Manning-Great Lakes Focus - i65

Feature Story MANNING-GREAT LAKES

Toni Childs

July 2012 // issue 65

AUSTRALIAN

Chengwu Guo .

A RT I S T P RO F I L E

FLAIR AWARDS

Local artist Yvette Hugill has a unique way of creating her paintings with a twist, which offers a different perspective to the viewer.

Australia’s leading fashion awards event brings all the glitter and glam to Taree, to determine who will be this year’s Designer of the Year.

NAIDOC WEEK A celebration of Indigenous culture and heritage with a host of festival events for all Australians to enjoy.

editor's note.

editor.

from the

elcome to the July edition of FOCUS.

Karen Farrell

Heathcote, who performs the title role, Don Quixote.

area. We profile a number of schools within our community in this issue.

Have you been watching with interest any local or national stories or events evolving in recent times? If so, I look forward to receiving missives on your chosen subject for consideration in our new Letters to the Editor section.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Chengwu Guo about his career and impending performance in Don Quixote at the Manning Entertainment Centre in August. I’m thrilled to have this muchloved production head up the East Coast from Sydney, to dazzle us with its beauty.

The team at MGL FOCUS is proud to bring you another edition of interesting reading on happenings and people in our area. I’d like to personally thank the fantastically talented and motley bunch that is our production team for creating yet again a beautiful magazine for our readers to enjoy – they are indeed a crack team of designers!

IN THIS ISSUE I also caught up with celebrated American singer/songwriter Toni Childs about her 10 year sabbatical from the spotlight to heal herself from Graves Disease, plus she also talks about her new album, Citizens of the Planet and current Because You’re Beautiful tour.

FOCUS Advertising Representative Chrissy Jones once again presents a terrific Home of the Month spread this month. In July we feature a number of beautiful homes by local builder, Daniel Stallworthy. Thank you Chrissy, for bringing together such a lovely spread for us.

W

ON THE COVER Soloist in the Australian Ballet, Chengwu Guo, is a huge star on the rise. You might remember him from his performance in Bruce Beresford’s critically acclaimed film, Mao’s Last Dancer.

We look at some of the many activities surrounding NAIDOC week. There are plenty of interesting NAIDOC activities to participate in across the Manning Valley and Great Lakes – make sure you peruse our calendar of events, or contact your Council to find out more about what’s taking place.

In August, the Australian Ballet presents The Dancer’s Company in Don Quixote.

Chengwu Guo will dance the lead role of Basilio alongside dance icon Stephen

As we move into the second half of 2012, it’s that time of year again when we start weighing up enrolment options for educational communities within our

contacts.

Got a story idea?

Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

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

Following on from the Home of the Month section is a selection of new real estate listings you might also be interested to read about.

FEATURE PICTURE 17-year-old Madeline Riley took our magical sunset photograph at Harrington Wharf. Madeline believes this photo represents nature at its greatest.

FINAL WORDS “Experience is a good school, but the fees are high.” – Heinrich Heine.

Karen Farrell – Editor karen@focusmag.com.au

EDITOR: Karen Farrell

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ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones

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GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au

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COPY EDITORS: Reg Brookhouse / Jo Atkins reg@focusmag.com.au / jo@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHER: Craig Mason, East Coast Photography 02 6554 9703 / 0411 846 084 www.eastcoastphotography.com.au

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FOCUS IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THESE GREAT COMMUNITY EVENTS AND PROGRAMS. Essential Energy

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. 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 dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Manning-Great Lakes Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5 Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2011 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

manning-great lakes focus 3

focusinterview.

“ Soloist in the Australian Ballet, Chengwu Guo began dance classes at a humble local dance studio in his hometown of Jiujiang, Jiangxi in South China. At the ripe age of eleven, he auditioned for and was accepted into the prestigious Beijing Dance Academy, where over seven arduous years of training, he honed a natural talent for ballet. ”

Chengwu Guo . n 2006, Chengwu Guo became a prize-winner at the distinguished Prix de Lausanne Competition in Switzerland, receiving a full scholarship to complete his training. The scholarship gave him the right to join any ballet school in the world, and he chose The Australian Ballet.

Choosing to study at The Australian Ballet was certainly the right choice for Chengwu Guo. After one year’s training with the Company, he was talent-spotted by Director Bruce Beresford to star in the critically acclaimed film, Mao’s Last Dancer.

In August, The Australian Ballet presents The Dancer’s Company in Don Quixote. Chengwu Guo will dance the lead role of Basilio. He will be dancing alongside dance icon Stephen Heathcote, who joins the regional tour to perform the title role, Don Quixote.

Chengwu Guo is a massive star on the rise and one to watch. Karen Farrell spoke to him about his training and impending performance in Don Quixote.

Tell me about the seven years of training you underwent at the Beijing Dance Academy …

The seven years were pretty tough. I started getting trained as a professional dancer when I was eleven. Dancers start training at approximately fifteen in Australia, but in China it's more Russian-style ... We start from a very basic level, but the workload is a lot.

You showed a talent for ballet very early on. What appealed to you about ballet as compared to some of the other styles?

When I auditioned for the Beijing Dance Academy, I auditioned for two styles of dance, because at the time I was eleven and I didn’t know what ballet or Traditional Chinese Dance was. Unfortunately, I didn’t get through with the Traditional Chinese Dance, so I only had one chance left, which was ballet.

There are necessary ingredients, such as having a strong core, back, legs and feet to be a good dancer. One also needs to be flexible and be graceful.

What else does it take to make a magnificent ballet dancer?

My suggestion is to practice in the ‘right’ way, and in a smart way, and to work hard.

What do you mean by the ‘right way’?

The right way means that as a ballet dancer, 4

manning-great lakes focus.

AUSTRALIAN

when we practice and look at ourselves in the mirror sometimes we can’t notice what problems there might be. You need to get someone to watch you, and this is what teachers do. The teacher will tell you which part isn’t right and how to fix it. If you keep practicing and get right the corrections, then your muscles will grow and your body will change into a nice shape and you get strong. If you always make mistakes, you learn bad habits ... and it gets worse.

At the age of 16, you won a scholarship at the prestigious Prix de Luasanne Competition in Switzerland, which gave you the right to join any ballet school in the world.

Why did you choose to take up a scholarship with The Australian Ballet School?

At the time of winning the award, I only knew of the Beijing Dance Academy and a few dance companies in China. I had no idea about what other country's companies were like, and I asked my teacher where I should go to study. She said, “Go to Australia”. I didn’t even have a second thought about it.

Could you speak English at the time and if not, how challenging was it to move to Australia to study while not being able to initially speak the language or understand the culture?

No. I didn’t understand any English. It was pretty hard at the very beginning, but I guess the best way to learn English or a new language is to live in the country.

The Film Mao’s Last Dancer is based on the story of famous Chinese dancer, Li Cunxin, who defected from the Republic of China in 1981, eventually ending up at with the Australian Ballet as Principal artist. His story became the award-wining film, Mao’s Last Dancer, in which you played the teenage Li. What was it like to work on a film?

It was an awesome experience for me. The movie happened when I was only in my second

year in Australia, so I was really surprised when Bruce Beresford asked me to do the film. Li Cunxin and Bruce came to my graduation performance following my first year's training at the Australian Ballet School. Li explained to me that Bruce wanted to do a movie about his book, and he introduced us. I remember Bruce said to me, “I want you to be Li Cunxin in the movie. We are looking for someone who can speak English and who is also a very talented dancer.” I was like, “Yes, of course I will do it”. I never expected it to happen in my whole life.

I read that Li Cunixn considers your journey to be very similar to his, having studied at the same school.

Yes, I think that’s why he kind of sees me as his son. He was very generous and always so kind.

He is the best mentor for me.

Acting in a film would have opened you up to a whole new range as a performer ...

How important is it for you as a dancer to not just have physical ability, but to have a great emotional depth as well (which some dancers can miss)?

I think that it’s so important. It is one of the most important things for my dancing career. I had to do some acting lessons with Bruce, who was giving me the lessons, teaching me how to act. I probably had a month's training with him, and I realised this is how we actually should act.

What were some of the keys acting tips that Bruce gave you?

It’s so simple. He just said you just have to be natural. Normal. It worked out really well, and I am still using this in my ballet career.

Why do you think Don Quixote is such a universally loved novel?

Don Quixote is my favourite ballet. I fully decided to do ballet because I watched Don Quixote. I watched the Baryshnikov DVD, and he was amazing in it, and I realised I really wanted

to do ballet – and it's why I have kept going until now.

Why do you think so many other people love Don Quixote so much – could it be because it’s a little bit cheeky and mischievous and a whole lot of fun?

It’s a combination of love, beauty and fun. It’s these three things together, and everyone loves beautiful stuff. It also explains very well what people normally do in every day life, and I feel people can really relate to it. I think people will always be moved by the music.

Tell us about your role of Basilio…

I’m performing the principal role of Basilio. I have never done the full-length Don Quixote before …This time it’s a big challenge for me to pull out a full-length, three-hour ballet and to explain the principal and Spanish character to everyone.

Basilio has a very funny sense of humour and is very manly.

In a major coup for The Dancers Company, former Principal Artist of The Australian Ballet, Steven Heathcote, has been announced as part of the cast, performing the title role of Don Quixote. Will you have much interaction with Stephen Heathcote?

Yes, on stage whenever I have a problem he is going to help me (laughs). It’s going to be brilliant working with Stephen Heathcote. In the whole of Australia, he was a star. It’s amazing to work with people like him. It’s a career highlight for me.

Thanks Chengwu.

the plug!

3-4

When: Friday 3 August at 7.30pm.

Saturday 4 August at 2pm.

Where: Manning Entertainment Centre.

Bookings: (02) 6592 5466 or www.gtcc.nsw.gov.au/mec

11.

inside this

Absolutely '80s Big hair, leg warmers and some of the best music ever witnessed ... Bring back the '80s!

Remember Scott Carne, from Kids in the Kitchen; Brian Mannix, from the Uncanny Xmen; and Dale Ryder, from Boom Crash Opera? You can see them live, altogether in the one fantastic show, at Club Taree on August 10. It’s Absolutely ’80s!

Issue 65 - July 2012

8.Flair Awards The Flair Awards began in 1994 in the pursuit of creating a regional fashion event that offered designers a platform to showcase their work to the public. The Awards quickly grew over the years, both in quantity and quality of garments, with Flair becoming a wellknown and respected event among fashion circles, industry professionals and colleges.

24.

usual suspects.

the

22.

9. what’s on for July 16. eat featuring local restaurants 38. tourism update with Richard Old 44. star guide with Terri

Koalas Care Inc. “Accidents happen, but it is what you do after them that matters.”– Christeen McLeod, Koala Care Facility Manager, Koalas in Care Inc. Local resident Gaby Klika recently had cause to contact not-for-profit organisation Koalas in Care Inc. when she struck a koala while driving on the Bucketts Way at night.

No matter where you are in the world, d, read Focus for free online every month nth @

www.focusmag.com.au or follow us on www.facebook.com/mgl.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

Special double feature.

The all new M-Class and all new B-Class have arrived at Taree Motorama.

Taree Motorama is pleased to premiere two all new vehicles to the Mercedes-Benz range - the all new B-Class Compact Sports Tourer that evolves with you, and the M-Class SUV that puts you in control. Both set new standards in motoring with advanced safety and fuel-saving technology, superior comfort and distinctive design. Please visit Taree Motorama where you can discover these stunning all new vehicles for yourself. www.mbtaree.com.au

manning-great lakes focus 5

focusinterview.

Because You’re Beautiful Tour…

“

Celebrated American singer/ songwriter Toni Childs returns with her Because You’re Beautiful tour, which sees her performing tracks from the recently released Keep the Faith album, along with a mix of well-loved favourites such as Don’t Walk Away and Stop Your Fussin’. ”

C H I L D S

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udience members will also enjoy a special preview of her new album, Citizens of the Planet.

Embarking on a savvy social media campaign, Childs called upon her legions of fans across the globe to help raise money to produce Citizens of the Planet. She is immensely proud of the album, considering it “the best of her life”.

Inspiration for Citizens of the Planet came over a 10-year sabbatical from the music scene, in which Childs healed herself of Graves Disease. During the decade out of the spotlight and while living on the beautiful island of Kauai in Hawaii, Childs “jettisoned” her drive to define herself wholly as a musician, instead taking the time to “ground” herself and eventually to reinvigorate her creativity.

With her career firmly back on track, Childs now happily calls Australia home, residing on the North Coast of NSW. Manning-Great Lakes residents will enjoy a performance by the Emmy Award Winner and three-time Grammy nominated recording artist at the Manning Entertainment Centre on Friday 27 July.

Karen Farrell spoke to Toni Childs about her new album ...

I love that you raised funds for your new album, Citizens of the Planet, over a relatively short period of time via a savvy social media campaign. Did you have to drive the campaign 24/7 to ensure its success?

6 manning-great lakes focus.

Yes, it’s a whole new ball game. I also had a really good fan base before I released the last record, Keep the Faith, and so there was a real bonding that happened between my audience and me. I wasn’t really into Facebook, and then I kind of ‘got it’ and set up my own page.

It’s been a learning curve in terms of how to engage with people and how to reach them.

What I found was really effective was to explain what I was doing on video – that I was about to go into the studio and make a record and explain my intentions for the album. I called out to fans for support.

I also had my husband, Mick, who is a documentary filmmaker, help me. I don’t really feel comfortable on camera or with the fact that you’re asking people directly to do pre-purchases but it’s a new world, and I’m really glad that I did it. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have been able to make Citizens of the Planet, which I feel is the best album of my life.

I’ve had this massive growth spurt creatively because of this whole process.

Throughout the campaign you talked via Facebook directly to your fans, unlike a lot of other celebrities who have their Facebook comments done for them ...

Right.

The experience of being ill has clearly been life-changing for you and has taken your music to a whole new level. What is it that makes you so proud of this album?

The purpose of the recent Keep the Faith album was to get something out there and to start again. It was a hotchpotch of material over that decade before I became ill and stuff that I had randomly been doing, almost like a

journal.

It didn’t have any focus. Normally when I do an album, it will have some focus and a kind of creative ‘pregnancy’ that occurs over time. Citizens of the Planet got to have that time by having the decade off and living on an island basically in tree houses and very close to nature. For the first four years on the land, there were no neighbours at all – I had an entire valley to myself. I got a chance to really connect with nature in a way that gave me some distance and perspective from the madness of my ambition of my life, which had been music and my drive.

“ What I realised is that while this hadn’t gone away, it had been replaced by a more grounded way of being, and it helped me to see things from a little speck in the ocean.”

Citizens of the Planet is addressing some of those things. I’m into quantum mechanics, and I’m into activating these applications that I feel we all come in with, but we’re not using.

We’ve been doing the same things over and over again for millenniums. When do we get it? When do we actually evolve as a group on this planet, as the world becomes smaller? I think we’re all kind of feeling it.

So that’s where Citizens of the Planet has taken me. It’s still in progress. We’re working on developing a state-of-the-art performance piece … it’s a very different type of concert experience. It’s music meets TED talks …

It seems that by being ill and subsequently living on the island and getting back to nature helped to rid you of that artist mentality, where you’re frenetically occupying yourself with a drive to succeed and prove yourself? This sort of angst just seems to have left you…

(Laughs) I totally jettisoned it! I was defining myself in this way, and then I totally let it go and I was OK with it. It wasn’t until Eve Ensler (of Vagina Monologues) showed up on the island (we were rasing money for a sexual assault treatment centre on the island), and she asked me to write a song for her documentary ... then it kind of kick started everything again, and I loved it.

You are living on the far North Coast of NSW. Are you living there permanently, or splitting your time between Australia and Hawaii …?

We’re here permanently. I’ve been holding off totally committing, but we’re here, and I love it.

Australian’s kind of gobbled you up in the ‘80s, so there would be a good vibe for you out here, I’m sure.

(Laughs) I don’t know why, but this place – all of Australia – speaks to me.

Thank you Toni. Interview by Karen Farrell.

the plug!

Get tickets to Because You’re Beautiful Tour with Toni Childs. Friday 27 July, 8pm, at the Manning Entertainment Centre.

6552 5699

ww.gtcc.nsw.got.au/mec

artist profile_

“

Wingham-based artist Yvette Hugill is drawn to rural scenes, utilising the immediate environment and bright palette of colours in the Manning Valley for inspiration in her paintings. Yvette tutors privately in pastels and has achieved Master Pastellist status with the Australian Pastel Society. ”

Yvette Hugill

S

he also had an article published in the Australian Artist magazine titled, The Delicate Beauty of The Linear Stroke. FOCUS caught up with Yvette to talk about the different influences for her work.

You have previously worked as a Graphic Designer and also a book designer for a leading publishing house in Sydney. Tell us about how these professions led to you establishing yourself as an artist?

The factor determining my path into graphic design was my father’s insistence that we, his children, have a sound career. Fine Arts, although my first choice, didn’t by any means guarantee a steady income! I knew that I wanted to pursue art in some manner or form, but teaching didn’t appeal. My first job, as a book designer, was regimented and demanded long hours, accuracy and deadlines. Those rigours led to extremely tight results artistically.

Although I enjoyed my time in publishing and freelancing, my true interest was still in fine arts. I felt the need to loosen up and enjoy the process of my personal creativity.

It was the natural progression of time that gave me the opportunities to study painting and drawing further. The graphic design phase gave me a solid grounding in such things as composition, colour, proportion, life drawing, photography, printing, psychology, art history etc. There were thirteen subjects in the course, seven being practical and six, theory. It was a time when computers weren’t yet in vogue and everything was hands on, including handlettering. All illustrations were hand drawn or painted, not computer manipulated.

After leaving Sydney for life in Gunnedah, on the NSW Northwest Slopes and Plains, I freelanced for a number of years and between 1989 - 1991, studied painting and drawing through the Tamworth TAFE campus. I have painted consistently since then. There were many opportunities to exhibit my work through regional and private galleries during this time, and I’ve enjoyed the process immensely.

What is it that you most enjoy about being an artist?

I most enjoy being able to express and 8 manning-great lakes focus.

n paper or canvas, something that has I endeavour to rea capture on realistically depict the grassy forms appealed to me because of its aesthetic beauty forms, while also creating a slightly ethereal or has touched me emotionally. atmosphere. I hope to encourage the viewer to Painting is such a personal experience and closely scrutinise the brushstrokes and detailed when the work is completed and exhibited, it work. then becomes shared. It’s open for discussion, I have a sketchbook on hand when travelling either good or bad. Hopefully the final work and always my camera! Although photographs has created interplay between viewers and a are often used for reference, I tend to discard response. There’s a sense of permanency when them after the initial idea has been put to it’s up there on a wall for all to see. canvas or paper. I guess, like most painters, A memory can be recalled by just reviewing the eye is always roaming in search of new the completed work. I’m also very pleased when inspiration. someone purchases one of my works.

What sort of media do you use in your It’s so gratifying that they’ve felt works? a connection. I also enjoy I use a variety of mediums. meeting other artists, I suppose that soft pastels learning from them and are my preference, but it I am constantly drawn to native seeing their work. depends on the result I’m grasses, their The local aiming for. Sometimes s ows. It’ textures and shad environment it just feels ‘right’ that a e em th al a recurring visu I’ve done provides a certain subject needs to be d an in my work, cting pi continuing in a particular medium. I de gs tin in pa many ect inspiration for your love the creaminess of oils this tranquil subj work. Where in and that they take longer to matter.” particular do you most dry, which can be beneficial like to create and when on large works. In contrast, you travel, do you always pastels are a dry medium, therefore have paint brush and sketch pad easily transported for plein air studies. at-the-ready (in other words, do you ever I also use acrylics, although these are a recent 'switch off' the artist in you, or is the allure addition to my list of mediums. of a landscape simply too appealing to not I enjoy the fast drying qualities when I want paint)? to hold a certain colour and not blend. Being The majority of my work is done in the studio. able to quickly work over an area and know A lot of it is quite detailed and doesn’t lend that it’s dry underneath can be an advantage. itself to plein air painting. I enjoy the solitude of Coloured pencils, ink and charcoal are also studio work and am happiest when absorbed enjoyed for different effects and techniques. in a painting that’s going well! Some works are I regularly attend life-drawing groups in derived from pure chance, and I’ll scribble a Wingham and Taree. These are a great way to quick sketch on any available paper. hone drawing skills and to meet like-minded Recently, in a doctor’s waiting room, I noticed people. The classes are un-tutored, so allow an exhausted young mother cradling an equally free expression with a friendly and relaxed exhausted baby. I rummaged through my bag atmosphere. As most model poses are brief, the and surreptitiously did a quick biro sketch. Now, immediacy of charcoal is great, enabling speed, months later, it has become a quirky painting while also creating tone. entitled … 2am.

Your 'contemporary landscapes' tend I am constantly drawn to native grasses, to adopt less detail, instead preferring their textures and shadows. It’s a recurring a 'rounded form' to depict trees and a visual theme in my work, and I’ve done many scenery. Could you tell us about where your paintings depicting this tranquil subject matter. style of painting 'contemporary landscapes'

“

came from?

These particular paintings evolved quite spontaneously a few years ago, after I’d completed a traditional, hilly landscape. I was working on a solo exhibition at the time and decided to do the same scene, using rounded forms. Both works sold and were hung adjacently in the exhibition. It was fun treating the same subject entirely differently. I’m doing more work using this idea for my upcoming exhibition. They seem to make people smile!

I use much brighter colours in the current paintings and exaggerate the landscape.

For my next exhibition, I’ve just completed an acrylic diptych using this technique. The subject is of a valley road, leading to Gloucester. It’s approximately 2 m in width. It will hang next to a more traditionally painted pastel of the same scene. I like to show gallery visitors a variety of styles. I don’t want to be categorised as a painter of one technique or medium. I feel the need of change.

You also enjoy painting figurative works and still life subjects ...

Yes. Figurative work is so demanding. Unless the artist is treating the figure abstractly, it has to be proportionally correct. Anyone viewing portraits or paintings of the human form, will immediately criticise when there is an arm or leg that’s proportionally incorrect. I find the process challenging and enjoyable. The human figure is so variable and to be able to portray it in an interesting way is always a bonus.

Still life subjects are a favourite. If there’s a lapse of inspiration or a change of pace is needed … a still life is never far away. As a teaching tool, they’re invaluable in the fact that they ‘don’t move’ and can be set up to please the student’s skill level.

Words to live by?

Family comes first.

Thanks Yvette. Interview by Karen Farrell.

the plug!

Making Changes Exhibition by Yvette and Peter Hugill from July 18 to August 19 at the Manning Regional Art Gallery, 12 Macquarie Street, Taree. Ph (02) 6592 5455.

W H A T’ S O N A RO U N D T H E R EG I O N / / J U LY 2 0 1 2

what’s

7&8

14 YMCA Holiday Program

David Helfgott

Looking for something for the kids to

receive the worldwide recognition that his

do this school holidays? YMCA Great

remarkable technical and interpretive genius

Lakes have a fantastic Holiday Program

deserves. His continuing success comes as no

running each Tuesday and Friday from

surprise to David’s legion of devoted admirers

12.30 to 2.30pm. There will be lots of

everywhere. They have long regarded his

fun activities ranging from Gymnastics,

recitals as transcending mere music-making.

Learn to play Basketball and Team

Where Manning Entertainment Centre on

Building exercises. Bookings essential!

When 14th July 2012 at 8.00pm.

More info Phone: 65917199

More info Manning Entertainment Centre:

When Tuesday and Friday from 12.30

(02) 6552 5699 (02) 6592 5466

to 2.30pm

mec@gtcc.nsw.gov.au

This extraordinary artist is continuing to

Family Fun Weekend at Forster Keys

Women's Fashion Luncheon & Hat Parade

On Saturday 7 July, Fred Williams will showcase some veteran boats, which used to race on Piper’s Creek. On Sudnay there will also be a Fun Dog Show, Kiddies Games, Classic Cars, Veteran Bikes, YMCA Zumba and Body Pumping, Face Painting, a Jumping Castle, Children’s’ Slide, and a Merry-goround plus powerboats will take to the water!

The Flair Awards Invite you to Attend a Women's Fashion Luncheon and Hat Parade

When Saturday 7 July and Sunday 8 July Where Elizabeth Reserve on Piper’s Creek at Forster Keys.

Dear Editor, Last month's editorial invited comment on the place that etiquette, or good manners, has in today's society.

to the

Last month we encouraged readers to send in Letters to the Editor... Here are two letters from FOCUS readers on the subject of etiquette.

This page is for you - the reader - to write to FOCUS and tell us what's on your mind... Tell us what you're excited about, upset about passionate about...

Whatever the subject, we'd like to hear from you.

31

Well, it certainly struck a chord with me.

I have been involved in "retail" in one way or another, for over 50 years, and I have seen the gradual erosion of "common courtesy" in all walks of life, in the last two generations.

In fact, I now refer to it, (good manners), as uncommon courtesy, as is now apparent that a large proportion of society today, has little or no idea what it means to be courteous to one another.

It's not just the treatment that one often receives at the check-out. Courtesy is a twoway street, and it's just as important for the customer to be polite to the shop assistant as it is for the shop assistant to be polite and courteous to the customer.

When Tuesday 31st July 2012 12.00 to 2.30pm Where The Reef Bar & Grill Forster Host Susie Feldbusch Guest Speakers International speaker and life coach Eilidh Milnes and Britt Carlisle, who will be sharing her tales of 'life after Flair'.

Tickets: $45 for an exciting four-course luncheon and complimentary glass of wine.

RSVP: Monday 23rd July 2012(Book early, limited tickets available) Phone: Susie Harney-Feldbusch on 65575850 or 0402219399

Or how many times do you make a purchase, and instead of the sales assistant saying "That will be $xx.xx, thank you", all you hear is "$xx.xx" or whatever the price may be.

How can businesses hope to build up customer loyalty when they treat their customers/clients with such a lack of courtesy?

And yet it is happening every day, week in, week out, year after year, and it's getting worse!

And of course, I'm not just talking about shops and businesses in our region. - This is a problem everywhere in Australia, wherever you go. - Unfortunately, it's already such a problem, (lack of common courtesy), that it will take quite a while to correct it.

How many times have you heard someone approach the counter in a shop or business, and say " Can I have two of those"?

But, I firmly believe that we must turn the tide. It can be done. Just imagine if in a few years time, the Great Lakes Region was known as the ‘Courtesy Capital’ of Australia. Can you imagine the impact that will have on our tourism industry?

(Whatever they may be). - No sign of a please or thank you!!!

John English Green Point

Dear Editor, I was pleased about your offer to write to you on the subject of etiquette.

With most adults owning a mobile phone these days I’ve noticed a decline in the way adults sometimes communicate with children.

In particular, I have noticed that parents or adults can often be distracted by their mobile phone when children are speaking to them.

On more than a few occasions recently I have observed a child speaking to a parent or adult while the adult is actually not even bothering to look at the child.

Instead, I have seen the adult looking away from the child and down at their mobile phone – perhaps in anticipation of receiving or sending a message or phone call.

There is a lot to be said about the etiquette of making eye contact when communicating with people, especially our wonderful children.

D. Souz Forster

To have your say email karen@focusmag.com.au manning-great lakes focus 9

Matters.

legallight.

[ with Alan T ickle ]

E

uropean Political Situation ... a threat or opportunity for investors?

The term volatility should not be confused with what might be referred to as risk.

Risk is about the consequences of not meeting an objective or desired outcome. The tolerance to risk might be the degree this would keep you awake at night.

Volatility refers to movements in prices of investments and where there are regular wide shifts in markets over a short period, the market is described as being highly volatile.

Volatility does not necessarily mean an investment is risky, because if producing income is the objective and the income provided continues to meet an investor's needs, the movement in capital value does not affect the primary objective of providing household income.

A good example is a rental property that has dropped significantly in value which has an excellent tenant who pays the rent and meets the income need or managed portfolio designed to provide high yielding securities.

It is very easy at present to construct income portfolios that deliver income of over 8%pa, but where capital values fluctuate with the market.

European Situation Europe has been constantly in the financial news as political issues in Greece and the economic woes of Spain, in particular, create waves of uncertainty.

The following summary picks up on various economic commentary that I have considered over the past week.

Greece has a very complex political structure, with no one party dominating and a reliance on coalitions and agreements to govern.

The election result gave some breathing space in the process of stabilisation, but the challenges remain in dealing with issues particularly involving Spain and to a lesser extent, Italy.

The problems have been recognised, and the determination to accept responsibility and reform policies around prudential controls is expected to provide longer term stability once the current hurdles are overcome.

Europe will continue to face challenges and markets will move on the good news – bad news headlines that will continue to fuel market sentiments.

China and Asia continue to prosper however, and with China’s economy still growing at around 8% pa and well cashed, there is capacity for that economic giant to remain a key player for Australia, despite the impact that a reduction in trade with Europe might have on China and Asia.

Where are markets headed?

I was involved in a teleconference with Dr Chris Caton, Chief Economist of BT Financial Group, and a panel of BT Fund analysts last week.

In their view, the volatility issue will not go away for some time and investors need accept that this is the norm. But bad news has already been priced in, so leading stocks around the world present unique value, noting that market prices will continue to be susceptible to swings on good news or further bad news.

They expect that it will be a further 12 months before some clear direction and stability is known and already after 5 long years of volatility, this duration is beyond the norm.

The panel’s prediction for Australia is that interest rates will fall further, but are likely to then stabilise and even lift a little in 12 months.

They agreed that share markets should be higher in 12 months and suggest that a glimmer of good news and stability will see a very quick lift in markets, which can leave investors who sit on the fence rather than taking a longer term view missing out.

In the meantime, the potential for strong performance from fixed interest and undervalued equities based on fundamentals such as price to equity rations present opportunities.

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

10 manning-great lakes focus.

Justin Stack.

RAISING THE EYEBROWS OF THE LAW ex now considered part of work trip compo coverage.

S

Many eyebrows were raised when a court recently ruled that a woman injured during a sexual tryst in her hotel room while on a work trip was entitled to workers’ compensation.

You’d be tempted ask whether sex was now legally a regular part of a business trip? Can you sue someone for bad sex? Maybe you can get compensation if you don’t get sex on a business trip?

Sadly, it doesn’t open those possibilities. The case spun on the legal definition of an injury in the course of employment.

The woman, a commonwealth public servant in her 30s, had been sent in 2007 to a regional NSW town on business by her employer. While staying at a motel, she contacted a male friend who lived locally. He came to her motel room and, in the excitement of their sexual tryst, a glass light fitting came away from the wall above the bed, hitting her on the face. Her nose and lips were badly cut, and she was taken to hospital.

She initially took her case to ComCare, the federal government workplace safety body, saying it left her with facial and psychological injuries. It rejected her claim.

She appealed to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, but it upheld ComCare’s decision.

The Tribunal ruled sexual activity was not an ordinary incident on an overnight work trip, such as showering or sleeping. It said the woman was involved in a “recreational activity that wasn’t induced, encouraged or countenanced by her employer”.

She took her case to the Federal Court. Her barrister argued sex was a normal part of life and often took place in motel rooms.

ComCare’s lawyer argued while sex was normal, it wasn’t necessary, like sleeping and showering.

It wasn’t clear from evidence whether the woman or the man pulled the glass fitting from the wall. In a statement to the court, the man thought the woman was on her back when the light fell “but I wasn’t paying attention because we were rolling around”.

Last April, Justice John Nicholas ruled the woman was engaged in a lawful recreational activity and the injury happened during the course of her employment.

“If the applicant had been injured while playing a game of cards in her motel room, she would be entitled to compensation even though it could not be said that her employer induced or encouraged her to engage in such an activity”.

The judge ordered ComCare to pay her legal costs. Who said public servants don’t get down to business?

focusinterview.

BIG HAIR, LEG WARMERS & SOME OF THE BEST MUSIC EVER WITNESSED ...

Bring back the '80s! Remember Scott Carne, from Kids in the Kitchen; Brian Mannix, from the Uncanny Xmen; and Dale Ryder, from Boom Crash Opera? You can see them live, altogether in the one fantastic show, at Club Taree on August 10. It’s Absolutely ’80s!

W

here did the idea come from to form the Absolutely ‘80s show?

Scott Carne: Brian Mannix and I did the 2006 Countdown Spectacular tour, which ran right around Australia, and we had such a good time doing that tour that we thought we should go and play some shows together.

Hence, Absolutely ‘80s was born!

We’ve been out touring, sometimes with Dale Ryder from Boom Crash Opera as well, on the pub circuit. It’s a 2-hour show, playing our hits the way they’re meant to be heard … back in the time machine. It’s a full ‘80s experience, for the young and young at heart!

How did you and Brian originally meet?

Scott: Back in the day – the ‘80s – we didn’t really have that much to do … back then with each other. It was like we were with music, playing on the other football team; you didn’t there was this kind of competitive have to play in a band; sportsmanship going on. So, back you just had to play then, we didn’t really hang out. keyboard and have a good hairstyle!”

But since doing this show, we’ve realised we’re the same kind of people from the same era and have some really good stories to share with each other. It works really well … we all really dig each other and what we’re doing. We don’t take ourselves overly seriously, but we are serious about the music and about putting on a good show, and showing our personalities and having fun taking people back …

Brian Mannix: We knew each other from the ‘80s – we didn’t like each other very much in the ‘80s! The ‘80s were pretty competitive. Then we did a gig in Sydney, and we had to share an apartment together. We became friends, and it grew from there.

The show sounds spectacular, and the atmosphere

“

on stage must be electric!

Brian: It’s a big thrill for Scott and Dale, I’m sure (laughs)! It’s great fun. We all bring something different to the show. Scotty has an amazing voice; he’s very ‘80s.

Dale has an amazing voice too, but he’s a different style … and I’m just a dirty old rock jock! It works really well; we all get on really well, and we have a lot of fun.

The ’80s was a fabulous era for so many reasons.

What do you miss about that particular decade?

Scott: The ‘80s in the western world was kind of about the birth of the yuppie. Everybody was flying high … we won the America’s Cup; we were a growing nation, and it was all about positivity and lots of fun and self-expression – hence the ‘80s style clothing! I liked the naivety … back then with music, you didn’t have to play in a band; you just had to play keyboard and have a good hairstyle!

Brian: Lunch was tax deductible – I think that was great! We could have every meeting in a good restaurant, and then claim it on tax. I have fond memories of the ‘80s – but I don’t think I sit down and pine for the ‘80s … we had great adventures and I’m grateful for them, but I’m enjoying my life now. I don’t want to live in the past … I’m saying that and playing in an ‘80s band; how about that? (Laughs!)

It’s such a nostalgic era too, for so many people.

Why do you think so many people love ‘80s entertainment – ‘80s shows − so much?

Scott: It’s more to do with the people who grew up through the period. They attend our show, love the music, and had the life-sized posters pinned up on their walls. I just think it was just such a positive era, before times went a bit dark. I call the ‘80s “the end of innocence”. Back then people went out; you didn’t stay at home – there were only 4 channels on TV, and they were all pretty s***t! We socialised more …

Brian: Everyone seemed to have lots of money in the

‘80s. It was about high fashion, high glamour – we all seemed to dress up a lot more.

Kids in the Kitchen and Uncanny Xmen had quite a few popular songs from the era. Personally, what was your favourite?

Scott: Probably my favourite song was Say It, which was recorded over in the States with Madonna’s management. You can’t go wrong with Change in Mood either, which was our first hit and a great song from the ‘80s. These songs just take you back into a special place.

Brian: 50 Years, probably, because it has great lyrics, and I really like the song. I think it still stands up as a really good song. Everybody Wants to Work I quite liked too; I think it’s the only song written about enjoying not working! I don’t think anyone tackled that subject before. But in saying that, I like a lot of the Xmen songs that weren’t hits. Some of the B-sides were fantastic − songs like You Say That or Pakistan.

How’s the tour going so far, and are you looking forward to visiting the Mid North Coast?

Scott: We’ve kind of never stopped touring, really; we’ve just never got to the North Coast of NSW. We’re really looking forward to coming there. We’re like weekend warriors, you know … this show is kind of like our version of golf!

Brian: I haven’t been up that way probably since the ‘80s. We play Sydney and Queensland quite a bit, but I’m pretty excited to come up there. As long as it’s not cold weather!

Thanks Scott and Brian.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

Catch the Absolutely ‘80s show at Club Taree, 10 August, 8pm. cost $30.

(02) 6539 4000.

manning-great lakes focus 11

focusinterview.

In 2007, a trip to Cambodia inspired two local women, Amy Heague and Kerrie Moran, to rally for a cause that affects hundreds of thousands of people across the world – Human Trafficking. On Saturday 21 July, the duo are launching In Her Shoes, an art exhibition telling the stories of women and girls through artworks.

The exhibition is the launching pad for raising awareness and fundraising for Amy and Kerrie’s 2013 Cycle4Cambodia tour …

I

n Her Shoes Art Exhibition and Cycle4Cambodia Launch ... why support the cause to raise awareness of Human Trafficking?

Amy: Conservative estimates are that there are over 600,000 people trafficked across international borders each year. Many of them are women and children.

They are trafficked for a variety of reasons and into various situations. Many women and young girls end up working in the sex industry against their will.

I read an article called The One by Sharon Cohn from International Justice Mission, an organisation instrumental in rescuing very young girls from brothels in Phnom Penh. She wrote: “Not only is each victim the one, but we likewise can be the one. The one called, the one listening, the one willing, the one sent to bring freedom and justice to innocent ones who are suffering. Being overwhelmed by the numbers is an indulgence the oppressed can ill afford”.

It is an issue that keeps me up at night and one that I can not shake, so it is the cause that I am investing myself into and saying,” It is not OK.” Kerrie: I am a Rodney Copperbottom kinda girl – you know, the one from the Robots movie. His motto was “See a need, fill a need”. There are so many needs in our world and when I see a cause that involves getting children to a place of safety, I am all for it.

With Amy already passionate about this cause and my church movement having the vision for a rescue home that I could be a part of, it was easy for me to get involved.

I can’t change the world, but I can make a difference, one life at a time.

Why Cambodia?

12 manning-great lakes focus.

IN HER

of shoes, and she can conquer the world’.

Amy: When my little girl was born, I was We have photographs and stories of the at home watching Oprah, and she was girls from the SheRescue Home and other interviewing Christiane Amanpour, CNN’s women who have stood up and said, “It is Chief International Correspondent, about NOT OK”. child prostitution in Cambodia. I sat there This exhibition is about telling the stories holding my precious little girl and sobbed. of women and girls through their About 6 months later, I was shoes and feet. I haven’t met a at a conference, and they woman yet who doesn’t have a showed the same footage My heart favourite pair of shoes and a and announced they is for story that goes with them. were going to start a children, go ld Shoes also have the ability rescue home for girls in ou w I d an to say quite a bit about the Phnom Penh who had almost anywhere the opportunitylved wearer and their unique been rescued from the arose to be invo e story. brothels. I knew I had to m in helping in so Manning Shoes have be a part of this. way. ” also provided us with some The following March, amazing shoes, that will be on I found myself ‘touring’ display at the exhibition. the poorest of the poor slums How can people get involved in the and the many brothels found there. exhibition?

The people and nation of Cambodia have Amy: We are seeking submissions from captured my heart. local artists who would like to be involved.

Kerrie: I have a passion for developing Artists can submit works on the theme In Her countries. I love the people and their hearts Shoes: Give a girl the right pair of shoes and that embrace life with all its difficulties – and she can conquer the world. All works will still find pleasure in ways we in the west have be for sale, with a percentage of the funds long forgotten. raised going to our fundraising efforts, so be My heart is for children, and I would go prepared to invest not only in changing lives, almost anywhere the opportunity arose to be but some good art. involved in helping in some way. The moment If anyone would like more details, they can I got into a tuk tuk – the open-aired carriage contact us via the details below. driven by a glorified lawn mower, something The exhibition will be held on 21 July at inside me felt like I was home. I cannot wait Lakeside Church in Tuncurry and includes a to get back there! high tea, a fashion show by a local boutique, You’re holding an exhibition this month. lucky door prizes donated by local businesses, Tell us about the event.

SheRescue Merchandise and of course, works Amy: The exhibition is the launching pad of art will be for sale. for raising awareness and fundraising for our We will also be launching our 2013 Cycle4Cambodia tour. The exhibition is Cycle4Cambodia tour. called In Her Shoes and will contain works of What does the Cycle4Cambodia tour art along the theme ‘give a girl the right pair

“

involve?

Amy: A few months ago, we were chatting about how we should do something crazy like … ride our bikes through Cambodia as a fundraiser; so we are. The awesome team at the Tuncurry Recycle Centre and The Green donated us reclaimed bikes, to kickstart our training.

The really exciting part is that we are able to take other women with us on the adventure of a lifetime. Not only will we be cycling through Cambodia, we will also be volunteering at some of the organisations we are fundraising for.

If there are any adventurous women out there who are interested in supporting the cause, they can join us on the cycle tour.

Our initial tour outline and details will be announced at the In Her Shoes exhibition, so come along with your girlfriends to find out more.

Thanks Amy and Kerrie.

the plug!

In Her Shoes exhibition and Cycle4Cambodia Launch is a ladies only event held at Lakeside Church, Chapmans Rd, Tuncurry on 21 July 2012 from 2 - 4pm.

Tickets are $25 per head.

Reserve tickets call 6557 5600.

The exhibition will be open to the general public on Sunday 22 July from 12pm - 2pm, Tuesday and Thursday 10am - 2pm.

Submit artwork for consideration amyheague@gmail.com must be submitted by 16 July.

Like us on Facebook.

focuseditorial.

focuseditorial.

ART EXHIBITION

Tamworth Textile Triennial

watch.

he exhibition featu features some of the top fibre and textile art being produced in Australia

Taree Film Society kicks off its 2012 - 13 season, with the mesmerising Wish You Were Here (MA) on Monday evening 30 July at Fay’s Twin Cinema.

This lauded Australian movie was honoured with the opening night screening at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival, and it’s now a wonderful time to take up a membership for the year.

Wish You Were Here is a psychological drama/mystery starring Joel Edgerton, Felicity Price and Teresa Palmer. Four friends – husband and wife Dave and Alice, and Alice’s sister Steph and her new boyfriend Jeremy – lose themselves in the fun of a carefree South East Asian holiday. However, only three return back to Australia. Dave and Alice come home to their young family, desperate for answers about Jeremy’s mysterious disappearance. When Steph returns not long after, a brutal secret is revealed about the night her boyfriend went missing. But it is only the first of many. Who amongst them knows what happened on

today.

that fateful night when they were dancing under a full moon in Cambodia?

Wish You Were Here is produced by Angie Fielder of the award-winning, independent Australian production company Aquarius Films, in association with the acclaimed indie director’s collective Blue-Tongue Films (Animal Kingdom).

the plug!

For further information, tickets or subscriptions ($90 for 12 months) please phone 6552 3476 or email tareefilmsociety@yahoo.com.au or find the Society at the food table in the foyer.

Curator Pam Brown and artist Michelle Elliot from the Tamworth Regional Gallery have worked with Manning Gallery staff and volunteers to install the long awaited exhibition.

There are 22 creative textile artists in the 1st Tamworth Textile Triennial. Their skills include resist printed textiles to hand embroidered cross-stitch, from metal wire knitted on a machine, to cloth woven on a jacquard loom.

There are few events in Australia that can demonstrate a legacy for sustaining a cultural heritage associated with textile practice for more than 30 years. The 1st Tamworth Textile Triennial is one of these events and is firmly positioned within the Australian creative arts calendar, attracting entries from a variety of creative disciplines, age groups, emerging creatives and established practitioners.

This exhibition, titled The Tamworth Textile Triennial: Sensorial Loop showcases the changing ideas and professional

craftsmanship associated with contemporary textile practice in Australia. The use of traditional and machine technologies, the collaboration and inter-disciplinary profiles of practitioners, the trend of slow making and sustainable practice is challenging the perception of the discipline of textiles. There is blurring within the definition of creative practice, and Sensorial Loop aims to capture that shift in this exhibition.

Council’s Art Gallery Director, Sue Mitchell says, “This is a spectacular exhibition – don’t miss it!”

The exhibition will run to 15 July at Manning Regional Art Gallery. Entry is $4 for adults. Children are free.

Contact Sue Mitchell on 6592 5455 for more information.

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T A R E E

The 36th Taree Open

O P E N

A R T

E X H I B I T I O N

focusinterview.

Art Exhibition The he 36th 36th Taree Tare Ta ree e Open Open Art Art Exhibition E is being held from 7 - 15 July at the Taree High School Hall. In 2011, nearly 400 entries from states across Eastern Australia entered into the exhibition, with an impressive 46 paintings being sold.

T

here are eight sections for various mediums, with total prize money exceeding $5,000 – including a major prize of $1,000 for the overall winner.

Publicity Officer Roy Prentice tells us about the exhibition ...

The exhibition is held during the school holidays and will be a great opportunity for many people to see an interesting and diversified range of art works. Judging will take place on Friday 6 July by Deb Wall, who is the Curator of the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery, where she has worked since 2006.

Opening night is really special, with the attendance of our Patrons Mave Richardson, Doctor Colin Rose, Mike Collins and some of our many sponsors. On Friday 6 July, the doors open at 6.30pm and prize presentation will commence at 7.30, and this year the exhibition will be opened by John Bulmer, who is the Regional Manager, Mid North Coast, Fairfax Regional Media. There will be a small entry fee for this night of $10, which will include light refreshments and nibbles.

At last year’s opening night, we were fortunate to be entertained by the famous maestro of the Spanish Guitar, Quentin Arnold.

Quentin has played widely in Australia and overseas. He is a popular entertainer at many corporate functions. His music was enjoyed so much by people attending the Opening, he has been invited back this year, and he has accepted the invitation. During the following nine days, entry will be free. The exhibition will be open every day from 9am to 4pm, with the exception of the last day (Sunday 15 July), when it will close at 2pm.

Roy, the Taree Open Art Exhibition has been running for 36 years ... tell us about the history of the exhibition and how it has managed to sustain itself for this long.

The Taree Open is one of the longest running non-selective exhibitions in NSW. Even though it is officially in its 36th year, the exhibition has been running at various venues for more than 50 years; the first venue was the basement of the Taree Council Offices. It was

started by the original Taree Council so long ago, that none of the present members can remember the exact date. The Taree Art Society was formed to take the exhibition over from the Council and it has been shown at the Taree Information Centre, The Big Oyster, and about nine years ago moved to the Taree High School Hall.

How many entries are you anticipating this year?

Entries closed on Wednesday 6 June, with a record number of 409 coming from local and interstate artists. Interstate entries are down, which may be due to one of the Art Couriers no longer being able to provide a delivery service; however, local entries have shown a marked increase. Art works delivered by hand must be delivered to the Taree High School Hall on Tuesday 3 July between 9 -11am. All works must be the original work of the artist and completed in the last two years and not exhibited in a previous Taree Open Art Exhibition.

The exhibition is billed as the only nonselective art exhibition in the Manning Valley ... what does the term non-selective mean?

Non-selective means that the exhibition is open to all artists who enter and none of the entries are selected by image review; the only refusals are those which may be deemed oversized, offensive, or are considered wet or late entries.

Has there been a conscious marketing strategy to entice other interstate artists to enter into the exhibition, or has their involvement evolved through word of mouth?

It has sustained and improved its status because of its non-selective process and its artist friendly approach, mainly by word of mouth and through advertising in the Australian Artist magazine.

What are the eight mediums artists can enter works into, and which are the most popular genres?

There are eight sections in the exhibition; all sections have a winner and a runner up.

Artists are allowed to enter a total of four works across sections 1-6, with a maximum

of two works per section. In section 7 for miniatures, artists can enter four works and section 8, a maximum of two works.

Section 1 – is the most popular and is oil or acrylic on board or canvas. First prize in each is $500, with the second prize being $100; others may also be granted a highly commended or commended certificate.

Section 2 – is any water-based medium on paper.

Section 3 – is for pastels (Phillipa Clyne Memorial Prize).

Section 4 – is the open section for any medium, plus mixed media, collage, or print-making. Section 4 has a rider attached: photos or computer generated images are accepted only when incorporated with other media in this section. They must be less than 50% of the total work.

Section 5 – drawing only, using any drawing medium.

Section 6 – open to members of Taree Artist Inc. who have never won a 1st prize in any of the other sections in the last five years, any medium. There are 3 prizes: 1st $300, 2nd $100 and 3rd $50.

Section 7 – miniatures; any medium may be used. 1st prize $300, 2nd $100.

Section 8 – is for three dimensional works, for sculpture, pottery, or mobile.

Who is involved in the judging process?

Judging will be carried out by Deb Wall on Friday 6 July. The judge is given a list of numbers and titles of works only, the names of the artists are not supplied to her and it is purely the artists’ skills and appeal that the works are appraised on and the winners declared.

The Taree Open Art Exhibition is one of the most generous in the state of NSW and has over $5,000 in prize money. The major prize of $1,000 for the best work in the exhibition may be chosen from any section. Last year’s winner of the major prize was local artist Jo Ernst from Mooral Creek, with her drawing titled, Winston. Jo Ernst is one of the many very talented artists who live in the Manning and Great Lakes area.

Jo has studied Fine Arts in Paris and New York under the tuition of such eminent tutors

as Seth Jacobs. Jo lived in the Blue Mountains for a number of years in Leura and has held a number of great exhibitions at Katoomba Fine Arts Gallery, and her beautiful, delicate artworks are always in demand.

In 2011, a total 46 artworks were sold, with a portion of the sales proceeds going to the Oncology Unit at Manning Base Hospital. Which part of the sales proceeds will be going to a particular cause this year?

All the art works are for sale. Last year 46 works were sold to the public, and each year a percentage of the sales value is donated to a worthy cause. A 20% commission is taken out of the sales value, and of that, half is donated to a charity. Last year a considerable donation was made to FOGS, Friends of the Regional Gallery in Taree, and the previous year a substantial donation was given to the Oncology Unit at the Manning Base Hospital.

This year donations will go to Taree High School as a mark of appreciation for the use of the Hall facilities over the past nine years.

Art works that have been purchased can be collected at the conclusion of the exhibition on Sunday 15 July.

The success of the exhibition is reliant on the involvement of Taree Artists Inc. plus generous contributions by the community ...

The ongoing success of the society and the Taree Open is due in no small way to the large group of volunteers from Taree Artists Inc. led by our President and fellow artist Isabel Pringle, and Exhibition Secretary, Helga Visser.

The assistance given by The Greater Taree City Council and volunteer groups, including Lions, FOGS and Regional Gallery staff all adds to the prominence and prestige with which the Open is held.

All the artists taking part in this exhibition realise and appreciate that it is, thanks to the sponsors who donate so generously the prize money each year, that helps to make it the outstanding exhibition it has become. We are presently seeking a generous company or person to sponsor the major prize of $1,000.

Thank you Roy. manning-great lakes focus 15

Manning-Great Lakes

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eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android mobiles. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 16 manning-great lakes focus.

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Now open Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.

Bean Bar

Rolling Bean Café

Open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch, with an exclusive café menu, and à la carte dinner Thursday to Saturday.

Tony, Ray and the staff at Bean Bar work tirelessly to prepare amazing meals in a waterfront venue, designed and fully licensed to cater for intimate functions such as weddings, business seminars and birthdays.

Bean Bar has now introduced an amazing range of seafood, including oysters, seafood plates and platters, as well as expanding the night dining à la carte menu.

Rolling Bean Café is one of your classic small-town hidden gems.

Located 25 km south of Forster in the shopping village at Smiths Lake, Rolling Bean Café provides locals and visitors with a great selection of freshly prepared meals and light snacks from its qualified chef.

People travel far and wide to indulge in the wickedly tempting cakes, pastries and delicious coffee on offer at the cosy Rolling Bean Café.

Service is always slick and patrons can enjoy our under cover à la carte dining, or relax indoors on comfy chairs and lounges ...

Owner Tanya Meyer.

Owners Ray & Tony.

1 Pulteney St, Taree, set on the Manning River t 6550 0022 w www.beanbarcafe.com.au

Shop 4 Macwood Road, Smiths Lake t 6550 9551

open 7 days breakfast and lunch and dinner Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

open Winter hours: Thursday, Friday, Monday 7am - 3pm.

Saturday and Sunday 7am - 4pm (closed Tues and Wed).

Beach Bums

Bowers Café

Situated overlooking one of Forster’s most beautiful beaches, Beach Bums Café is the perfect place to relax with a coffee or soup in the warm winter sunshine while watching the majestic migrating humpback whales.

Choose from a wide range of breakfast and lunch items and weekly changing specials, followed by coffee and cake.

This is certainly the place to be seven days a week.

Bowers delights in making all food in house, using the freshest local produce and serving locally roasted coffee. Perfect for functions and intimate weddings.

Only 5 minutes from Taree, with a peaceful rural outlook.

Winter opening times seven days a week, 6.30am - 3.30pm (weather permitting).

North & Beach Streets, Forster Main Beach. t 6555 2840 w beachbumscafe.com.au open seven days 6.30am to 3.30pm (weather permitting).

Owners Kate and Darrin.

Art Exhibition: local artist Peter Walsh. Exhibit runs from 6 July ‘til 10 August .

Stallholders may apply for new ‘Bower Bird Market’.

Theme for August: ‘Upcycle Market’ .

Our scones are made in-house

461 Kolodong Rd, Taree t 6550 1230 open 9am – 5pm, 7 Days. Closed public holidays.

manning-great lakes focus 17

eat.

FLOW Espresso

Bent on Food

FLOW Espresso Bar now fully heated for winter – hide away on a rainy day!

Indulge yourself in warm winter pleasures of the culinary kind, with home made soups, oven roasted pot pies, or our freshly grilled vegetable and soft feta Turkish press. Soak up the scents of freshly ground and brewed coffee, with the crackle of the slow combustion fire by your side. Treat your loved ones on Friday nights with an intimate evening of live accoustic music and a chef inspired Australiana menu.

A fortnightly Sunday session employs one of our many talented local Mid North Coast musicians – it starts at 1pm ‘til 3.30pm, with a divine concoction of Tapas, cocktails and locally brewed beer on tap.

Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/flowcafe to keep up to date on upcoming events and changes.

Bent on Food now has a beautiful sunny garden out back for your pleasure, with a great new lunch menu ranging from Indian Curry to warm you up on a chilly day, to our famous Manning Valley grass fed Scotch fillet served on sourdough with our very own onion jam.

The perfect place for a lazy Sunday breakfast; try our Bent vego stack served with our house made hollandaise or one of our big breakfasts. Bent on Food prides itself on a locally focused menu, supporting local producers and reducing our carbon footprint.

We have some great kids’ classes coming up in the school holidays; head to our website, or give us a call to find out more.

31 David St, Old Bar t 6557 4224

95 Isabella Street, Wingham NSW t 6557 0727 w www.bentonfood.com.au

open Tue to Sunday, 8am to 4pm and Fri and Sat nights from 6pm.

Closed Mondays. Fully licensed. Bookings recommended.

open breakfast and lunch, 7 days a week (phone to check hours on public holidays).

Raw Sugar Café

i-Dragon Chinese Cuisine

Our food is prepared by our qualified chefs, using only the freshest local ingredients and served by experienced and friendly staff. Our specials board changes weekly!

Don’t forget our fantastic fresh fruit smoothies, frappes and fresh juices.

Come in and enjoy the five star experience today.

Open for breakfast at 7.30am, lunch from 11.30am and afternoon tea until 4pm.

It goes without saying that I-Dragon’s winter speciality is their seafood tofu hotpot. Combined with their fresh ingredients, and delicious authentic rich tastes, this dish is sure to satisfy.

You can enjoy all the favourites: spring rolls, special fried rice, sizzling meats, succulent seafood, steamed and braised vegetables prepared in traditional Chinese-style cooking from their experienced chef.

So if you’re looking to warm up this winter, drop by I-Dragon Chinese Cuisine (formerly Lake House Chinese Restaurant Forster).

Dine in (BYO) or choose from their takeaway menu.

Freshest local ingredients.

214 Victoria Street, Taree t 6550 0137 open 7.30am to 4pm.

18 manning-great lakes focus.

Chefs Aaron and Paul.

Shop 1/10 Head Street, Forster t 6555 2092 open Tuesday to Sunday (B.Y.O). Lunch 12pm to 2.30pm Dinner from 5pm.

Owner Jenny and her kids.

eat.

The Bellevue Hotel Bistro Have you experienced the Bellevue Hotel Bistro lately?

Bring the whole family down and enjoy a great meal by the pool. Afterwards, the kids can have a dip or play in the games room.

Come down on a Friday night and enjoy some quality fresh local seafood in the bistro and listen to great live music, or come and join in the fun on one of our feature nights (Monday – poker, Wednesday – trivia, Thursday – karaoke).

Be sure to try our new lobster special, which is available every Tuesday for lunch (Half – $20.00 / Full – $28.00) or everyday lunch steak special for just $9.50 (to avoid disappointment, please pre-order and pay for lobsters three days in advance.) Also, keep your eyes out for shopper dockets, to receive your second main meal for just $5.

Our Chefs Hayley & Jason.

Our experienced, friendly staff look forward to seeing you soon.

Manning Street, Tuncurry t 6554 6577 Open 11.30am until 2pm every day and 5.30pm until 8pm weeknights.

Warm up this winter with a fresh muffin and coffee at Lilly Pilly Café.

Club Taree If you are looking for a place to enjoy a warm beverage over the cooler months, look no further than the Lilly Pilly Café, situated at Club Taree.

Featuring a range of tea and coffee flavours, you’ll find your perfect blend to enjoy.

The café also features a range of delectable desserts, cakes and slices to complement your beverage.

Bring your friends and enjoy a cuppa today.

Lilly Pilly Café; open 10am daily.

Chef Kevin Williams.

121 Wingham Rd, Taree t 6539 4000 w www.clubtaree.com.au *Opening times vary.

manning-great lakes focus 19

focuseditorial.

focusinterview.

SteveAttkins.

Stev from Great Lakes Winery

Kevin Williams // Head Chef Club Taree.

The right time for a Port is NOW! ... but then again, Port is also good in the warmer months, chilled on ice; is that a surprise to you? Port has an interesting history – far too much story to be told in this little piece, but here is a snippet. ell, you probably already know where Port originates from – yes that’s right, Portugal. And like many other wine styles, it seems that Port wine was created by accident back in the 1700s ... the story being that the British were sourcing red wine from Portugal (due to a little relationship problem with the French at the time). For shipping purposes, brandy was added to the wine as a stabiliser for the journey back to the mother country. The resultant wine was sweet and smooth, with a much stronger alcohol content than a red table wine.

Over time, it was determined that adding brandy to fermenting red grapes when the sugar content is high stops the fermentation process retaining a high sugar content, combined with the high alcohol content of the added spirit. Further storage in wooden barrels for a period of time adds a nutty and raisin character, plus the colour fades to a pale brick or 'tawny' colour over time. The resulting wine is what we know now of as Tawny Port.

A Tawny Port has been aged in barrels before being bottled, which means it will not improve over time once it has been bottled.

It also means that when you open your bottle of Tawny Port, it will not oxidise – therefore you can keep it for months before finishing the bottle, without it going off!

There are Aged Tawny Ports that are 20 manning-great lakes focus.

blends of different vintages – the blending includes some that are young, together with some not so young. The objective of the blending is to achieve the particular house style of Port desired.

For example, a Tawny that has been aged for 5 years can be blended with Port that is 30 years old, or with a multitude of varying Aged Port wines. The art of Aged Tawny Port making really is a different ball game.

The base fruit used to make Port can be a Shiraz, Grenache or similar – what is important is a big, rich, fruity grape variety.

A serious Vintage Port maker reserves only the highest quality fruit to make this precious liquid. Vintage Port is the primo style of port and unlike Tawny Port, it will improve over time and is designed to be aged for a minimum of 10 years in the bottle. Plus, once a bottle of Vintage Port is opened, it is to be treated like wine and must be consumed within a few days to avoid oxidisation.

A lesser known, but those I know who are familiar with it are addicted to it, is the White Port. Basically, the same technique is used, but the process begins with a white grape base.

Whether it is a Tawny, Aged Tawny, Vintage or White Port, the luscious sweet complex flavours of Port are an exceptional match with sharp hard cheeses, blue cheeses, fruit platters and chocolate desserts.

Plus, it also has a wonderful warming effect in these cool winter months.

Y

ou've been Head Chef at what are some of the main differences Club Taree for a while now, between English and Australian food? which is testament to what The UK seems to be more seasonable a great place it must be to than Australia, having more of a sustainable work - what do you like trend. Australia is still more multicultural in its most about it? menus and is still using a ‘fusion’ approach.

We are always busy and ever changing The UK is going back to traditional foods to meet the needs of the customers who with modern interpretations and ingredients. utilise Club Taree. We have established the Do customers sometimes send a ‘my restaurant business so that we can compliments to the chef' message to make everything fresh and on you in the kitchen? the premises. I am always Club Taree does have customer changing the menus to suit feedback forms, and there the seasons and taste of do seem to be more positive “ We are in thees ag development st enu the customers. The last comments placed on them, of an all-new m e year we had plans and which is very reassuring. which will includ s f’ were brainstorming ways However, when we do several ‘Che ” ’. ls ia to make the new coffee have negative feedback or ec Sp shop area; if you visit you constructive feedback, we do will notice it has been a huge take it on board and do our best to success, and we are proud of how rectify the issues. the plans worked out.

What are some of the meals available on How long have you been a chef, and your menu? what initially inspired you to become Our menu is extremely varied, to ensure one? that there is something on the menu for I have been a chef for 25 years – my first everyone. We have just opened up the full-time job out of school. I always loved new coffee shop, Lilly PIlly Café, which has food, and one of my favourite subjects at homemade desserts, salads, fresh baguettes school was Home Economics. I wanted to see and rolls. We also have our Thursday night the world, so applied for my apprenticeship two-course chef’s specials night, and the with the Hilton Hotel Group in the UK; the popular Friday night carvery with freshly cut rest of the story leads me here to Club Taree. roasted meats with all you can eat vegetables What do you most enjoy about your job? and dessert bars.

I have always been an advocate for positive What delicious dishes can people look training of apprentices, so it has to be forward to indulging in at Club Taree this watching apprentices develop and become winter? excited about food and their job. The role of We are in the development stages of an alla chef is always changing, and there is a need new menu, which will include several ‘Chef’s to keep-up-to date with current trends and Specials’ that will change on a weekly basis, methods of cooking. to keep the menu interesting for our regular You originally hail from the UK ... customers.

focussocial.

social scene.

with Donna Carrier from Bent on Food.

Gail Green and Louise Potter

Valley Industries

Wingham Wellbeing team

Julie Fenwick and Wayne Shephard

Hooker Bear and friend at Cystic Fibrosis night

Val Schaefer and Kathy Cooper

Immy and Olivia

am writing this while sitting in my office watching people enjoy the sunshine in our new backyard, and I find myself wondering when winter will set in. True, the nights are chilly, but there always seems to be somewhere that we can find a sunny spot. The days will begin to get longer now, so we can look forward to even more light, then there will be no excuses not to get out of bed and put one foot in front of the other and participate in that thing called exercise. If I start now, I may just be ready for summer!

Great Lakes Tourism Manager Richard Old and I were both privileged to attend the farewell of the Trade and Investment Coffs Harbour team, to wish Bill Mabey, Grant Burrows, Gail Green and Louise Potter all the best and thank them for their support and efforts.

Bill Mabey has worked alongside Mid North Coast Tourism for many years and has been a huge contributor to the tourism industry. The team at Coffs Harbour also had great passion for food and wine and was always there to give advice and get involved in initiatives that promoted our region’s food producers. We had a great night at Pacific Bay, with lots of memories and a few farewell tears; we did also enjoy just a few farewell sparkles.

Another farewell gathering was held at Bent on Food to say farewell to Val Schaefer. Val is moving to Tamworth to take up a fabulous tourism role and has been having many farewells with all of the people she

I

had worked alongside over the years. The lovely Kathy Cooper, Barb Wilson and Kim MacDonald shared some stories about the great times they had spent working in tourism. Chris Ryan also jumped off a plane from London to join us. It was a lovely evening, and I wish Val all the very best in her new location and thank her for the help she gave me in my tourism business. I am sure all my colleagues in the industry also wish her well.

Wingham Wellbeing held their annual biggest morning tea in the garden at Bent on Food on 24 May. It was a beautiful morning, with around 50 people enjoying cake and coffee. All the staff from the surgery took a bit of time out to come over and talk to customers and share information.

LJ Hooker held a successful movie premiere on 31 May, raising money for Cystic Fibrosis. Over 150 people bought tickets for the hilarious movie: What to Expect When You’re Expecting, and along with raffle tickets LJ Hooker Forster/Tuncurry raised around $3,000.

LJ Hooker would also like to thank the local businesses for their many donations for the raffle and generous contributions for the night.

Mondrook Garden Café & Gallery was the ideal venue for a private, intimate wedding ceremony for Julie Fenwick and Wayne Shephard on Saturday 28 April 2012. The beautiful gardens are ideal for guests to wander through while waiting for the ceremony, and the bridal path leads through a tropical grove. It

truly is a tranquil setting, and the beautiful couple had a wonderful backdrop to exchange their vows and for their stunning photos. For something even more special, after the wedding the couple also celebrated a Naming Ceremony for their baby in the gazebo.

In June each year, Wingham goes Scottish, the bagpipes play, the tartan comes out of the mothballs, and there are a lot of men in kilts wandering around.

This year was no exception, with a huge crowd visiting Wingham for the weekend of 2 and 3 June. We decided to run a kids' shortbread class, and the finished product would become an entry in the CWA Shortbread competition. Talk about pressure; these women have been making shortbread for a very long time, and I haven’t made any since I was very young. I called in the expertise of Dyana Brown, who took on the role of chief shortbread maker. One of the children even got a prize in the CWA shortbread competition.

Valley Industries held an opening at their premises on Friday 1 June; it was a fabulous day, where visitors had the opportunity to look around at the facilities and meet the lovely people who utilse the space. I was quite amazed at the range of activities that are offered at Valley Industries and look forward to my next visit.

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

Send pics and info to donna.carrier@bigpond.com Cheers, Donna. manning-great lakes focus 21

focusinterview.

The Flair Awards began in 1994 in the pursuit of creating a regional fashion event that offered designers a platform to showcase their work to the public.

The Awards quickly grew over the years, both in quantity and quality of garments, with Flair becoming a well-known and respected event among fashion circles, industry professionals and colleges.

AWA R D S e caught up with Jo Meldrum, co-ordinator of The Flair Awards, to tell us about this year’s event …

What is required of you in your role as co-ordinator of The Flair Awards?

My role as co-ordinator is not unlike that of any person who is involved in the entertainment or event management industry. I look at it as the pulling together of many elements to create a product; in this case, our end product is a show. A fabulous team of volunteers who work all year to create Flair assists me, and local business houses that lend their assistance also help us. Of course, there is the glamorous side of meeting fashion identities and new designers and following their careers, but all in all I would like to say that it is hard work to get this event happening each year – but we all love it.

Tell us about the importance of regional areas having access to leading fashion awards events...

With Flair being Australia’s leading fashion awards event, it has been exciting to see the role it plays in the journey of designers. Having the annual event situated in Taree on the Mid North Coast of NSW provides the opportunity for budding and accomplished designers to show their talents, be critiqued by experts and gain promotion through the media. The Flair Awards also provides networking opportunities and connections to Australia’s capital cities, where the fashion industry is most prominent. It really enables designers to get their foot in the door, to what is an extremely competitive industry to break into.

The awards attract a high profile judging panel, plus industry guests ...

This year we are excited to announce that our judging panel will consist of Prue Hawkins – Head Designer of Cue, Lauren Lee – 2010 Flair Awards Designer of the Year, and JoJo Marquez – Owner and Head Designer of 22 manning-great lakes focus.

Arushie Couture.

What are the various categories designers ...opportunity for budding and can enter into, and accomplished how are the awards their designers to showed critiqued? qu iti cr be talents, in There are nine major by experts and ga h the ug ro th n io categories and nine mior the entrants’ individual take on what is curpromot media.” nor categories available rently happening in fashion. 80% of our entries for designers to enter into. are from fashion students, and these students The major categories this year are encouraged to look beyond what is currently include Red Carpet, Cocktail, happening in fashion; so what the Flair audience sees is Swimwear, Bridal, Generation Y, Cup a view to the future.

Day, Rags to Riches, Tailoring and Avant Garde. DesignWhy is the world of fashion notoriously difficult ers are invited to enter into each major category and for up-and-coming designers to navigate? as many minor categories as they wish. Each category Aside from the fashion industry being extremely has different criteria as to how it will be judged, but competitive, it is also ever changing; this makes it hard across the board the judging panel is looking at garment to navigate a specific career path – especially for emergoriginality, aesthetics, quality of fit and workmanship. ing designers. Fashion is always about what is new and Each year brings new and unique designs reflecting curfresh – even if this draws on past trends! What is current rent industry trends, although there are always surprises and who is in the spotlight is not usually everlasting, among the winners. so designers and those in the industry always have to A Designer of the Year is chosen from the winners change their ways of thinking and doing. of each major category ... how does this work?

All designers want to create something innovative, Judging takes place a week before the event, and a unique and most importantly, desirable, and those who winner is chosen for each of the Major Categories. Then are successful have found a way to get it right. Designthe Designer of the Year is selected from these winners, ing the garment is only half the battle; once the designer so that the Designer of the Year not only wins that prize, has an idea, they must first sample it, include it in a colvalued at $8,000, but they are the winner of a Major lection, present it to buyers, and then have the garments Category. Major Category winners win $1,000 in cash, manufactured – each posing their own set of problems. but also some of the categories have a work experience Then designers must promote their work and themselves component with leading fashion houses in Sydney. Also, in a constantly changing world of technology all Major Category winners receive a sketch program Words of advice for aspiring designers? from Illy Strate.

Research, research, research, stay true to your beliefs, Do you have a design theme running through this keep up with technology, and do not let anyone push year’s awards? you along a path that you are not comfortable with; but We do not suggest a theme to run through the most of all, have fun! awards, as all entries should either reflect current trends Thank you Jo. Interview by Karen Farrell.

“

Prepare to see some “amazing talent at The Flair Awards 2012. From

The Flair Awards.

Entries for The Flair Awards have been arriving in numbers, which is always exciting, as it sets the tone for what’s to come. Preliminary judging for Flair’s Prize for Illustration (now in its 2nd year) has already taken place, with works being forwarded to the Manning Regional Art Gallery ready for final judging and the 2012 exhibition opening on 3 July.

The Flair Awards are excited to announce some new additions to their stable of awards this year. The Designer of the Year 2012, who already receives $3,000, will now also win the ‘High Flyer Award’, which makes the total net value worth $8,000. The winning designer will receive $2,500 for airfare to London and be hosted at international speaker and Coach Eilidh Milnes’ home, where they will be introduced to Manchester’s leading fashion experts and designers. Included is also a trip to London to meet with recruitment agencies and gain media recognition through interviews, press releases and social media.

Adding to The Flair Awards line up of prizes includes the winner of the Tailoring Award

the exquisite, innovative garment designs to the dynamic illustrative works, the eyes will be spoilt for choice at this year’s Premiere Evening on 4 August.

”

receiving $1,000, as well as 2 weeks' work experience with internationally recognised fashion designer, Elena Kozlova. The winner of the Bridal Award will win $1,000, in addition to 2 weeks' work experience with accomplished designer JoJo Marquez, who owns and heads Arushrie Couture, based in Sydney. If this isn’t enough, all Major Awards winners for 2012 will be presented with a drawing package by Illy Strate, specifically created as a tool to assist in fashion illustration.

It’s a busy time of year for The Flair Awards, but it’s the buzz that creates the momentum leading up to The Flair Awards and spreads right throughout the weekend of runway shows and award presentations. There are two opportunities to see the shows this year, including the Preview Evening held on Friday 3 August for students and pensioners and the Premiere Evening on Saturday 4 August – both held at Taree-Wingham Race Club.

Tickets are available for both evenings from www.theflairawards.com.au or Video Ezy Taree; Ph (02)6552 5699. Take advantage of the great discount offers on bookings of groups of 5.

manning-great lakes focus

23

focusinterview.

1. 8/5/12 Goose after admission in critical care 2. 9/5/12 Goose feeling a little better sitting in fork 3. 22/5/12 Christeen releasing Goose back in the area he was found 4. 22/5/12 Goose sitting up in tree, pleased to home again

4.

2.

1.

in Care Inc.

3.

“Accidents happen, but it is what you do after them that matters.” – Christeen McLeod, Koala Care Facility Manager, Koalas in Care Inc. Local resident Gaby Klika recently had cause to contact not-for-profit organisation Koalas in Care Inc. when she struck a koala while driving on the Bucketts Way at night.

K

oalas in Care exclusively Tell us about the actual work you do and care for sick, injured and who is involved? orphaned koalas in our Koalas in Care provide a 24 hour rescue region, operating a Koala service for sick/injured/orphaned koalas (our Care Facility in Taree. rescuers are ready to go at a moment’s notice), Despite the late hour, operate a koala care facility (which includes critiKoalas in Care volunteers went out that same cal care, intensive care, nursery, outside holding evening and searched the embankment and units and outside holding yard) two shifts per trees in the area described. After a 90 minute day, collect fresh leaf four days per week, atsearch, they were able to locate an adult male tend local events to educate the public about koala up in a tree looking a bit the worse-forkoalas, do school talks, tree farming (currently wear. we have three), collect seeds and raise our own The injured koala, affectionately named seedlings for planting, and fundraise.

‘Goose’, stayed in care for sixteen days, What was involved when you rebeing treated for shock and monicently provided care to ‘Goose’? tored in the event of a bruised Goose was hit by a car durlung … FOCUS caught up ing the night on the Bucketts ad/ with Christeen McLeod, Way. When contacted by “Report any de u yo as Koala Care Facility Manthe motorist, Koalas in injured koal ager, to find out more Care immediately went to may come across our 24 immediately totline, so about the organisation’s find him, guided by the hour rescue ho remove important work. landmarks given by the n ca r a voluntee a.” al ko Who is Koalas in Care? motorist.

After searching e th st si as or It is a registered charity for some time, and about and licensed to operate by to give up, we found him in a the Office of Environment and small tree. Our experienced resHeritage to rescue and care for cuers were able to remove him from koalas. Koalas in Care is independently the tree and take him into care. He was operated by local volunteers, is based in Taree treated for shock and attended to by Vet Renata and became operational in July 2005. Our and Vet Donald from Taree Veterinary Hospital. founding members, Paul and Christeen McLeod, Goose had suffered abrasions and bruising on have been working with koalas in the area since his legs and paws. He had a swollen lip. He September 1993. also suffered a bruised lung, and a course of KIC has no paid employees, and the facility is antibiotics and pain relief was prescribed. Goose not open to the general public. This allows the responded well to treatment and after two koalas to recover from their injuries or illness in weeks in care, was given the ‘all clear’ to be a quiet and stress-free environment. We are a released. He was very lucky. group of volunteers committed to the welfare How many koalas are admitted into your and preservation of wild koalas. care per annum, and do you have a number 24 manning-great lakes focus.

of permanent residents staying with you?

It varies, but up to 65 individuals per annum.

We have two permanent care koalas, both female. ‘Boobook’ has been with us since 2002 and is now almost 12 years old. She has an injured hind leg and can’t be released. Tallow has been with us since 2008 and is now almost five years old. She suffered head injuries as a joey and was very sick. Both girls are lucky to have survived and are very valuable as ‘companion koalas’ to other koalas who need a friend, such as orphaned joeys being reared.

What tips can you give to people for driving on country roads at night where wildlife is often present?

Drive slowly and carefully in areas where koalas are known to exist and especially where there are ‘Koala Warning Signs’ (these areas are where we have had multiple koala deaths).

Report any dead/injured koalas you may come across immediately to our 24 hour rescue hotline, so a volunteer can remove or assist the koala. If you hit a koala while driving, please stop if you can safely do so. Place a blanket, towel or coat over the koala and safely remove it from the road.

Contact our 24 hour rescue hotline immediately. Many koalas are hit again and again, because no one stopped. Do not leave the koala unattended or attempt to put it up a tree as while the koala may appear uninjured to you, it needs to be examined by our Vet and observed by an experienced carer. Native animals can disguise sickness and injuries well. Female koalas may well be carrying back or pouch joeys. Both can be thrown on impact and may survive, so an experienced carer should assess if the female koala is lactating and a search of the area undertaken. Likewise, if joeys are found with the

dead mother, they should be kept with her and you should contact us for immediate help. This will lessen the stress of the joey.

Please be aware that koalas do bite and scratch and may lash out when injured or frightened. Remember, koalas are wild animals, even though you may think of them as ‘cute and cuddly’. Phone Koalas In Care, so an experienced koala handler can assist and we can then provide the koala with care and treatment that it may require.

How does Koalas in Care sustain itself?

Koalas in Care relies on the kind generosity of the public for donations/bequests and support, and our own fundraising to enable us to rehabilitate the koalas that are admitted for treatment. This helps ensure that they have the best chance of recovery and we can return as many as possible back to the wild. We cannot achieve this without your donations/bequests, so please make a donation or become a Supporting Member of Koalas In Care. All money raised stays in the area covered by the group to fund our work and provide vital medications for the koalas.

Thank you Christeen.

Interview by Karen Farrell.

the plug!

Contact for Koalas in Care 24 hour Koala Rescue Service Phone 6552 2183. www.koalasincare.org.au koalasic@bigpond.net.au PO Box 1249, Taree, NSW 2430

focus_feature.

naidoc

week.

manning-great lakes focus 25

focusinterview.

NAIDOC WEEK

Elders Olympics.

The Elders Olympics is an event that has been held annually during NAIDOC week since 2001. As the 2011 winners of the Elders Olympics, the Biripi Elders are hosting the Elders Olympics on local turf at Taree this year.

W Aunty Susie holding the Elders Olympics team champions’ trophy.

orkers at Booroongen Elders Olympics and says he hopes the younger Djugun first introduced the generation take an interest in the Olympics when Elders Olympics, as they they get older: “I hope that the younger ones will felt that there were limited keep it going when we pass on or can’t do it.” or no activities during While the Elders Olympics are very competitive, it is NA NAIDOC Week for our Elders. also a day where they interact with each other, as The Eld T Elders Olympics is a one-day event where some clients don’t see family and friends for some Abo origin Clients of Community Care, HACC, Aboriginal months. Some of the participants who attend have Dis ability and Aged Care Services from Northern Disability moderate to severe disabilities and need extra NSW com come and participate in events such as ball support to actively participate. weaving weaving, shooting hoops, gum boot throwing, Participants train and practice for some time in tunnel ball, quoits, and a walking the lead up to NAIDOC week. The winner rela relay. of the event wins a perpetual shield, A Aunty Susie enjoys the which they take back to their whole ceremony community for 12 months and People make their own of the event, wins the right to host the Elders r banners for theie of saying, “People Olympics the following year. teams, and som really make their own e Over 250 clients are attending ar s er nn ba the is a banners for the 2012 Elders Olympics, beautiful. Thereon show to decide , and their teams, from areas including Kempsey, the best banner s and some of Coffs Harbour, Taree/Forster, ha everyone also and irt sh the banners are Nambucca Valley, Wauchope, Tn their ow really beautiful.

Newcastle, Armidale/Uralla, uniform to wear.”

There is a show Tamworth, Wee Waa/Narrabri and to decide on the best Moree. banner, and everyone also Many participants taking place in the has their own T-shirt and uniform to Elders Olympics will stay overnight in the area, wear.” providing a significant boost to Taree’s economy.

She really sees the value of To commemorate this year’s Elders Olympics, participating in the Olympics, saying,“It’s there will be a presentation dinner, where the good for people of my age. It’s like a fun winner of the Olympics will be announced and day, and it’s better than sitting around in Elders will be treated to great night of food and a rocking chair!” entertainment.

Fellow Captain Uncle Tom plans to The Elders Olympics will be held during NAIDOC participate in every single race at the week on July 3 at Taree Recreation Centre.

“

26 manning-great lakes focus.

NAIDOC

Week

Timetable.

Some of the events taking place on the NAIDOC Calendar in the Manning-Great Lakes and Manning Valley ...

Monday 2 July.

10am – 10.30am

Flag Raising @ Council A traditional ceremony and official Flag Raising for the whole community at Great Lakes Council will mark the beginning of NAIDOC Week on Monday 2 July and will be followed by free children’s activities in the Forster Library.

10.30am – 12pm

Children’s Storytelling at Great Lakes Library Service.

11.30am

Community vs Police Touch Football Match at Boronia Park.

Tuesday 3 July.

9am – 3.30pm

Aboriginal Elders Olympics at Taree Showgrounds.

Biripi Elders are hosting the Elders Olympics this year in NAIDOC week. The Elders Olympics will be held at the Taree Sports and Recreation Grounds. The Elders have been busy attending the Olympics for around six years, competing at Tamworth, Valla Beach (twice), Nambucca Heads and Kempsey. Some of the events include Gum Boot throwing, Shooting Hoops, Ball Weaving, Darts, Bean Bag throwing, Walking Relay, Quoits and Pass the Ball Through the Hole. Teams from far and wide will participate, including Wauchope, Forster, Moree, Tamworth, Newcastle, Central Coast, Coffs Harbour and many more.

9am – 5pm

Tobwabba Baby Photos at Tobwabba Aboriginal Medical Service.

Wednesday 4 July.

9am – 5.30pm

Aboriginal Men’s NAIDOC Golf Challenge at Emerald Downs Golf Course.

Thursday 5 July.

8am – 10.10am

NAIDOC Community Breakfast @ Biripi AMS Purfleet.

10.30am – 2.30pm

Community NAIDOC Event at Cabarita; all welcome.

Events at the Community Day include a Smoking Ceremony, BBQ, live music, dance workshops, jumping castle, train rides, golf workshops, face painting, crafts & stalls and more.

5pm – 10pm

Kids Disco @ Taree PCYC.

Friday 6 July.

10am – 3.30pm

NAIDOC Community Day at Queen Elizabeth Park for Biripi.

Events at the Community Day include Welcome to Country by the Biripi Elders, Welcome Dance by the Biripi Dancers, flag raising ceremony by Mayor Paul Hogan, ‘Reconciliation Hands’ Display

by Taree West Public School, live broadcast by Ngarralinyi Radio Station, kids’ races and Touch Footy competition, children’s craft and story book tent by Communities for Children, Engagement of Youth – Culture and Display of Images in relation to Cultural Identity by Greater Taree City Council.

6pm – 10pm

Aboriginal Elders Dinner Dance at Club Forster.

Saturday 7 July.

Indigenous Awards The Manning Indigenous Achievers Awards Night is an annual event, which recognises the outstanding achievements of Aboriginal people of the Manning area across a variety of fields such as employment, education, arts, sporting, volunteer and the non Indigenous contribution. It is a night that engages with broader community through the leadership, education, recognition, reconciliation, and strong community partnerships.

This year, in keeping with the NAIDOC Theme, we will be making a space for a tent that will display historical information on the Spirit of the Tent Embassy, which recognises the strength of the heart and spirit of Aboriginal people in the struggle. manning-great lakes focus 27

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NAIDOC WEEK

Biripi Aboriginal Corporation In thirty-one years of medical and health professional services, Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Medical Centre (ACMC) has certainly grown. In this time, Biripi ACMC has broadened its horizons and is now delivering and offering primary health care to 7,000 Aboriginal people. At a regional level, Biripi ACMC provides medical health services from Taree to Port Macquarie.

The organisation has certainly come a long way since it started 1981. clients to receive primary care with practice nurses, health assessments, immunisation and chronic disease management. The program also includes visiting health clinics and cardiac specialists, allied health clinics, dental That mission clinics, maternal and child statement health, which includes pre l is about culturary and post-natal health, child ve is It . ity integr growth and development much an aspect a service as is th of and parenting.

Our mission stateature distinguishing fe 2.

Family and Community ment embraces cultural of Biripi ACMC.” Health Program. This prointegrity, which is an gram is of tremendous imporintegral focus and a distance to Biripi ACMC clients. This tinguishing feature of Biripi program employs Aboriginal workers, ACMC. It is expressed in the Biripi who service and care for their community as Mission Statement and the diverse areas in well as their families’ social and emotional which Biripi ACMC deliver their services.

Five major programs provide professional wellbeing.

The hard work and dedication of the services as part of Biripi ACMC: medical and health workers of Biripi ACMC is 1. The Clinics Program. This program allows

“

B

iripi ACMC is aware of the needs of holistic primary health care, with the health status of Aboriginal communities being the organisation’s primary goal.

The Biripi ACMC Mission statement is: “We provide holistic primary health care that is based on cultural integrity and is closing the gap in quality of life for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, their families and local communities.”

28 manning-great lakes focus.

evident. The interactive relationship between the workers at Biripi and the Aboriginal community is a valued commodity, with the workers themselves attending to client needs in a relaxed and easygoing manner. Environmental health, health education, sexual and reproductive health, ear and eye health, women’s and men’s health, mental health services, psychologists, domestic violence services, drug and alcohol services are all part of the workers roles in Biripi ACMC. The final three professional service programs provided by Biripi ACMA include: Access Program, Children’s Service Program (GLMACS) and the Aged Care Program.

There is a vital need for Biripi ACMC services. If there is a need for clients of Biripi ACMC to attend any of its programs, Biripi endeavours to provide transport as required to clients. Biripi ACMC continually strives to improve the way it operates.

NAIDOC WEEK

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Meet the Women of Biripi ACMC.

Janine Cochrane.

CHILD HEARING Janine Cochrane, like many of the Biripi women, has a strong constitution for helping their families through Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Medical Centre.

Janine’s role within Biripi is in Child Hearing.

It is rewarding to know that the children have access to these services through Biripi.

Like other Biripi women staff employees, the roles they are in are often interconnected and shared. The benefits are far reaching, in having an empathy for the children and community. Their health and medical wellbeing is our future.

Karen Bradley.

ABORIGINAL FAMILY HEALTH WORKER [Sexual Assault, Domestic violence and Child Protection]

I am a proud descendent of the Kamilaroi people. I was born and raised in the small Queensland country town of St. George.

Education and health have always been important factors for my family. I was lucky enough to be employed by Biripi soon after moving to Taree in 2004. I have held two positions over this time: one as the families first young mums worker, and now in my current role as family health worker. I am particularly passionate about my role, as I see the need for it clearly. In short, my role involves educating and focusing attention on the key issues of sexual assault, domestic violence and child protection and assisting victims and their families of these issues in the hope they can recover to lead fulfilling lives – one that they and their family and community can be proud of.

Jennifer Mitchell.

RECEPTIONIST WITH BIRIPI ABORIGINAL CORPORATION MEDICAL CENTRE Being the Receptionist with Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Medical Centre, I am familiar with all clients who walk into the Medical Centre. You can appreciate the relaxed and friendly hellos that go on with the patients sitting waiting for their appointments. They all know each other, as many of the clients are from the oldest original families in Purfleet, as I am. I pride myself on my work and know that it is good to have a Biripi Aboriginal Medical Centre in this locatio,n as the people with the most disadvantage have come from Purfleet.

No-one should ever forget the struggles of the past in understanding how Purfleet women over the years have proven their ability to fight for changes to bring about better living conditions for the rest of Purfleet Community.

Katrina Clarke.

BIRIPI AMS DENTAL A smile lights up one’s face and is the most pleasant of greetings from one person to another. Working at Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Medical Centre, I am a Trainee Dental Assistant. I have the most pleasant of jobs to work with people who come to Biripi for dental health and hygiene. Whether it is the older person or a young child, we at Biripi Dental Health Services treat all our clients with respect and try to do our best with a smile.

Sharon Cochrane.

Margaret Bird.

MANAGER OF THE BIRIPI MATERNAL HEALTH SERVICE

DRUG & ALCOHOL HEALTH WORKER

Sharon, a proud Aboriginal woman and mother of three sons, has a strong determination to improve the health and wellbeing of her people. Sharon’s history in Aboriginal health spans over 22 years. Sharon began at Daruk Aboriginal Health Service (Western Sydney AMS) as Clinical Health Worker, then moved into a role as Aboriginal Hearing Health Worker.

In the year 2000, after living in Sydney, Sharon moved to Taree to Biripi Aboriginal Medical Service, to become a member of the Aboriginal Maternal and Infant strategy (AMIHS) Steering Committee, which became the AMIHS AHEO. In 2006, Sharon’s passion to work with Aboriginal mothers and babies became much stronger, and she was determined to provided better antenatal care for Aboriginal women in pregnancy and improve better birth outcomes for their babies. Sharon was than encouraged by the AMIHS Midwife to pursue a career in Midwifery, which she did, and she completed a Bachelor of Midwifery in 2009.

Sharon now has a caseload of women to care for and recently became the Manager of the Biripi Maternal Health Service.

My name is Margaret Bird. I am a strong Biripi woman, born and bred in the Manning Valley. It is nice to know that one can recuperate and rehabilitate oneself and come back to help others. That is exactly what I am doing working as a Drug and Alcohol Worker with Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Medical Centre. I appreciate the role I have with clients even more so, as experience teaches many things in many ways. I have been doing the Drug and Alcohol work for four years.

My job role sits with the Social Emotional Wellbeing Team, located on the mission within Purfleet Aboriginal Community.

It is the place for me to be to help my community. I have lived here all my life. I know that I have a deep relationship and affinity in both Biripi Country and Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Medical Centre.

It has done wonders for me personally. I feel that my work in Drug and Alcohol is a worthwhile and worthy way of clearly showing my cultural integrity. I feel the work I do is special and the clients as well. manning-great lakes focus 29

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NAIDOC WEEK

andrew saunders.

Andrew Saunders, father of two, is a dedicated family man. Born and bred in the Taree area and part of the large Saunders family, he is a proud Biripi man – and a proud member of the Aboriginal Vocational Initiatives team at North Coast TAFE.

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A

ndrew’s life has been greatly influenced by his grandfather and role model, Horrace Saunders.

“My grandfather taught me to have respect for others and to acknowledge the difference in other people. He’d always say that you should never walk past your people; you’re no better than anyone else, and no-one’s better than you,” Andrew says.

Andrew is passionate about working for and with his people and loves to bring humour to his work. “I can’t live without humour,” he says.

After a career spanning housing, community services and out of home care, Andrew says he loves his current role in North Coast TAFE.“My grandfather always said ‘when you stop learning, you just stop, full stop’. He taught me that you have to keep changing and learning; he would say that someone who thinks the same for twenty years has wasted those twenty years.”

Andrew’s passion for learning, for humour, for communicating and making a real difference with others positions him well for his role in North Coast TAFE. Andrew’s role as Aboriginal Vocational Initiatives Consultant for the lower North Coast region requires him to work with local Aboriginal communities, employers and teaching staff within North Coast TAFE, to offer culturally appropriate training opportunities.

It’s a role that relies on relationship building, effective communication, leadership and team work.

Andrew says, “I love my role in North Coast TAFE, because it’s a job where you don’t take something away; instead, you can give something of real value to your people. Adult learners make a choice about their future and their education, and it’s so rewarding to know that my work can make a real contribution to people who

want to build a positive future for themselves.”

Andrew has a particular passion for working with young Aboriginal people and sees real potential to engage with young people through humour, yarning and practical learning opportunities. He played a leading role in the Deadly Surf Summer Schools offered through North Coast TAFE in January this year. Through the program, two groups of young Aboriginal people had an opportunity to gain practical experience in retail, board making, design and screen printing in partnership with local employers. They also explored skills in job readiness, relationship building, confidence and understanding the world of business and industry.

“The Summer Schools were a great experience. And I’m really excited about the next steps for North Coast TAFE through our Deadly Skills strategy. Young people are our future, and on a personal level find that working with young people keeps me feeling young too,” Andrew says.

North Coast TAFE, through its Deadly Skills Strategy, will offer a range of learning opportunities to young Aboriginal people, in partnership with employers, schools and other service providers. This will include TAFE taster programs, workplace visits, pathways to School Based Traineeships, Apprenticeships and more.

“I am particularly excited about working with lots of people in North Coast TAFE, schools and Aboriginal communities to host Deadly Days and Deadly Nights festivals this year,” he says. This year, Wauchope Showground will be the location for the popular festival and will include daytime activities for young Aboriginal people and night activities through a concert for family and community members.

Anyone seeking more information about educational opportunities at North Coast TAFE or Deadly Days should contact Andrew on 6591 3623.

NAIDOC WEEK

Port Macquarie focus _feature.High School

Community Support Services.

Community Links Program.

We are happy to announce that the Indigenous Community Links Program (formerly Community Support Service) has been refunded for another three years until 2015. The Indigenous Community Links Program is funded by FAHCSIA and recently underwent a namechange. We have also changed our location to 11 Rodmay Street, Tuncurry.

The aim of the Indigenous Community Links Program is to provide Indigenous people of all ages access to mainstream and Indigenous services in the local area.

The Indigenous Community Links Program provides advice and support on the following services: • Healthcare, including counselling and nutrition; • Childcare, including preschool, pregnancy and parenting; • Court support, including legal advice and drug and alcohol referrals; • Education and training, including computer training; • Jobs and income support; • Housing, including rental assistance, tenancy and maintenance.

For more details, contact Natalie Bolt (02) 6557 2779 at Indigenous Community Links Program for more information.

GLLC Schools in Partnership.

The Aboriginal students within the Great Lakes Learning Community (GLLC) are primarily from Worimi and Biripi Country. However, there is a significant percentage of ‘off country’ students.

The GLLC ‘Schools in Partnership’ (SIP) Initiative commenced in 2010 and has been a three year program funded by the Aboriginal Education and Training Directorate. Each year the Learning Community is allocated $128,100, shared across the nine schools spanning all grades from Kindergarten to Year 12.

The strategic plan aligns with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Action Plan (ATSIEAP) 2010-2014.

The Initiative aims to close the academic achievement gap for Aboriginal students, by improving transition points including: school readiness; engagement and connections including cultural understanding; attendance; literacy and numeracy; professional learning in leadership and quality teaching; and pathways to real post-school options.

The CSS is a confidential service that assists Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander people with information and referral to organisations within their community or their surrounding areas. We can work with you in finding the service that feels right for you and also assist with ongoing support whenever it is needed.

There is no waiting list, and the service is not age restricted.

We can assist by advocating and referring you to the following services: • Housing (long term and emergency, rental assistance, tenancy issue referrals). • Health (drug and alcohol, mental health, aged care, counselling, nutrition, pregnancy and doctor’s referrals).

• Employment and Welfare (Centrelink, Child Support Assistance, job search Assistance). • Legal Services (referral and court support). • Childcare (daycare centres, play groups).

• Education and Training (referral and assistance with TAFE, college, university and schools, numeracy, literacy and computer skills training programs).

The CSS has a free internet service which is available to community members to access information, with or without assistance.

We DO NOT assist with money, food or fuel vouchers, payment of utilities or transport.

The CSS Taree offers an outreach service to the following areas: Wingham, Karuah, Gloucester (by appointment only).

Bunyah LALC – High St, Wauchope.

Birpai LALC – Ashton St, Port Macquarie.

manning-great lakes focus 31

32 manning-great lakes focus.

manning-great lakes focus 33

Cain Ca Cai nPascoe PascoePhotography Photography Cain

“TAFE students present their upcycled clothing designs based on their tough briefs.”

The upcycle of sustainable fashion shion Each year huge amounts of clothes and shoes are thrown away worldwide, with much ending up in landfill sites. Fortunately, Australia has a great track record of recycling clothing through donations to charity shops, passing on clothes for emergency use, or sending them overseas, where people cannot afford to buy clothes.

To address sustainability, the Diploma in Applied Fashion Design and Technology students at North Coast TAFE were given a brief to design and create a garment from sustainable resources and from fabrics with a minimum of 75% natural fibre.

With many new designers using waste materials and ‘upcycling’ them into new fashions and textiles, the teachers felt this was a valuable skill to add to their portfolio and allow students an advantage when looking for industry

34 manning-great lakes focus.

employment.

‘Upcycling’ is a sustainable way of creating something useful out of something that would otherwise be thrown away, helps to preserve virgin resources, reduces waste and energy use, and creates something that is of equal or greater value than the materials used to make it.

If you consider that it takes ten times more energy to make a tonne of textiles than it does a tonne of glass, recycling can save a lot of energy. Our clothes, when we throw them away, have at least 70% of their useful life left. It takes nylon fabric 30 - 40 years to biodegrade.

By comparison, a cotton cloth takes just 1 to 5 months.

We look forward to seeing how the next generation of local designers introduce innovative ways to save costs and resources in their designs.

Book your spot by calling Ali Bigg at Midwaste on 1800 330 246.

Waste 2 Art Workshops Midwaste and Midcoast Waste Services (MWS) are hosting Junk Art workshops in July. The workshops will be held in Gloucester, Great Lakes and Taree and will be run by Reverse Garbage from Sydney. This is a great opportunity to learn some skills and techniques to help develop an entry for the Waste 2 Art (W2A) competition, that is now open for its third year. There are LOTS of cash prizes to be won in a number of categories, so sign up for the opportunity to enhance your creative skills for FREE at these Junk Art workshops.

Forster/Tuncurry on Thursday 12 July. There

Workshops will be 1 - 2 hours in length and will be themed around Spectacular Sculpture.

We welcome anyone who is interested to register with Midwaste by ringing 1800 330 246 before Wednesday 4 July.

at Midwaste on 1800 330 246.

Workshops will be held in Taree on Tuesday 10 July, Gloucester on Wednesday 11 July and

night will be at the Gloucester Art Gallery on

will be three sessions each day, between the hours of 9.30am and 4.30pm.

Additionally, we are providing the opportunity for a Train the Trainer session for those keen to learn and pass on these skills to others.

Train the Trainer sessions will be available on each of the 3 days (dependant on numbers) outlined below after the other sessions (starting at either 4pm or 5pm). Midwaste encourages Council staff to participate in this FREE opportunity. Book your spot by calling Ali Bigg The Waste 2 Art Competition is also now open. Entries are online at www.midwaste. org.au or via 1800 330 246. Entries close on 10 October 2012, and the competition awards Thursday, November 8.

Teachers are supported by a strong Learning Support Team.

Rich education opportunities Wesley Uniting Employment is now stretching its services to Gloucester, Purfleet and Tea Gardens.

Wesley Uniting Wesley Uniting Employment, as a provider of Job Services Australia, has now been successfully servicing the Manning and Great Lakes region for over 10 years – and now also offers specialist Disability Employment Services.

To better service the needs of both employers and job seekers, Wesley Uniting Employment not only has branches in Taree and Tuncurry, but also provides outreach services to Gloucester, Purfleet and Tea

Gardens.

Wesley Uniting Employment is very keen to work in partnership with industry to build business capacity, ensuring candidates meet employer’s criteria, offering training, wage subsidies, mentoring and ongoing post placement support where applicable.

If you would like to know more, call 1800 631 132 to talk to your nearest Wesley Uniting Employment office, the leaders in local knowledge.

Holy Name Catholic School, Forster, educates young Australians to be highly skilled, informed and compassionate.

Individual students are nurtured to develop spiritually, socially, emotionally and physically to become contributing and life-giving members in their community.

activities throughout the year. Our sports

Our school has been committed to providing a well-balanced education for every student in its care for over 50 years. With an enrolment of 320 students, we have a strong community spirit in which teachers, parishioners and many community groups share in the educational journey of each child.

prominent body in the school community.

Staff members strive for academic excellence in all Key Learning Areas, while maintaining a supportive and Christian environment.

Teachers are supported by a strong Learning Support Team.

Holy Name School is a healthy, active school participating in many sporting and cultural

program is vibrant and successful, our school bands perform sensationally well, and drama is prominent in our curriculum. We are proud of our involvement in events such as ANZAC Day and NAIDOC Week.

The Parents and Friends’ Association is a Its members are hard-working, bringing educational issues to the fore, raising funds for the purchase of resources and in supporting programs throughout the school.

The cost of a Catholic education is quite reasonable, and we offer substantial discounts to holders of Health Care Cards and Pension Cards.

Without a doubt, Holy Name School provides rich educational opportunities for each student enrolled. Enrolments for 2013 are open, and we would love to hear from you.

manning-great lakes focus 35

focusmotoring.

This month’s Test Drive sees the ‘Smug’ put the Skoda Fabia 77TSI (manual) through its paces, courtesy of John Oxley Motors on Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie.

‘The The Smug’ Smug g

Great Lakes Education Fund Launched in March 2012, the Great Lakes Education Fund (GLEF) is a member of the Country Education Foundation of Australia, a national not-for-profit organisation with Deductible Gift Recipient Status.

GLEF is a locally managed organisation run by a committee of local volunteers, all of whom are committed to the local youth.

This fund has been established to assist young people achieve their post high school education and career goals.

Great Lakes Education Fund will assist school leavers as they transition from high school, by helping with expenses like travelling, accommodation costs, textbooks, course fees and/or technology resources.

What we aim to do?

Assist young people living or going to school in postcode 2428 to pursue tertiary or vocational education and training.

How will we do it?

By providing scholarships to students through an application process.

How will we afford it?

By accepting and managing tax deductible donations, sponsorships and bequests.

How you can help?

Donate to our funds and/or commit to ongoing annual contributions.

Spread the message to potential contributors and to students who may need our help.

36 manning-great lakes focus.

Pocket

ROCKET

W

hen FOCUS HQ asked me to take out the Skoda Fabia as this month’s test drive, my first thought was – you want me to take a ‘what’ out? Although I’d heard of Skoda as a brand through my keen interest in World Rally Championships (WRC), I’d never actually driven one, let alone knew much about their latest offerings designed for the city streets.

The first thing I wanted to do before I went to pick up the car was to do a bit of background research, so I could keep up my facade of being a well versed ‘motoring buff’ and not come across to the sales rep as a total novice on this one.

What I found was that the Skoda company history dates back to before the 1900s and in more recent times was acquired by Volkswagon (VW), who is now the full owner of the brand. To bring the two brands together, the Skoda Fabia is designed to a lower cost bracket than its stable mate the VW Polo, which is a pretty tidy small car in its own right.

Now armed with at least the basics, I stopped by the dealership and paged the sales rep who was to show me to the little beast.

Now, it’s not often that I take a step back when someone walks forward to greet me (being a relative big man myself), but when said rep presented at around six foot five inches and solid as a house, I was taken aback and momentarily lost my usually confident facade.

I must say, that once we got down to talking about the car’s features and took a walk out to the lot to pick out the car, I’d regained some confidence and started to ask some regular questions as to the engine size and fuel efficiency, as well as asking about the optional extras.

We flicked through the brochures, and it was pretty clear that there was plenty more to this small car than meets the eye.

From six airbags, ABS, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, smart-phone connectivity, 15” alloys and cruise control, just to name a few, on paper it did sit remarkably well within the price bracket and class.

What really surprised me was the fact that when my rep brought the car out from the lot ready for me to jump into, it didn’t look like the world’s tallest man entering and exiting the world’s smallest car. There was plenty of room to accommodate the most challenging of people sizes, which was a slight concern for me, being a tad wider than taller myself (allegedly).

After all, we are talking about an upsized mini in the Skoda Fabia.

It wasn’t until I got this 1.2 litre pint sized beast out onto the open road that I really started to take it seriously. I gave it a bit of a squirt entering the highway, to see how quickly I could

reac re acch the ach th he speed speed limit – which is totally legal, of course. I cou ccould ould ou ould ld reach have sworn that I was in a 1 8 or 2 0 litre for sure 1.8 2.0 sure. I couldn’t work out where the unexpected but welcoming ballsy grunt was coming from. I actually pulled off the highway to take a closer look at the spec sheets that I’d been given to find out. It became pretty clear that this isn’t your ordinary small car with a puny 1.2 litre engine. The addition of the TSI component, or Turbocharged petrol engine differentiated this buzz box from anything that I’d ever driven in this class of vehicle. There was no doubt that I was now really starting to appreciate the Fabia for what it was, somewhat of a ‘Supermini!’

Taking the bends was reasonably comfortable and when asked to give a bit more in the overtaking lane, the response was instant and reliable. I really didn’t have too much to complain about as far as handling on the dry and sunny autumn day that I had to take it out on.

To be fair, for a car priced under $20,000 you’re realistically not going to be owning all the features contained in a prestige car, but this little gizmo is more than enough for around town and has plenty of safety features included, to make sure that across town driving is as safe as anything else on the road.

One feature in the ‘optional extras’ range besides the rear parking assist, was the funky two-tone chassis/roof options, to really stand out from the crowd. This vehicle has a pretty broad reach when it comes to targeted demographics, and I’d suggest that the oldies would have just as much fun in this piece as the first car owners.

For those who are a bit thrifty with the coin, most small cars are pretty fuel efficient, and this one’s no different. At 5.5 litres to the 100 km (combined), you really can’t get much better fuel efficiency and value for money. But in this case, you’d be able to get from A to B, quite a bit quicker than usual if so desired – (enter safe driving spiel here).

Looking at the broad range of extras associated with the Skoda Fabia, I’d recommend taking a closer look at this one if you’re in the market for a ‘signage ready’ around town fleet car or a very tidy A to B option for any age bracket in these somewhat challenging economic times.

Clearly this vehicle was a surprise packet for me, and I’m really glad that I was given the opportunity to give it a crack.

– ‘The Smug’.

focuscolumn.

Rob Green Jewellery.

jason clifton.

Real Black and Tan of a time ...

MGWGB É many of you will be number of times while conducting tastings familiar with the Þrst three letters and working at cellar doors, when offered a of the acronym. The second three Pale Ale, the patron would challenge it with, we added through necessity while ÒI bet itÕs not as good as the Little Creatures attending the Þrst Great Australian Beer SpecPale AleÓ. It seemed to be a popular benchtapular in Melbourne recently. Trying to taste mark. It looks as though Little Creatures is as many beers in 4½ hours as we possibly set to join both James Squire and Knappstein could meant that some of our words were under LionÕs control. a little hard to get out. We were all very imIt is not all bleak news for the brewery; pressed with the 35 - 40 beers we managed well, for us drinkers anyway, as before the to taste. Not a bad effort for a Saturday afbean counters can get to work they have ternoon. Held in the Royal Exhibition Building released the second ÔSingle BatchÕ brew, ÔDay Ð Carlton, in true beer hall style, meant that of the Long Shadow Spiced Winter AleÕ. This the long walk to the main doors, under the beer features a range of spices that are more watchful eye of the security people, was very commonly found in the kitchen spice rack. challenging. Thankfully, the hall had double The tasting notes read like something out doors, which were far easier to aim for! of a winter cookbook. ÒChristmas hints of The event was FANTASTIC. The queues allspice, cinnamon and nutmeg play with a were a bit long, but the wait was well yeast primed with dark muscovado worth it. Everyone seemed to have sugar delivering ripe fruit, molasa few new buddies by the end ses and delicate spice É best ery of them, all bragging about savoured long into a cold “ Local Brewdu e Black Duck istheir which breweries they had winter night sipped slowly to settle into est!?). been to and the beers that while solving those elusive (n e new hom theyÕd tried. It was Comicproblems of the world É The brewery ired recently acquing Con for beer lovers. Of note chesterÞeld and Þreplace a larger brew was EmersonÕs Kasmir Pilsner optionalÓ. Those paying plant.” (a chilli infused lager), MikeÕs attention and taking notes Heavy Petal (complete with infrom the last column will idenfused hand-picked roses), and Grand tify this beer as a perfect candidate Ridge Sarsaparilla Stout. Not all beers were to drink slightly warmer and out of a wine a success, but there were none I couldnÕt Þnglass or brandy balloon. Get in quick though, ish Ð bonus! as the last release sold out quickly.

The 40 foot refrigerated containers, each In news on a slightly smaller scale, local with 120 taps installed, were magniÞcent. I Brewery Black Duck is due to settle into their think the people running large sporting events new home (nest!?). The brewery recently acand music festivals could have learnt a thing quired a larger brewing plant and are almost or two. You selected your beers, wrote the ready to begin brewing 800 litre batches of associated numbers (lowest to highest) on their range. Whispers have it that there is also your tasting paddle, and simply walked from a bottling plant being introduced, so keep an one end of the bar to the other while being eye out for their beers in your local bottleloaded up by the friendly bar staff. Heaven! I shop. They are aiming for an August opening, have posted a ÔWrap UpÕ and photos on the and the site will offer both a cellar door and beerinmmind Facebook page, so drop by and shop front. Very exciting news; watch this check them out. space!

The last month has proven to be a huge Beer in Mind É it doesnÕt matter whether one on the Australian beer scene. Lion Nathan the glass is half empty or half full, the impor(owed by Japanese beer giant Kirin) are set to tant thing is that thereÕs some left! swallow up Little Creatures, White Rabbit, and PipSqueak Cider in a takeover bid worth $381 million. The Little Creatures Pale Ale consistently features in peopleÕs top10 Australian Scan the code and Craft beers and is one of the best examples add Beer in Mind on Facebook. of a mild hop driven Ale. I cannot count the

Rob Green is a fourth generation local Taree businessman and experienced jewellery designer. In 2000, Rob opened a jewellery studio on Pulteney Street, which he successfully operated before venturing to the Central Coast and Coffs Harbour to gain further experience in jewellery manufacturing and design.

In April 2012, Rob returned to his Taree base to continue customising beautiful jewellery designs, plus also completing client repairs on all precious jewellery items.

“ Rob offers clients a personalised service in which he creates individual pieces of jewellery”

Rob offers clients a personalised service in which he creates individual pieces of jewellery from the clients' remelted gold ... he particularly enjoys working with brides-to-be in creating their ultimate dream engagement ring and wedding rings.

Beginning in the jewellery Þeld in 1976, Rob

has been passionate about his craft ever since, believing: ÒYou only get what you pay for. You donÕt need to go to the city to get quality; you only need to drop into my studio.Ó

Over his distinguished career, Rob has worked with no less than 12 individual jewellers to garner a wide-ranging set of skills, which positions him as one the most highly-regarded craftsmen working on the East Coast.

manning-great lakes focus 37

focusfishing.

with Tony Elkins from Forster Estuary Charters

focusTourism.

Richard Old from Great Lakes Tourism

. g n i h s fi INSIGHT his time of year always has a unique set of challenges. I must admit I am not a huge fan of the cold, but with friends in Canberra and Victoria, I am often reminded that this is not that cold. Regardless, we are in the throes of winter, which is our put a jumper on and stay warm time.

T Wallis Lake ... the winter wonderland. It is that time of the year again, when the mornings and evenings are getting cold.

tony elkins he water temperature in produced some fantastic fish (when the seas Wallis lake is a bit cool at have been kind enough to let you out), with the moment and down to an abundance of Cobia being caught. There about 16 degrees. The full seem to be a lot about at the moment; I have moon for July is on the 4th, even had reports of good Cobia being taken which is a good time to be chasing Mulloway. in Lake Macquarie.

Run up tide is early in the morning It is also about that time with the for the first part of the month, outside fishing to start to use which should make for some a wire trace, as the Ocean fantastic Bream fishing.

Ocean jackets Leatherjackets are about

e an extremely

ar Had a great day’s fishing and should start to come I like good table fish. em th st just North of ‘Dago’ island in good numbers. In the du ly ht lig to using a one inch hard early part of the season, in coconut flour with just a touchd bodied sinking lure – gold this species is a wonderful of sweet chilli an. in colour – which looked a catch, but as the season em shallow fry th bit like a minnow and had goes on, they can become some tinsel. While we hit a a bit tiresome. Just remember few under-sized Bream with this fishing is a seasonal activity, and lure, they just kept smashing it. The same you need to target what is about. Ocean charter saw a nice 40 cm Flathead taken on Jackets are an extremely good table fish. I like a Hawkesbury River prawn. It was a terrific to lightly dust them in coconut flour with just morning of fishing. a touch of sweet chilli and shallow fry them.

Fan Bellied Leatherjackets are getting around most of the pylons and make for a great feed.

The only problem with targeting these is the little peckers that come along for the ride.

With this in mind, barbless hooks are a good option for the safe release of undersized fish.

I have been using my normal Whiting rig to target these, but if you really want to get serious about targeting Leatherjackets in the estuary, a float is the way to go, to keep your bait just off the bottom.

Outside fishing over the past month has 38 manning-great lakes focus.

There have been some nice Salmon being caught off Elizabeth Beach. These are an unbelievable fighting fish. They don’t have a great reputation as a table fish, but I have enjoyed some fairly nice Thai fish cakes made from Salmon.

Fish well; travel safe.

Tony Elkins, Forster Estuary Charters. www.forsterestuarycharters.com www.facebook.com/forster-estuary-charters/ Forster-Estuary-Charters/

Richard Old

activity.

The Great Lakes Tourism partners program is a link between the million+ visitors* each year and the community. It also provides a base for businesses to better access the $136 million that tourism activity generates every year for the region. The partners program opens new doors and creates opportunities.

In visitor terms, winter is our quiet time, but it This region relies on a strong and vibrant is not a quiet time for the business of tourism. tourism industry. It needs an industry that Many businesses are busy planning, cleaning works together and shares a common goal of up, brain storming, developing ideas, making success. If the region is successful, then busicontacts, marketing and reconnecting. These nesses will be successful. are all excellent ways to use those pockLikewise, the region needs a community ets of free time that now exist. that recognises the value of tourBeing quiet is not such a ism, its importance to overall bad thing, as it gives us a This region wellbeing and understands ng chance to recharge the relies on a strou that tourism is at the heart sm batteries and explore and vibrant toedris an of the Great Lakes. industry. It ne works our backyard.

The partners program is industry that shares Everyone has a list of together and al of a key tool to achieving places they will get a common go region this. to – one day. Well, success. If thethen l, u sf With all that in mind, es is succ today is the day – get be ill w es ss ne si you would have thought bu out there and play ccessful. su there really is no need to sell ‘visitor’. This winter go the virtues of joining the Great out for dinner locally, take Lakes Tourism partners program. It a drive to one of our national all pretty much makes sense, doesn’t it? parks, go whale watching, grab a weekend Strong and successful community = strong escape – there are hundreds of great deals and successful tourism industry = strong and right here. In fact, I challenge you to increase successful partners program = strong and sucyour knowledge of this beautiful region – go cessful business. Everything is connected, and and visit somewhere you have never been tourism is everybody’s business. this month. July is now – go somewhere or do something new month! Send your reports and pictures in to our Facebook page – lovethegreatlakes.

Winter is also the time of year that Great Lakes Tourism promotes its partners program.

So what is a partners program? It is a program created to maintain a relationship between businesses and the marketing of the region, through Great Lakes Tourism. It provides funding to promote the Great Lakes. The program has a series of benefits inbuilt that generate customers and leads for businesses. It increases tourism activity and in turn economic

Businesses throughout the region are invited to find out more. With so many demands, from so many directions, it makes sense that the first priority should be ensuring that home is strong.

For information and a prospectus on the Great Lakes Tourism partners program, email tourism@greatlakes.nsw.gov.au or phone 1800 802 692. * Tourism Research Australia National Visitor Survey (NVS).

Richard Old, Great Lakes Manager Tourism & Marketing.

manning-great lakes focus 39

MANNINGGREAT LAKES

We are very lucky in the Manning Great Lakes region to have an abundance of unique and memorable experiences right here in our own backyard. Life is all about unique experiences, adventure and having fun - so get out there and get yourself some! Give these local businesses a call today, and experience it for yourself. Create memories that will last a lifetime.

KITE MUDDIES

SKIRMISH DOWN UNDER

“It’s time to Fly!”

Kiteboarding is one of the fastest growing sports in the world and with good reason. Its fun, extreme and accessible to everyone.

The sport has been in the mainstream for over 10 years now with recent technology making kiteboarding safe and easy to master.

Your first lesson will see you learning the skills of flying the kite safely on the beach and then in the water.

All equipment is provided including radio communication helmets that will have you up and riding much faster than you could imagine.

Kite Muddies / Jeep kite School.

Kitesurfing/ Wave riding and beginner kiteboarding lessons.

• Season starts again October Long weekend.

• 5 Day clinics, Up and riding specials and hourly tuition.

• Easily one of the best locations in Australia.

Experience the thrill and learn an incredible new sport.

Kite Muddies Kite Boarding Lessons Web. www.kitemuddies.com.au facebook. ‘KiteMuddies Kiteboarding’ Phone. 0429 09 1109.

The Skirmish Down Under team are proud to now offer a brand new facility at Old Bar. New exciting playing fields, a reception area built with player comfort in mind and the same professional approach to player safety they have become renowned for.

Sessions are offered morning and afternoon, 7 days by appointment and with a social competition day every 6 weeks. Ladies are offered extra protective gear, so they get all of the fun, with a lot less of the sting. With Australia’s only Predator Laser now also on offer, there really is something for everyone.

Check out their website for all the details and their Facebook page to see all the latest

photos and deals on offer! You’re in good hands with Skirmish Down Under so ...

GET A SHOT OFF!!

• LASER AVAILABLE • 7 DAYS • ALL AGES • INDIVIDUALS WELCOME • ALL OCCASIONS • PERFECT SAFETY RECORD Phone. 1300 822 222. facebook. ‘Skirmish Down Under’ Web. www.skirmishdownunder.com.au

SKYDIVING NSW DROP ZONE

CLARENDON HORSE RIDING At Clarendon Horse Riding, we prize our horse riding for being fun, scenic and exciting. The trail horses are beautifully responsive and quiet.

Naturally, riding helmets are provided. Riders, judged by the instructors to be capable, are allowed to canter where appropriate. We operate with one riding instructor to every four (4) riders. This ratio may vary slightly depending on numbers, the experience of the riders and ages of riders on the trail.

Our many different trails into the surrounding forest valleys will allow you to experience the magic of the State Forests and reserves, sometimes alive with fascinating animal and bird life. Many of these tracks allow long canters for experienced riders; gentle walking rides will be appreciated by others.

“100% pure fun; book me in with ‘Barney’ for life!” Adrienne Simpson, Sydney.

Coates Road d Possum Brush, 25 mins from Forster/Tuncurry curry or Taree.

Phone. (02)) 6554 3162.

40 manning-great lakes focus.

TANDEM SKYDIVE is the fastest and easiest way to experience the thrill and exhilaration of a freefall skydive. Attached to a TANDEM MASTER, who is an experienced skydiving instructor, via your own harness system, you will experience the amazing sensations that accompany freefall, without the responsibility of opening your own parachute.

parachute ride can last up to 6 minutes. The quiet sensation of floating under our specially built parachute for two above the earth is something not to be forgotten, before landing at our DROP ZONE.

TANDEM SKYDIVE

Times. Weekends or during the week by prior arrangement, weather permitting.

FREEFALL lasts up to 50 seconds, reaching speeds of around 220kms per hour, before your instructor opens the parachute. Once the parachute is open, you are encouraged to assist the instructor in flying the parachute.

Here you will have the BEST VIEWS of the MANNING VALLEY AND COASTLINE. The

What to bring Lace up shoes (runners/ joggers), sport casual wear. No EFTPOS or credit card facilities; please bring cash.

Conditions apply; please ask for details.

To book. Call 0418 730 741 or email. skydivingnsw@bigpond.com BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL.

holidayfun!

What’s new @ the Zoo! Billabong Zoo is delighted to welcome their first Snow Leopard into their state of the art exhibit. Be one of the first to be amazed by this beautiful and mystical big cat – one of the most endangered on the planet. he estimated numbers of

T

the Snow Leopard in the wild are below 4,000, and there are only 5 zoos in Australia that have them.

CREATURE FEATURE If VIP treatment and a private animal experience is more your thing, then our Creature Feature is a must! We have various experiences available, including holding a snake, bottle feeding one of our zoo babies, feeding our endangered Spotted-tailed Quolls or a koala experience you’ll never forget. Creature Features can be purchased at our kiosk and bookings are essential – why not book in advance, to be sure you don’t miss out?

There are only 5 zoos in Australia with Snow Leopards.

Kids – how to have fun these holidays?

The staff at Buzi Kidz OOSH have kids all sorted out.

PAT A KOALA You have the chance to get up close and personal with koalas and are welcome to take photos while having a pat.

shows weekends and school holidays

MONKEY FEEDING Enjoy the antics of mischievous Black Handed Spider Monkeys. Anything can happen when our keepers feed them at 11am and 4pm.

The wombat house exhibit has zoo

MEET THE DINGOS Our friendly dingos love to interact with visitors. You can meet and greet and take some great photos while you have a pat, as they venture out with their keepers for daily walks at 11.30am and 2.30pm.

REPTILES CLOSE-UP We present interesting and educational

at 2pm, or book ahead to ensure your group’s own personal presentation.

UNDERGROUND WOMBAT HOUSE professionals and visitors alike raving about this unique display. Venture into the Billabong Mine Shaft to check out the wombats in their burrows behind glass.

AND IF THE MUNCHIES STRIKE A visit to our zoo café is a must, with yummy home-made desserts, fresh ground coffee, scrumptious sandwiches,

Located at Forster and Tuncurry, Buzi Kidz OOSH provide a happy and welcoming environment, where all children and families are encouraged to participate in all aspects of its multi-faceted and unique program. At Buzi Kidz OOSH, emphasis is placed on nurturing children’s physical, emotional, social, intellectual and cultural development simultaneously.

The Vacation Care program provides a variety of child-focused activities, ensuring children are stimulated and educated while enjoying their time at Buzi Kidz. Activities include arts and crafts, indoor/outdoor play, music, drama and excursions.

Buzi Kidz OOSH provides a relaxed and safe environment in which children are encouraged to use their imagination within its flexible learning program, which caters to both individual and group experiences.

Call Tammy and Casey today to ensure your child has a place booked at Buzi Kidz these winter holidays!

chocolates and many other tempting

Buzi Kidz OOSH provides care for children aged 5 to 14 years during school terms and school holiday (excluding public holidays).

treats.

Buzi Kidz OOSH is a child care benefit (CCB) approved service.

wraps and burgers, decadent ice

manning-great lakes focus 41

focusinterview.

Welcome to ARTISANS … on the hill!

Big things have been happening at Artisans over the last few months. Now it is time to come and see for yourself.

T

he heart of Artisans is the craft classes. We teach adult beginner’s classes in woodturning, precious metal clay, hebel sculpture, kilnformed glass, candle-making, fabric painting and design, counted cross-stitch, and paper tole. Children’s classes are available in wool craft, fabric painting, candle-making, paper tole, cross stitch, paper-craft, basic woodworking and kite making.

How do you participate in these classes?

Hebel sculpture classes are held about three times a year and are advertised on our website – www.artisansonthehill.com.au All the rest are arranged between you and us – negotiate a time and date to suit you. Details and prices of each of our craft classes are also available on our website. To book a class, please contact Peter or Christine by phone: (02) 6553 1199, or by email: crafty@artisansonthehill.com.au When you finish your beginner’s class, you have created your own masterpiece. Then

42 manning-great lakes focus.

e of “Another featur

hill is, there are various options Artisans … on thetisanar r ou , available if you wish to of course created craft. Oursome continue the craft. We gallery contains ique offer follow-up classes amazing and un 40 shop. which are individualised to pieces from overs.” an Artisans Bed and Breakfast tis your requirements. As well, talented ar accommodation is the we now supply craft kits and added extra if you would like equipment for some of our to get away from it all overnight classes, such as precious metal or for a weekend or longer, with three clay, candle-making, fabric painting and luxuriously appointed bedrooms available. design, kite making, stick weaving, paper tole, cross-stitch and woodturning.

As in any small business, we must listen to our Another feature of Artisans … on the hill is, of course, our artisan-created craft. Our gallery contains some amazing and unique pieces from over 40 talented artisans. The pieces range from wood, to metal, from glass to wool, from wearable art to functional pieces, and from small puzzles to large outdoor sculptures presented by local and Australiawide artisans. These are available from the gallery and, in the near future, from our online

customers and always work on growing our business to reflect the needs of our customer base. With this in mind, we present our new public face. We continue with our core branding – ARTISANS – as this is WHO we are – and add the WHERE – ON THE HILL. To add to this, we have also provided better ‘up the hill’ access, with a beautifully sealed driveway and car park for our guests to use – perhaps the best road in the district currently!

Once you arrive, we have improved accessibility to all buildings on site, lowering all the outside entry doors to the coffee lounge and gallery.

You will now find easy wheelchair access from the car park to the main building and all the way up to the workshop!

Once you reach our coffee lounge, relax and enjoy the magnificent view while enjoying home-made delights with our great coffee and teas. If you want to come for lunch, you are most welcome, as long as you make a booking.

We would like to offer a special deal to FOCUS readers. When you book a craft class for yourself, bring a friend and the second class is half-price (see below). You must mention that you saw this offer in the July FOCUS. Take advantage of the free coffee offer too!

focuseditorial.

Before After

Before

Before

A Winners’ Approach to Weight Loss. t’s almost that time again where hundreds of Great Lakes residents will team up with friends, work mates and family members and shed those kilos that slowly crept on through winter… and for some possibly many previous winters.

The annual Biggest Winner Ultimate Thinner Challenge (BWUT), sponsored by FOCUS, will take place for the third consecutive year September 1st and runs for twelve 12 weeks. This year the Challenge has expanded to include the Taree and Buladelah areas!

The BWUT Challenge sees teams of four, battle it out together in the weight loss stakes… Teamwork, camaraderie and cash prizes provide major incentives to stay with the program while being guided, encouraged and supported to change eating and exercise habits. The experienced team of local weight loss and body transformation experts at Fitness2428 Personal Training Studio came up with the BWUT Challenge idea three years ago, with the overall aim to improve the health of the community. As with previous year, we hope this year’s challenge will be the start for many on the road to long-term improvements in their weight, fitness and better health management.

Managed by local fitness experts Kerryann and Fergus Hayes of Fitness2428, the couple say they have watched people struggle with weight loss, for many years… “People are so often given outdated information, poor dietary advice and excessive exercise programs which they are unable to manage long-term. It’s no wonder they give up, becoming frustrated and disheartened”, said Kerryann. Both Kerryann and Fergus believe that when done effectively weight loss fits into your lifestyle. Of course changes need to be made but, it can be done and they have proof their recommendations will not only work but more importantly will last (see the before and after shots in this article of Julie Carmichael, Amy Heague and Tony Elkins).

The BWUT Challenge changes lives! “Many

I

local residents have used this as a starting point to really turn their health around… It’s great to see everyday people, making inroads into improving their lives through managing their weight and fitness routine better. Remember these are ordinary people who have jobs, kids, busy lives, so they are no different to any of us! If they can do it, anyone can! Our BWUT Challenge is a perfect place to start!” said Kerryann.

The past two years has seen over $25,000 been given to the Top 10 teams and individuals. Almost $4000 has also been donated, with $1 for every kilo lost being donated to a local charity. The 2012 recipient will once again be the oncology ward at the Forster Private Hospital.

Aiming to get even more of the community involved, this year’s event will also see a new category introduced into the challenge with pet owners able to team up with their chubbier canine friends. Local vets have become involved and welcome the idea as, as many as 1/3 dogs are overweight and will also benefit from a few more walks in the park and change to their diet.

The BWUT Challenge is Fitness2428’s way of impacting on some of the factors that influence poor health in our community. By creating a fun, educational, competitive and rewarding way of losing weight with a few friends and plus incentive, 12 weeks is a good time-frame for people to not only lose some weight but more importantly, change unhealthy habits – permanently! The aim of Fitness2428 has always been to find fun ways to help all members of the local community be fitter, healthier and happier.

the plug!

For further information the Fitness2428 website and facebook page will keep up to date with all happenings over the coming months www.fitness2428.com.au

manning-great lakes focus 43

J U LY 2 0 1 2

WITH TERRI

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,Žǁ ĐĂŶ &ŝŶĂŶĐŝĂů Happy New Year

WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ŚĞůƉ LJŽƵ͍

It’s that time of the year – the start of a New Financial Year, so why not think about making a fresh start with KƵƌ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ƚĂŬĞƐ ĂƐ Ă ƐƚĂƌƟŶŐ ƉŽŝŶƚ ʹ ǁŚĞƌĞ ĐĂŶ ǁĞ ĂĚĚ your ¿nances?

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ǀĂůƵĞ ŽƵƌ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ĨŽƌ ĂƌĞ͗

you would like toƚŽ take of adviceʹ that ͻ IfWƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ ĂŶƐǁĞƌƐ LJŽƵƌ advantage ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƋƵĞƐƟŽŶƐ ŝĨ ǁĞ has only your best interest in mind then call us now ĚŽŶ͛ƚ ŬŶŽǁ ƚŚĞ ĂŶƐǁĞƌƐ Žī ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ŽĨ ŽƵƌ ŚĞĂĚƐ ǁĞ ǁŝůů on 1300 651 539 to arrange your initial cost and ŬŶŽǁ ŚŽǁ ƚŽ ĮŶĚ ŽƵƚ͘ free ŐƌĂƐƉ consultation. ͻ obligation ,ĞůƉŝŶŐ LJŽƵ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ĐŽŶĐĞƉƚƐ ďLJ ĞdžƉůĂŝŶŝŶŐ ĐŽŵƉůĞdž ƌƵůĞƐ ƐŝŵƉůLJ͘ This information does not take into account your ͻ personal džƉůĂŝŶŝŶŐ LJŽƵƌ ŽƉƟŽŶƐ ĂŶĚ LJŽƵ ŵĂŬĞ toƐŽƵŶĚ circumstances, andŚĞůƉŝŶŐ is not intended be ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ĚĞĐŝƐŝŽŶƐ ƌĂƚŚĞƌ ƚŚĂŶ ĞŵŽƟŽŶĂů ƌĞĂĐƟŽŶƐ͘ personal advice.

A R I E S.

L E O.

SAG I T TA R I U S.

MAR 21 - APR 20

JUL 24 - AUG 23

NOV 23 - DEC 21

Don’t allow the winter chill to affect your fire; take a goal and put it into action. You are currently challenged by issues of selfworth, so it is important to honour yourself at this time.

Rose Quartz (the crystal of love), will improve self-esteem.

Now is a really good time to debate your own rules and regulations for life. Your judgement prohibits you from enjoying life to its fullest, so be kinder to yourself. Plan a holiday for yourself and get out of your current circumstance to try a little new goal setting.

Citrine will shatter negative thoughts and attract an abundance of positive ones.

TAU RU S.

V I RG O.

C A P R I C O R N.

APR 21 - MAY 21

AUG 24 - SEPT 23

DEC 22 - JAN 20

Set yourself free from self-criticism this month; it has taken its toll on your confidence. If you start to believe in yourself, you will very quickly see a difference. It is times like these when your head strength can carry you.

Tourmaline will balance your energies.

GEMINI. MAY 22 - JUN 22

Love yourself enough to not worry about what other people may think. This nasty thought process has had a sad effect on you lately; smile at your reflection, and think kind compliments.

Turquoise will strengthen your selfappreciation.

Take some time out of your busy schedule for yourself. You deserve a break, but more importantly, you need to freshen your mind and reconnect with your creative self – the ‘best’ reason for a holiday.

Carnelian is great for connecting our creative and thought energies.

Important words need to be spoken to bring a happy outcome to a potential negative situation. Don’t be afraid to speak from the heart, as your intention will be felt. Enjoy some laughter, as celebration is on its way for a family member.

Citrine keeps us positively focused and lifts our spirit.

LIBRA.

AQ UA R I U S.

SEPT 24 - OCT 23

JAN 21 - FEB 19

Avoid over thinking things, as this is exhausting and the reason why you are blurry in your thoughts. Take a big breath of white light and think one question until you have an answer. Your mind needs to focus on positive possibilities more.

Selenite shatters negative thoughts.

The challenges you are facing at home stem from not being appreciated or honoured. It is time you try something new to break the dynamics and re-educate those surrounding you to be a little less selfish and more considerate of your needs. A journey is a strong possibility, resulting in further career success.

Rose Quartz is wonderful for self-confidence and appreciation.

CANCER.

S C O R P I O.

P I S C E S.

JUN 23 - JUL 23 JU

OCT 24 - NOV 22

FEB 20 - MAR 20

Don’t get caught up in holding onto garbage or things that are not a priority; this takes your confidence out of the picture, leaving you wondering where to go next. Set some fresh goals and enjoy!

Selenite is great for an abundance of crystal clear energy.

44 manning-great lakes focus.

Ignore your insecurities and fears, and concentrate on your strengths. Wake up your enthusiasm and connect with your fire, the mover and shaker within. Set some fresh goals and lighten up for your party season.

Citrine is a powerful joy strengthener.

Take some time out of your busy schedule to smell the roses. You have been focused too much on the harder areas of life and have forgotten to place importance on the simple, nice things.

Joy will begin to fill your being again.

Amethyst connects our spirit to appreciation of life.

You may be feeling a little ‘up-rooted’ lately, but don’t forget how badly you wished for change to come into the picture. The reason you may be feeling this way is because your outcome is not quite here yet. Try a little new goal setting, as this will assist in a happier outlook.

Ruby or Garnet will help you feel grounded, taking away some of the dilemma.

manning-great lakes focus 45

Reaching Resolutions

[ with Midco ast Mediation ]

The Energy Guys Everyone knows that energy costs are not

any reduction in those electricity bills?

going down, but how do we get accurate

The Energy Guys will go through all aspects

information on how to reduce our overall

of your business, meter your electricity usage,

consumption?

analyse your electricity accounts, review the layout

The Energy Guys have the necessary expertise

and fit-out of your business premises, and identify

to give you that advice and are accredited by

opportunities for you to reduce your electricity

the NSW government to provide you with your

bills. When the action plan is implemented The

business energy snapshot and an action plan,

Energy Guys will help you access government

which, if implemented, opens the doors to

subsidies. The Energy Efficiency for Small

potential government co-funding.

Business program is currently available until Dec

Energy costs form an increasing part of the

’12 to smaller businesses (less than 10 full time

overheads of every business, and it makes

employees) and provides funding of up to $5,000

sense to do whatever is necessary to bring

for the purchase of energy saving equipment,

that cost down. Often though, the measures

tailor made for your circumstances. Subsidised

taken to reduce those costs also entail spending

energy audits are also available under different

money. Both state and federal governments are

programs for larger businesses, identifying real

encouraging businesses to implement measures

energy costs of your electrical equipment and

designed to make them more energy efficient and

assisting in sourcing funding to make changes.

incentives are available.

Information is powerful – so don’t waste

But how do YOU, the business owner, know

any time- ring The Energy Guys on

what action to take that will not end up

6581 4906 to discuss your business’ energy

just costing more money without achieving

audit requirements.

“They’ve really pushed my buttons this time!”

W

ou know when someone pushes your buttons – your shoulders tense up, your heart races, and more than likely the volume of your voice rises!

What’s behind your ‘button’?

We all carry ‘baggage’ from our experiences – whether collected during our childhood, our time at school or at work, or during a previous relationship. Sometimes these influences are obvious (for example, you’re told you aren’t smart, and so that’s what you start to believe) and other times they sneak up on you (for example, you’re not asked to work on a special project, so you start to think your manager doesn’t trust you).

These views of yourself become part of the way you ‘filter’ what people say to you and how they treat you. In particular, they play a key role in how you react to and protect yourself during conflict.

They become the ‘buttons’ that others can push.

What happens when your ‘button’ is pushed?

In a millisecond, you will have had some physical reaction, and your mind will have started to process the experience according to your ‘filter’.

You will have started to make assumptions about what the other person is saying based on what you have experienced or felt before.

You will more than likely have stopped listening and will have probably started to work out your response … before they have even finished speaking.

While these responses are totally

46 manning-great lakes focus.

understandable – they could very well mean that you misunderstand what is being said, and you react in a way that aggravates the situation.

How can you manage your response?

The key here is reflection – to stop and think about why that other person’s comments or actions have pushed your buttons. This can be very difficult in the heat of the moment, but by putting the hand brake on, you give yourself the time you need to: consider your reaction; ask questions to make sure you understand what was said; and hopefully come up with a response that is respectful and constructive.

If you find it hard to do this when you’re in conflict with a particular person, for example an ex-partner, you can seek the help of a professional mediator.

What’s the benefit of managing your response?

A young couple who had recently separated asked us to help them work out a parenting plan for their children. While each parent was very focused on their children’s needs, they had become so skilled at pushing each other’s buttons that every time they talked, the discussion would collapse into a screaming match about the past.

Using the mediation process, each person was able to ‘have their say’ without the other interrupting. They were able to put forward their views on how they believed an arrangement could best work for their children.

While they didn’t always agree, the mediation enabled them to stop and reflect and look at all the options objectively. This allowed them come up with a plan that really was in their children’s best interest.

focustechnology. with Cameron Illingworth from Harvey Norman.

focusbusiness. with Peter Lyne from Manning Valley Business Chamber.

TECH Music at Home peter lyne.

T Manning Valley Business The Chamber has had a busy month, C with several meetings regarding w tthe NBN network coming to the Valley.

V he chamber has secured the information truck for its eBusiness Forum on July 31, that will outline the m many opportunities available for businesses to jo join the growing avenues available to enhance their marketing.

T ello, loyal readers d off FOCUS! i h sound d effects ff h k iit’s a with on those tracks, good idea to get the best processor and With the end of financial year sales behind us, it’s time RAM you can afford. to unwind a little into one of There are many different software my favourite subjects: Home packages on the market for recording Music Production. More and more people one or many tracks on your computer. For are turning to their computers to record and the professionals, they are mostly using create music at home. I have been creating Protools™, which is a rather expensive but music using various software programs for thorough program. For the average user around 5 years now, and it has never been making instrument or vocal recordings, the easier for the amateur musician or producer sequencer/recorder I recommend would to record, mix, edit and master their own be Acid Pro 7™, or Acid Music Studio™, songs and albums using a basic made by Sony Software. sound card and some music This program is very intuitive, software (it helps to have it helps beat match your some spare time too!) ting recordings to the tempo I have been creaus rio So what equipment music using vam you set, it has many r s fo software progras now, will I need? samples and kits which around 5 year r been Surprisingly, due to ve are downloadable from ne s and it ha ateur am the increase in build e th r fo the Sony website, and er si ea oducer quality and processor musician or pr, ed the interface is not too it and to record, mix n songs speed of current hard to learn to use. For master their ows! computers, not too m people producing their and albu much. For basic recording, own sounds and samples you can try using the built from scratch, for any type in audio card supplied with your of music, a favourite of mine is computer, either on a laptop (audio in jack, Reason™ By Propellerhead Software. usually located next to the headphone jack This program presents as an audio rack of and sometimes labelled 'Mic In') or the line electronic processors, which can be flipped in jack on the back of a desktop PC. around to reveal leads which you can patch If you are doing higher end recording from one device to another, giving you a or you’re getting hissing noise on your myriad of different sounds you can create. track, you may want to go for a better For those into live reproduction of your audio card, either internal or external recorded tracks, I use and recommend (via USB) depending on your budget and Ableton Live™. It gives a variety of controls requirements. For the speed of the PC, I and enables you to have multiple tracks would recommend a good dual or quad open at once, and easily stop/start and core processor (intel I5 or AMD A8) or fade between the different sounds for a above, minimum 4GB RAM and as much seamless live set performance. hard drive space as you need to record your Whatever you’re into musically, your home tunes.

PC is a home studio just waiting to be When you go down the road of using a unleashed. CI. sequencer to have multiple tracks at once,

H

With the rising presence of social media, the Valley has seen several local companies show large increases in sales in the past few months.

The Economic Development sector of the Chamber is currently working on several projects, including a draft plan for the development of the Harrington Foreshore.

The Economic Development Partnership Board is a combination of the Chamber and the Greater Taree City Council, who have a long term vision for development and growth of the Valley.

This partnership has seen membership of the Chamber continue to grow, with members taking advantage of the opportunity to tap into the programs of the NSW Business Chamber on offer for free and be a part of the development strategies.

Entries in the fifth annual Manning Valley Business Chamber Awards are now open, with several new features and innovations being introduced this year.

Nominations will now be able to be completed online, the entry form downloaded from the Chamber website, or by linking with the Manning River Times web page.

Also, all entrants who attend the Gala Awards Presentation at Club Taree on Friday night, September 21, will go into a draw to win a fantastic holiday of five (5) nights’ accommodation for 2 adults at the Grande Florida Beachside Resort.

Entering the awards will see businesses have a great range of advertising packages to win, that include $1,000 advertising packages from 2RE/MAX FM, Manning River Times and Southern Cross Media.

Mid North Coast TAFE again will award courses to several award winners, focusing on Customer Care and other areas.

Thee awards have become a highlight of thee business, with previous winners saying nning a Business Award provides the winning portunity for Manning Valley businesses opportunity i the h competitive i i advantage. d I is i their h i to gain It opportunity to highlight their achievements and be recognised through advertising and promotional activities which has opened doors to new customers and other avenues of promotion.

Any type of business operating in the Manning Valley, private or public sectors are eligible to enter.

Last year’s Business of the Year winner, Ryan Aerospace, has had a busy time and has recently been announced as a finalist in the PACE Zenith National Manufacturing Awards in the category of 'Machine Builder'.

Principal of Ryan Aerospace, Chris Ryan, says, “Being awarded Business of the Year was a huge thing for me, but it’s actually part of an even bigger thing – I was able to send out a newsletter to 4,000 people on my mailing list from all over the world to tell them about the win. Coupled with half a dozen other national and international awards, it really helps build consumer confidence and company credibility for Ryan Aerospace.

“We go to a lot of military training exhibitions all around the world, and people I meet often congratulate me on these achievements.”

With the launch of a new product – the HELICREW – a dual control helicopter simulator, the opportunity to expand will be significant, along with a contract for an undisclosed military force in Asia giving Ryan Aerospace customers on every continent of the globe.

The Manning Valley Business Chamber is proud the awards are judged by an independent panel of judges, who have decades of business experience.

"The awards are about showcasing and celebrating the many successful and innovative businesses we have in the Manning Valley," said Chamber President Simon Brown.

"The Manning Valley Business Awards are in their 5th year and have gone from strength to strength, and I urge all businesses to put their hands up and say, 'Look at me'!"

Do not forget entries can now be submitted or downloaded online at www. manningvalleychamber.com.au manning-great lakes focus 47

focusabode.

MANNING - GREAT LAKES

Catering to all budgets, with an emphasis on customer satisfaction, local builder Daniel Stallworthy ticks all the boxes. Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of being shown through a selection of Daniel’s recent projects ...

property guide

Daniel Stallworthy Builder.

4 Lake Street, Forster is a great example of Daniel’s eye for detail. A collaboration of owner and builder, the home presents as a fantastic family home.

Hardies Linea board external cladding, bagged brickwork, and a wide Tallowood, Merbau stained timber deck featuring Tallowood posts impresses from the get go, as does the entry foyer’s flooring of Blackbutt and Stringybark timber mix.

Right of the entry is the double garage, with auto panel lift door and internal entry; left, the home office or study. 2.7 m high ceilings throughout give a feeling of space; varying window styles create privacy and let in a great amount of natural light and airflow, all adding to the comfort offered.

The home is split level, adapting well to the sloping 450 sqm block; three levels make up the home, with Blackbutt stairs providing access to each.

Level one comprises entry and garage, level two is downstairs to an entertaining area, 3 bedrooms and main bathroom, and level three is upstairs, where we have the main bedroom with ensuite, kitchen, dining, lounge and entertaining area plus a powder room and WC for guests.

The downstairs area is predominately for the younger members of the family. All bedrooms have double built-in robes, ceiling fans and carpeting underfoot. Serviced by a generously sized bathroom, comprising a nice deep bath, glass walled shower, separate vanity room and WC. A TV/rumpus in the centre of the ground floor provides a great place for the kids to have fun or alternatively, have their own quiet time in front of the TV. Open plan living is the key to the build and is most evident on the top floor, which is the third level. One pre-requisite was to be able to capture as much natural light as possible; celestial windows were installed, taking advantage of the North-Easterly aspect – a 3 m high raked ceiling above the kitchen, dining and living rooms also satisfying these wishes.

The kitchen has been expertly installed by L A Kitchens and Joinery. Making a statement is the striking blue glass splashback of the kitchen bench, which holds the double stainless steel sink, electric cook-top, built-in pantry and microwave nook. Caesarstone bench-tops, 2 pak poly cupboards, soft close drawers and electric oven gives a functional kitchen.

An island bench doubles as a breakfast bar and is home to the Dishlex dishwasher and wine rack; dividing the kitchen from the dining, it acts as a servery for no fuss entertaining.

The kitchen blends into the dining and lounge room and opens out onto the outdoor entertainment area.

The main bedroom is extra large and very comfortable, acting as a private parents' retreat on the top level of the home. It has plush carpeting, a large walk-in his and hers robe, plus ensuite encompassing shower, double vanity and a stacker stone feature in the wall tiling.

The residence has been expertly designed and built to suit the lifestyle of the family that calls it home.

From the Owners – 84 Lake Street You chose Daniel Stallworthy as the builder of your new

48 manning-great lakes focus.

Daniel Stallworthy Builder.

home. How has it been working with him?

Dan and his team were great through the whole building process. We were constantly updated throughout, and all our queries were answered each time. Dan explained where each stage was up to, as well as asking our opinion and ideas to match with his own to create our new home.

Would you recommend Daniel to other prospective home builders/renovators?

Most definitely; Dan has really good vision and ideas, which were also very similar to what we wanted in our new house. All our ideas were always taken into consideration, but we always valued Dan's opinion and

professional advice each time we made a decision.

What are some featured design elements of your new home?

We wanted our new home to be open, fresh and with entertaining in mind. Our kitchen is a big statement, with a bright blue splashback. It combines our dining and living room together with the deck overlooking Cape Hawke.

We wanted light timber floors to run from the entrance, up the stairs and the whole top floor including the main bedroom, to keep it open and have that beachy feel.

Did you have any specific requirements?

We got together with Dan to discuss our

focusabode.

our “ We wantedbe new home to d open, fresh anning in with entertaitchen mind. Our ki ent, is a big statemblue with a bright � splashback.

ideas and the features we wanted and the best way to go about it without costing an absolute fortune.

Our main ideas included a split level home with lots of open space, white and fresh feel, with a beachy theme. We wanted a top deck to open up the top entertainment area, with stacker doors along the whole entrance way to the deck.

We also wanted to give our children their own space and have our own space upstairs.

Tell us about the design of your new home.

Our home is open plan with lots of white and flowing light and air through all levels.

We like to entertain and have friends over, so we opened the house right up, with the kitchen, dining, living and top deck all combining for easy entertainment.

We have children, so we built the downstairs area with them in mind as they grow up with their own rooms, living room and a 3 way bathroom, so they have their own space.

We designed the home to suit all seasons, allowing lots of sun and light to filter in through winter, together with windows situated to allow for cool ocean breezes in summer.

Thank you. continued over

manning-great lakes focus 49

focusabode.

Daniel Stallworthy Builder.

11 Carinda Place 11 Carinda Place is an excellent example of Daniel’s building skill and willingness to adapt the design to take advantage of location and aspect. The impressive angled 5 m high roof is testament to the home’s architectural design and with the inclusion of highlight windows, takes full advantage of the available natural light. This, along with an exposed aggregate drive, creates an impressive front facade.

Another split level, the design fits well on its sloping block; one of the many features being its abundance of storage areas, including the room above the garage and under stair cabinetry.

The owners had a lot of input with the design and wanted a spacious floor plan; therefore, all rooms, hallways and stairs are generous in proportions. The ground level is made up of entry foyer, 2 bedrooms, study and garage.

Downstairs is the master bedroom with ensuite and built-in robe, and central lounge room opening onto the beautifully landscaped BBQ and pool area.

50 manning-great lakes focus.

“ I would have no hesitation in recommending Daniel to any prospective home builder or renovator who is looking for an honest, high quality builder with a remarkable attention to detail. ”

Upstairs it is all about the view view! As you ascend the stairs, views to Seal Rocks and the lake hinterland are a focal point. An open plan incorporating kitchen, dining and formal lounge, is joined together by a select grade Blackbutt hardwood timber floor. The kitchen is an exceptional design and install from Viision Kitchens and caters to the owner’s love of cooking. Miele appliances, including a gas cook-top, dishwasher, glass and stainless steel range-hood plus Staron stone bench-tops, along with a 2 Pak finish on all cabinetry, create a very appealing work area.

The gas heater in the formal lounge, raked ceiling, open plan living areas, architectural design, beautiful kitchen and entertaining areas, idyllic pool and BBQ area, high end fittings and fixtures all add up to an exquisite home ready to accommodate family and friends in style.

From the Owners – 11 Carinda Place You chose Daniel Stallworthy as the builder of your new home. How has it been working with him?

Daniel was excellent to work with and came

up with many innovative ideas that improved the functionality, amenity and quality of the house. He always consulted us when important decisions were needed and would offer advice if he thought we were heading in the wrong direction.

Would you recommend Daniel to other prospective home builders/renovators?

I would have no hesitation in recommending Daniel to any prospective home builder or renovator who is looking for an honest, high quality builder with a remarkable attention to detail.

What are some featured design elements of your new home?

We really love the overall sense of space and light that comes from the high ceilings, celestial windows and panoramic views. This extends to the exterior, and we spend many hours on the elevated deck.

The open floor plan of the kitchen/dining/ living area is exactly what we were after in the design and is both functional and attractive. It is our favourite part of the house.

Did you have any specific requirements?

Our objective was to build a holiday home that reflected the Forster environment. We began with the idea of a standalone holiday unit with an open floor plan and lots of space and natural light.

Tell us about the design of your new home.

The house is a contemporary split level design with 3 bedrooms, a large study, open floor plan kitchen, dining, living area and a separate family or utility room. It has very high ceilings and lots of windows and plenty of natural light.

There is a large bathroom and ensuite to the master bedroom. It has a large double garage and a concrete in ground pool.

We designed the house with our lifestyle in mind and the result exceeds our expectations.

It has the holiday home atmosphere we were after, but is also functional. For example, we both love cooking (and eating) and the kitchen is superb; both attractive and functional. I do a lot of work at home, and the study is one of our favourite rooms in the house.

We feel very privileged to live here.

Daniel Stallworthy Builder.

focusabode.

An entertainer’s delight, the indoor/outdoor area is fully landscaped and is the perfect man cave. Pizza oven, in-ground concrete pool and external speakers, this is one part of the home that is in regular use.

The spacious master bedroom is its own private retreat, having a large walk-in robe, ensuite and outside access to the pool. Completed by 3 large children’s rooms, all with built-in robes, a main bathroom with large skylight, functional laundry and spacious double garage with internal access, it is a unique design.

48 Glider Avenue

From the Owners – 48 Glider Avenue

48 Glider Avenue, Failford, is another great home built by Daniel and his team of skilled tradesmen.

It stands alone in design and style in this well appointed subdivision, sitting on 2 acres surrounded by trees and wildlife.

A blend of Hardies Scyon external cladding, rendered brickwork and hardwood timber, an impressive 1200 wide timber entry door, Tallowood deck and bold feature wall give a modern look exterior.

Hardwood shelving in the entry foyer sets the mood; step left to a magnificent open room with a towering raked ceiling overflowing with natural light and cross flow air ventilation from the celestial windows overhead. The client’s main brief was to create a space full of natural light and ventilation that was also functional for the whole family; this has definitely been achieved.

This is the nucleus of the home; a nicely selected wood fire provides warmth on those cold evenings, and a hardwood timber floor gives a comfortable feel underfoot.

A modern kitchen with Caesarstone tops and stacker stone features blends with the dining, living and lounge rooms and combines well with the outdoor patio area.

You chose Daniel Stallworthy as the builder of your new home. How has it been working with him?

Daniel and his team made building our home easy. Daniel’s input with design capabilities and functionality gave us exactly what we wanted.

What are some featured design elements of your new home?

The outdoor living area, where we spend a lot of time as a family, is our favourite part of the home.

Daniel really understood what we wanted, and this space reflects that.

Did you have any specific requirements?

Our main requirements were to make the most of the natural elements that surrounded us for cooling, heating and lighting. We also wanted to build the entire home around our love of outdoor living.

Tell us about the design of your new home.

We wanted our home to have a modern look, where we could combine indoor and outdoor living and still be practical for the family. In the warmer months, the pool is a big hit, and during the cooler months the outdoor area catches the winter sun, making it a well used space all year round.

Thank you.

manning-great lakes focus 51

focusabode.

Daniel Stallworthy Builder.

From the Designer – Geoff Riordan Geoff Riordan and Robyn Sharrock of Riordan’s Design Service in Forster have had the pleasure of working with Daniel as a builder for the last ten years. Daniel also worked for and with us when we ‘owner built’ our own unique new home at 7 Carinda Place in 2008.

It is now three years old, and we are extremely happy with it.

Both the Carinda Place and Lake Street homes had similar design needs. They both had blocks that sloped from front to back, presenting the opportunity to have single story at the front and two stories at the rear. The open plan living, dining and kitchen areas are on the top floors, spilling out onto outdoor entertaining areas, while the entries have a featured split staircase that leads to the up or down-

52 manning-great lakes focus.

stairs areas. However, these similarities did not dictate similar design outcomes, as evidenced by the contemporary designs in the photos.

Number 11 Carinda Place is a large home on a large block in a new subdivision. It was basically designed by the owners, who have a lot of experience with building. Working with their design, we put it all together to Council’s DA level requirements, bushfire requirements, NSW Government Basix requirement, while allowing for a pool DA and installation. The major considerations in this design were the: spectacular rear panoramic views from both levels; outdoor entertaining; views of and access to the pool.

Daniel built the home with great care to attention and detail, making sure the house fulfilled the desired outcomes. It is a high

the “ Daniel builtea t home with grion nt te at to care ing and detail, mak sure the housesired fulfilled the de outcomes. ”

quality home that takes full advantage of the sloping site and majestic views of the lake, town, National Parks and stunning sunsets.

Number 84 Lake Street followed the usual design consultation process of meeting with the clients to discuss their wishes and needs to create a design brief. A ‘first draft’ design plan was created; a second draft was done to accommodate requested changes and considerations in relation to their personal tastes and preferences.

This was an infill development on a small block in an established part of Forster. The design brief was for one story at the front, with a study and garage being accessed from the entry. The top story at the rear was for the

open plan living area plus the master bedroom suite, looking out to the rear views.

Downstairs was for three bedrooms, bath, laundry and storage. It was designed by Geoff, in close consultation with the owners, to achieve the brief and budget. Clever use of windows, mixed materials and feature skillion roofing resulted in a clever and attractive design.

Daniel built and completed this home recently and quickly during testing weather periods. It is a real credit to his building style and commitment to producing a unique and visually pleasing home.

Thanks Geoff.

Daniel Stallworthy Builder.

focusabode.

“ A great deal of time is spent with clients with their plan, to make sure I fully understand their vision and that this will be achieved in the final product. ”

From the Builder – Daniel Stallworthy Tell us about your business. How long have you been operating?

My business has been up and running for a decade. I was very fortunate to undertake my apprenticeship with well respected local builder, Grant Gardiner, which gave me the experience in a range of residential and commercial work.

We currently have one full-time qualified carpenter, Byram Stewart, and have various well respected local subcontractors who assist me on jobs.

What are the types of building that you specialise in?

We specialise in custom built residential houses and renovation works consisting of a variety of design and cater to a wide budget range.

h featured f d design d i What are some off the elements of these homes?

The three featured homes show some amazing design elements. They all beautifully capture natural light through celestial windows, have high raked ceilings and great air flow.

All three of these clients wanted a functional open plan design, with a high priority being the capture of natural light and great entertaining areas. All three have achieved this in their own individual way.

If potential owners have specific requirements, do you accommodate and are your designs flexible?

We pride ourselves on catering for clients’ specific requirements, and our designs are flexible to accommodate this.

A great deal of time is spent with clients with their plan, to make sure I fully un-

derstand be d d their h i vision i i and d that h this hi will ill b achieved in the final product.

How do we go about commissioning you to build for us? What is the process?

I would love to hear from any prospective clients. Clients can come to me with a plan already designed, or many start with just a block of land and an idea.

Thanks Daniel.

the plug!

Readers can contact Daniel Stallworthy on his mobile number 0419 279 589, home phone 6557 5839 or email to stalls2@bigpond.com

manning-great lakes focus 53

Take your business to a ‘Whole New Level’ in the Great Lakes Area. Advance to the future in the new ‘Richards Centre’.

The Richards Centre

J

KL Real Estate invites you to relocate your business to the soon-to-be-completed iconic Richards Centre, at 92 Manning Street, Tuncurry and invest in the future of your business.

With 2080 square metres of ofÞce and retail ßoor space available for lease over 4 levels, it offers a unique opportunity for government departments or private companies seeking to relocate.

Leasing enquiries are now being taken for the six storey, $10 million JR Richards ofÞce complex, due for completion approximately late July 2012. ItÕs time to register your interest in occupying part of that space, or you will miss out on conducting your business from the most exciting address on the Mid North Coast. Be one of the Þrst in, or risk being left behind. ÒWe believe this building will be good for the local area,Ó JR Richards and Sons associate director, Rob Marlow, said. ÒThe construction injects millions of dollars into the community. It will keep the Richards headquarters in Tuncurry, employing many locals and creating additional jobs and generate considerable trade for shopkeepers and other businesses in the area.Ó

54 manning-great lakes focus.

The Richards Centre offers: ¥ ÔAÕ Grade ofÞce space as deÞned by Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA); ¥ 5 star energy rating under National Australian Built Environment System (NABERS); ¥ Flexible leasable area conÞguration Ð up to 6 tenancies per ßoors; ¥ Concierge service at ground level reception; ¥ Extensive views of the Great Dividing Range and local waterways; ¥ 3 large balconies to each ofÞce level, with three east facing balconies measuring 158 m²; ¥ Prime retail frontage with 3.7 high ceilings Ð mezzanine space possible within Þt out.

SERVICES Communications and Security: ¥ Fibre optic cabling available to be extended to upper ßoors from ground ßoor switch room; ¥ Proximity reader card security building, including entry doors, car park and lift; ¥ Security cameras in all common areas.

Why you should consider relocating: ¥ Central location Ð only three hoursÕ drive from Sydney, with an airport 30 minutes away at Taree, or 1.5 hours to Newcastle and car hire available; ¥ Well-developed infrastructure, including

ready access to public and private hospital and other medical facilities, top-rating public and private education facilities, shopping centre facilities, recreational facilities, including pristine beaches and lakes, two golf courses, sports clubs, race meetings, sporting associations and a range of transport options; ¥ Long-term leases available; ¥ Low overheads; ¥ A wide range of residential accommodation available in the area; ¥ Ample properties for sale, including vacant land at Tuncurry; ¥ Healthier lifestyle for you and your family; ¥ Appeal to your client base by having them visit you in the Great Lakes area; ¥ Security car parking at rear, plus push bike spaces; ¥ A concierge desk in the entry level, with two staff available to assist your clients.

In its assessment report, the Department of Planning stated the ÒbeneÞts of the proposal include increasing employment opportunities in the local area and encouraging development which is consistent with the future vision for the Tuncurry Town CentreÓ.

The Company JR Richards and Sons in 1958 es-

tablished their operations in Tuncurry and have grown their business as a part of the local community. Join the Richards family in conducting your business from this beautiful coastal resort, and enjoy the beneÞts of a relaxed lifestyle. ¥ There are three retail shops on the ground ßoor, varying in size from 65.9 sqm to 68.3 sqm. ¥ Ideal for the astute caterer to open a bistro/ cafŽ to cater food to the building. ¥ The next Þve levels are ofÞces and amenities.

JR Richards & Sons are occupying the top three. ¥ Levels One and Two are available for lease and range in size from 667 sqm to 690 sqm. ¥ Smaller ofÞce sizes can be made available for lease to both existing and new businesses. ¥ When fully let, there will be over 200 people working from this business ÔhubÕ of retail and commercial activity in the Manning Street, Tuncurry precinct.

Interested?

Interested persons should contact Karen Hoswell of JKL Real Estate on (02) 6554 8717 to register their interest and enquire if there is any space left for your business.

focus feature

Richards Centre.

Your best chance to purchase this property is to attend the Auction.

This Is Not A Mirage!

LOOKING FOR A FAMILY HOME IN TUNCURRY?

Tuncurry is a very popular place to live especially in this sort after area. JKL Real Estate has the perfect property for you!

waterfront reserve which adjoins the rear of

We should start at the double entry doors, which lead to a formal dining room overlooking a private courtyard/entertaining area with an in ground 7 person spa bath; this area is very private and captures the morning sun.

one downstairs with an ensuite that captures

The ultra modern kitchen also opens onto this area and boasts Kleenmaid appliances, granite bench top, semi walk-in pantry, gas cook top and dishwasher. You can view most of the house from the kitchen, as it looks up to the gallery/open loft area and has ample windows that allows the home to be light and airy.

bedrooms have polished timber floors with

The family room is fully tiled and leads to the lounge room that is carpeted and can be closed with stacker doors for privacy. You can take that early morning run along the

the property.

86 – 88 Macintosh Street, Forster

Operate, Lease or Redevelop.

Two master bedrooms feature in this home, the north east breeze in summer, plus one on the first level overlooking the reserve with a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite. Two other large bedrooms are on this level, both with built in wardrobes and another bathroom. All carpeted stairwell and open loft area, which would be ideal for an artist, musician, or a library area.

This luxury home also features alarm system, large double garage with remote and internal access, gas outlets, track lighting and solar tinted top windows.

To view this property, please phone Karen Hoswell at JKL Real Estate on 6554 8717 or 0408 078 606.

What a great opportunity to purchase your very own Service Station! LJ Hooker Forster/Tuncurry are proud to be auctioning the Service Station and adjoining land 86-88 Macintosh Street, Forster as one parcel. The property consists of 3 Torrens title blocks. One vacant lot and the 2 adjoining parcels of land improved with a service station.

end of September 2012 or on settlement

The owner has declared that they want the whole package sold in one line. The premises and land will be sold freehold with vacant possession. This allows the purchaser to operate a business, lease or re-develop.

The third opportunity is to purchase the

The property has huge potential as an investment as the Service Station is currently leased with an annual net income of $60,000. The current lease expires at the

with the potential to re -lease with a new tenant/operator.

The vacant land adjoining the Service Station has previously been approved for a carwash, although now lapsed it gives great possibilities to compliment the existing site.

property as it is and re- develop the land.

The blocks combined total land area is 2,269m2. Zoned 2(b) medium density the property has the potential to be a multiple dwelling up to 3 storeys or redeveloped for local services for example a medical centre, motel or club pending local council approval.

manning-great lakes focus 55

de

from Coasting Home

co

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AmandaPriester

Well, you have just finished your renovations, or maybe you have just moved into a new home. Often the biggest thing we consider is the furniture … are you going to keep the things that you moved in with, or is a whole new look on the cards? ew spaces often will dictate if existing furniture and décor items will work. It may be that the shape of the space or the configuration of your furniture will not fit, and you will have to start with a fresh approach.

Once you have worked out what you want to achieve and decide to work with what you have or start again, there are a few elements to consider …

When buying new items for your home, you will need to visualise what they are going to look like in the intended location.

Some people find this an easy thing to do, and others not so easy. When estimating the size or scale of furniture, making a paper mud map can help to realise the size and scale of the items you have in mind.

Having the measurements at hand, you can lay the paper on the floor or carefully stick to the wall the ‘map’ of the item in question to

N

make them work in with what you want to do?

Where existing blinds can be limiting, maybe a small drapery on either end will help soften the window and at the same time, bring in a colour that you want to work with. This bit of trickery is often used in display homes, when whole windows of drapes are not needed and an expense the decorator cannot not afford.

Prints and lamps can instantly bring a room together. A dominating image can dictate colours and stylistic elements.

A large modern artwork will lead you to colour choices in other areas, and a photographic print can do the same thing.

Mirrors add light, dimension and are a very effective way of increasing the sense of space; face a mirror towards a lighter area, to make the light reflect and brighten the room.

Lamps can be a great way to add light and some intimacy at night.

Depending on the furniture choices, you may want either a floor lamp or a table lamp. Shade

“When buying new items for your home, you will need to visualise what they are going to look like in the intended location.” see how if feels in the space and if it’s what you thought it would be.

If the answer is yes, you can proceed to the next step.

This is the point where you need to consider what the overall feel the room will have. Will it go with the other rooms in the house, or will it be a stand-alone space …

What do you want from this space? Are you going to theme it in a style that you love, or are you going for a more practical and organised space? You can reflect you personal style either way.

The relationship between fabrics and hard surfaces can also dictate decisions. Is there going to be carpet or more durable hard flooring?

Will a small rug or large natural fibre mat, warm the floor in winter, only to be taken away in summer?

Are you going to have curtains and blinds?

Maybe they are already there and your budget does not extend to replacing them. How do you 56 manning-great lakes focus.

colours can be limiting, but there are ways around this, and some upholsters can cover your shades to suit.

Creating groups of items into a collection is a great way to make a room individual and personal.

Over time you may have collected objects and images that have not only a relationship to each other, but also to you. Displaying them as a group either on the wall, or on shelves, can add a very individual touch.

Even though they may be different sizes or shapes, putting them in the same frame style, or grouping them closely can also give the impression of a much larger image.

When attempting to hang this style of decoration, lay them on the floor first, and move them around to get the right combination. Measure the spaces in between and take a photo, so you remember how you did it.

Just remember, it is your space and your style; get creative!

Shedding Light

on Solar Power & Water Heating

Australia’s electricity prices are set to soar; the Federal Government’s carbon tax agenda is here to stay, and the debate around climate change rages unabated. Mackie’s Electrical answers some commonly asked questions … hat is the difference between solar water heating and solar power?

Solar water heaters use completely different energy to solar power systems (referred to as solar PV) when it comes to harnessing the sun’s power.

With solar hot water, heat is captured directly from the sun through collectors installed on the roof and is transferred to the fluid circulating inside. Water is then stored in an insulated tank for future use.

Solar power uses light from the sun (rather than heat) to generate electricity. The amount generated depends on the number of panels and size of the inverter, and any excess is fed back into the power grid, with additional electricity also able to be bought from the grid when the sun is not shining.

How much will a solar system save me?

A solar water heater saves on water heating bills, and the amount saved depends on a number of factors, such as roof orientation, location, hot water usage, the type of system being replaced and the water heating energy tariff.

The power generated from a solar PV system is also used to reduce your energy bills and any excess electricity is fed back into the grid whereby the homeowner may be paid a feed in tariff by their electricity provider (the amount paid varies

by State and by energy provider).

What are the environmental benefits of a solar water heater?

Water heating accounts for around 25 per cent of the average household’s energy usage.

Getting your hot water free from the sun not only saves energy (and therefore reduces energy bills), but also saves the greenhouse gas emissions that would have been produced in the generation of that energy.

Currently, just under half (48%) of all Australian homes have electric water heaters. By replacing an electric water heater with a Solahart, you can save between 50 and 90 per cent of a home’s water heating energy use and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by around three tonnes a year, the equivalent of taking a small car off the road.

Installing solar sounds expensive – what financial incentives are there?

There are financial benefits in the form of Small scale Technology Certificates, or STCs (formerly Renewable Energy Certificates), which are

W

a tradable commodity attached to installations of renewable energy systems such as solar panels and solar water heaters.

When you install an eligible system, you may claim a set number of these STCs based on the amount of electricity generated or displaced by your solar PV system or solar water heater over the course of its lifetime, where one STC equals one megawatt hour (MWh) of electricity.

The number of certificates you can claim may vary depending on your geographic location, what you’re installing, and/or the size and capacity of the installed system. STCs are presently trading at around $25 a certificate.

In some states there are also rebates available for solar water heaters, and Solahart urges consumers to speak with one of their experts, who will provide all the relevant information on costs, savings and incentives, tailored to each individual home.

How long does a solar hot water or PV system take to pay for itself?

Financial payback will vary depending on your circumstances, but with the available incentives plus the forecast increases in energy prices and the ongoing energy savings, you can begin to recoup your initial investment from day one.

Will solar roof panels affect a home’s resale value?

There are no guarantees that having solar roof panels will increase a house’s resale value, but both solar hot water and solar power installations are an indication of positive moves by the homeowner to make the property more energy efficient, lower household power bills and reduce their own carbon footprint. This should be a benefit when selling a home.

Why do solar water heaters have boosters?

All solar water heaters include gas or electric boosters to ensure you have hot water even during the colder, cloudy, and darker days of winter and on rainy days.

How do I generate solar electricity in the dark?

It is true of course, that solar panels cannot create or harness energy in darkness. Electricity is taken directly from the electricity grid at night, while at the other end of the scale when excess solar power is generated, the surplus energy can be sold to the grid, reducing demand for electricity from fossil-fuelled sources.

To find out more, call 1300 721 914 or visit www.solahart.com.au manning-great lakes focus 57

focusinterview.

A MAN AND HIS FISHING…

Manusu.

W

hat do you love about living in the Manning-Great Lakes?

Living in the Manning-Great Lakes area is all about the water for me. We have some of the best rivers, lakes and beaches on the East Coast.

If I’m not in, on, or around the water on a daily basis, it’s been a pretty bad day. I’ve grown up around the water, with surf lifesaving, fishing with my family, including my grandfather, who was a professional fisherman, and for the past four-and-a-half years working with the great team at Graham Barclay Marine here in Forster as the service manager. With daily water testing of all types of watercraft, the job suits me to a T! Your grandfather was a professional fisherman ... Tell us about his background and how he influenced your love of fishing?

I pretty much didn’t have a choice ... I either liked fishing, or I didn’t fit in. This didn’t bother me one bit, because as far back as I can remember, the thrill of wetting a line and never knowing what was going to come along has always got my blood pumping. These days it’s a little more calculated than just throwing a line in.

Ask anyone who knew my Grandfather ... everything was organised down to the last detail and tackle preparation. When Pop said, “We are going to catch Snapper here” – we caught Snapper! He was truly my hero in fishing and even though he passed away a little over two years ago, I still know he is up there watching down on me, giving me a high five with every good catch.

You have a preference for lake fishing – why?

As I have said, I spent many years fishing with dear old Pop in the ocean. The downside was that I get seasick. Pop used to always say, “You will grow out of it.” I’m pretty sure when he took me he saved money on berley, and we used to get our best catches. I used to have to stick it out ‘til it was time to come in, so these days the calm waters of the lake

58 manning-great lakes focus.

are a great change!

Do you have a large collection of fishing rods?

I do have a large collection of rods. I mainly target Bream, and fish catch and release tournaments. I have 32 rod and reel combos alone, just for chasing Bream. Luckily, “We are “When Pop saidapper here” I have a custom-built Bream/ Sn h tc going to ca per! He was Bass fishing boat, with – we caught Snapfishing and in ro plenty of storage for all my truly my he passed away even though heyears ago, I still gear. I normally take 12 rods o tw a little over You need to compete and reels with me at a time. e watching ow he is up ther me a high kn in ABT (Australian Bream ng People say to me, “Why do vi gi e, m down on od catch.” go y Tournament) events. They er you need so many rods and ev ith w five have qualifying rounds all reels?”, and I always like to over the country. If you finrelate lure fishing to golf, where ish in the top 5 in any round, you normally take 13 to 15 clubs you qualify for the Grand Final. If with you. There are so many different you win there, it normally means you locations to fish and so many different have a spot on the televised AFC (Australian techniques, you need so many rods rigged up, so Fishing Championships). Three years ago, I qualified you’re ready for anything. by winning a round in Tasmania, so not only do you Tell us about your boat? get some great fishing trips, you get some pretty cool My boat is custom built, just for the type of lure holidays also. fishing I do. It is only 18 ft long and very light, but It is often said that a lot of patience is required with my engine putting out close to 200 hp, it’s a in fishing ... which other traits are required to blast to drive. Some days I have more fun getting to make a successful fisherman? the fishing spots then I do fishing if the bite is slow, Knowing where the fish are, what they want to eat and at 125 km/h, it doesn’t take long to get there. and how they want it presented is the key. There are You’ve been entering fishing competitions for days where you can’t miss, and then there are days approximately seven years. How is this going? where no matter what you throw or how realistic you The comps are great fun. There is always a bit of make it look and swim, the fish are just not interestfun banter amongst the guys, and you learn heaps ed. Those are the days where you really have to think hanging around the guys there. For anyone wanting outside the box, and the person who can do this is to get into competition fishing, there are comps out going to be the one to catch the fish and possibly there for everyone ... from team events, where you end up fishing in front of the country on television fish with a mate, to paired comps, where you get in the AFC. No matter how many fish you catch, it’s paired with a boat owner and get to fish from their just great being on the water and like I always say, boat and where you always learn something new.

“The worst day fishing is better than the best day You have aspirations to compete for a final working!” place at the Australian Fishing Championships.

Thank you Grant. Interview by Karen Farrell.

What will it take to achieve this?

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