move into a unit or something”. She said, ”I’m not living in a unit”... and then one day she said, “Hey! There’s an Open Day at Evermore. Why don’t we go and have a look?” So we did and as we were walking out, she said, “I’d love to live here”. That is over two years ago now, and we are as happy as Larry!

Brenda confirmed Bill’s story, adding: “When we walked through, we did the tour and everything just felt right - I can’t explain it - it felt comfortable! It felt the way you’d want things to feel. I walked out and I was sold, and I’m not an impulsive person normally. We were ready to downsize, and everything worked out really well.”

What’s it like living in Evermore, Bill?

It’s great! It’s like living at a five star resort. We’ve downsized, and everything is just so much easier. It just makes good sense. We’ve made heaps of friends.

Lovely people! Lovely staff. There’s something on all the time. I have the odd game of snooker or head down to the lounge bar for a few beers and a chat. There’s regular events on at the bar lounge area and great entertainment. There’s always something to do. I like to get together with friends to watch the cricket in the summer, footy in the winter and the tipping competition, which is always good fun. It’s just a really comfortable lifestyle. There’s a great restaurant here, pool, spa …

Everything is here!

And Bill … How does the community feel at Evermore?

55 Manning-Great Lakes focus

It’s like a big family. There is a real sense of community. regulated - and that’s just not the case. You live your own Down at the bar of an afternoon, everyone’s friendly. It’s life as you want to. really positive. I’m chairman of the Resident’s Committee When you walk in and you get the feel and you see and Brenda’s the secretary of the social committee, so everyone’s walking around happy and doing something we get pretty involved. There’s ... just keep it in mind that this is plenty to do and no pressure. Our what you could be doing! daughter and grandkids live locally, You’ve got the freedom, the care so they come in to see us, and we and support, and the friends right have barbecues and that sort of there when you need them. Even if There’s always something to do. I thing. you can’t drive, you’ve got options! like to get together with friends to The support is really good too.

There are a couple of buses and a watch the cricket in the summer, They’ve got lovely staff and if you little car to take the residents out footy in the winter and the tipping ever need anything, you just ask. shopping a few days a week that competition, which is always You can just call if you ever need comes back and picks them up after good fun. It’s just a really assistance and if there’s ever an a couple of hours, which is really comfortable lifestyle. emergency, you simply push a handy.

There’s a great restaurant here, button and someone comes to Bill added to the conversation pool, spa … Everything is here! your aid. As you get older, you ...”If you’re serious about it, just never know when you may need come in. Come to an Open Day at help - it’s really comforting to know Evermore and see for yourself. It has it’s there. certainly exceeded my expectations.

“The real standouts for me are getting to catch up with So Brenda - tell me about your apartment ... the other residents and the quality of the apartment - it’s It’s excellent! We bought an apartment in Stage 3 and magic. Definitely no complaints about that. And there’s upgraded to one off the plan in Stage 4 that was a bit always something on - everything’s here, and you can do bigger, with a work area for Bill. It’s really nice and easy as much or as little as you like!” to look after. There’s plenty of room. It’s got two big If you’re considering retirement, you’re invited to bedrooms, lounge room, a great work area that’s really come in to an Open Day at Evermore on Saturday 23rd handy, walk in wardrobe, modern kitchen and a nice balcony outside to enjoy the morning sun - everything we November from 10am - 2pm. Come in and say hello to Bill and Brenda and the other residents at the Open Day, need. so you can get a feel of what retirement could be like for And Brenda ...What would you say to other seniors you. considering retirement?

I asked Brenda if she had any closing comments, to If you’re thinking of retirement - I’d say, “Keep an which she replied …”I’m just very happy!” open mind”, because people get preconceived ideas about retirement villages, that they’re going to be over

Manning-Great Lakes focus 56

focusinterview. interview.

Karenne Norling C

To say Karenne Norling is a bit of a travel expert is a huge understatement … With years of adventures to draw on, we spoke to Karenne about what got her hooked on travel in the first place (amongst other things!)

an you share a bit about your background and connection to the area?

I was born, raised and educated in Taree. I entered my family's furniture and floorcovering business after I left school. I studied interior design, secretarial and bookkeeping, to equip me for those years in retailing and to this day.

It was in a Taree High School geography lesson I decided I wanted to see the world. It was about that time, in the early '70s, my parents started travelling, returning with stories and photos to inspire my imagination to go looking at these amazing sights and experience cultures different from my own. I would have never dreamed then I’d call myself a professional traveller.

In hindsight, I still think back to the most classic comment I made in life, when my dad was trying to guide my future education of subject choices for what’s Year 8 now, to suggest I learn a language. I recall replying along the lines of, "I’ll never use it, as I’ll never want to go anywhere, Dad"… and the rest is history.

2019 is an auspicious year, as it's 40 years since I embarked on the big adventure in March of 1979, and only this year was 40 years since I’d revisited some places, including Egypt and Israel … It’s a surreal thought that 40 years has even passed, and what has filled that time is also amazing …

When did you first catch the "travel bug" that saw you build a career around travel?

I basically left school to work to travel. My first tour was to NZ in 1975, which I still recommend to clients today as a great start to international travel, with its close proximity and ease of everything.

That same year I visited my penpal (from age nine) Linda Chua in Singapore, to attend her brother's Chinese wedding - where I was the only Caucasian among 600 guests. I was hooked! We still see each other at least annually and do some travels together, to this day, 53 years later.

My dad decided to sell Furniture One with fail57 Manning-Great Lakes focus

ing health in 1992. I knew my natural vocational progression was to enter the travel industry, and that was 27 years ago. What a journey of places and experiences in that time! I am thankful daily for the fun, lessons and experiences travel has added to my life. It really is an addiction that I love.

I coupled this with the challenge of general business, as I bought an agency going backwards - there were five travel agencies in Taree - and turned it into being highly profitable (always with a great team). I also opened from scratch a second agency in Forster in 2001, which is still open as itravel, under new capable ownership.

Travelling today is very different to what it was when you first started travelling. How has travel changed for you over the time?

Well, isn’t that true! I left home (with my cousin, Robyn Pieper) in March 1979 with a backpack (which you can see in the photo!) a wad of traveller’s cheques, a hand typed itinerary, a real hand written one way air ticket and great overland plans between Sydney and London for three months, then to do a 58 days Contiki Tour of Europe, with three others from Taree. Calling home was almost unaffordable (no mobiles), we had to budget hard to make the money last (no cards). We had the book Europe on $10 a Day in hand, and we made it.

The ease of travel now, with mobile phones, the instant nature of the internet, to know news of home, weather anywhere, updates from airlines, even free calls via internet apps, which opens a can of worms of information via many travel apps - especially language translators … and money is now much easier with international cards too. What an enormous progression of technology in forty years.

From a retail travel agent's point of view, I entered the industry just prior to full automation, when we phoned all bookings to airlines and wholesalers, to now doing everything totally online. It’s a huge progression that even adds to an agent’s service level these days. I can make an air booking and as soon as the client pays, the air

ticket is generated within moments. E-tickets and vouchers have been a huge bonus to the industry and travellers; it has never looked back.

The other huge change is security. The world over has certainly changed in a big way - sad, but it’s here to stay.

What would you say has been the most unusual place or experience you’ve ever been to / had?

The most unusual city I have been to is Ashgabat, in the Country of Turkmenistan on the Old Silk Road route. I recently noticed an online article entitled, Ashgabat … The World's Strangest City, and it’s true. The streets are a spacious dual carriageway, five lanes wide with one or two cars using it, where the cars are about 200 metres in front or behind you. It's a city and country looking like its built for a high population, with a lack of people and day to day life happening. It seems to be a city built for show, with grandiose monuments and buildings constructed in stunning white marble with gold artistic features, with the feeling and look that no one lives there.

You could not tell businesses from government buildings, no signage … totally bizarre on all accounts, with an officially quoted population of one million.

Experiences … I'd say my claim to fame was being so suddenly ill inside the Bombay Post Office and making a run for outside, only making the main stairs - oh dear! Then in Egypt as very innocent young ladies, opening a taxi door at the Valley of Kings to have a taxi fly past, taking the door off. The issue was the taxi driver wanted us to pay. There was quite a loud "to do", but somehow we managed to walk away, alive, without parting financially. How was that possible on $10 a day?

Egypt was also the first place we’d experienced being on the wrong side of the road, people smoking hash publicly and airport military fully equipped with machine guns … Well, that’s just normal these days.

Best places you’ve travelled to and why?

I get asked this question often. My answer is

usually the same … Everywhere I visit has its own uniqueness and high memory value, and I enjoy it all. I seem to have a homing affinity with Scotland, with the pull of Europe nearby. I think the history and diversity Europe offers, in such close proximity, is awesome. It seems to draw Aussies in constantly, me included. I still have a lot more to see there.

The 1979 Overland trip to Europe with a backpack and an unknown end still stands out in my mind as adventurous for two 21-year olds (parents would not allow us to go before we turned 21). I do think the Old Silk Road (Tehran to Beijing) I did in 2016 was outstanding, with many unexpected adventures … Firstly, no ATMs or changing of AUDs. Then the border experiences, where there was high security to exit, a no man’s land to walk through (some over 1 km) over dusty, pot-holed roads, pulling your bag to the new country’s border, where they searched through all bags with strict guidelines, in their own time and with no communication.

The two outstanding countries were Iran and Uzbekistan. I would love to return to them both.

I do feel the most outstanding buildings I have seen worldwide would be topped by the tranquility of the Taj Mahal and our very own spectacular Sydney Opera House. I recall about eight years ago returning to the Taj to be the very first person in at sunrise, to get a photo with no other people in it - bliss!

The other "moment" in travel was when my "lucky yellow" bag popped out on to the Sydney airport carousel first. I was escorting a group back from Canada, and it just happened to be my birthday! What a one-off treat - I expect never to be repeated.

You’re always travelling, so where’s your next adventure going to be?

The Lesser Antilles beckons in January (south Caribbean) followed by Panama, where the flight stops, on its way to Cuba - a long term bucket list destination of mine.

Thanks Karenne.

Interview: Ingrid Bayer.

58 Manning-Great Lakes focus

North Brother Mountain

Laurieton CBD

Queens Lake

Make the most of life with waterside retirement Retire the easy way, with $10,000* to help you move. Simply settle before 20 December 2019 to be eligible.

If you are looking for a vibrant community of like-minded people and enjoy waking up to picturesque water views, then retiring at a Stockland village could be just what you’re looking for. We have the perfect one, two or three-bedroom open-plan villas, all designed with your comfort in mind.

Chat with our Sales Professional on 1800 72 71 70 or visit stocklandretire.com.au/nsw today.

Queens Lake Retirement Village 349 Ocean Drive, Laurieton

Camden View Village 12 Laurie Street, Laurieton

Golden Ponds Resort Cape Hawke Drive, Forster

• Located right on the lake • Two and three-bedroom villas and units some with lake views • Walking track along lakefront • Village bus • Heated indoor swimming pool and spa

• • • •

• • • •

Two and three-bedroom villas and units Close proximity to beaches Located in the heart of Laurieton CBD Easy walk to shopping centre and medical facilities

One, two, and three-bedroom villas Full-size bowling green Village on 32 acres of gardens, forest and ponds Active social club

*Terms and conditions apply. Call 1800 72 71 70 to find out more.

Retirement

Freecall 1800 72 71 70 stocklandretire.com.au/nsw Manning-Great Lakes focus 59

Sinfonia

focusinterview.

MUSIC

C

TO OUR EARS

an you tell us a bit about Sinfonia MNC? What do you hope to facilitate in the community?

Sinfonia grew from a community meeting organised by a few of us who saw the need for an orchestra on our beautiful Mid North Coast. Our Mission Statement (is on our website www.sinfoniamnc. com.au) but in essence, we aim to facilitate the development of community cultural life through the medium of the symphony orchestra and to stimulate the appreciation and creation of orchestral music.

We are also very keen to encourage the performance, learning and teaching of music within our area, and to develop the music potential of all young people.

2019 is your 20th anniversary. How are you celebrating this special event?

What better way to celebrate an orchestral anniversary than with a performance! We are returning to the venue of our very first concert - the Manning Entertainment Centre in Taree, and we have invited former playing members to return and join us.

What’s the purpose of the Quaver Foundation?

The Quaver Foundation was set up by a previous Sinfonia President, Anne-Marie Barnett to give the orchestra a more solid financial base.

We invite community members to share our

60 Manning-Great Lakes focus

Leigh Vaughan OAM passion, by contributing a once-only Quaver donation. Donors’ names or names of family, team, syndicate, organisation or memorial are recognised permanently in every concert program. See www.sinfoniamnc.com.au/quaverfoundation.html What do the scholarships entail?

Quaver Foundation scholarships provide wonderful musical development for aspiring musicians. The scholarship recipients get to join and rehearse regularly with the orchestra and are given the opportunity to perform a solo with us as well. Scholarship auditions are conducted annually, and we are always interested to have applications from young instrumentalists.

I’m sure there are many success stories attributed to the scholarships; are there any standouts?

Oh, too many to list them all! Our very first James Hannah scholarship was Oliver Shermacher, a wonderful young clarinettist.

He is unable to join us for the concert, as he is performing in Berlin. Jonathan Billingham has returned several times from his position at NSW University and as a freelance composer to perform in his home town, Taree. Lindsay Kaul is now a rising star in the musical and conducting world. He will return to solo oboe with us at the celebration. Miguel Gutheridge performed his own composition for cello and orchestra with us last year and is now studying for his HSC in

Taree. Jara Stinson and Stephanie Hill are both professional violinists. Many more stories to tell!

The other side of that coin, and to my mind, most important is the fact that young people are given the opportunity to make music an integral part of their lives - perhaps not as professional musicians, but as people who appreciate that music is intrinsic to our lives as human beings.

Can you tell us a bit about the orchestra members?

Gosh, how much time do you have! Currently our youngest member is 15, and our oldest would be in the “mind your own business” category. Our dear Annie Van Breukelen was still playing with us when she was in her 90s. A tribute to her is on our website. Members come from all over the MNC and have a variety of life experiences and interests, and come together to share the joy of music making.

“Player Profiles” are featured on our website. It is always fascinating to see people’s life pathways and how music has played a significant part in their lives.

What genre of music does the Sinfonia cover?

Just about every genre you can think of! We have played all the acknowledged composers, from Bach and Vivaldi, through Brahms and Dvorak and Australian composers like Elena Kats Chernin and Paul Stanhope. We play arrangements by our resident honorary conductor, Iain Pole. We also play movie themes

and jazz arrangements.

How do you involve other local musical groups?

Two singing groups - Kantabile (Taree) and Company of Voices (Forster) join forces on a regular basis to perform with Sinfonia. This year we are preparing two opera choruses, which are great fun. We also invite other soloists and other instrumentalists to join us for performances and are always open to creative ideas.

What can the audience expect from the upcoming concert?

Much beautiful music, encompassing a wide cross section of our repertoire. The opera choruses (Verdi’s Hebrew Slaves and the Anvil Chorus), a selection from Forrest Gump, a Burt Bacharach Medley, the Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana, three lovely soloists and some happy surprises.

Where can we purchase tickets or find out more information?

Sinfonia website: sinfoniamnc.com.au on Try Booking or through the Manning Entertainment Centre in Taree or Forster Stockland.

Thanks Leigh. Interview: Bronwyn Davis.

Sinfonia Celebrates 20 Years!

Manning Entertainment Centre, Sunday 24th November, 2pm.

Maximising your home care The Australian Government defines a home care package as one of the ways that older Australians can access affordable care services to get help at home. With everyone’s needs being different, there are four levels of packages available.

Level 1 provides for basic care needs with approximately $8,750 a year provided by the government, through to a Level 4 for higher care needs - funded to approximately $50,750 per year. You are also expected to contribute to the cost of your home care if you can afford it. There is a “Basic Daily Fee” and some people may also be expected to pay an income-tested “Care Fee”, as determined by a formal income assessment from the Department of Human Services.

Your annual pool of funds is the budget you have

to work with to fund your care and support. It is important to expend the monies allocated to you. You can set aside a small sum for future care needs or events, but it is important to know that any unspent funds are returned to the government when you leave your home care package.

There are lots of creative ways you can put your funds to good use, while keeping some for an unexpected situation. Perhaps an iPad would help you keep in touch with family, or there might be a class or outing you would like to attend where you need transport arranged? The key is to work together with your provider to make the most out of your funds to make your life comfortable and enjoyable.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 61

focusinterview.

T A R E E

Q U O T A

Butterfly Seat Quota has long been known as a wonderful community organisation in our region, giving generously to the various causes it supports.

T

his year marks 100 years of Quota internationally, and 72 years of Quota in the Manning, and to celebrate this special occasion, Quota have commissioned a beautiful “butterfly seat”, which has just been handed over to our local community. We spoke with Quota Secretary, Janenne Towers, who gave us some insights into Quota.

What is Quota?

Quota is a non profit organisation empowering women, children, the deaf and hard of hearing, and people with speech difficulties in local communities around the world.

Quota was founded in 1919 as the first international service organisation for women. We have since expanded our clubs to include men and women throughout 13 countries.

Our motto - “We Share” - leads us to help and encourage others while developing friendships and promoting international understanding. We are known especially for our service to disadvantaged women and children and people who are deaf or who have speech difficulties. The Taree Club was Chartered in 1947, which makes us 72

62 Manning-Great Lakes focus

years old!

How did the idea for this wonderful butterfly seat come about?

It was the vision of our club members to have something very “special and permanent” to mark the celebration of 100 years of Quota Internationally, and 72 years of the Taree Quota Club members volunteering their time, talents and resources to the local community.

Because we work continuously for the deaf and hard of hearing, we have adopted the butterfly as our symbol; as you know, butterflies are deaf. There is a large butterfly carved onto the back of the seat; and on the front there are two hands representing Quota service reaching out into the community.

Pastor Russell Saunders carved the seat from a huge log, which was donated to us by Gay and David Embury - for which we are very grateful.

With the cooperation of Council, the seat was positioned in Victoria Street, outside of Spotlight.

How long did it take Russell to turn the raw log into this beautiful piece of work?

It was a daunting job for Russell! In the middle of summer we had the log delivered to his back

yard, and I think it took approximately two months for him to complete the task. We thank Russell sincerely for his amazing work. We are extremely pleased with the finished piece, and it will be a very proud day for the Taree Quota Club to finally present to the community this beautiful seat.

Is there anyone else you’d like to thank?

Our club members would like to thank President Nancy Boyling, Carolyn Erickson and Janenne Towers; they have spent many hours liaising with MidCoast Council, Russell Saunders, and Taree Quota Club members.

Our special thanks must go to Gay and David Embury for the donation of the log, as well as Mayor David West of MidCoast Council, the

General Manager Adrian Panucio, Robert Scott, Daniel Aldridge, Scott Nicholson, Peter Beeton and Lineve Clarke.

Final thoughts?

As members of Quota, we have fun and feel a greater sense of belonging as we serve our communities. We share a variety of experiences, both in our outreach efforts and through our fellowship events. While serving others is our top priority, establishing lifelong friendships is a natural result of the work we do together.

We hope the community will take time from their busy day to stop, rest and enjoy the beauty of this lovely carved piece of art.

Thanks Janenne.

Interview: Ingrid Bayer.

Manning-Great Lakes focus 63

68 Manning-Great Lakes focus