Feature Story MANNING-GREAT LAKES
August 2013 // issue 78
Kane Smillie
Meet the team at Taree. At Officeworks, we’re excited to be part of your local Taree community. That’s why your new Taree store has longer opening hours, friendly service and the lowest prices guaranteed. It’s also why we’re supporting local groups and clubs like Taree Auskick. So to find out more ways we’re here to help the local community, stop by and meet the team.
We’re open: Monday to Friday 8.30am–6.30pm Saturday 9am–5pm Sunday 10am–4pm
You’ll find us at 15–17 Victoria Street, Taree, 2430, or you can call us on 6539 0300
editor's note.
Jo Atkins
editor.
from the
Welcome to the August 2013 edition of Manning-Great Lakes FOCUS! f, like me, you can hardly wait for spring to arrive and the cold weather to take a hike and disappear for another year, you don’t have long to wait. It’s the last month of winter, with the promise of sunshine, blooming gardens and longer days on the way! To help shake off those winter chills – and to become healthier to boot – I’ve been making an effort to walk, jog, go to the gym and learn to box. I can’t say I’m particularly brilliant at any of these things – but I’m told persistence pays off! The Brooks Forster Running Festival will be held this year at Forster Main Beach on September 8 – and yours truly will be there, taking part in the Go Vita 4 km Walk and Talk. Why not come along, support a great local event – and have some fun at the same time! ON THE COVER The Flair Awards are set to wow audiences again for the 19th year in a row, with all the glitz and glamour you’ve come to expect. Check out our interview with Jo
I
contacts.
Meldrum, Flair Coordinator and Sophie Bird, who’s modelled some of the stunning designs at previous year’s events. Flair also has a bit of sad news to share with us this year ... you’ll have to read the interviews to find out more. STORIES AND INTERVIEWS I hope when you read Cooper Smeaton’s story this month, you’ll feel just as inspired as I did. Reading about someone who’s experienced so much in their short life, and yet has been able to turn things around in such a positive way, is simply amazing. We also speak to photographer Kane Smillie, artist Brett Curzon and stylist Christopher Haggarty in this edition, among others. What a whole wealth of talent … EDITOR’S PHOTO This month’s photo was taken by the ever awesome Craig Mason. Ellenborough Falls is one of my favourite places. If you haven’t done so already, take the time to drive out there and witness nature in
all her glory. And if you’re feeling particularly energetic, do the walk down to the bottom of the falls. Just remember ... what goes down, must also come back up! CORRECTION In last month’s edition of FOCUS, we ran a story about the Manning Entertainment Centre’s 25th anniversary on page 8. One of the photo captions stated that the Mayor officiating with former Premier Nick Greiner and Wendy Machin was Ralph Metcalfe. The Mayor pictured in this photo was actually Ray (‘Tubby’) Green. NEW CONTRIBUTOR I’d also like to say a big hello and welcome to our new Tourism Insights columnist, Donna Hudson. Donna joins our team of wonderfully talented regular contributors. FINAL SAY “Energy and persistence conquer all things” – Benjamin Franklin.
Jo Atkins – Editor jo@focusmag.com.au
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
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Jessica Zammit
EDITOR: Jo Atkins
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone
jo@focusmag.com.au
kyle@focusmag.com.au
jessica@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones
SENIOR DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au
ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC / WEB DESIGNER:
Michael Marchment
jeff@focusmag.com.au
chrissy@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER:
COPY EDITOR: Reg Brookhouse
Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au
michael@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT:
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable
Jasmine McQuillan
joey@focusmag.com.au
jasmine.m@focusmag.com.au
reg@focusmag.com.au
PHOTOGRAPHER: Craig Mason, East Coast Photography 02 6554 9703 / 0411 846 084 www.eastcoastphotography.com.au
F O C U S I S P R O U D T O S U P P O R T T H E S E G R E AT C O M M U N I T Y E V E N T S A N D P R O G R A M S . 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 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.
the flair awards
The 19th annual Flair Awards promises to be the biggest and best ever due to the hard work and passion of all those involved in bringing the event together ...
Jo Meldrum. Flair Coordinator
W
hen and where will the Flair Awards be held this year? The Premiere Evening is on 3 August at Taree-Wingham
Race Club. This year’s event will be the 19th annual Flair Awards. What are some of the major changes and/or highlights you’ve personally experienced during your time with Flair? When the present committee took over eight years ago, we changed the format of the awards so that they were presented as a sharp and chic fashion runway event. This was a challenge, both creatively and financially, but it was a hit. Over the years we introduced many initiatives, such as Personal Development Workshops, a Prize for Illustration and presented the Manning Valley Bridal Expo. Along the way I have met and worked with some amazing people that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet had I not chosen to take on the challenge of Coordinator. What are the categories/prizes for this year’s event? There are nine Major Categories: Bridal, Red Carpet, Avant-Garde, Cup Day, Rags to Riches, Gen Y, Cocktail, Tailoring and Swimwear. The winner of each of these categories wins $1,000 cash. The Designer of The Year is chosen from the winners of these categories and wins $3,000 cash and a sewing machine valued at $600. Besides the Major Awards, there are nine Minor Categories: Tertiary Student, Millinery, Innovation, Regional, Natural Fibres, Collections, Beading, Business and Academy of Design. The value of these awards varies from cash prizes to a $5,000 scholarship from the Academy of Design in Queensland. This year will be a bittersweet occasion for everyone involve with the Flair Awards, as it is the final time the event will be held. What led to this decision, and how do you plan to turn the occasion into a celebration 4
manning-great lakes focus.
of all that Flair has been able to achieve locally? The committee decided to close for many reasons, but ultimately the event was getting too big for our small committee to handle. The awards may continue with input from a large company or organisation and function much the same way as the Wool Awards in Armidale operate with the assistance of the Wool Board. Flair is always a special night, so we will just do what we always do well, with the addition of Fashion One TV filming the show and screening it worldwide. Any special thanks you’d like to give people for their involvement over the years? I would like to thank the designers for entering; without them, we simply would not have a show and it is the aim of Flair to support and promote talented designers from Australia. Thank you to all the TAFE teachers who have encouraged their students to enter, especially Nicholas Huxley from Sydney Institute of Fashion Design TAFE NSW and Chris Twine from Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE QLD. Pam Petherbridge, who has travelled to Taree for the last 19 years to style and compere the show. All of our backstage crew, models, fabulous makeup assistants and hairdressers. Gary Wells from Hang Fire Disco and Greg Hile from TareeWingham Race Club. A special thank you to all of our volunteers who help us throughout the year at all of our functions and lastly, a big thankyou to all of the sponsors who have supported the awards throughout the years; we could not have done it without you. Where can people purchase tickets or find out more information about the Flair Awards? Info and tickets can be purchased from our website www.theflairawards.com.au or Movies Games and More, Taree ph 6552 5699. Discounts apply for group bookings.
Sophie Bird. Flair participant
S
ophie, please tell us when and why you first became involved with Flair?
what has been the standout experience for you being a part of the whole process?
Personally, being involved in Flair has given me an insight into the industry I want to be in, a perspective on how to conduct yourself within a fashion event, and I find being on the runway always boosts How much have you enjoyed the whole my self confidence. The standout would be the friends I have made. experience of modelling for the Flair The girls I've met through Flair have become some Awards ... do you have an aspirations of my closest friends. I also consider meetto continue with modelling as a ing Pam a privilege, as she has been career, or do you have your an amazing and nurturing person sights set on a different Flair has allowed throughout my time at Flair. direction? local aspiring The modelling experiAlso, makeup artist Ervan ue to designers an aven k ence has been great. I Woo and his team always or showcase their w has don’t have intentions to transport the models into air and creativity. Fl forge a career in modelanother world of glamour! an rls also given local gi el in the ling, but do have high What benefi ts do you od opportunity to m insight an aspirations to be involved feel the Flair Awards in awards and ga .” in the industry through stylhave brought to the into the industry ing and design. Manning Valley as a whole?
I first got involved with Flair in 2008 with an interest in makeup. I started modelling in 2009 and have been ever since!
“
You’ve also become involved with the social networking side of the Flair Awards and experienced first hand what goes into managing an event of this calibre. How have you found these experiences have helped you to grow and develop as a person? I have found it an educating experience, to tailor every post to reflect Flair and what it is about. I believe I have a greater understanding of social media in a business sense, what interests people to like your page and continue to like it and interact.
What has it meant to you personally to have been involved with the Flair Awards – also,
Flair has allowed local aspiring designers an avenue to showcase their work and creativity. Flair has also given local girls an opportunity to model in the awards and gain an insight into the industry. In addition, community members have dressed up to celebrate the fashions and modelling on the awards night – a unique experience in the Manning Valley. The Flair Awards have given people within the community an avenue to express themselves in a high quality fashion industry event, which I think is fantastic.
i s
F u n d a y
for the whole family at Taree Central & Manning Mall! ooking for something to do on the weekend to keep the kids happy? After a well deserved sleep in and a relaxed family breakfast, why not head to Taree Central, where you will find a variety of entertainment to keep the kids busy between 10am – noon each Sunday. Some of the upcoming activities not to be missed are Gooey Slime Making, Snow Making and a Lolly Kebab Cooking Class. Then head on over the road to Manning Mall between 1pm – 3pm, where you will find some other great activities to keep the kids entertained! Who wouldn’t love joining in on a Mad Hatters' Tea Party, dressing up at the dress up station or listening to Story Time with Scully the Monster? Taree Central and Manning Mall are definitely the place to be every Sunday, so get the family together and bring the kids down
to make sure you are part of the Sunday Funday Fun! Want to score Dad an awesome Father’s Day Gift this year? Whilst you are shopping at Taree Central or Manning Mall over the coming weeks, don’t forget to enter the draw to win Dad the ultimate outdoor entertainer pack! Simply spend over $30 at any specialty retailer and enter the draw for your chance to win a Jumbuck Chef 4 Burner BBQ and an Outdoor Patio Gas Heater! There’s one prize pack to be won at each Centre! The competition runs between 19 August and 1 September 2013, so make sure you get your entry in! And as if that wasn’t enough incentive to shop at Manning Mall or Taree Central this month, if you take your valid receipt (for a spend of over $30 at any specialty store) to More Than Gifts at Taree Central or Jeans West at Manning Mall, you can also score Dad a free BBQ apron! Now, that’s sure to
make his Father’s Day! d Seniors Mornings at Taree Central And something special for all the local Seniorss ffee out there – sit back, relax and enjoy a coffee n break on the house! Visit Taree Central on ke any Thursday morning before 11am, make any food purchase at Gloria Jean's and ma present your valid Seniors Card to redeem ay of FREE hot beverage! It’s Taree Central’s way muthanking you for being part of our community. ents, For more information on all the above events, see in centre signage or visit the Centre websites. Taree Central – www.tareecentral.com.au Manning Mall – www.manningmall.com.au
manning-great lakes focus 5
focusinterview
Kane S M I L L I E The surf and underwater world has fascinated Kane from an early age ... so much so, he bought himself a GoPro to help capture some stunning images. Kane's other fascination is with Pop Art ... ...culture
H
i Kane. Whereabouts are you from originally? I have Scottish ancestry: born in Newcastle, grew up in Sydney. By age 11 the family moved to a small town called Coramba, just west of Coffs. Four years later we’d moved back to Sydney, so my younger brother and sister and I had a healthy mix of city and country while growing up. Tell us about your background growing up in and around the ocean ... what is it about the surf and the sand that you love so much? My father introduced me to surfing when I was young. Musically we were raised on a strange mix of the Beach Boys and the Clancy Brothers. However, it was probably my grandmother who really instigated my love of all things ocean. She had a house at Bawley Point on the NSW South Coast. She’s a pretty amazing woman; the yard was only metres from the beach, and she would take us to the rock pools to collect all manner of ‘wee beasties’ that each suffered one night in a little fish tank. I grew up wanting to be a marine biologist but ended up in advertising, which eventually took me to Singapore – where I spent a lot of time on Sentosa, as close to a beach as I could find. When did you discover you enjoyed photography ... what led you to first pick up a camera? 6 manning-great lakes focus.
Maybe 14 ... around the g I grew up wantin travel far or spend same time I discovered e in ar m to be a too much time in waves and snorkelling. ded up biologist, but en ch the water to find What led me to first hi in advertising, w e something worth m pick it up was simply a eventually took re I fi lming around here. he w desire to catalogue all the to Singapore The lake system is on e tim of t different types of waves spent a lo clean; there’s a huge ...” a my brother and I used to Se ntos variety of fish species surf. During a family trip and soft corals. Above to Norfolk Island, I bought a and below the water the boxy orange Hanimex Amphibian area of Forster Tuncurry is very and thought I was Jacques Cousteau. I photogenic. hadn’t done much photography in years until What do you feel is the best shot a friend introduced me to GoPro. you’ve ever taken – and why? How has purchasing a GoPro helped you I don’t know about ever. Of the more recent develop your photographic skills? pics I’ve taken, my favourite shot has to be It has brought a different set of skills one that reminds me of a shot of the earth to the table very different from terrestrial taken from space; it’s simply the sky shot from photography. One gains a real sense of being under the water with the curvature caused by in time with the motion around you and the an approaching wave. It’s not a great shot, just ability to use that motion to capture your shot, different. whether its manoeuvring underwater to herd The lifesavers on Elizabeth Beach was a nice or place the fish in the right spot, or using the moment to capture. swell to be in the right spot for a surf shot. What kinds of photography do you feel For readers who are unaware, a GoPro is a you specialise in ... do you enjoy video brand of camera that comes with a variety of photography as well as still photography? housings and mounts that make it extremely I don’t feel like a photographer yet, so I versatile. It’s basically a point and shoot in any don’t specialise in anything really. I’ve just conditions. I use it mostly for filming in the started taking pictures again, and the images water, but it’s also a capable enough camera I prefer are the Pop Art type pictures I’m to capture some nice still shots. finding around town. I tweak the colour a bit How much of your time is actually spent and imagine them as a wall feature piece or a in the surf, or on the bottom of the ocean design piece. taking photos? When I took the photo of the toy cars, that Not a whole lot. I don’t get in the big surf was the idea. I’ll also always like working with the way I used to, and you don’t need to water, because you can find any emotion in
“
water and that is the first thing that goes through the mind of the viewer. That said, if I had a choice of photographing someone’s wedding or following a stingray across the sand flats, I’ll take the stingray any day. What are some of the events/locations you’ve filmed or photographed locally? I put together some footage for the Forster Adventure Race and I’ve made a few underwater film pieces. When I was younger, I spent couple of weeks in Micronesia and there’s some pretty special diving there, but locally we have great topography for finding whatever sort of shot you want, every day of the week. Where would you like to see you photography taking you in the future? I suppose I’d like to see my work on someone else’s wall; that’d be nice. As far as video goes there is a broader scope for presenting a piece to the public, whether it’s over the web or conventional media. Underwater footage always seems to bring a sense of wonder from the viewer, especially from those to whom the underwater world is an unfamiliar environment. Are you available for commissions and if so, where can people contact you? I have a Facebook page which is not a business page, but I can be contacted online. If anyone would like any further information on my wall pieces, underwater footage or my still images I can be contacted on 0421 029 013. Thanks Kane.
inside this
Issue 78- August 2013
Cycle 4 Cambodia.
19.
Amy and friend Kerrie, along with the support of an enthusiastic group of local ladies, are planning a fundraising bike ride through Cambodia in support of a very worthy cause close to their hearts.
8.
Indian Film Festival.
27.
Bollywood, the popular name for the Indian film industry, turned 100 this year. To mark this, plus celebrate the colour, creativity and culture of India, the Manning Regional Art Gallery is hosting an Indian Film Festival from August 18 to September 6 – plus Manning Masala, the Festival opening day extravaganza of all things Indian.
42.
Christopher Haggarty. Christopher Haggarty … stylist, blogger and fashion editor has his origins in the Manning Valley. Now, Christopher has styled celebrities, regularly attends Fashion Week and is becoming renowned for his skill and knowledge in the fashion world.
usual suspects.
the
11. What’s On for August 20. eat featuring local restaurants 35. Tourism Update with Donna Hudson 44. Star Guide with Terri
No matter where you are in the world, d, read Focus for free online every month @
www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/mgl.focus w www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat
manning-great lakes focus 7
focusinterview.
This month we have turned our attention to an artist who currently lives in Woolgoolga but called the Manning-Great Lakes his home for a period of 12 years. All three of this Sydney born artist's children where born in the area after he settled here with his wife and best friend many years ago. Brett Curzon is an artist whose work often gives you the feeling of 'Where have I seen that before?' ... and for good reason! Brett enjoys working in many different art genres, with the likes of musicians on their album covers and illustrations for children's books. Jasmine McQuillan decided to find out more ...
8 manning-great lakes focus.
S
o Brett, tell us about yourself and your family and where you are from? Well, to start I arrived at Crown Street Women's Hospital, Sydney, in 1970. From what I can gather, it was a very popular place to have a baby, back in the day. Those early days were spent between Botany, Maroubra and Redfern. After that it’s a bit of a blur, as we moved around a lot. I went to 13 schools and some of them I even visited twice. Throw in a case of dyslexia, and I can comfortably say that those days were HELL. I left school at 16, and by 18 I was surfing up and down the coast of Mexico and California. The early days of moving around set me up for the nomadic ride to follow ... dragging a surfboard and hugging the coast from Indonesia to Peru, then back to Australia from the Gold Coast to the South Coast. I met my best friend 17 years ago, married her and moved to Forster. Then we got busy! We had three children under four years of age. We had not planned it that way, but we never planned anything. When did you first realise that you had a talent in the arts? When I defaced pictures in magazines! I could do very good Dracula fangs and eye patches. One day, after attacking Ita Buttrose in a Women's Weekly, I knew that I had a talent. It was a masterpiece! If you weren’t an artist, what would you be? Anything to do with animals; I would be very happy with that. Tell us about your experience at The Hunter Institute of Technology? Was it positive? Yes, it was ... well, not in the beginning. At first, I felt like I was back at high school in a double period of maths! At 35, I bluffed my way into the graphic design class; however, the very first day the teacher said, “Turn on the computer, and open Photoshop”. I had never turned on a computer! As I searched for the button, I realised I didn’t really think things through very well. The teachers were wonderful, and I was
ready for my second chance. So after two years of is a language all of its own, and I am chuffed if I can study, I proudly finished with a Diploma in Graphic add the visuals to it. Design. When do you find you are most productive? You work in many different art genres; do When I am being distracted! I like listening to you have a favourite? If yes, why is it your audio books when I am working; it keeps me from favourite? wandering the streets. That’s a hard question to answer. I love it all, What are you currently obsessed with? Any although I do lean more towards expressionism in blogs, pod casts, films or artists? the fine arts. But I also love stencil art, I watched a film called 180 Degrees South a on subway walls ... and children’s while back, and it really struck a chord illustration. I can’t decide! with me. It’s a documentary directed Describe your process by Chris Malloy that covers the of creating a piece? journey of Jeff Johnson as a d an et And what kind he travels from Ventura, I use a tabl st fir t A n. pe of materials California to Patagonia, Chile, digital tting do you use for retracing the 1968 trip that it takes a bit of ge g your in your drawings/ Yvon Chouinard and Doug used to, like rubb g your ttin stomach and pa paintings/online Tompkins took in their old ram head! I use a prog r 12, artworks etc.? Ford van. It has an important te called Corel Pain ing.” I am not much of message for us, and we can az which is quite am a planner. In fact, I’m learn a lot from this film. I not one at all! I have a would encourage everyone to idea and then just start watch it. ... you can always paint over Do you have any historical something. I do like to cover influences? the whole page in colour first; I find it I do like the ‘Modernism’ period, also ‘Heroic easier than looking at a white empty space. Then Realism’, but I would say they have influence me I will add in more detail, and hopefully it turns out only a little bit. OK. The digital work on the computer I approach If you could sit down with any artist, past or in much the same way; the tools are just different. present, who would it be? And what would I use a tablet and a digital pen. At first it takes a bit you ask? of getting used to, like rubbing your stomach and Modigliani. Pass the wine. patting your head! I use a program called Corel If you could work anywhere in the world, Painter 12, which is quite amazing. You can achieve where would you choose? the same result as you would with a real brush and Pixar would be a nice place to work; I think they paint. have fruit baskets! You have worked with many interesting people Where can people find out more about your over the years, including musicians. Are there work? any standout moments you could share? I have a portfolio site here: brettcurzon.prosite. I worked with Jim Moginie, the lovely chap from com Midnight Oil. I designed his solo album, which was You can find the Bill the Fish books and apps on fun. He let me do whatever I wanted! I like working itunes: www.billthefishbook.com with musicians. I really admire songwriters ... music Thanks Brett.
“
manning-great lakes focus 9
Matters.
The Flair Awards
[ w ith Alan Tickle ]
The great fashion designer Coco Chanel once said, “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening”. It is this philosophy that over the years Flair has aspired to bring to the Manning Valley in the form of a thrilling runway spectacular of fashion, ideas and fun. So, it's Flair time of the year again and sadly, this is to be the last, but what a show it will be: full of exciting creations from young designers, great music and lighting, exquisite makeup and beautiful models, all in an atmosphere of electrifying excitement.
Local models have gained an nt enormous amou on e nc de nfi co of e the runway – som a going on to have the fabulous career in industry.”
“
Looking back, what has been achieved by Flair over the past 19 years has been huge. We hope that we have given the local community a taste of fashion and styling that they would not have normally been exposed to. Local models have gained an enormous
Unique Opportunity to Hear Leading Economist’s Views.
amount of confidence on the runway – some going on to have a fabulous career in the industry. Judges have come from far away to critique the designer’s work, and lifelong friends have been made.
So, if this is to be the last – what are the citizens of the Valley waiting for? Grab a bunch of friends and go and buy your tickets from Movies, Games & More in Taree: phone 6552 5699.
The Chief Economist for BT Financial Group Dr Chris Caton, will be presenting at a briefing hosted by Your Heritage Financial Planning being held at Taree West Bowling Club August 14th commencing at 3.30pm. Dr Caton, the former head of the Economic Division of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet is a very entertaining speaker who is highly sort after as a public speaker and economic commentator. Good News on Investment Performance. Low interest rates now jeopardises the ability of retirees to be able to live off their interest or dividend income without drawing down on their savings. The lift in market indexes have lifted the annual returns in balanced portfolios to around the 18% mark for the past 12 months. That type of recovery does compensate the negative impact of low interest rates. Low dollar and investment returns The falling Australian dollar has helped boost end of year returns where International Investments that were unhedged have been held in a portfolio. This drop accounted for about 10% return on top of what was earned by the international funds. Caution with changes to Superannuation The moves by the present Federal Government to embark on what they consider is “Stronger Super” is likely to create confusion when letters are sent anytime from now by funds to their members or a blasé attitude which may mean that
members will end up being shifted to a Mysuper offering if they fail to respond by October 1st 2013. In some cases, the switch from the existing fund to Mysuper where there is no election made by members, may jeopardise higher insurance cover that might have put in place by the member in their current fund. The Mysuper product concept was for a simpler product with one strategy and target returns. This wrongly assumes that all members have the same risk tolerance and return objectives. Insurance cover is expected to be compulsory unless the member informs in writing that they do not require it. Study your present superannuation verses the Mysuper Offering The Mysuper product must allow the ability to opt out of insurance but members need to respond otherwise the default position will be what they end up with. It is important that if you receive a letter regarding Mysuper, that you satisfy yourself that the new product meets your requirements and that you are not forfeiting benefits that you might have in the old fund. If you have any doubts and if you have an adviser attached to your existing fund, then I encourage you to clarify any concerns you have. You are quite entitled to write to the fund or your employer and elect to not change to Mysuper which will then give you more time to be certain of what is best for you.
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.
A R O U N D
T H E
R E G I O N
//
A U G U S T
2 0 1 3
Rick Price On 17 August 2013 we will have a very special guest visiting the Manning Valley. Rick Price will be coming to dinner at Harrigan's for a very up close and personal concert for only 140 people in the function room at Harrigan's. When On 17 August 2013. Tickets Phone 6556 0555. Seats are limited. Web wicketbooth.com
Annual Variety Concert
Jeans for Genes Day Wear your denim, make a donation and wear a badge available for purchase from many local stores. Send in a photo of you and your friends wearing jeans to jo@focusmag.com.au, and the FOCUS crew will select some photos to appear on our Facebook page. When Friday 2 August. More info jeansforgenes.org.au
A concert featuring some of the best of this year's performers in music, song and dance. Showcase is the new name of the annual variety concert that is held in August each year, which has the aim of promoting young talented performers in music, song and dance that reside in the Manning and Great Lakes area. Tickets can be purchased online or at Video Ezy Taree. Where Manning Entertainment Centre. The Tuncurry Bowling Club Auditorium. When Fri 16 of Aug - 7.30pm + Sun 18 Aug at 2pm. Tickets on sale at the club: adults $20, concession $17, children under the age of 12 free.
The Face of Birth T T Face of Birth: a powerful, engaging film about a woman's right The tto choose. Filmed over three years, and around the world, this highlyaacclaimed film is being screened as a fundraiser for Taree and District PPreschool. When Friday 23 August, 6pm. W Where Manning Uniting Church, 29 Albert Street, Taree. W Cost Tickets $15 inc. supper and Q&A discussion. C Contact www.trybooking.com/DEPZ or C tthe preschool on (02) 6552 1906.
FREE SALSA DIP OFFER Simply present this voucher to receive your free Tortilla Chips and Salsa from the Aztec when you enjoy our bar with an extensive range of imported beer and cocktails.
The Aztec Mexican Restaurant & Bar 8 Little Street, Forster t 6554 5906 *Limit 1 coupon per person.
manning-great lakes focus 11
SteveAttkins. from Great Lakes Winery
watch. Winemaker Dinners. Winemaker Dinners ... you don't need to be a wine wan@#r!!
Taree Film Society presents the explosive new film from Awardwinning director Mira Nair, The Reluctant Fundamentalist, on Monday evening 19 August, 6.30pm, at Fay’s Twin Cinema.
In 2010, as student demonstrations rage in Lahore, a young Pakistani professor, Changez Khan (Riz Ahmed), is interviewed by American journalist Bobby Lincoln (Liev Schreiber). Princeton-educated Changez tells Lincoln of his past as a brilliant business analyst on Wall Street. He talks of the glittering future that lay before him, his mentor, Jim Cross (Kiefer Sutherland), and the beautiful and sophisticated Erica (Kate Hudson), with whom he was set to share that future. In the aftermath of 9/11, the alienation and suspicion he is suddenly met with leads him back to his homeland and the family to whom he is very close. Charisma and intelligence catapult him to become a leader both in the eyes of the Pakistani
12 manning-great lakes focus.
students who adore him and the American government that suspects him. The collegial pretence of the meeting in a Lahore tea house, between Lincoln and Changez, slowly gives way to why the unlikely pair is meeting on a summer day – a foreign professor has been kidnapped by extremists, and the clock is ticking toward the deadline for his execution. Changez's family is being harassed and is in real danger. Bobby listens carefully, but with an agenda of his own. This film leads us through the culturally rich and beguiling worlds of New York, Lahore and Istanbul. For further information, tickets or subscriptions, phone 6552 3476 or visit tareefilmsociety.org.au
here are many reasons to get yourself along to a Winemakers Dinner, as was proven recently at Kingfisher Café at Blueys Retreat. What a wonderful night, with delicious food, lovely wine, good info about the wine, and what topped the night off was the gregarious atmosphere created by a group of people having a great night out! The hosts of the evening, Jan and Ian, provided the opportunity for the 40+ guests to mingle and be treated to a food and wine delight, while we shared some insights into the world of wine, without interrupting the lively conversations too much! Winemakers Dinners provide an opportunity for a night out with a difference, and the first thing to know about such dinners are that they are not for wine wankers – excuse the language – but there is no other way to say it effectively! The purpose of winemaker dinners is to educate and attain an appreciation of how wine and food can complement each other, offering combinations and information that you don't typically get around your own dinner table. What you can usually expect when you go to a winemakers dinner is a set menu designed by the chef, in consultation with the winemaker. With each dish a glass of wine will be served that complements the flavour
combinations of the dish. It is interesting to taste the wine before you sample the dish and then taste the wine together with the dish, and note how each changes when combined. This is the fun part ... we do this every night of the week (e.g: gee, this Chardy goes well with a cheese toasty!) The winemaker will spend a little time talking about the wine, with the opportunity for questions to be asked and the conversation to lead where the diners choose to take it. I think winemaker dinners should be a casual, fun affair and not to be taken too seriously. The recent dinner at Kingfisher Café provided shared tables, allowing guests to mix it up, making new friends in a very social environment. The chef may spend a little time talking about his creations too and inspire you to go home and get creative. What I also liked about Kingfisher Café's winemaker dinner was the variety of dishes across the 4 courses served, yet you didn't leave feeling like you had over-eaten ... it was elegant and satisfying. Just to tease you (if you weren't one of the lucky ones at Kingfisher that night) – the dessert was called Snickers Twist, which was a caramel parfait with chocolate cream, peanut caramel and chocolate disc paired with a glass of Great Lakes Water Lily dessert wine ... that finished the night beautifully!
Saturday, August 17 at Harrigan's Irish Pub, Harrington.
Rick Price is coming to Harrigan's Honest Exchange Honest Exchange believes that fair trade can/will eliminate extreme poverty, slavery, exploitation, child labour and human trafficking. By selling fair trade products we are looking to promote trade equality and justice, from producer through to consumer. Fair trade is not charity, but a means of creating employment to people who would otherwise be jobless or be forced to work under unimaginable conditions. It is about ensuring the choices we make have a positive impact on our lives, the lives of others and the environment. We are a party based business selling fair trade products. Our products range from kids toys to home décor and of course, fashion items such as clutches and jewellery. A lot of our items are made from recycled materials, making each item unique and environmentally sustainable. We sell our items online through our Facebook page, or alternatively you can also host a Honest Exchange party at your home or work place. All the information and materials are provided, so organising your party is hassle free. All of our products are of the highest quality, handmade and beautifully crafted. This ensures that we are not only supporting Fairtrade but also carry a top product.
Look who is coming to Harrigan's, Harrington NSW. Come and have dinner with Rick Price ... get your tickets to see Rick Price live up close and personal at Harrigan's on Saturday 17 August 2013. Harrington will soon form part of renowned Australian singer/ songwriter Rick Price’s latest national tour. Known for his hits such as Heaven Knows and Walk Away Renee, Rick Price is one of Australia’s most talented musicians. On Saturday, August 17, Rick Price will perform live at Harrington's Irish Pub to launch his latest single I’m Coming Home from his latest album, The Water’s Edge. Rick Price is also looking for local musicians to support his Harrington performance. Supporting performers will be carefully selected and will have an incredible opportunity to perform in front of a new audience, work with one of Australia’s most talented musicians and have the opportunity to promote or sell their music to the audience. Interested musicians can visit the Rick Price Fan Club on Facebook or Twitter for more information. Tickets for the latest Rick Price tour can be purchased by calling Harrigan's Irish Pub on: (02) 6556 0555 or visiting www.ticketbooth.com.au. The I'm Coming Home single is available on iTunes and www.rickprice.com.au Follow Rick Price on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ RickPrice. Rick Price Official Fan Club now on Facebook or Twitter @RickPriceFans
Under New Management Dolphins on the Course is under new management ... Harrington Waters Golf Course Café has been reopened with a delicious new menu for breakfast, morning tea and lunch. Enjoy the peaceful ambience of this beautiful Golf Course. The terraces that overlook the lake are the perfect setting for a glass of wine, great coffee, a dip plate or relaxing with your family and friends over breakfast or lunch. Dolphins on the Course is also the perfect place for your special function or wedding. Our staff look forward to making your visit an enjoyable and memorable one.
manning-great lakes focus 13
focusinterview.
Cooper Smeaton is the true definition of a local hero. His mum, Jan, wrote in to tell us how much she admires her son - who’s faced and overcome so many challenges in his short life. You’ll find Cooper’s story a powerful and inspiring one …
H
i Cooper. Tell us about yourself... I am nearly 13 and I’m in Grade 6 at school. Unfortunately, I started late due to being in hospital, so actually I
should be in Year 7. Cooper’s had a very difficult and extended battle with Leukaemia. Jan, please share some of this history and what your entire family has experienced throughout this period ... Cooper was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at 3 ½ in 2004. When Cooper had a temperature that could not be controlled, I took him to the doctors I worked for as a Medical Secretary to get him checked over. Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would result in a diagnosis of cancer. From there, it was a nightmare, as a week later we were told he was fine - a misdiagnosis. We placed an ad in the local paper to celebrate what we called a Lotto win; drinks were on us at our place - open house. The misdiagnosis was priceless. It was all in vain, as 6 weeks later Cooper presented with typical symptoms and was once again diagnosed with Leukaemia. The rollercoaster began: chemotherapy, endless needles, blood tests and living at John Hunter Hospital and Ronald McDonald House, Newcastle. After 2 months of treatment, Cooper was categorised as ‘Very High Risk’, meaning a bone marrow transplant was inevitable. Our daughter, Yardley, aged 6, was tested as a possible matching donor, but this was not to be. Cooper was placed on the world wide registry to find a suitable donor. The phone call came: an extremely suitable match was available in Canada. The transplant was to take place at Sydney Children’s Hospital on 29 April 2005. Another setback was sent to test us: our donor was seeing a specialist at the time and would not be given the all clear in time. Two weeks waiting was not an option, as Cooper was extremely unwell and needed the transplant ASAP. Stem Cell Transplant (Baby’s Umbilical Cord) was our only option now. The next two years 14 manning-great lakes focus.
Coop oper er’’s fi fig ht to to stay sttayy alive ali alilive ve has not not been b bee een ee n easy easy to to get get through th were a nightmare. Cooper’s ght It has the loss; in th hat he was placed was endless; so much so, that fact, you really have to find a way to live with the on life-support and we weree preparing for his pain in your heart. ‘We three’ was the name we funeral. gave ourselves: Mum, Yardley and Cooper! We To this day, his doctor cannot explain how he stuck together, cried together a lot, and we talk came through such an ordeal. He is a medical about Daryl/Daddy all the time. This helps us to mystery and maybe just one determined child. get through, but we do miss him every day. Knowing him now, the latter of the two sums it Cooper, what’s your medical prognosis these up … sheer determination to live to tell his story. days – how are you currently feeling? Our family remained together living at Ronald I am in remission; so I am pretty lucky comMcDonald House, Randwick in Sydney and pared to some families, as I have friends still Yardley attended hospital school for a year, and fighting their battle. I have cataracts, and my then it was back and forth to hospital. Our family teeth will have to come out as the chemotherapy faced the death of many children of friends that and radiation made them weak. I am OK … you make throughout this journey. No family Some people may not be aware that Cooper should have to go through this … is actually the ‘face’ for both Forster Ronald Cooper, what else would you like McDonald Beach Houses and to add to this summary – in Coin for a Cord Day (Stem particular, what are some Cell Transplant). Cooper, of the things that have what does it mean to ctor To this day, his do he affected you the most you to be involved w cannot explain ho deal. deeply? with both of these or ch an came through su tery and Cancer has affected causes? ys He is a medical m rmined te me more than people To be involved with de e maybe just on , the ow kn m hi can see or understand. I these is fun, but also g in child. Know it up … s m su o tw missed kindergarten and I want people who e th latter of n to live to io at in rm te making friends and doing have not been affected de r shee ” y. or st s little kid stuff, as I was to try and understand hi ll te always in a room on my own what cancer can do to away from others so I didn’t get families. The beach houses infections. My daddy got sick and give families a free holiday and died not long after I got better and I really hopefully some fun away from hospimiss him, as he was a really funny man. tal or treatment. Coin for a Cord day: this I haven’t made friends much and I have is what saved my life, and it can save other sick been bullied and I think it is because as my mum people’s lives too. In years to come, it will help says, missing the early play times and being with diseases like my daddy had, so they can live. forced to grow up too quickly. I hate that this I just did an ad for TV to tell people about this. makes my mum, nanna, my sister and me sad. Jan, you’re justifiably proud of your son. Bullies don’t realise they hurt everyone. What is it about Cooper that inspires you the As mentioned, you both experienced the most? trauma of losing Cooper’s dad in 2009, to the I am extremely proud of Cooper, as he shows rare Multiple System Atrophy condition. Our such appreciation to the doctors and nurses who readers and I could probably only imagine were instrumental in saving his life. He battles what your family went through during this daily with what cancer has taken away, his childtime. How have you both managed to get hood, but he remains caring, generous and has a through this and stay so positive – it’s amazbrilliant sense of humour. ing! The unsung hero is his sister, Yardley, whom I
“
o also. She has never complained am so proud of about life knowing that it all … just gone about aroun nd Cooper and her Dad’s illnesses revolved around g time. It has taught her compasfor such a long sion, empathy and patience. It’s never really much fun for the sometimes forgotten siblings of a serious ill child. Both my children inspire me, as their childhood was quite disrupted, and they are coming out of it such beautiful, respectful human beings. Cooper and Yardley, how does it make you feel to know that you’re considered to be heroes by your mum? Cooper I don’t see myself as a hero; I see my mum and dad as the heroes, as they were there for me every minute of the day. Mummy slept in my hospital room every night and kept telling me I would get through this. And I did. Mummy is my best friend in the whole wide world. Yardley I too, do not see myself as a hero. I know Mummy and Daddy are proud of us, but we really just did what we had to do to get through. What would you both like to see happen with cancer and stem cell research in the future? We want a cure for cancer, so families do not have to suffer the pain and anxiety of potential loss of a loved one. Stem Cell Research is our future into curing many other diseases like Multiple Systems Atrophy. Cooper, I get the impression that you have big plans for the future. What are some of the things you’d like to do/achieve one day? I really love all the services: Fireman, Policeman, Ambulance, and I want to do all three. My mum says I would make a great lawyer, as I never give up and would eventually wear people down to tell the truth or abide by the law. I love comedy too - Carl Barron being a favourite of mine. And I would love to catch up with Nicole Kidman again. I walked her down the red carpet to a movie premiere and then presented her with flowers on behalf of Sydney Children’s Hospital another time. Thanks everyone – you’re a truly amazing family.
focusinterview.
'S PJ CHEAPER C H O I C E
oth the Forster and Tuncurry store carry a wide range of art and craft supplies - they will be promoting this all August, with a 15% discount off the entire range all month when you present this voucher. Mont Marte has been their leading brand, and has been around for ten years and PJ'S Cheaper Choice has been stocking their Art and Craft supplies for six years now. PJ'S Cheaper Choice is a Gold Art Centre, which means they generally carry 65% of the Mont Marte product range, including all of the basics and a great cross section of the more specialised lines. The Forster Store carries a large range of art
supplies, and the Tuncurry store carries a core range. As a leading brand of artists' materials, Mont Marte recognised the need for art departments to be easily accessible for all levels of consumers. They brand and market their product in ranges, for ease of purchase. In branding stores as an art centre, the aim is to simplify the process consumers use to find the various items within the extensive range of Mont Marte products. Jessica and Paul from PJ'S Cheaper Choice stock a variety of different art supplies, with a range covering all artists' needs - from the casual artist to the professional artist. Mont Marte pride themselves on providing quality products that are exceptional value for
Jessica and Paul from Pj's Cheaper Choice would like to let everyone know about their growing Mont Marte Art section in store.
money. Jessica and Paul's main objective is for PJ'S Cheaper Choice to be recognised as the go to destination for art products in the Manning Great Lakes area. They carry Mont Marte catalogues in store and if you require anything in bulk, come in and see them, so they can help you place an order. Whether you are an arts student, seasoned art professional or new to art, Jessica and Paul can help you with a wide range of advice and Mont Marte art supplies. While you are in store, spend some time and browse through the range of Mont Marte art supplies, including: art accessories, canvas, paints, easels, brushes and papers. PJ's Cheaper Choice prides itself on being a family run business, employing local people and servicing its customers' needs. Together with the staff, Jessica and Paul have run their busy discount variety stores in Forster Tuncurry for 13 years. “We try to make helping our customers a big priority and enjoy seeing many regular faces returning over the years. To ensure we have the products and depth of range we need for everyone, we do all our own buying
from a wide variety of suppliers, which we are constantly adding to. This makes sure our customers see new products all year round, in addition to our core range that we stock all year. “ PJ's Cheaper Choice also carry a large ornament and home decor range, plenty of gift cards and wrap, stationery, craft, homewares, kitchenwares, hardware, audio accessories, toys, wool, candles, picture frames, hair accessories and much more seasonal goods Don't forget that for the month of August they will be having a SALE: all you have to do is bring in your voucher and present it to the staff to receive your discount on the Mont Marte Art and Crafts Supplies. 75 ml oil paints - 3 for $10 75 ml dimension acrylic paint - 3 for $10 Beechwood floor easel $60 was $90 A3 Visial Art Diary $5 was $10 Rest of range 15% off on presentation of voucher; excludes specials. Sale runs in both locations Forster, 2/32 Wharf St, Next to newsagency 6555 9400 Tuncurry, 2/76-78 Manning St, Opp Bellevue hotel, 6554 9400.
manning-great lakes focus 15
focuseditorial.
focuseditorial.
Nominations open for
the Great Lakes
A
w
a
r
d
s
Do you know anyone who has made a great cultural contribution to the Great Lakes area? Give them the recognition they deserve by nominating them for a Great Lakes Cultural Award in 2013.
Lakeside Festival
G
The event organisers are seeking food stalls to provide a variety of high quality food for festival patrons. pplicants must comply with the requirements of the
A
NSW Food Authority and Great Lakes Council. Preference will be given to food retailers from within the Great Lakes Region.
The Lakeside Festival supports the ‘100 mile concept’ in all aspects of the event. We are seeking vendors who use and promote local produce and/or produce dishes unique to our local region. Your application will be considered based on a variety of aspects, including: uniqueness from other food vendors, locally sourced ingredients, the availability of healthy food options, price of servings, site size requirements, ability to meet self-sufficiency requirements. Application forms and further information are available on our website: www.lakesidefestival.com.au Lakeside Festival, Saturday 2 November 2013, 11am to 5pm at John Wright Park, Tuncurry.
reat Lakes Council acknowledges and honours outstanding contributions to the visual and performing arts in the local government area through the annual Great Lakes Cultural Awards.
The cultural awards were initiated in 2007, and every two years since then, the Awards recognise individuals, groups and organisations for artistic excellence, innovation, achievement and/or support of the arts. Nominations are invited under seven categories, namely, three in Visual Arts: Organisation, Individual or Youth (under 18); and three in the Performing Arts: Organisation, Individual or Youth (under 18) with the seventh, being Enlightened Support (awarded to an individual, group or organisation who has made a significant contribution to any creative discipline either by endowment or by creative practice). “Creativity is the heart of every community. There are many people here in the Great Lakes doing amazing creative things, and the Cultural Awards are an opportunity to acknowledge them” said Chair of the Cultural Awards Committee, Councillor Leigh Vaughan.
Rush* *The all new A 250 Sport.
The all new A 250 Sport has arrived setting new benchmarks in performance and design. Experience the adrenalin rush today, and get behind the wheel at Taree Motorama. www.mbtaree.com.au
Standard features include: • 18-inch AMG 5 spoke alloy wheels
• Lowered sports suspension engineered by AMG
• AMG body styling with red highlights
• Bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights
DL2149
• Panoramic electric sunroof
Taree Motorama
16 manning-great lakes focus.
46 Victoria Street, Taree
Phone 6539 3300
“The Awards themselves are being created as a special project by the Creative Arts Department of Tuncurry TAFE and will be special works of art for the recipients to keep”. In 2013, nominations in the youth categories are particularly encouraged. Teachers and young people themselves are urged to nominate and recognise these talented young people. Nominations for the Awards are open now, and close on 15 August 2013. Nomination packs are available for collection from Libraries, Customer Service at Great Lakes Council, or can be downloaded from Council’s website: www.greatlakes.nsw.gov.au The Great Lakes Cultural Awards will be presented on Sunday 6 October in a special Awards ceremony at Green Point Gallery.
the plug! For more information, please contact Lynda Hepple at Great Lakes Council on 6591 7222.
Tuncurry Forster Racecourse
Pot Holers
Loads of entertainment this month.
This month @ Club Forster Lonnie Lee In Sydney in May 1956, he entered a talent contest singing Elvis' first hit, Heartbreak Hotel and as far as we know, it was the first time an Elvis song was sung on Australian radio. He has had success all over the world and continues to do so today.
ROY PETERSON, RAY FREEMAN, RAY BELL, JIM MOORE, KEVIN SHEPPARD are the ‘Pot Holers’ - a group of volunteers who provide a very valuable service at the Tuncurry Forster Racecourse …
P
lease explain ... what exactly are the ‘Pot Holers’, and what do they do? KEVIN SHEPPARD: In the main, the ‘Pot Holers’ repair the tracks after the horses have worked. The horses’ hooves cut up the surface of the tracks, sometimes leaving large holes to fill. Using a soil/sawdust/manure mixture, the load is carried by the Club’s utility truck and distributed from buckets by the ‘pot holers’ throughout the entire course. Why did you decide to start working out at the racecourse in the first place? ROY PETERSON: Having a keen interest in racing, I heard that the Club needed volunteers to assist in as many ways as possible. As a retiree with time on my hands, I volunteered about 10 years ago, working every Tuesday and Friday mornings at the track. The job you do is done in your own time, under your own steam – and many may not be aware that you’re all volunteers. Why do you keep doing it? RAY FREEMAN: I have been involved with the Club for some 20 years now, assisting in many ways to maintain the facilities. I do it for a number of reasons. Firstly, I enjoy the company of the guys who have similar interests. Secondly, the Club has limited finances, needing as many volunteers as possible to keep it as a viable organisation. How often do you visit the racecourse to perform your duties? How long does it take you each time to complete the job? RAY BELL: We normally work Tuesdays and Fridays of every week, starting at around 8.30am, finishing sometime between 10.30am and 11am. Leading up to race days, we do spend a lot of extra
n mowing all the surrounding areas, time in as welll as putting the finishing touches to all the general facilities. We get great satisfaction on race days, knowing that we have played a part in making it all happen. Potentially, what could happen if you guys didn’t volunteer your time at the track? JIM MOORE: I guess the Club would initially find it difficult if all five of us called it a day. That is something that is not likely to happen. However, as we all get older, our health will play a major role in just how long each of us can continue. At present, we are all doing fine; may it continue for many years to come. The Club is aware of the need for volunteers like ourselves and is always on the lookout for additional helpers. You must have seen some pretty funny sights out at the track over the years. What are some things that spring to mind? ROY PETERSON: Most of the things we see are serious enough for the trainers and jockeys, but, have a lighter side after the event. Horses refusing to go into the barrier and horses refusing to leave the barriers are often highlights. One particular day, a trainer was trying to entice a horse into the lake for a swim, lost his footing, before falling in front of the horse – which then trampled over the top of him into the water. Both horse and trainer escaped unhurt. Funny for us, but not so funny for the trainer. Are you all keen racing enthusiasts? Any tips you’d like to share for how to back a good horse? RAY FREEMAN: Yes, we are all keen racing enthusiasts who enjoy the discussions on a Friday about the Saturday’s racing, then the results afterwards on the following Tuesday. Sometimes the banter is
hilarious. Most of the talk is about who w RAY BELL: Most is going to do what! One in our group is a ‘quaddie’ enthusiast, whilst another is a ‘quinella’ advocate. Both gentlemen have a degree of success! JIM MOORE: The best tip I can give about backing any horse is to follow where the money has gone. Horses that firm in the market on the tote are generally fancied by the connections and expected to run well. KEVIN SHEPPARD: Backing any horse to win needs a fair degree of luck. You may
His current show is Solid Gold and features most of his own Gold Hits of yesteryear, as well as tributes to the biggest stars of Country and the Top 40 charts of the late ‘50s and early ‘60s. His permanent band, The Leemen, provide the musical and vocal backings. He is a true legend of Australian popular music. In fact, many refer to him as ‘The father of Australian Rockabilly’ or ‘The last man standing from his era’. Tim Finn Tim Finn’s odyssey has been our own. For that is the beauty of music. We surrender to it and we ride in the slipstream. Born in New Zealand, we have had a long love affair with Tim Finn and his musical journey. Tim Finn has long sailed upon a sea of surging fans swept up in his music from Split Enz, Crowded House, The Finn Brothers, ALT and myriad solo voyages. The legacy is immense. A lifetime of songs for us to sing to. To cling to. Songs to live and die by. Songs of the heart as predator and prey. Songs of dark nights and glory days.
think it is a ‘good bet’, but horses are not machines and often fail to show their best. In addition, jockey error, interference in running, are just two of the factors that come into play. A few words from Garry McQuillan, President Tuncurry Forster Jockey Club: The volunteer work that is done by the Club’s 30 volunteers is invaluable, and we could never pay any of these people for the work that they contribute. The ‘Pot Holers’ are the backbone behind the success of the Tuncurry Forster Racecourse’s tracks and grass. If these tracks don’t have the holes filled after every work session, horses are likely to break down with leg injuries, preventing these very valuable animals from ever racing again. The five chaps all have their own form of humour, and there is always someone having a laugh. There is nothing they ever refuse to do; pre race week, besides pot holing, you’ll find them mowing, whipper snippering, cleaning toilets and jockeys rooms. Like all the Club’s volunteers, they are the salt of the earth. Thanks everyone. manning-great lakes focus 17
18 manning-great lakes focus focus.
focusinterview. focusinterview.
Amy Heague Amy and friend Kerrie, along with the support of an enthusiastic group of local ladies, are planning a fundraising bike ride through Cambodia in support of a very worthy cause close to their hearts.
H
i Amy. FOCUS touched base with you a while ago now about Cycle4Cambodia. Please refresh our memories ... When we last spoke, we were busy organising our In Her Shoes art exhibition, where we launched our expressions of interest for our cycle trip to Cambodia. Kerrie Moran and I had been talking at the start of 2012 about our favourite topic – Cambodia, and the organisations over there that we have been supporting who work with the local people to address the issues of human trafficking, poverty and education. We were talking about how we should do something crazy as a fundraiser and the idea to cycle across the country was born. I say crazy – neither of us owned bikes or had ever done anything like this before. What are some of the key facts and figures you’ve learned about human trafficking? My interest in human trafficking goes back about 8 years, when I was watching Oprah. Oprah was a CNN investigative journalist and they were talking about child sex trafficking in Cambodia. I sat there stunned, appalled, broken hearted and motivated to do something about it. Less than 10 months later, I found myself in Cambodia sitting on the floor of a drop in centre with a group of young girls who worked in the poorest brothels in the back streets of Phnom Penh. One of them had a little girl the same age as my own – I made a resolve that day that what ever I did, I would always make sure that I told as many people as possible about what is going on. Kerrie’s passion is to see children know their value and reach their potential. Since then I have learned that a conservative estimate of 25 million people are held in various forms of slavery globally, including here in our own country. Hundreds of thousands of people are trafficked across international borders each year, many of them women and children. They are trafficked into various situations, but most women and young girls end up working in the sex industry against their will. Human Trafficking is the second largest crime in the world today, and there are more slaves
now, than during the trans Atlantic slave trade. Approximately 31% of people trafficked each year are from Asia (just behind Africa). Cambodia is sadly known to many as the sex trafficking capital of the world. Not only is each One Cambodian but victim the one, organisation e th be n we likewise ca recently reported e th d, lle ca e one. The on that they are e e on one listening , th seeing an increase nt to se e on e th g, willin of young girls justice d an bring freedom are ho aged between 4 – w es on to innocent 12 years being sold suffering ...” home that exists as a safefor sex purposes for haven for girls aged 5 to less that $100 USD. 16 who have been trafficked, “Not only is each victim raped, prostituted or at-risk of any the one, but we likewise can of these things. be the one. The one called, the one Others are dedicated to breaking the poverty listening, the one willing, the one sent to bring cycle by developing family members within their freedom and justice to innocent ones who are local communities through the provision of long suffering ...” (Sharon Cohn IJM). term solutions, training underprivileged and And so Cycle4Cambodia was born. rescued young Cambodian people with practical Who are the key people involved with skills. Cycle4Cambodia? And lastly, an organisation that drafted a new Kerrie Moran and I have been involved in the approach to tackling sex slavery, whereby victims organisation of Cycle4Cambodia, and we have are empowered to set themselves free. They 17 other women from the Manning, Great Lakes, give them training and the steady income they Port Macquarie, Central Coast, Sydney and need to walk away from the sex industry and the Tamworth regions joining us. We are all excited therapeutic services they need to leave it behind about raising awareness on human trafficking, emotionally. and fundraising to support our carefully selected People can go to our website for more details organisations. and links to these organisations. The team is an eclectic group of women of When is the group heading off to varying ages with different travelling, work Cambodia? What exactly will you be doing and life experience. For many, it will be their once you get there? first time travelling to a third world country We head off to Cambodia mid October. We and experiencing first hand the human face of start in the north at Siem Reap riding around the poverty and trafficking. It will be both an exciting ancient temple complex of Angor Wat. We then adventure and an emotional experience that will spend the next 9 days cycling south, following linger in their hearts long after they return home. the Mekong river through small rural villages, Our hope is that in the face of what we will into the capital Phnom Penh, which should prove see, each team member will come home feeling to be quite an experience. empowered that they have and can continue We continue to Kep on the coast where we to make a difference in the world in their own conclude our cycle journey – just a little over unique way. 600 km of cycling all up. We then head back What kind of organisations are supported? to Phnom Penh, where we will visit with and The supported organisations include: a rescue volunteer for our supported organisations.
“
How much preparation have group members been doing in the lead up to the trip? Different members have been training in their own unique ways. We have some dedicated sportswomen, and then others who take their bike for a regular spin to the local café. Some of us have been meeting regularly for some local off road adventures, which have provided plenty of laughs and team building opportunities. You’re holding a fundraiser on August 31 to help with the cause. Where and when will this event be held? Yes! Our Gala fundraiser – ‘Jazz it Up’ will be held at Tuncurry Memorial Hall (near the skate park). It is shaping up to be a great night, with many local businesses across the region chipping in their support with donations. Tickets are $45 pp and numbers are limited. Go to our website for where to purchase tickets. What do you have planned for the Gala? We have a delicious dessert and drinks planned, with a fantastic Jazz band – SCAT from Brisbane – providing entertainment. You will want to get up and dance! There’ll be a live auction with heaps of items up for grabs, including a bike donated by Anaconda, a hand painted surfboard from local artist Kadek Wijaya, an electric bike from Godwins, accommodation packages and much more. We have lots of fun ways for people to donate on the night, so come prepared. Where can people go for more information? Our website www.cycle4cambodia.com And follow us on Facebook. Thanks Amy. manning-great lakes focus 19
Manning-Great Lakes
Chocolate Parcel Crepe from Bonnappetite.
eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android mobiles. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 20 manning-great lakes focus.
eat. Raw Sugar Café
Beach Bums
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.
There is much more to Beach Bums Café than just the best view in town. Why not pop in for your dose of winter sun? You can feast on our daily changing specials, such as spicy baked eggs for breakfast, or our signature seafood chowder for lunch, followed by the largest range of sweet treats in town. Don’t forget we have all your home barista needs too. Did I mention the whales? Check out our Facebook page for daily specials.
Owners Kate and Darrin.
Freshest local ingredients.
North & Beach St, Forster Main Beach. t 6555 2840 w beachbumscafe.com.au
214 Victoria Street, Taree t 6550 0137
open 6.30am-3.30pm (weather permitting)
open 7.30am to 4pm.
Warm up with a prawn and sun-dried tomato sub and a fresh espresso coffee
Bowlo Bistro
Club Taree
Taree West Bowling Club. New winter menu; same great value.
The Iron Bark Restaurant at Club Taree offers a selection of meal options to enjoy over winter. Choose from our selection of char grilled dishes, enjoy a meal from our favourites menu, or try one of our tempting chef’s specials. The kids are also catered for, with a selection of meals for just $9.50.
Monday Nights - $5 pasta! Tuesday Nights - $8 homemade chicken schnitzels Wednesdays Nights - $8 fish and chips plus cash poker Thursday Nights - Club Super Draw, free kids' meals and drinks and free raffle entry Friday Nights - Monster Raffles plus Treasure Chest Jackpot Saturday Nights - cash poker Sundays - $10 roasts for lunch and dinner
Head Chef James Nossiter.
The Lilly Pilly Café, also open 10am daily, features a selection of hot and cold beverages, light meal options along with tempting cakes, desserts and slices. The Lilly Pilly Café is the perfect place to get together with friends and family.
Chef Kevin Williams.
Check your shopper dockets for our free meal deal in stores now! Book now for Father's Day.
116 Edinburgh Drive, Taree t 6552 2094 open 7 days. Lunch 12noon ‘til 2pm. Dinner 5.30pm ‘til 8pm.
121 Wingham Rd, Taree t 6539 4000 w www.clubtaree.com.au open from 10 am daily.
manning-great lakes focus 21
eat.
The Sandtrap Bistro
Buddha by the Beach
The Sandtrap Bistro offers a choice of fine or casual cuisine set amongst the glorious surrounds of Tallwoods Golf Course and Resort.
WINTER SPECIALS IN AUGUST
Enjoy the warm delights at Tallwoods with our famous 'Curry and Spice' every Thursday night. Taste authentic flavours from around the world while you warm up from the inside out. Or join us on Sunday for a Sunday roast without the effort. Upcoming events, including Christmas in July and the Black Friday Ball, offer something to entice everyone during these winter months.
Monday and Tuesday: $10 takeaway 5 - 7pm Thai green chicken curry, fish and chips, chicken burger and chips, beef burger and chips, and Nasi Goreng. Wednesday and Sunday: Chef's Selection – two course special. Entree and main or main and dessert. There are three options available for entree, main and dessert. 5 - 7pm, $25. Kids' meals also available for $5. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday & Sunday: Takeaway $10 pizza. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. See website for the full menu.
The Boulevard, Tallwoods Village. t 6557 3900 w www.tallwoodsgolf.com.au
4 Redgum Road, Boomerang Beach. t 6554 0877 w www.buddhabythebeach.com.au open Mon and Tues - takeaway meals only, 5pm - 7pm. Wed and Sun - Chef's Selection only, 5pm - 7pm. Thurs, Fri & Sat night full à la carte menu. New winter menu from 5.30pm. Mon, Tues, Wed and Sun - takeaway pizzas $10 only, 5pm - 7pm.
open The Sandtrap Bistro Wednesday to Sunday from 12noon The Sandtrap Bar Open daily from 11:30am Sunday Roast 12noon – 2pm and 6pm – 8pm
Royal Indian Cuisine
Bonappetite Café
'Experience the best Indian cuisine outside of India.' Royal Indian Cuisine offers casual dining through to fine dining in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Dine on delicious authentic Indian cuisine that is brought to you by experienced and friendly staff, whose aim is to make your experience at Royal Indian Cuisine so enjoyable, you can't wait to come back. Get the real authentic taste of Indian cuisine provided by our expert team with a wide range of traditional Indian dishes.
Ray and Tony have returned to Old Bar with the new BONAPPETITE CAFÉ, the Manning Valley's latest café and restaurant with something new.
Right in the heart of Tuncurry.
21 Manning St, Tuncurry t 6557 2001 open 7 days. LUNCH Tuesday - Sunday 11.30 am - 3pm. DINNER Monday to Sunday 5.30pm - 10.30pm.
22 manning-great lakes focus.
Bonappetite Café, open 7 days per week for café style breakfast and lunch and at night from Wed to Saturday, as a FRENCH BRASSERIE, with a French Chef and genuine French country style cuisine. BYO alcohol only.
Chef Spencer Weselmann
Shop 2 – 3 / 47 Old Bar Road, Old Bar. t 6553 3188 m 0411 693 458 open 7 days per week for café style breakfast and lunch and at night from Wed to Saturday.
eat. Little Street Kitchen Who remembers ELJAYS BISTRO, formerly of Pacific Palms Bowling Club and the Bellevue Hotel? Then you must remember LOUIS VALLAS. Now you can dine with him again at The Little Street Kitchen, Lakes & Ocean Hotel Forster. After cooking up a storm at Bulahdelah Bowling Club for the last few years, he is excited to be back by the sea. He will have all your favourites available to tempt your taste buds. He is looking forward to seeing his regular diners and meeting a lot of new ones.
Harrigan’s Irish Pub Open 7 days a week per week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Specials: Monday $15 Steak Night Tuesday $15 Pizza and Pasta (10% off per person / per pension card) Wednesday $12 International Curry Night Thursday $15 Schnitzel Night Friday Lunch $10 Fried Fish Friday! Friday Dinner: Early bird special! Show your pension card for a 10% discount between 6pm and 7pm. Sunday $12.50 two course lunch or dinner roast + dessert.
Head Chef Scott Hyde.
Food Service Manager Louis Vallas.
Lakes & Ocean Hotel, 10 Little St, Forster. t 0424 951 701
Harrington Waters, Josephine Blvd, Harrington t 6556 0555 open Breakfast: 7.30am-9.30am Mon-Fri, 7.30am-10.30am Sat - Sun. Lunch: 12noon 2.30pm every day. Dinner: 6pm-8.30pm every day.
Garlic, Tomato and Chilli Sizzling Prawns
open 6 days 12pm - 9pm closed Mondays.
Bean Bar Bean Bar in Taree, established now for 3 years, has updated the general breakfast and lunch menus to an even higher standard: NOW FEATURING NIGHT DINING WITH A very extensive Spanish style tapas menu, with ALL PLATES only $12 each. Create your own amazing night dining experience. Selection of full meals also available at night. Still Taree's premier venue for all types of specialty functions!
The Aztec Mexican Restaurant & Bar Present the coupon on page 11 for a free Salsa and Chips when you Enjoy our Bar with our extensive range of Imported Mexican Beers and Cocktails- Happy Hour from 5-30pm - $2 off Cocktails & a Selection of $5 Mexican Beers Mid-week Specials -1/2 Taco Tuesday from $2.50 - Wednesday 2-4-1 Meal Deal, only pay for One Meal!! Kids Free every Thursday! Let them have fun making their own mini burrito's. Owners Ray and Tony.
1 Pulteney St, Taree, set on the Manning River t 6550 0022 w www.beanbarcafe.com.au open 7 days breakfast and lunch, and dinner Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
GREAT MUSICAL TALENT COMING FOR AUGUST Friday 23rd August – TOM WEST-Folk/Roots Saturday 31st August – Mat Brooker, from Port Macquarie - Beautiful Spanish Guitar
Delicious Margaritas.
8 Little Street, Forster t 6554 5906 w www.aztecmontezuma.com.au open: Closed Mondays (During Winter). 6 nights for Dinner, Bar open from 5pm. (Subject to change)
manning-great lakes focus 23
focusinterview.
the owner of
Beach Bums ... our Barista Profile this month! Beach Bums Café boasts a unique setting, overlooking Forster Main Beach & the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy our seasonal menu including breakfast, lunch & dinner over the summer holidays, fabulous ocean views & a friendly atmosphere.
B e e f
I
t’s been a while since we ha had ad a chat with you. What have you been up to since we last spoke? Well, late last year we underwent some big changes in the coffee side of Beach Bums. We were in the process of taking a new direction with our coffee, when a chance cup turned our whole way of thinking on its head.
Really? In what way? We decided we wanted to run our own race and not be dictated to by a multinational company. This meant we could promote our own brand instead of advertising theirs. So how did a cup of coffee change this? After extensive research, we were literally hours away from signing a contract, when I had an amazing cup of coffee – the one I had been looking for! When I made enquiries, I found it was a local guy, on the Mid North Coast, whom we were already sourcing our bio-degradable packaging from! I rang Stewart Clark from ‘Doppio or nothing espresso’, and a couple of hours later we were in the middle of a tasting session ... which opened our eyes to a young, local supplier with BIG passion for the industry. ‘Doppio’ in Italian means double, and it really does stand for what they deliver. OK, so what’s Beach Bums Café currently serving? Five days after roasting, the beans are ready to hit our shelves, so we are serving the espresso at its absolute freshest. For our milk based espresso we are currently serving Doppio’s ‘Chubby’ blend – round and robust with sweet, dark chocolate tones. For our black 24 manning-great lakes focus.
bod coffee drinkers, we havee the smooth bodied ‘Briony’ blend, with highlights of caramel and dark chocolate. More top-end market products include our Chamellia organic tea range in a variety of flavours, found in some of Australia’s best restaurants, including Melbourne’s Vue De Monde. For chai lovers, we have two options. A 9 spice fresh chai, a blend of nine aromatic spices, black tea and organic raw honey. This less sweet option is especially good with soy milk. We also have a gluten free and dairy free Melbourne Chai Powder. So, after enjoying a cuppa on the beach, any chance we can take a bag home for later? Of course! The staff will grind it fresh there and then for you; please ask if you would like to purchase other products you have enjoyed. Some other things to try are the ‘Panela’ organic whole sugar, used to enhance the flavour of coffee and good in cooking too, ‘Kali’ gluten free and dairy free drinking chocolate, and don’t forget the sweet deliciousness of caramel, vanilla or hazelnut syrups. Anything you’d like to add? You may spot Stew and the crew from Doppio or nothing, at events partnered with Toyota, Quiksilver and Foxtel, to name a few. They are constantly busy serving, testing and sourcing the industry's best products. We always look forward to our weekly catch up to taste the latest and hottest trends and bring them to our customers.
a n d
p o r k
lemongrass skewers by Hilary at Casa Loco
Ingredients 1 tablespoon fish sauce
400 g minced pork
1 tablespoon finely chopped lemongrass
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon black pepper
400 g minced beef
12 lemongrass stems
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
2 teaspoons sugar
Method Lemongrass is a tropical grass with
accompaniment to this meal so find a
an aromatic citrus flavour that makes
cool spot, sit back, relax and enjoy.
a great skewer as it imparts its zesty
Combine the beef, pork, garlic,
flavour as it cooks. Deli- cious and
chopped lemongrass, sugar, pepper,
good for you with antibacterial and
fish sauce and coriander in a bowl.
antioxidant properties, lemongrass stimulates digestion, lowers cholesterol and boosts circu- lation. This is a recipe from Vietnam and is quick and easy
Knead until combined and let sit covered in the fridge for an hour until flavours develop.
to prepare and cook which is good for
Divide mixture into 12 and roll into
entertaining or a nice home meal. The
sausage shapes. Chill in fridge for half
ex- otic flavours can really jazz up a
an hour. Place the lemongrass stalk
typical barbeque producing a tasty treat
into the meat and shape around the
with minimal fuss. A crisp cold beer or
lemongrass like a skewer. Sprinkle with
chilled glass of wine make the perfect
sesame seeds
Rhythm of the Dance aspires to a purity content preserving the traditions of Irish step dancing, and yet presenting it in the most modern format that has made it a leader in its field.
Rhythm of the Dance. Armidale's Hidden Gem
This two-hour dance and music extravaganza contains a wealth of
Retreat to Armidale in the New England region for a truly evocative and unique winter experience. At an elevation of almost 1,000 metres above sea level, Armidale is Australia’s highest city and features exquisite galleries, museums, historical homes, churches, fine food and cool climate wines. The region also boasts World Heritage Listed National Parks, spectacular waterfalls and gorges and a myriad of outdoor adventures.
Irish talent. The show is an inspiring epic, reliving the journey of the Irish Celts throughout history. Rhythm of the Dance has heralded a new era in Irish entertainment, internationally rated as one of the most popular and busiest Irish step dance shows in the world. Rhythm of the Dance aspires to a purity content preserving the traditions of Irish step dancing and yet
To date, The National Dance ny, along with pa m Co Tenors, The Young Irish have performed nce Rhythm of the Da ns io at ov to standing 4.8 er ov of nt fro in 59 million people in countries!.”
“
presenting it in the most modern format that has made
Dance Company, along with The Young Irish Tenors, have performed Rhythm of
the Dance to standing ovations
it a leader in its field.
in front of over 4.8 million people in
The sshow features a live band, three tenors
59 countries! Be sure not to miss this
and 22 dancers. To date, The National
breathtaking experience!
The Quality Hotel Powerhouse, Armidale offers a Winter Retreat package for two with overnight accommodation, sparkling wine and chocolates, two course dinner, breakfast and late checkout. This exclusive offer provides the perfect excuse for a short break or special weekend together. The Powerhouse is conveniently located within walking distance to the town centre and recently completed a three year, multi-million dollar refurbishment program. The 4.5 star hotel includes 55 designer hotel rooms, Azka
Restaurant and a Wine and Tapas Bar. Each room contains wireless internet access, plasma TV, ipod docking station, underfloor heating, MOR amenities and 24 hour room service. As part of your package enjoy a cosmopolitan dining experience at the new Azka Restaurant which celebrates Mediterranean flavours and regional produce in a space adorned by Moroccan hanging lanterns. Escape to the intimate downstairs Wine and Tapas Bar and relax in one of the leather lounges surrounded by dozens of great drops or adjacent to the welcoming open fire. Discover the best wine list in town and a tempting selection of tapas dishes ideal for social dining. The Quality Hotel Powerhouse offers the highest standard of professional service, exceptional food and stylish accommodation in the Armidale region. Visit www.qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au or call 6772 7788.
manning-great lakes focus 25
focussinterview.
M a n n i n g
R e g i o n a l
A r t
In the leadup to the inaugural Indian Film Festival-Taree in August de Ar rt Prize and the nationally significant Manning Naked and Nude Art rt Gallery in September, we begin to see that Manning Regional Art hell, is i not is not just your typical gallery ... and its Director, Sue Mitchell, your ordinary Gallery Director.
M
anning Regional Gallery is now the home of the Indian Film Festival-Taree, and all through the year the Gallery presents concerts, workshops, artists working in the Gallery, Manning Valley Festival events and all manner of active cultural events to support its program of exhibitions. Sue Mitchell believes that the community of this region and its visitors are entitled to a vibrant cultural environment that suits the needs of Australians today. We interviewed Sue at the Gallery, as she prepared for the onslaught of all things Bollywood. How long have you been at the gallery, and what led you to the position? My first assignment as Director of Manning Regional Art Gallery was to move the Gallery from its home of 10 years at the MEC to the newly purchased and refurbished heritage building in Macquarie Street of the Taree CBD. I came directly from my position as Director Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery (1988-1998), where I had the privilege of moving the Gallery to the waterfront position at Booragul. I seem to be developing a history of moving regional galleries to new (better) premises, but that transition from humble beginnings to purpose designed spaces is how most regional galleries have developed. My career in galleries began as the very first Director of the Muswellbrook Regional Gallery 1981-3. I had taken a break from teaching and travelled before working on two major archaeology projects in Israel with the University of Michigan and the Israeli Museum. What sort of programs and exhibitions are there at the Manning Gallery? Core business is the programming and display of about 23 exhibitions per year and the public programs that make them accessible to the community. What we are really trying to do is to create a vibrant cultural life for the people of this area to take part in. The
26 manning-great lakes focus.
Manning Gallery has a very strong support base of volunteers, artists and the fabulous Friends of the Gallery Inc. Together as a team, we are now known for presenting quality concerts, performances, workshops, all This will feature films and initiatives from ed at ci so as things the community which rf scene with the local su complement the exhibitions. t and past and presen d with te Community partners such will be suppor the om fr n as the Taree Film Society, an exhi bitio e m iti ar M n TAFE, Kantabile (Choir of the Australia es av “W d lle ca m Mid North Coast), Manning Museu the cultural Winter Festival Cttee, the and Water” life of the Conservatorium of the MNC and community. We many others work with the gallery to all benefit from present great arts events. it both culturally and We now provide greater access for economically. It is a fact different groups, such as youth, our talented that the arts generate significant income, Aboriginal population and even our Chinese particularly through cultural, tourism and community. In 2012 we ran the Contemporary stimulation of festivals, markets and arts Chinese Project, for which we helped to bring businesses as well as employment. an exhibition over from Redgate Gallery in Challenges also include ensuring the China and ran a 6 week program of Artists sustainability of the gallery. Already this year in Residence (Han Qing and Jason Wing), we have gone solar, and we are installing LED floortalks, lectures, workshops provided by lighting to reduce our energy consumption. Chinese artists and Redgate Owner/Director The gallery has also entered into an agreement Brian Wallace and Kate Crowley. with the Friends of the Gallery to increase This year the Papua New Guinea arts were the income generated from joint programs highlighted in exhibitions from the Australian to offset the costs to Council in running the Museum & the Watson Sutherland collection. gallery. One of our focuses will be on the Surf The Friends have supported the gallery Culture of the area between Forster and since before it opened at the MEC in 1988. Port Macquarie. This will feature all things Even since 2007, they have donated over associated with the local surf scene, past $500,000 and thousands of man hours to and present, and will be supported with the gallery. This has enabled the development an exhibition from the Australian Maritime of arts infrastructure and quality programs. Museum called Waves and Water. In September this year, the Manning Naked What are the challenges of your role? and Nude Art Prize will attract artists from The artists of the region need and deserve all over Australia. The prize money will be the support of the Gallery and deserve $16,000 raised by the Friends from community opportunities to generate income from their fundraising. art making practice. It is the only way the This provides a great opportunity for artists arts will flourish. This is a most important to exhibit and win prizes and to raise the challenge. The artists involved in visual arts, profile of the arts. Gallery Patrons, Philip and theatre, dance, music and literature enrich Dusty Walkom, have supported this prize from
“
its inception in 1988 and continue to provide enthusiasm and resources for the gallery’s continued development. Tell us about the Indian Film Festival that is happening in August ... It’s not just the typical Bollywood movie of star-crossed lovers, angry parents, family ties, sacrifice, corrupt politicians and kidnappings, plus music and dance, but a range of feature films, documentaries and short films, some even made in Australia about young Indians in Australia. The Festival opens with Manning Masala on August 18 – a major community day from 11am to 4pm, showcasing the colour, culture and creativity of India represented by Bollywood film, with a gala opening in the evening featuring Indian music and dance performers from Sydney and wonderful Indian food, plus a number of the short films. What other interesting programs and exhibitions are coming up in the near future? The Live and Light Show – in partnership with TAFE NSW and the Greater Taree Libraries, is currently being curated by Kelly Austin. Live and Light is a projection show based on the model of the VIVID show in Sydney, which involves projections onto Taree Buildings and streetscapes. Designs by Aboriginal Disengaged Youth will be projected at a 3 day event in conjunction with the Greater Taree City Council Library Live and Loud music event for Youth.
FILM FESTIVAL Bollywood, the popular name for the Indian film industry, turned 100 this year. To mark this plus celebrate the colour, creativity and culture of India, the Manning Regional Art Gallery is hosting an Indian Film Festival from August 18 to September 6 – plus Manning Masala, the Festival opening day extravaganza of all things Indian.
ollywood is a fusion of Bombay, the centre of the Hindi film industry (now Mumbai) and Hollywood and was a term that caught on from the 1960s, when Indian films started to be distributed and shown in the west. Today, Bollywood is the largest film industry in the world. In 2009 it produced 1,288 films and sold 3.6 billion tickets worldwide, compared to 2.6 billion for Hollywood films. Fourteen million Indians go to the movies every day. However, it is a worldwide phenomenon, and Indian films now screen in over 90 countries … and now they are coming to Taree. Bollywood films are often referred to as the
spice mix masala, as those from more independent The Inaugural they have a mixture of and experimental movie Indian Film ct fle re singing and dancing, makers. It presents a ill w al iv Fest om fr romance, comedy number of short films, ge an ch is th antic m ro t and action. The plot documentaries and an ag av tr ex om usually involved star features, with two of films to those fr t en crossed lovers, angry the short films actually more independ tal parents, family ties set in Sydney and the and experimen ” s. er ak and sacrifice. However, films exploring themes movie m just as they are not all of a modern and changing produced in Bombay, with India. Many have featured at major film studios in other cities international film festivals around the producing films in languages other than Hindi, world. The selection of films has been curated so too has the type of movies evolved. The by Ravi Kambhoj, who produced the South Inaugural Indian Film Festival will reflect this Asia Film Festival at the 2012 Parramassala change from extravagant romantic films to Festival in Sydney. The diversity of films means
“
indian TAREE
August 18 to September 6
Exploring Indian Film Culture and all things Bollywood A selection of short films, full features and documentaries curated by Ravi Kambhoj, curator of South Asian Film in Focus at the 2012 Parramasala Festival. Times and ticket prices vary. Short film sessions FREE A series of related workshops will also be held Detailed programme and session times and associated workshops available online
To further showcase Indian culture, the Gallery is staging Manning Masala on the opening day. This free event from 11am to 4 in the afternoon will transform the gallery into an Indian Bazaar, with a range of activities and displays for all ages. In the evening, a number of noted Indian performers (musicians and dancers) from Sydney will join Ravi in a Gala Night to officially open the Film Festival. For further information on all of the events, go to: http://indianfilmfestivaltaree.blogspot. com.au or telephone 6592 5455 or call into the Manning Regional Art Gallery at 12 Macquarie Street, Taree.
masala
THE INAUGURAL
FILM FESTIVAL
there will be something for everyone in the festival.
Opening Night Gala Sunday August 18 at 6.30pm
Sunday August 18 11am to 4pm
An evening like no other before in the Manning Spectacular Indian Music & Dance ce ce by IndiaJiva and Natraj Dance Studios of Sydney A selection of the best short films from Bollywood. Tantalising Indian Cuisine Tickets $25 Strictly limited numbers Tickets available at the Manning Regional Art Gallery ery or on 6592 5455
For more details go to http://indianfilmfestivaltaree.blogspot.com.au or call 6592 5455 Manning Regional Art Gallery 12 Macquarie Street Taree
Experience all the Colour, a Culture & Creativity of India The Sari Fabric dyeing & Printing Yoga Herbs & Spices & more Bollywood short films from 11am and 2pm Indian Bazaar selling all things Indian Taste the delights of Indian Cuisine FREE ENTRY
The all gloss, all free guide to local living
manning-great lakes focus 27
28 manning-great lakes focus.
focusinterview.
W
With his 9th solo album behind him, Tim is bringing the music he is famous for to Australian shores to the delight of fans everywhere.
here did you get the nickname FANG from? (Laughs.) Well, it was when I was at boarding school and my best friend was Mike Chung, and he ended up being the bass player with Split Endz. He wasn't Chinese, but his name, Chung, sounds Chinese so he used to get called Chang; so he would turn it back on me and call me FANG! It kind of stuck. And both Neil and I ... well, he gets called FANG now too, but it did start when I was about 14. I noted on your website it said that if you could be in any band, then it would be Split Endz. Why so? I think so yeah ... I left split Endz in 1984, and we had been going for about 12 years; but at the time I felt personally like we had said all we could as a band. Others may disagree, but that is how I felt. When you think about it, the Beatles were together for about 10 or 11 years. I think everyone has their moment, and for us it felt like a good time to leave. In a sense I couldn't imagine being in any other band now; that was part of my life then. I had no desire to carry on or form another band. So I guess it does hold a very special place in your heart? Oh definitely! I mean, I did join Crowded House briefly and was part of the Woodface album, but that was really different – Split
Endz was my band and will always have a songs, so we can mix it up from night to special place in my heart, and I still enjoy night. playing those songs from those days. Your ninth solo album came out last You are headed to Australia for a August, and you collaborated with a lot tour. How far and wide will you be of musicians to bring it together. What travelling? was that experience like? It's a pretty short run; we're building Yeah, well I got in touch with a producer it around a gig we got in Brisbane with Jacquire King in the States; he'd been the guy from Powderfinger, Ethan working with Kings of Leon and Hawke – he's become a bit Nora Jones. He had quite an of a gig organiser and eclectic mix of artists that I have a four mini festival organiser, he worked with, and I piece band. and he asked me to thought he sounded re of We’ ll do a mixtu from get on a bill with a very interesting, w song s, quite a fe om few other acts that so I asked him fr e Split Endz, som sounded good. if he wanted to lo so d an Woodface e er So, we are come out to New Th l. el w song s as in ts hi doing a show in Zealand. He was of ty en are pl n mix ca e w Brisbane for him really into that. at th e er th od and we thought So the two of up and it is a go energy we would put a wrap us then bounced night; I like the at .” together around that. I ideas around about that I get from th am only doing about 6 or 7 who we would like to play shows in all. on it. Joey Waronker was our Tell us about the show itself ... drummer of choice; he's done a lot I have a four piece band, so I can of work with various people over the do the songs mostly in the style that years and had worked with Jacquire before. people are used to hearing them on record. He's a fantastic drummer, and he brought We'll do a mixture of songs, quite a few a keyboard player out with him he always from Split Endz, some from Woodface and works with ... so there is instant atmosphere solo songs as well. There are plenty of hits on the tracks from the drums and the keys. in there and it is a good night. I like playing I also worked with both the bass player and in a band; I like the energy that I get from the guitarist, who will be in my band this that, and these guys know a lot of my time around.
“
Make Your Dad King of the BBQ! ULTIMATE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINER PACK UP FOR GRABS!
Simply spend $30 or more in any specialty store between 19th August–1st September and complete your entry form for your chance to win Dad a Jumbuck Chef 4 Burner BBQ and an outdoor patio gas heater! There’s one pack to be won at each Centre* *Terms and Conditions apply.
Take this coupon to More than Gifts at Taree Central or Jeans West at Manning Mall to redeem your FREE apron for Dad!* *Valid 19th August – 1st September 2013. Whilst stocks last.
manning-great lakes focus 29
s o c i a l s c e n e
Right.. Bike ride
with Donna Carrier from Bent on Food.
Below. Aztec lady, Lee, Jeremy, Donna and Graham
Below. Helen - Up in Annies Room
Below. Bryce and Linda
Below. Hugh and Tracey at the MEC
Social/scene.
Above. Comedy company at MEC
I am certainly looking forward to a couple of days off this month when my sister and I take our annual pilgrimage to Melbourne. The excuse is work, and we do a bit of that with lots of lovely shopping at my favourite gift fair. he rest of my work is put down to market research, eating and eating and a bit more eating. I am pretty excited that I can now add wine tasting back into my work, with a new liquor license and much research required. I have travelled far and wide, but I still think that the most beautiful city in the world is Sydney, and the place where I am most happy to visit again and again is Melbourne. I spoke to a local yesterday who believes we live in a bit of a cultural wasteland. I disagree; I think we are very fortunate to live in the Great Lakes-Manning Valley, and it is important for us to embrace the great stuff that goes on here. Not only do we live in a great place, but we are a hop, skip and a jump from a number of fabulous cities. Last month I spent a few nights at one of our great assets, Manning Entertainment Centre, which incidentally turns 25 this month. We were fortunate to gain a few free tickets to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, after the cast came for lunch and loved it so much they decided to reward us. One of the comedians, Bev Killick, was having a birthday, so we gave her little birthday celebration complete with cake and candles. She was very happy; I think it goes with the job being happy, as I have never entertained a table that laughed so much. They enjoyed a few hours in Wingham, op shopping as you do, visiting the museum and checking out the retro shop. We had the funniest night at the show; it was great to have a good old fashioned belly laugh. We love to support local music, and there was no way we were going to miss Songwriters Unplugged, also held at the MEC on Thursday 18 July. The foyer was set up beautifully, with a nice casual feel, the sound was perfect and there was 30 manning-great lakes focus.
wine! There were so many friends there to support the night Her company, Biznaga Travel Company, takes tours to Spain and to listen to some absolutely fabulous music. I know I have with a focus on food and wine. Casey is a passionate teacher said it before, but we are blessed with the talent available with loads of knowledge, and she made making paella to us in this region. It was great to see Up in Annie’s Room relatively easy. Twelve of us made yummy tapas, two types of play again and to hear the guys from Galleri for the first paella and the most divine orange almond cake. I must say time. Matt Zarb was brilliant, but they all were! I am it was a lovely way to spend a Sunday; we shared a fabulous certainly not singling anyone out; I enjoyed every meal, broke some bread and celebrated Tom’s birthday and single act. Big thanks to the organisers; Chris’ belated birthday. Hopefully we will do it again you did a great job. Support live music soon. at your local café/restaurant, pub A few hundred motorcyclists rode on into or festival, so that we can hear Wingham on Sunday, June 23. Members of e We were fortunat more sounds from these great Gloucester Rotary Club joined members of to gain a few free musicians, and hopefully there the Wingham Rotary Club for the Norm bourne tickets to the Mel will be another Songwriters Beaton Memorial Ride. The riders travelled medy International Co Unplugged soon! through Forster, Bulahdelah, Wootton and cast Festival, after the Back to pilgrimages, on Krambach, before concluding in Gloucester. d loved came for lunch an June 27 I was fortunate to Norm was a former member the Gloucester decided it so much they attend the monthly Manning and Wingham Rotary Club and died during a to reward us.” Net dinner at Club Taree. It charity bike ride 15 years ago. was jam packed with at least 90 On Saturday June 22, I attended my first ever women to listen to Christine Beach, party at Bent on Food as a guest for our friend as she entertained us with her story of a Bryce Cross’ 50th birthday party. It was an excellent 2012 walk along Spain’s renowned Camino de night, with 26 of us enjoying a three course meal cooked by Santiago. Christine is a fascinating speaker, and her journey chef Paul – except for the pavlova, which was cooked by my has cemented my dream to do the Camino. Another item for family’s star pavlova maker, Steve. It was a fun night, with my very full bucket list. many travelling long distances to be there. Happy 50th, Bryce, While talking of Spain, Casey Death came home to treat us and thanks for a great night. to a Spanish cooking class on Sunday 21 July. Casey is a Taree I would love to hear from you if you have any social events, girl who until recently has been spending half her time living weddings, parties anything! in Malaga. Now back in Sydney, she is able to continue her Send pics and info to donna.carrier@bigpond.com love of food, wine and Spain by conducting cooking classes. Cheers, D.
“
manning-great lakes focus 31
t o w n s
o f
t h e
s o u t h
focusinterview.
BOOMERANG
BEACH SURF CO. Ken and Dale Reynolds made a seachange back in 1983 that has seen them living their dream ... their business, the Boomerang Beach Surf Co. captures the essence of a lifestyle that eludes most people, but which draws many to experience the beauty of this part of the world ...
W
hen and why did you move to the Pacific Palms area? I first discovered the beauty of the Pacific Palms area on a surfing trip with some of my buddies in 1970, and even then it was my dream to eventually move to this area at some stage in my life. In the early '70s I met my future wife, Dale. We used to have surfing weekends away from Sydney, and Pacific Palms was usually our destination. In 1977, Dale and I married in Sydney and decided to purchase a caravan that we could leave at Elizabeth Beach Caravan Park to use as a holiday base whilst still living in Sydney. In 1981 we purchased a block of land at Elizabeth Beach opposite Wallis Lake, where we currently reside. A year or so later, we both decided that we’d had enough of Sydney life and with Dale being six months pregnant, we had the opportunity to buy a business in the shopping strip at Blueys Beach. I had been saying for years to friends, “Gee, that area needs a surf shop”. So we decided to purchase the business, resign from our jobs in Sydney, sell our house and in September 1983, with Dale eight and a half months pregnant, we made the move from Sydney to Pacific Palms. When we first moved here we were living in a 16 foot caravan in Elizabeth Beach Caravan Park, awaiting the birth of our
32 manning-great lakes focus.
years? In the early '70s the surfing industry was like a cottage industry, but over the years it has grown into a world recognised global industry. Most of the changes in surfing equipment have become more technical. Fins used to be set into surf boards and in some cases still are, but the vast majority are now sold separately to suit the first child, Dean. ge Our major chan surfer. When did you start up came in 2001 Wetsuits have e th your business? d ha when we again evolved from having to in e ov Immediately on m to opportunity no stretch (in fact, in the moving to the Pacific bigger premises ; this rip in the early '70s st ng pi Palms in September op sh same a bigger when you had a ith w at th 1983, we took over nt ea m uld stock wetsuit on you felt the existing business floor space we co hich we like the 'Michelin (Bits & Pieces) and totally more product, w ” Man') to today’s suits, accordingly did. revamped the business by which have super-stretch turning it into a surf shop. neoprene, silicon welded What changes have you seams and chest zips. In the early made to improve the business? '70s, leg ropes were a combination of a dog Over the years of owning Boomerang collar from the pet shop, 6 foot of nylon rope Beach Surf Co., we have tended to try and from the hardware store and a hole drilled stay a core surf shop by stocking a lot of surf through the fin of your surf board. The first hardware e.g. fins, deck pads, wetsuits, rash commercially available leg rope was black vest and wax – all things that are essential surgical rubber with rope in the middle tied to surfing. Quite a few surf shops in the '90s onto a thick velcro band to attach to your tended to diverge into a type of fashion shop, ankle, which attached to your board through but we did not. We decided to increase our the leg rope plug. percentage of essential surfing products and Now with advancements in polyurethane, continued to do so. leg ropes are manufactured with double Our major change came in 2001, when swivels, stand off on the ankle and rail savers, we again had the opportunity to move into so your Surfboard does not get damaged by bigger premises in the same shopping strip; the polyurethane. this meant that with a bigger floor space Years ago the only wax that was available we could stock more product, which we was from the local service station. Then, accordingly did. This change led to a robust honey wax came along, and now there are increase in sales. waxes for different temperatures of water, What are some of the major changes which were just not available 40 years back. you have seen in the surfing industry Where do you want to see the business and with surfing equipment over the
“
in the future? Boomerang Beach Surf Co. has been very good to Dale, me and our three sons Dean, Todd and Matt, who have all worked in this business at some stage. I hope in the years to see this business still flourishing, whether Dale and I will be at the helm or whether it is passed on to someone else – I don’t know at this stage. However, I am extremely confident that this will be a very viable business for years and years to come. How much of your time is spent working and developing Boomerang Beach Surf Co.? A fair degree of our time is spent focusing on our business – it’s not just the hours that are spent in the shop. It is travelling to trade shows to see ranges of product that come out for each season, dealing with reps and agents from all of the different companies that we do business with, ordering for coming seasons – in fact, that is probably the hardest part, knowing what to purchase 6 - 8 months from the time you would receive the products. What do you do when you are not working? When our sons were younger and playing competitive sport, we used to follow them to their games as much as possible. Our son Matt plays soccer for Pacific Palms, and we go to his soccer games. Dale and I are beach people – we love the water and we get to the beach as much as we can. I don’t surf as much as I used to years ago; too much touch football and two crook knees. I am now riding a stand up paddle board and have been for the last four years, and I am ever so slowly getting the grasp of it. Dale plays tennis three days a week and we try to get away either overseas or trips within Australia – preferably the coast – as much as possible! Thanks Ken.
t o w n s
o f
t h e
s o u t h
Visit a Great Lakes Gem
Boomerang Beach Surf Co.
Pacific Palms recreation club
Blueys Cellars and Deli is a little gem located in the unspoilt coastal enclave of Pacific Palms. Offering a genuine welcome and personalised service, the Cellars is your one-stop shop for fine wines, beers and gourmet food.
Boomerang Beach Surf Co. Stocking fine surf products since 1983.
Pacific Palms Recreation Club offers a stunning location with unsurpassed views of Wallis Lake. Affectionately known as The Recky, the club has a northerly aspect that captures the winter sun all day long.
The store has a wide selection of Australian and imported wines, from Margaret River cleanskins to Bollinger champagne. Ice-cold boutique beers and ciders, including Little Creatures, Fat Yak, Dirty Granny and Swedish Rekorderlig cider will slay the thirst of tradies fresh off the building site, or holidaymakers recovering from a hard day on Boomerang Beach. Blueys Cellars’ surprising selection of top-notch produce encompasses everything from Persian feta and Lavosh craquers to marinated lamb, ready for the barbecue. Be it a fresh Pastabilities ravioli, ready-made take-home Boeuff Bourguignon from Parenti in Gloucester, Maggie Beer and Serendipity ice-cream, or simply a jar of chocolate-coated macadamia nuts, we have something irresistible for every occasion. We also specialise in supplying Pacific Palms’ weddings and events with alcohol, soft drink and bar staff. Goods are sold on a sale or return basis – the surest way to keep costs to a minimum. Visit us at 197 Boomerang Drive, Blueys Beach, or pre-order on 6554 0297.
Since 1983 we have been servicing the needs of both local and touring surfers and beach-goers. This business still has the original owners from 1983, Ken and Dale Reynolds. The business is one of very few stand alone surf shops that stock all of the major labels - Billabong, Quiksilver, Rusty, Roxy, Hurley, Rip Curl, Volcom, O’Neill, Ocean and Earth, Oakley, Vonzipper, Dragon, plus many others. We have been able to trade strongly for the last 30 years because of the loyal patronage of the Pacific Palms locals and the holiday makers who come to this beautiful area on a regular basis. We have new summer stock in store now! Mens and boys boardshorts, walk shorts and t-shirts, ladies and girls summer clothing & swimwear, it’s all arriving on a daily basis. Also arriving is new season thongs, wetsuits, rash shirts, sunnies and headwear. So here’s to thirty years in business in Pacific Palms, bring this advertisement into our store and receive a 20% discount off any product in store. Valid until 13 September, 2013. Thank you to all of our customers and suppliers for your support over the last thirty years ... Dale & Ken Reynolds.
Al Fresco dining is our speciality! The Lakeside Bistro is open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Enjoy delicious steaks, seafood, pastas, roasts, burgers and more all while taking in the view from the sun-drenched deck. Our sunsets are second to none so bring your camera and capture a great shot. Kids are catered for too, with value priced meals and activity bags the kids will love. Nestled in a bush setting, with an open expanse of lawn running right to the lake’s edge, this area is popular with families. Mum and Dad can relax over lunch or dinner whilst the kids run around and play. We have popular raffles every Friday night and lunchtime on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month while every 2nd Sunday is Seafood Sunday with fabulous seafood specials followed by live music from 2pm for all to come and enjoy. We can also cater for all your function requirements, including Weddings, Parties, Reunions, Sporting Clubs or any kind of get together from small and intimate to large gatherings with flexible options to suit all budgets. The “Recky” is here for everyone to enjoy, so please come and pay us a visit. Remember the club’s courtesy bus is available every day. Simply ring the club on 6554 0207 for pickup.
manning-great lakes focus 33
t o w n s
o f
t h e
s o u t h
Pacific Palms Pharmacy Pacific Palms Pharmacy strives to provide a friendly and professional atmosphere to all our customers.
Pacific Palms bowling club
We take pride in knowing our customers both personally and professionally and accommodating their needs.
Pacific Palms Bowling Club is a modern registered club located in the fantastic tourist destination of Pacific Palms on the Mid North Coast of NSW.
We have an extensive range of both pharmaceutical medicines and herbal alternative medicines.
Pacific Palms Bowling Club provides our members and their guests with a great list of services to enjoy, whether it is a delicious lunch or dining experience, a cold beverage whilst watching the lawn bowls or placing a bet within the TAB facilities. We are also lucky to reside in the beautiful coastal town of Pacific Palms, a tropical hideaway only 3 hours from Sydney.
We are happy to announce Dr David Norus will be opening his practice, ‘Pacific Palms Family Practice’, in the near future, at 208 Boomerang Drive, Bluey’s Beach.
So ... haven’t been on a road trip for a while? Come and enjoy a great dining experience at the Pacific Palms Bowling Club, located at Smiths Lake. See for yourself why the club is the dining choice of the locals. You will be pleasantly surprised by the extensive menu available at an affordable price. Be spoilt by our friendly staff and enjoy a full range of beers and an extensive wine list to cater for all your needs. Meet our Head Chef Daniel Jessup and his friendly team, who will do their best to ensure your dining experience is all you expect and more. Check out our specials board each day from $10.
34 manning-great lakes focus.
Our staff are trained in providing the best professional advice.
The owners and staff would like to take this opportunity to thank our loyal customers for their support over the years and look forward to their ongoing support in the future. We have a wide range of different services and products available: • NDSS agent • Blood pressure monitoring • professional prescription service • Meds check program and pharmacists’ consultations • Medicinal products and information provided • Vitamin and herbal medicines • Digital photo printing • Webster packs • Sun care products, including sunscreen, hats, beach shelters, umbrellas and sunglasses • Vast range of giftware and children’s toys • Cosmetic and skincare products, including Natio and Natural Instinct
Palms Oasis Situated on Boomerang Drive in Pacific Palms, only 100 metres off the Lakesway is the family operated Palms Oasis Petrol Station and Supermarket. Our business provides convenient products essential to the community, such as unleaded, diesel and premium petrol, fresh fruit and vegetables, groceries and much more. We have cheap prices and a variety of takeaway food, like fresh pies from the Lakesway Bakery, fresh sandwiches, brownies, custard tarts and cooked BBQ chickens for only $10. At the Palms Oasis Petrol Station and Supermarket you can have your gas bottles swapped or refilled. We also provide hire of fishing rods, and we sell a wide range of bait and tackle and you can also get your fishing licence here. In our business we have a range of frozen goods, DVDs and confectionery, an ATM, sitting areas, and a bathroom is also available for customers’ use. Come in today ... if we don't have what you need, we'll get it for you!
focus
tourism.
Donna Hudson - Great Lakes Manager Tourism & Marketing
this is living Take the picturesque drive to North Coast
The well known lighthouse is an easy walk
Holiday Parks Seal Rocks, where you are
from the park and perfect for a picnic, to
a stranger only once. A place well known
soak up the sunshine and watch the whales
for family fun, you’ll soon be part of the Seal
passing on their way north and back. Enjoy
Rocks community. Relax in this idyllic fishing,
the magnificent view from this headland.
village that has escaped development. Experience a truly unique and uninterrupted break away. Wander across the road from this quaint and friendly park, and you are ready to enjoy the spectacular Number One Beach with sparkling water, rugged rocks and clean, white sand. Seal Rocks is a paradise
Tourism
Watch the day go by from the balcony of the beachfront cabins. For the campers there is plenty of choice of grassy sites, both powered and unpowered. This is the park to learn to surf or try a stand up paddle board, hire a board from the office. The protected northern beach is perfect for beginners.
for surfing, stand up paddle boarding and
This is real get away from it all camping, so
snorkelling. The diving is spectacular, and
bring your special treats along. You can buy
visitors are often treated to the opportunity
ice creams, ice, gas and bait from the kiosk.
of spotting the Grey Nurse Shark population;
Get a group together and enjoy some time
most days the frolicking dolphins are at play
out; call Steve and Katrina to book your
for all to enjoy.
getaway.
Donna Hudson What is it that initially attracts people to come and live in the Manning Valley? I feel this is a great question, as it gives us time to think and reflect on what we do have. s the new Tourism person for the Manning Valley, I have been looking at the region with fresh eyes and reflecting on what attracted me to the area.
A
After looking all over New South Wales my family and I decided to move to this beautiful area. Not only does it have the services required for a growing family, we felt there was the added bonus of the lifestyle choices available. From the beaches to the hinterland, the national parks and state forests, the river and creeks as well as the sports, arts and cultural facilities, you don’t have to go far to have your needs met.
beautiful array of colours bringing in the new day. I encourage you to take advantage of the stunning winter days we have been experiencing and discover your local area. Last weekend we were fortunate to go horse riding and have a picnic on the beach. Next weekend we are planning to visit Waitui Falls and do some bushwalking. Maybe there is somewhere in the Manning Valley you haven’t had the chance to explore? We all get caught up in our day to day lives, busy with work, things around the house, running around with the kids. Our lives are fast past, especially with all the technology. The best way to de-stress, nourish yourself, your family and friends is to spend time outside appreciating and enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the Manning Valley. When it's at your back door, you can sometimes take it for granted until a visitor comes to stay, who reminds us of the beauty we are surrounded by. Next time you have a day off or plan a holiday, why not stay local? There are so many things to explore from the country to the sea.
The best way to h de-stress, nouris d an ily m fa yourself, your d time friends is to spen g and tin outside apprecia tiful au be e th ng yi enjo e th of surroundings ” y. lle Va Manning
“
We now have a less stressful and a more fulfilled and balanced lifestyle, away from the city with more choices, in a fresh, clean and healthy environment. Our rural property has been set up to be as sustainable as we can through generating our own power, composting toilets, gravity fed water and passive grey water system, as well as growing as many fruit and vegetables as we can. This is complimented with beef cattle and other animals. We feel we are lucky to call this unique and diverse Manning Valley home. Instead of being woken up by traffic, now, we wake up each morning and see a different landscape unfolding in front of us, watching the mist travel along the creek mixed with the
Share your local outdoor experiences with us on facebook. Or if you, your family or friends would like help planning a trip or day out, talk to the Visitor Information Centre or see the new look Manning Valley...naturally website at www.manningvalley.info Enjoy our beautiful Manning Valley and all it has to offer! manning-great lakes focus 35
focusonhealth&wellbeing
by Tracey McKay from Curves Taree
focus on Beauty So winter has well and truly been upon us. Even though we are blessed to live here in the beautiful Manning-Great Lakes, we have still been experiencing all of winter’s glory. The days have been short and incredibly cold, and the wind has had an icy bite. Oh, and did I mention all the rain? This is a stark contrast to the conditions we all create inside to combat the elements ... Hands up who has had the heaters turned up high to try and keep as warm as possible? I’m sure most of us are guilty! Now that the sun is starting to rise a little earlier each morning and keep us all warm for a touch longer, we need to start thinking about undoing the inevitable damage. The contrasting temperatures are
a recipe for disaster when it comes to your hair and skin. Frizzy and out of control locks and dry, irritated skin are the telltale signs of this time of year. There are a plethora of products out there that all promise to fix these issues, but finding out what works best poses immediate problems when there are so many to choose from. Jasmine McQuillan from FOCUS, with a little help from Jessica Zammit, waded through what’s out there to help our readers find the best of what's on offer this August.
Quic k Ti p s to Low er Yo u r Cholesterol
Best Lip-care Clarins HydraQuench Moisture Replenishing Lip Balm
only
How much do we really know about high cholesterol?
$
85.00
Hydra Quench Moisture Replenishing Lip Balm is a rich, protective treatment balm that leaves the lips smooth and supple. Available at Saxby’s Pharmacy, Taree. www.trilogyproducts.com.
Best Vitamin Booster Dermalogica Age Smart MultiVitamin Power Serum
only $
This serum contains micro encapsulated vitamins A, C and E to help increase skin recovery, decrease fine lines and age spots, and to defend skin against ageing.
30.00
Available at Sanctuary Beauty, Forster. www.dermalogica.com.au
Best Balm m Trilogy Everything Balm. m. Everything Balm hydrates dry skin, n, nourishes and protects the body, y, strengthens nails and cuticles, condiitions lips, soothes nappy rash, mayy be used as a massage oil and is an n effective all-over moisturiser. r.
only $
29.95
Available at AmcalMax, x, Wharf Street Forster . www.trilogyproducts.com. m.
Best Eye Cream Kosmea Apple of My Eye Cream This rose-scented cream minimises fine lines and wrinkles and is formulated with all natural ingredients and features a groovy shaped hygienic applicator. Available at Go Vita Taree and Forster www.kosmea.com.au 36 manning-great lakes focus.
only $
44.95
C
holesterol is a direct contributor • Choose low fat dairy products to cardiovascular disease, which • Trade butter for olive oil or margarine is the leading cause of death in without partially hydrogenated oils the U.S., UK, Australia, Canada and many • Limit fried foods other countries. But how many of us know Another great thing we can do to lower the symptoms of high cholesterol? Did you our cholesterol is to eat more foods that know that there usually are no symptoms are naturally high in fibre. We should be of high cholesterol? That’s right. A direct aiming for 25 - 35 grams of fibre a day, contributor to cardiovascular disease has but the average adult only gets about 15 no symptoms. grams. Here are some really easy But don’t worry; there is ways to add fibre to your diet: good news. In most cases, • Add beans to your salads lifestyle changes can or sandwiches “ Do you know l ro often reduce cholesterol te • Add fruit to your es ol ch your levels and minimise the oatmeal, smoothie or t, no If numbers? effects of cardiovascuyogurt d get those checke lar disease. One of the • Choose whole grains right away. ” best ways to increase • Snack on nuts, veggies your HDL, or good and fruit cholesterol, is to exercise Lastly, losing weight can on a regular basis. It’s recomlower your cholesterol and mended that you get 30 minutes of reduce your overall risk for cardiomoderate exercise at least 5 days a week. vascular disease. Even moderate weight You can achieve this by strength training, loss, about 5%, can lower your LDL, or bad running, cycling, swimming, tennis, walkcholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, ing briskly, the choice is yours. and raise your HDL. You can get to and You should also look at dietary lifestyle maintain a healthy weight by following a changes. The number one thing we can do heart healthy diet and exercise to reduce our cholesterol is to decrease the Do you know your cholesterol numamount of saturated fat we eat. Our diets bers? If not, get those checked right should be no more than 7-10% saturated away. It’s recommended that adults have fat, which is about 15 - 20 grams for the their cholesterol checked at least every five average person on a healthy diet. Here are years. You won’t know if you aren’t tested. some quick tips to cut saturated fat: The choices that you make today can • Choose lean protein help lower your cholesterol and prevent • Trim visible fat from meat heart disease tomorrow.
Relationship Difficulties
Macintosh Lower Limb Clinic Macintosh Lower Limb Clinic and Macintosh Physiotherapy are family owned and operated, located centrally in Forster. Nigel Thompson (podiatrist) and Jess Pike (physiotherapist) are local residents who have over 30 years' experience, combined, in providing allied health care to people of all ages and all walks of life. Nigel has three university qualifications in allied health complementary medicine, myotherapy (muscular therapy and dry needling) and applied science (podiatry). After graduating from myotherapy, Nigel successfully ran a sports injury/ muscular therapy clinic in Victoria for almost 10 years, during which time he developed a keen interest in biomechanics and lower limb function. During this time he also worked alongside podiatrists at the Australian Institute of Sport, treating a range of lower limb injuries, which stimulated him to further his studies and enrol in the Podiatry degree at the University of Western Sydney. He has now been a podiatrist for 13 years. Jessica Pike studied Physiotherapy at the University of Sydney and has been working as a Physio for 14 years. During this time she has worked in the UK, Sydney, Newcastle, Taree and Forster in a variety of hospital and private practice settings. She really enjoys helping people recover from injuries and surgery and also provides a home visit service for those who need it.
Children need to be Children “Look Lyn: the water keeps moving”. We all stop our watering of the plants to share this discovery. The spade is moving around in the whirlpool in the bucket he has made after he lets it go. Over on the fence a boy and a girl are using a tyre to balance, reach and then drop down to the ground. One child waits patiently until the other is ready and then when the signal is given, the tyre is taken away so the first child drops to the ground. “That was crazy,” he says to me. He is still smiling as he runs back to take his turn of holding. In another part of our big playground there is small group gathered around a child who has a long length of pipe and a bucket of water. I can see he is trying to water our new lettuce plants. I ask him, “How are you going to get the water in the pipe?” He scoops the water up from the bucket into the pipe and then blows the other end and it spurts out onto a plant. He repeats the experiment, moving the pipe carefully to each plant.
Tell us a little about Co-dependents Anonymous – who do they assist? Coda assists anyone who is trying to improve their relationships with other people. These can be friends, partners, work colleagues, employers, family members. It can also assist anyone who is in a relationship with someone suffering from an addiction, or from a family where addictions existed, but is not exclusive to this.
Your Heading Here!
It is helpful for people who feel trapped in repeating the same life experiences and want to change but don’t know how to. If someone was unsure about whether it was right for them, what advice would you give them? The advice from Coda is to come to 6 consecutive meetings to decide whether Coda is right for you. There are two local meetings a week in Tuncurry. There is no obligation to keep attending; anyone can come as often or as little as they like. The cost is a gold coin donation, and newcomers are asked not to contribute.
Real learning takes place when children are curious, engaged and happy.
What are the benefits to those who attend? The benefits are greater for people who come regularly, and can vary. For many it is the start of a new better life, as old baffling selfdefeating behaviours gradually disappear and are replaced by new healthy behaviours.
For more information, please ring Lyn on 6557 2463, or email blossoms@westnet.com.au for a copy of our handbook and educational program statement.
Relationships with other people become healthier, new opportunities start to arise, along with a sense of self empowerment.
manning-great lakes focus 37
38 manning-great lakes focus.
Focus on Health with Dr Simon Holliday
I made a rash decision at a conference I attended in Hobart a couple of years ago. A few of us kicked on exploring that fabulous area around Salamanca Markets. One of the chaps who had presented that day, from the Bronx USA had written a book. I bought a copy and promised sincerely to read it. There it sat unread on my bed-side table shaming me for my broken promise. I only completed it when we went away on holidays this year. "A Plague of Prisons- the epidemiology of mass incarceration in America," by Professor Ernest Drucker looks at imprisonment as a threat to our public health. It takes a fresh look at the effects of "get tough with crime" political policies. These were originally popularised by Rockefeller in New York in the 70’s. They removed the ability of judges to show discretion in sentencing and required prison sentences to increase with repeat offences. It has led to an explosion in the prison population. The US now has about 7.3 million prisoners on any one day. With less than 5% of the world's population, it has 25% of the total global prison population. These policies target groups who are poor and marginalised and make them even more so. An Afro-American male has a over a 1 in 3 (37%) life-time risk of going to jail which increases to a 95% risk in the poorest ghettoes. The US now has more blacks in jail than they held slaves prior to the Civil War. Most prisoners are there for drug offences or non-violent and victimless offences. Incarceration has a massive effect on partners and their children. One useful way of assessing these health impacts is by assessing what proportion of a population’s babies die. The death rates of Afro-American babies is almost 2½ times greater that of US white babies and this rate is
higher by a third again if one parent is in jail. The communities, where most of the prisoners come from, also suffer. They lose the sort of social stability and pressure, which improve behaviour without police or jails. Prof Drucker calls for drug law reform, better access to drug treatments and calls for the US to look at diverting offenders from jail. We have seen this last policy in NSW with the MERIT (Magistrates Early Referral into Treatment) programme. The book challenges us to re-think some basic assumptions. Rather than protecting society from crime, we need to consider whether prisons may be causing disadvantage and increasing crime. I know we all think that Americans have no idea about anything, but we should look at our own backyard. Indigenous Australians make up 2½% of our population, but they make up a quarter (26%) of the adult prison population. In some States this is even worse. 30% of Northern Territorians are indigenous, but they make up 82% of the adult prison population & 97% of juvenile detentions. Australia has 115 prisons and spends over $3b per annum on them or about $315 per prisoner per day. An economic study last year showed that providing rehab and treatment for most drug and alcohol offenders would work here too. The ANCD report estimated tax-payers would save over $100,000 per prisoner per year in terms of prison costs, health costs (e.g. mental health or hepatitis C) and the costs of repeat offending and drug crime. With an election coming up, we need to ensure we don't get seduced by 'Tough on Crime” rhetoric which could cost us all twice over. Firstly by increasing prison costs to the tax-payer and secondly by increasing the underlying social problems.
manning-great lakes focus 39
focushealth.
40 manning-great lakes focus focus.
Dr. Bobby Kumar on Skin Cancer Dr. Bobby Kumar, Cosmetic and Restorative Surgeon, is now available for SKIN CANCER ASSESSMENT, TREATMENT and MANAGEMENT. Why see Dr. Bobby Kumar? • He has combined experience and expertise in the areas of Skin Cancer, Restorative Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery. • He has trained and worked with leading skin cancer specialists in Sydney. • He strives to achieve not only the optimal results for your health and wellbeing, but also the best aesthetic results possible. As a Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Bobby Kumar also specialises in: • BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY • BREAST REDUCTION & LIFT SURGERY • TUMMY TUCK SURGERY • FACIAL SURGERY • NON-SURGICAL FACIAL REJUVENATION Anti wrinkle and Dermal Filler Treatments All consultations are by appointment only. Please call Wendy on 1300 676 003 or 0430 491 009 or email bobby@bareaesthetics.com.au for an appointment.
Sarah Newman Sarah Newman is a Women’s Health Physiotherapist with a special interest in pelvic floor dysfunction, including incontinence, prolapse conditions, and pelvic pain for women. Sarah is a member of the National Continence and Women’s Health Special Interest Group, and the Continence Foundation of Australia. ACTIVE PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLES ARE VERY IMPORTANT TO WOMEN THROUGHOUT LIFE. POORLY CONTROLLED MUSCLES CAN LEAD TO PROLAPSE AND LOSS OF BLADDER OR BOWEL CONTROL. PHYSIOTHERAPISTS TRAINED IN CONTINENCE MANAGEMENT CAN ASSESS YOUR PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLES AND, IF NECESSARY, HELP YOU REGAIN CONTROL. Research tells us that between 60 - 80% of urinary incontinence problems can be improved with conservative measures, with research showing that it should be the first line of treatment offered. The earlier you are aware that you have a small amount of bladder leakage, the more that can be done to prevent this from getting worse. Sarah will ask you questions about your particular problem and devise a plan for your treatment. This involves exercising the pelvic floor muscles and improving their endurance and coordination. A pelvic floor physiotherapist will help you to identify the right muscles, and show you how to work them properly, helping you to get your problem under control.
manning-great lakes focus 41
my gave was
focusinterview.
Christopher Haggarty … stylist, tylist, blogger and fashion editor or has his origins in the Manningg Valley. Now, Christopher hass styled celebrities, regularly attends nds Fashion week and is becoming oming renowned for his skill and d knowledge in the fashion world d.
Where are they now?
christopher
H
i Christopher. You’re originally from Taree ... what’s your family background in the area, and your favourite memory growing up in the Manning Valley? My family has been in this area forever. Dad’s from Wingham, and Mum’s from Jones Island. Highlights were holidays with my grandparents by the beach at Harrington. What first sparked your interest in fashion? Definitely a cliché, but from watching The Bold & The Beautiful. I always wanted to be a part of that glamorous fashion world, that seemed so far away from anything I knew growing up in the country. You moved to Sydney as a teenager. Where did you complete your studies ... and how did it feel being a part of the city scene at the time, after growing up in the country? I came to study fashion design and ultimately to become part of the fashion scene. Me in Sydney was a perfect fit. After The Fashion Design Studio saw a sketch of mine, they invited me for an interview. They had the best reputation known for pushing out Australia’s leading fashion designers. I got accepted and landed a job as a Fashion Designer, before I’d even seen a full year in Sydney. So, you began your career as a fashion designer. What then prompted you to move into styling and blogging? I’m too impatient; the wait between first sketch and finished sample was too much for me to cope with. And I bore quickly … by the time an idea was ready for the runway, I was over it. The move into styling and blogging seemed to just happen. I became more obsessed with
42 manning-great lakes focus.
haggarty
the idea of dictating the trends, as opposed to designing them. As a Stylist, Blogger and now a Fashion Editor, I’ve had the chance to be featured in numerous publications, including Vogue, getting to showcase my work to a much larger audience. There are some high profile celebrities on the list of people you’ve worked with. What was it like styling Paris Hilton?
ChristopherStyle.com is a men’s style blog based in Sydney, that covers both the local and international menswear trends. The blog showcases the trends right as they happen. The collections that are picked and published are majorly edited to show the key trends that (I believe) will eventually work their way down the globe to the Australian consumer. It’s designed to be ultra attainable for the everyday Australian man. They’re the target audience; it’s not just aimed at the ‘metro hardcore fashion man’. It differs from other blogs, as it’s extremely minimal, easy to view, highly visual and showcases only the major menswear trends. I rarely have written content; a picture says a thousand words. My guys don’t need to be overloaded with written content. Now thanks to social media, the trends are even more accessible, with the Facebook followers bed She literally grab getting the trends my iPhone out of instantly, direct to to her my hand gave it their news feed. was like, bodyguard and What involvement ng e”, getti “Take a good on ap Paris was great, have you had with sn hone him to take an iP made and she loved Fashion Week over en of us together, th ” it. in r he everything I pulled the years? g ta me tweet and for her … it was all Years ago I was “hot”, apparently. the young fashion She was really fun. student sneaking into She literally grabbed my fashion shows … so it iPhone out of my hand gave it to really means a lot, ten years on, her bodyguard and was like, “Take a good that I’m now front row at all the major one”, getting him to take an iPhone snap of fashion shows. Fashion Week is the most us together, then made me tweet and tag important week of my entire year. I go her in it. Once she re-tweeted it, the Twitter for ChristopherStyle.com and all the other followers of @MrHaggarty tripled, instantly. blogs, publications and brands I work with, as Tell us all about ChristopherStyle. well as for my styling clients. com - What’s the target audience for This year was the best Fashion Week for me this blog ... and how does it differ from so far. My outfits were photographed every other fashion blogs out there in the single day and posted on competitors’ blogs, marketplace? as well as published in numerous magazines
“
and newspapers. Actually, one photo taken of me was seen by The Sunday Telegraph - resulting in a full page article about me for the Sunday Style Magazine. I was also interviewed at Fashion Week by the ABC for the story they ran on The 7.30 Report about the rise of the fashion blogger. It was a very exciting moment when I got a text from Mum saying she had seen my interview on TV - the extra Twitter ‘followers’ and Facebook page ‘likes’ weren’t bad either. You’re recently been appointed as the Editor of Sydney Standard Style ... tell us about this and what’s involved with the role? It all started last year when the Sydney Standard ran a bio on me and my blog, alongside a men’s work wear look I styled. Gaining a phenomenal response, they approached me about becoming the Contributing Fashion Columnist and having my own weekly fashion column. Now as the Editor of Sydney Standard Style, I oversee the entire style section, deciding everything from what trends to showcase, to what people to profile, to what parties to feature. It’s about showing the best of style. What are some of your fashion tips for the upcoming seasons ... what trends will be hot this year? At Australian Fashion Week it was all about leather, metallic, sheer fabrics, floral prints and monochrome - black & white is going to be massive. Having just covered the Paris Collections, I’ve seen a lot of fur, lace, sequins and corseting hitting the runway. Thanks Christopher. Photos: Paris Hilton with Christopher Haggarty, in that famous ‘tweeted snap’ taken by Miss Hilton’s bodyguard. Former Editor of Vogue, Kirstie Clements, with Style Editor Christopher Haggarty.
manning-great lakes focus 43
AUGUST 2013
WITH TERRI
Julianne Palmer Clairvoyant Medium
AQUARIUS.
GEMINI.
January 21 - February 19
May 22 - June 22
It is an exciting time for you and you need to be focused positively, yet you may have taken on some-one else’s stressful problem, which could be leaving you drained of energy. Imagine yourself inside a bubble, and fill it up with happy thoughts. An abundance is coming your way. ENJOY! Clear Quartz is a wonderful amplifier.
PISCES. February 20 - March 20
You may be feeling disgruntled in relationships at present. Relax! You’re not alone. Avoid making any ‘hasty’ decisions. Soon you will notice personal change and higher selfesteem. Good Luck in your goal setting. Live in the present moment more and try to have no expectations, GOOD or BAD, of your relationship. Citrine shatters negative energy.
ARIES. March 21 - April 20
Re-connect with passion for what you are doing. You feel like you’re running on ‘autopilot’, achieving goals but to no satisfaction. Try making the most out of every breath. As you inhale, think happy. Try keeping a gratitude diary (3 things daily you’re grateful for) for a month. Ruby re-ignites passion.
Family matters are likely to be an issue at present. Don’t expect the worst, or you will be missing the point. Instead, take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to heal yourself and all others involved. Besides ... did it occur to you that you may just be the only one who can fix things? Rose Quartz and Turquoise together help us to express loving, healing words without judgment.
CANCER.
SCORPIO.
June 23 - July 23 Ju
You have been experiencing high levels of energy lately, which has led to the discovery of new talents. Congratulations. These new talents need to be honoured, so enjoy that typical ‘CANCERIAN’ luck. Go have fun and play. Citrine will enable you to maintain high energy levels.
LEO. July 24 - August 23
If only you knew your worth! JUDGMENT is your major hurdle at present. You may be self-doubting, and this is likely to affect relationships. Avoid major decisions until you are feeling a little more positive about yourself. Orange Calcite washes away self-doubt.
VIRGO.
April 21 - May 21
August 24 - September 23 A
44 manning-great lakes focus.
September 24 - October 23
Reconnect with your talent in teaching people. You are able to share the most amazing insights and experiences, yet you’re afraid to speak for fear of how your words may be accepted. Focus on your intention or motive. Rose Quartz is very nurturing for all situations.
TAURUS. Now is a great time to wake up an old dream and play with creating change. You have recently experienced personal challenges and have gained enormous strength. Focusing on your newfound qualities will help to keep you safe from your self-doubt. Turquoise is great for self-validation.
LIBRA.
You are the MAGICIAN, remember? All you’re needing is a little clear direction. As soon as you have set some goals, things will shift and change will be yours, effortlessly. Spend some time in nature to release your tension. Blue Quartz clears the mind, energises the body and connects us to our soul.
October 24 - November 22
Your judgment is hurting you at the moment. Listen to your inner voice, as you know your own answer. Others’ opinions are serving to confuse you further, and you are still not hearing what you want to hear. Like yourself enough to listen to you. Turquoise gives self-confidence a boost.
SAGITTARIUS. November 23 - December 21
You’re always searching for and chasing ‘that dream’. This is not a bad thing if you are living in the now. Avoid chasing something that WAS and think about the ‘you’ you need to be to achieve your dream. Living in the moment is the key to happiness. Clear Quartz helps focus attention on the task at hand.
CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20
You may be confused by choice at the moment, especially since you may have wished for what you have. Remember if it isn’t absolutely right, then it’s NOT right. Allow this challenge to give you a new standard to live by, and don’t compromise that standard. Selenite stimulates our inner brightness.
A local girl increasing in popularity for her unique psychic abilities, becoming well known for her accuracy which is due to her faith and belief in her guides. Julianne has been a professional clairvoyant medium for seven years. She always had a sixth sense or feeling of knowing what was going to happen next and developed a deeper understanding of her abilities when she started seeing clairvoyants herself, 12 years ago. The clairvoyants identified that she had a gift and encouraged her to develop her skills. At first, she was reluctant in honing in her abilities until she realised that it was a special gift in which she could give guidance and closure to others through her clairvoyant readings and mediumship, as she connects with the spiritual energies and communicates with those that have passed over. She also has empathic abilities so that she can feel clients ailments, enabling her to provide greater insight. Julianne provides free card readings through her Facebook page, Julianne Palmer - Clairvoyant Medium, psychic parties in the Mid North Coast region, face to face readings at Thoughtful Things, Tuncurry, phone readings and attends the occasional psychic fair. She is also a trained Reiki Healer and Australian Bush Flower Essence Practitioner.
It’s been a busy few months at Forster Private Hospital (FPH), says Acting General Manager/Director of Nursing Dallas Tucker, as we complete the first stages of our Hospital refurbishment. Stage 1 is now complete with the opening of our new Dolphin Suites Consulting rooms & our newly created Day Surgery Admission Centre.
FORSTER PRIVATE HOSPITAL
patients do not need to be admitted until the day of their
and individual movie players. Services available include
surgery. These patients, including Day Surgery patients, are
chemotherapy, hematological treatments, iron infusions, blood
Dolphin Suites Consulting Rooms
admitted through the Day of Surgery Admissions Centre (DSAC)
transfusions, specialist drug infusions (Please note that this
The suites include a fully equipped Cardiac Stress Testing
where our friendly staff will complete all necessary tasks
service requires referral by your GP or specialist).
Room. Vision Australia now provides services on a monthly
required in preparation for their procedure. Access to our Day
basis. Currently onsite our specialists include General Surgery,
Surgery Admissions Centre is via Breckenridge Street entrance.
Dental, Ear Nose & Throat, Urology, Rehabilitation, and
Physiotherapy and Hydrotherapy Our well-equipped physiotherapy department provides
Food
both in-patient and Day Therapy services. Our experienced
increased as we welcome Dr Romney Newman and Dr Louise
Gone are the days of dreading your hospital meal! At FPH, our
physiotherapists and exercise physiologists provide prompt,
Berghouse into our new consulting rooms. In the coming months
newly appointed Executive Chef and his team have created a
professional consultation, advice and treatment. Our Gymnasium
we will be able to offer further services with many more visiting
‘cook fresh’ menu delivering tasty and nutritious food options
has the most up-to-date equipment and facilities ensuring a speedy
specialists and groups joining our team. Access to the Dolphin
made fresh every day in our fully equipped commercial kitchen.
recovery. Due to the overwhelming response to the opening of
Cardiology. Physician services to the hospital have also been
Suites is via the Breckenridge Street entrance. For appointments & enquiries please call 6555 1586
Day Surgery Admissions Centre (DSAC) Many of the procedures carried out in our Operating Theatres necessitate a hospital stay following surgery while many others are carried out as Day Surgery procedures. In most cases,
our state of the art hydrotherapy pool we are pleased to advise
Sally Whitehouse Oncology Unit
that we have now implemented additional sessions and programs
The Sally Whitehouse Oncology Unit is a purpose designed
to continue to meet the growing demands of the community.
unit, offering bright and spacious modern treatment areas. The room is bathed in natural light and features spacious
If you would like more information about our physiotherapy
yet discrete treatment bays, integrated décor, comfortable
services & programs or would like to make an appointment
reclining electric treatment chairs, access to wireless internet
please telephone 02 6555 1333.
Forster Private Hospital continuously strives to be the hospital of first choice for Doctors, Patients, Staff and the broader community through the provision of quality health care
NORTH COAST COMMUNITY CARE
chronic disease case management, palliative & personal care.
our Hunter Office, we have four other offices, extending north
Our level of service provision is designed to enable you, and
to Port Macquarie. This is our commitment to servicing
At North Coast Community Care, our locally based qualified
assist you, to maintain your independence and safety, while
YOU – the Hunter & North Coast COMMUNITY.
Nurses and Home Care Workers are driven by a passion to
living in your own home, with care and compassion. A full
provide you with the highest standard of Domestic assistance,
range of Nursing Care is provided by our highly experienced
Home & Garden maintenance, In Home Respite and In Home
and skilled nurses, to meet your medical needs. This is our
to see if you may be eligible for services under one of our
Nursing CARE. Our team of highly qualified and caring nurses
COMMITMENT to you.
contracted agreements or as a private self funded individual.
can provide a wide range of nursing interventions in your own
Our Hunter office, based centrally in Cardiff, provides care
home. Post operative & general wound care management,
to residents of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens,
daily injections, vital signs & clinical monitoring, complex &
Raymond Terrace and the Lower Hunter area. To complement
CONTACT OUR FREE CALL NUMBER 1300 381 469
Let us show you how at North Coast Community Care, we pride ourselves on our passion to deliver a superior, high quality CARE, in our COMMITMENT to our COMMUNITY.
Ph. 6555 1333 / 29 South Street, Forster / enquiries please visit www.forsterprivate.com.au
the place to be Bent on Life is the place to be this month when we partner with Bent on Food in a Sydney Weekender feature as part of Mel’s trip up The Legendary Pacific Coast.
Friendly & gentle dentistry with a focus on prevention A few important tips for prevention, to achieve a healthy mouth: Brush teeth and along the gum line with a soft toothbrush twice daily. Brush once after breakfast and the second time before going to bed at night. Anyone above 18 months of age should use the appropriate fluoride toothpaste according to their age.
fruit and 2 serves of vegetables every day. You should also eat plenty of fruit and vegetables so when your child sees you eating these foods, they will like to have them too. Breast milk is best for babies. Infants should not sleep with a milk bottle in their mouth. Bottles should be used only for milk and should be discouraged for use with other sugary drinks.
Water is the best drink, as it does not have any added sugar. Drinking tap water also helps your child develop strong teeth, as it contains fluoride.
Chewing sugar free gums can reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Sweet drinks like fruit juices, soft drink and cordials should not be given to your child every day, as they can have lots of added sugar and can cause tooth decay. Milk is also a good, healthy drink for your child, as it helps your child develop strong teeth and bones.
Children should have their first visit to the dentist at the age of 2. Regular checkups are important for prevention, and the frequency of checkup is decided by the dentist depending on the risk level as determined by the dentist.
Children aged 4 –7 years should eat 1 serve of
46 manning-great lakes focus.
Mouth guards should be used in sports where there is risk of injury to the teeth.
Quit smoking to improve your oral and general health.
It is a month of celebration as the region’s original French provincial store celebrates four glorious years in business. Bent on Life is not your average store, it is unique. You will find gorgeous handcrafted jewellery from Riley Burnett, Tuskc, Wild and Polka Luka, along with handbags from Manzoni, Louenhide and Melbourne brand Temono, which is not available anywhere else in the region. We have a great range of kitchenware and this month we are giving our customers a birthday present from us. Until stocks last, we will be selling our Neoflam range at 50% off the normal retail price. We are overstocked and need to make room for our Melbourne purchases which are all on the way to us. All customers who spend $50 at Bent on Life can pop down to Bent on Food and grab a free coffee made by one of our talented baristas. You will just love the choice of homewares
and Bent on Life is a popular outlet for wedding gifts. You can also buy online and your presents are tastefully wrapped to make your gifts stunning on the inside and out. Wingham makes an excellent day trip, it’s a great place to eat and fabulous place to shop, with clothing stores, retro shops and a few surprises. Make sure you plan to be there for the day as you will find many things to do in this friendly town. You can even partake in a glass of wine in the garden at Bent on Food, with our new liquor licence in place.
focusinterview.
BROOKS
Peter Camilleri, Race Organiser
P
eter, what led you ou to origiorigi nally start the Forster Running Festival? I guess this is my way of ’spreading the word’, in order to introduce new people to one of the oldest forms of exercise in the world. Exercise through running changes people’s lives - including mine as a reformed smoker. The health benefits brought about from running are enormous, and the reward is one of the best investments for your future. It is one of the simplest forms of activities, in that all you need is a pair of runners, and off you go. You don’t have to be good, talented or natural; you just have to start running.
FORSTER
Running f e s t i v a l
to capture the beautiful surroundings of ForsterTuncurry. I have been told on numerous occasions by competitors from outside our region it is one of the most picturesque run courses they
Rochelle Lewis, Race Competitor
have experienced. What are some of the benefits the Brooks
Over the past three years of organising this event, I have seen people who have never ran before take up the challenge of competing in the 5 km fun run, and then raising the bar for the following year by lifting their goal to the 10 km run and beyond.
Running Festival provides for both competi-
I am very passionate, particularly about the health and wellbeing of our kids. The opportunity for our kids to grow up in an environment where running and exercise is a normal part of life is extremely important to the future of our kids' livelihood.
competitors would tell you the sense of achieve-
When and where will the event be held this year? This year’s event will be held on Sunday 8 September. The start and finish will be at Forster Main Beach.
from outside our region brought more than two
What are the various classes of competition that will be held on the day? My vision is to encourage as many participants to the event as possible, regardless of age or athletic ability, by providing a variety of distances. The format allows everyone in the community the opportunity to achieve their goals, whether it is a 4 km walk or a half marathon. The events are: 7am - 21.1 km half marathon; 9am - 10 km run; 10am - 5 km fun run; 10.30am - 4 km walk and talk; 11.30am - kids 4-8, 2 km fun run; 11.30am - kids 9-12, 4 km fun run; 11.45pm – presentation.
How many competitors are you expecting
The course purposely avoids hills and is designed
pending course number capacity.
tors, and the Great Lakes area? All competitors are rewarded with a finisher’s medallion, while overall and age group winners receive cash prizes. Competitors who are competing in the half marathon all receive a free T-shirt. Most ment while crossing the line is the most valuable reward. The economic benefit for our town is extremely valuable. A survey completed at last year’s event showed the 550 competitors who competed family or friends with them, which resulted in an injection of almost $400,000 into our town’s economy. this year? I am anticipating 1,100 plus competitors to participate in this year’s event. In our inaugural year of 2011, we kicked off with 716 competitors, whilst last year’s numbers escalated to 908 competitors - resulting in a very pleasing 27% increase. How do people register for the event? To enter any event in the Brooks Forster Running Festival, visit our website and enter online. Online entries close midnight, Thursday 5 September; however, you can enter on the day,
The Brooks Forster Running Festival is proudly supported by; Brooks, Great Lakes Tourism , G.L.I.T.A, Anytime Fitness, Sweatshed Gym, Forster Surf And Sport, Forster Holiday Village, Nab, Beaches International, Manning Shoes, Beach Bums Café, Forster Amcal, Forster Tuncurry Professionals, Club Forster, Berg Building, Michelle's Sport Jewellery, Saxbys, Forster Beach Holiday Park, Cog Electrical, Hogs Breath, Go Vita.
W
hat’s your background as I will also walk/run with my 4 year old son in the a runner ... when did you kids’ fun run. first become involved with What training have you done to prepare for the Brooks Forster Runthe festival this year? After a break from a big ning Festival, and why did you originally year of training and racing, I have just started decide to compete? I had been going to the training again in order to prepare for this year’s gym for a few years, without any real direction; festival. I try to run 3-4 times a week, as well as I hadn't ever ran or competed in a race. After swimming and riding. I think part of the appeal my beloved Pop passed away in April of doing a 5 km event is that you 2011, I was looking for something don't have to do the long training that would give me a goal, runs. that was positive and would What are you hoping to I try to run 3-4 make my family and me achieve at the festival a week, as es tim happy. g and in m this year ... what are im sw as l el w I saw a poster at the rt of your goals? To have riding . I think pa g a in gym for the first Forster fun and make it to the the appeal of do at you Running Festival, and finish line! I always try 5 km event is th e long th thought, “Why not?” I don't have to do to improve on my last .” ns had nothing to lose! So I training ru race, but love to surprise entered and totally surprised myself. I never know what myself by winning my age is going to happen on the day, group in the 10 km event. I was or how I will be feeling. so happy; it was the best day and one How important do you feel it is to I will never forget. I had just found a new have events of this calibre available at a love for running. local level? Without events like this and pasSince then, I have competed in all the events sionate people like Peter Camilleri organising Peter has organised and many events in other the festival, I would have never started running towns. Last year I also raised over $1,000 for the and I am sure that there are others just like me. Cancer Council at a running event in memory It’s also so great that our children can watch us of my Pop. race, and then we can watch, walk or run with I now run with other great runners in Forster them as well and that people of all ages and all and am a member of the Forster Triathlon Club. fitness levels can compete. What event will you be competing in at this It’s also great for the town, as many runners year’s festival? I will be competing in the 5 km come from all over to compete at this fantastic event this year. I have done both the 5 km and event. If you have never done an event like this 10 km events previously and have found that I before, don't be afraid … just give it a go! You enjoy the shorter distance the most. might just surprise yourself!
“
manning-great lakes focus 47
focusinterview.
with Linda Bryant from Photography by Linda
Peter and Christine Calabria
B i Business s
H
ow long since Artisans On The Hill was built? We bought the block of land at the beginning of 2005. It was pasture land. The next twelve months were spent planning what was going to be built on the site. I spent many hours sitting on a canvas chair on the block observing the weather, sun and wind directions etc., before I designed the floor plans for all the buildings. The Craft Workshop was the first building erected. Peter and friends built this over the summer of 2005/2006. During the following year, Stage One of the residence was built. We moved from Sydney at the beginning of 2007, and the rest of the buildings for our residence and the business were constructed. The local company of Sorensen and Caldon were the builders that we used. Prior to that, how long did it take to create such a unique idea? The concept for Artisans On The Hill began as a very small grain of an idea and grew over quite some time. It began when I bought Peter a woodturning lathe for Christmas in 2003. When it became obvious that he was quite talented and his hobby took over the suburban garage in Sydney, the beginnings of a crazy idea began. The first idea was just as a retirement plan – a small acreage outside Sydney with a shed big enough for both of us to play and create in various crafts. Circumstances began to change and a move out of Sydney soon became the ultimate dream. Research into where and what began in earnest and 18 months later, the block was found and purchased. By then, the grain of an idea to have a retirement craft workshop had become the basic idea of what Artisans On The Hill has become now – a high-quality Artisan Craft Gallery, a café, a three-bedroom Bed and Breakfast and a range of Craft Classes. The
48 manning-great lakes focus.
the unique and professionally finished pieces in concept of Artisans On The Hill is constantly our gallery. We enjoy entertaining people over developing as more opportunities are presentcoffee in our café. Having guests stay overed, and we hope that we are always open to night is great, as Peter loves to cook for them, new suggestions of ways the facility we have and we also have the opportunity to promote built can be used. the Manning-Great Lakes area to our visitors. Artisans is such a unique idea – you’ve But our greatest joy is teaching in our craft combined your own home, your love of classes, which involve both locals and visitors craft and your love of people. What do to our beautiful valley. To impart skills and you love most about this business? knowledge to our students is very exciting. The It is a unique concept. In fact, before we majority of our students come to us with little, even began, we researched and realised that if any, knowledge about the craft and leave there is not another business in the whole of with something they have created in a day or Australia doing exactly what we are doing unless. To see the excitement in a student’s der the one business umbrella. face when they have made something Together with that, the is such a reward for us. Some of fact that we run this Artisans is also our students, in particular, have business in our own a leader in given us more than we give home, certainly ism, experience tour d Play' them. We have the opporsets it apart from an promoting 'Stay sitors tunity to work with all age most other busivi packages , where s B&B, ranges, from 4 to 84, with nesses. When an can stay at Artis ans a wide range of abilities, I designed the is rt participate in A end sp including both physically and floor plans, I read Workshops an e th g in mentally challenged. lised that to take time explor ” What are the biggest chalfull advantage of Manning Valley. lenges you face as a small our amazing views business? down the Manning ValBecoming known is our biggest ley our living room and the hurdle. From the very beginning, because café/guests’ dining room needed we are unique and because we are out-of-theto be one and the same. way (not a main street shopfront), we knew One of the most enjoyable that getting people through the front door aspects of our business is the ability to give for the first time was going to be our biggest people an experience that is based on the task. We have always allowed ourselves six to ideal of a home-away-from-home atmosphere. seven years to make this happen and into our Whether we welcome people into our home as sixth year, we are seeing our work coming to a visitor to the gallery or to have home-made fruition. morning and afternoon teas with our wonderKnowing where to spend our advertising ful coffee or a range of teas, to stay a night or dollar has always been a big challenge also, two or longer in our B & B, or to participate so keeping a close watch on what is working in one of our craft classes, we try to convey where is an ongoing consistent task. an invitation as a friend, rather than as just Listening to our customers is also a challenge another customer. we have accepted as a means to keeping our We both love people. We love to show them
“
business vital and constantly developing in the right direction. What have been some changes made this year? Physical development of the property has been made to make customer access more available to anybody who wishes to come and visit us, including the sealing of our driveway and ensuring disabled access to all areas of our property. We have also been able to 'Go Solar' this year, which has been an exciting development. We have been specifically targeting our B&B occupancy in the last year, with some great successes. Our online presence has been enhanced through larger and better use of social networking. You are both passionate about the valley. What do you think are some of the things that will bring people here? We believe many people will be attracted to the Manning Valley through event and experience led tourism. At Artisans On The Hill, we are promoting the area on both of these fronts. Artisans Expo, which is held on the last weekend in February, brings to the valley some of Australia’s most skilled artisans and suppliers working with wood, glass, metal, fabric and lots more. These artisans demonstrate their skills and offer advice during Expo, some running workshops after. Artisans is also a leader in experience tourism, promoting 'Stay and Play' packages where visitors can stay at Artisans B&B, participate in Artisans Workshops and spend time exploring the Manning Valley. The big benefit, of course, is that the workshops, café and gallery are there for locals to utilise, right on their doorstep. Many locals make sure Artisans is on the agenda whenever friends and family visit!
M e e t
t h e
e x p e r t s
Adam has earned a reputation as one of Forster-Tuncurry’s most dynamic and innovative property sales executives. Adam has successfully joined the MultiMillion Dollar Chapter of the Captains Club, putting him in the top 7% of sales internationally with LJ Hooker.
Adam Gershbach LJ Hooker Forster
fix.
“What you put in to it, you get out of it!”
The most significant achievement for our business this year has been nurturing and growing our core group together towards a common goal; as a result, LJ Hooker Forster has been achieving amazing things. In recognition of this great team, 12 staff members will be going to Sydney for the LJ Hooker Night of the Stars State Awards. We’re all really looking forward to a great evening. Well done all!
I can suggest the following: It is about the people. It's not what you know, it’s how you relate, so Listen, Listen and Listen. It’s a career and you need to do your time to gain experience in the marketplace. It takes time, so patience. Finally, start your day earlier and stay later! What sets your business apart from the
Position: Sales Manager.
What are some of the leisure activities you
Future vision for yourself & the company
competition?
Have you had any other career? I was the
enjoy to relax after a day's work? How do
Every day brings new and exciting opportunity; we actually go looking for it! Personally, I never know what’s around the corner, and that makes every enquiry something to look forward to. As for LJ Hooker Forster ... well, we can’t give away too many secrets, can we!
LJ Hooker has been an Australian household
Do you have any advice for someone looking to pursue a career in real estate?
for the vendor. Many agents just want to close
What better way to meet the widest range of people and build relationships; all of my clients have a story to tell. It is like most careers:
they sell, and strive to achieve more than that.
Area Manager of the City of Sydney Councils
you achieve a good work-life balance?
Parks that included Hyde Park and First Fleet
I have an amazing family life where we are
Park, as I have a degree In Horticultural Science.
a blended family of 6 children; therefore,
What are your strengths?
the work-life balance at times is quite often blurred. My wife, Karina, understands what is
My work ethic; I believe in the old adage that
required to be a successful agent, and it is she
success is “10% talent 90% perspiration”.
who helps me to get the balance right. One
This, together with a positive approach, and
of my key strategies is to have lunch every day
all those good things you strive for start to
out of the office. Also, playing soccer with the
happen!
Tuncurry Tigers over 35s gives me that physical
name for 85 years! What better way to sell your property than with an agency that is the most searched and trusted business in the industry. Most importantly, it is our ability is to get more the deal. We ask the vendor at what price will Even if it is $500 or $43,000 over the selling price; any less, and we are just like anyone else.
manning-great lakes focus 49
M e e t
t h e
e x p e r t s
Go off the grid Deciding to go 'off-grid' can be a big decision,
the best equipment from Germany.
and getting it wrong can be a costly exercise.
With a Mackies off-grid system, maintenance is reduced to a minimum due to the use of sealed gel batteries, so gone are the days of fighting corrosion, filling batteries with water, handling dangerous acid and being exposed to harmful gas produced by 'wet' batteries. A correctly designed off-grid system will have a battery bank capable of delivering a minimum 3 days back-up power in the event of poor weather, and if required, a generator can be connected to recharge the system or we can have a generator configured that will automatically start and supply extra power when required.
Whether it’s for a small residential system or a large hybrid plant, Mackies can provide customers with a customisable, professional solution which will suit the customer's power needs well into the future. Each design aspect is carefully analysed, from sizing the PV array, battery, inverter and generator providing a long term reliable power solution using only the industry's top equipment and supported by Mackies' 24/7 service technicians. When going 'off-grid', it is imperative that your system is reliable and designed with your power consumption in mind, by using SMA’s inverters and Sonnenschein sealed gel batteries; we utilise only
With a Mackies off-grid system, it will be easy to forget you are off-grid!
Approx. Loads
TV, Washing Machine, Radio, Basic Lighting, Pressure Pump
+ Computer, Microwave, Small Kitchen appliances
+ Power Tools, Dishwasher, Additional TVs, Entertainment
+ Small A/C, Home Office, Clothes dryer (infrequent use)
Daily Energy Consumption
8Kwh
12Kwh
16Kwh
24Kwh
Solar Array
2Kw
3Kw
4Kw
6Kw
Price Guide Inc. Installation + rebates
$16K
$24K
$29K
$42K
Pricing subject to site inspection and comprehensive client contact
Do you have the right level of protection? You work so hard for your assets you deserve the peace of mind that your policy provides adequate cover. With a meeting face to face all your insurance needs can be assessed and you can walk away with confidence knowing that GIO has got you covered. Michael Huxley is the man on the ground in Taree and surrounds, handling all your Insurance needs from commercial through to personal. Michael and his award winning team offer expert product knowledge within the security of GIO, a trusted brand operating for over 85 years. GIO Taree is part of your local community, supporting local charities and sporting events. They are passionate about the insurance requirements of their clients, helping businesses reach their goals and protecting personal valuables so there
are no nasty little surprises. Michael’s professional qualifications and 15 years industry experience both nationally and abroad are an asset to the local business community. His underwriting and claims knowledge provides you with the confidence that he can handle any insurance enquiry. One point of contact for all your insurance needs makes good sense, as your policies are checked regularly to ensure your cover is as competitive as possible. Do you understand your policies? How long since you last sat down and checked on your cover? Call Michael and his team on 6550 1216 for friendly service and competitive insurance over the phone or drop into their office in Albert Street Taree and visit them face to face. GIO It’s a Trust Thing.
It’s always better to talk face-to-face A good sit down chat is a great way for you to make the most of our expert insurance knowledge. Call today to arrange a time that suits you. Michael Huxley Shop 1, 20 Albert St Taree NSW 2430 6550 1216 mhuxley@gio.com.au
AMH Insurance Services Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative of GIO General Ltd ABN 22 002 861 583 AFSL 229873. 22499 22/05/13 A
50 manning-great lakes focus.
M e e t
t h e
e x p e r t s
HMM Accountants & Business Consultants July inevitably marks the beginning of a new year for Accountants and this year is no exception for local Accountancy firm Harrison Main & McArthur. After 43 years, partner Ross Harrison, has decided to retire from the profession and with this, the opportunity has been taken to refresh and relaunch the firm's brand. From 1st July, Harrison Main & McArthur will be known as HMM Accountants & Business Consultants, a Chartered Accountancy firm.
Engineering Geology Specialist What is your area of expertise and what formal training have you had? I graduated from Sydney University majoring in Agricultural Chemistry and Geology. I also have a Diploma of Education from Sydney Teachers College and completed a Master of Science Thesis in the Faculty of Mining Engineering. In addition I am a Chartered Professional Engineer and Fellow of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists.
In addition, partners Andrew McArthur and Rod Northey are pleased to welcome Andrew Parsons as a director of the new Company.
I organized the writing of “Beneath the Scenery”, a text for geology students and co-edited “Collective Case Studies” on Engineering Geology, which was published by the Geological Society of Australia.
HMM Accountants & Business Consultants will not only continue to provide reliable, high quality local accounting and taxation services, auditing and management accounting, but can also undertake business appraisals, advice on self managed superannuation funds, business structures and ensure GST and PAYG compliance.
When did you start your business? Some 37 years ago we commenced providing data for the design of foundations for roads, buildings and bridges for companies, councils and individuals. I have also been an expert witness in court actions for governments including the Commonwealth of Australia.
HMM Accountants & Business Consultants will retain its highly sought after team of Chartered Accountants, CPA's and support team. For professional, affordable accounting and taxation advice, come and see HMM Accountants & Business Consultants. Your first meeting is free, with no obligation.
Your profession has seen you travel the country ... It has. Being Chairman of three Standards of Australia Committees and various consulting assignments, has seen me work in every state of Australia at various times, with my wife Patricia and two dogs with me every step of the way. After Tasmania we settled in Chatham in 1990 where I have continued consulting in the geotechnical field, but closer to home.
Passport to a successful future Nathan Davey from Taree Christian College was awarded a JB HiFi voucher at his recent school assembly. Nathan won this by attending the Mid Coast Careers Market day held at the Port Macquarie Racecourse in May. The Mid Coast Careers Market is an annual event that aims to connect students with employers, education and training providers, volunteer and support organisations. It highlights opportunities and provides information on future careers and employment with businesses and industries from across the region. This year’s event featured over 80 exhibitors from a wide variety of backgrounds who informed participants about employment, career and study options in a fun and interactive manner. Each student was provided with a passport which needed to be stamped each time they visited an exhibitor and asked questions or obtained information. Once the passport was full, student’s names were then entered into a draw to win vouchers from JB HiFi. Nathan said he was excited to win the voucher and it was a complete surprise as his Careers Adviser kept it a secret until he announced it at the school’s assembly. Toni-lee Palmer, Work Placement Coordinator from Mid Coast Connect was available to make the presentation. ‘Mid Coast Connect works hard each year with TAFE to make the Careers Market as interesting and informative as it can. The passport was something new that we added for a bit of fun. I’m sure Nathan is pleased that he took the opportunity to attend the event and I also thank Taree Christian College for bringing their students on the day’. Toni-lee said. The Mid Coast Careers Market is a great example of how Mid Coast Connect works to assist young people with their transition through school and into further education, training and employment.
manning-great lakes focus 51
focusbusiness. with Sharon Fowle from Manning Valley Business Chamber
AmandaPriester
sharonfowle We have some very exciting news. The Manning Valley Business Chamber has decided upon a new format of business awards for 2013 that is more regionally inclusive. his year they will be known as the Manning Great Lakes Regional Business Awards and be open to businesses from the Manning Valley as well as the Great Lakes local government areas. This fits in with the Chamber’s Strategic Plan for 2013, which has a clear focus of building collaborative relationships with Great Lakes and creating an organisation that has a capacity to be a strong voice for the entire Lower North Coast region’s business community. “For too long our respective regions have not received the kind of support necessary to transition to the ‘new’ economy. There are opportunities for us to become leaders in innovation, and models of best practice in the niche arenas where we excel,” said Geoff Jackson, President of Manning Valley Business Chamber. “Our strategic plan calls for our business community to unite and speak with one voice to demand the same assistance that has been given to other regions and not get left behind. We are transforming to an organisation that will represent the entire economy of the Lower North Coast Region.” As the Manning Great Lakes Regional Business Awards, this will provide a larger platform for businesses to showcase what they are doing and provide competition on a regional scale that will drive excellence from enterprises. Many awards are aligned with the NSW Business Awards requirements and for those interested in competing in that space provide a clear and convenient pathway onto that pedestal. We have already had a number of inquiries from Great Lakes businesses who are keen to enter, and we expect that there will be record numbers of entries this year. Tickets for the Awards Gala Dinner will be in high demand, so we are asking people to buy tickets early. The Awards are open now and entries can be made at www. manningvalleychamber.com.au or contact admin@manningvalleychamber.com.au for further information. The Gala Awards Dinner will be held on 6 September 2013. Earlier this year the Manning Valley
T
52 manning-great lakes focus.
Business Chamber (MVBC) was asked to help run a networking group for local business women. The purpose of the group is to help women build their networks, increase their confidence and provide them with new skills. Over 100 women have attended the three events since it began in March. The events have covered important topics such as social media, personal health and wellbeing and writing awards applications. The feedback has been very positive from everyone who’s attended. We’re committed to assisting local women who play a key role in our local economy and community. To help MVBC achieve this goal, The Resolution Network has joined the group as a sponsor and will provide four complimentary tickets for each event. These tickets are for women who would like to attend but may struggle to find the funds in these difficult times to cover the registration fee. “Having the opportunity to meet with like-minded people and learn together can make a huge difference in business,” says Megan Lewis, Director of TRN. “I’m delighted I can help make this happen through the support of the Women in Business group.” The next meeting takes place on Thursday 1 August at Taree Community College. The meeting features Sally Reed on ‘Working with a Mentor’. The event will highlight the importance of working with a professional and other business contacts to gain valuable insights and tools to ensure successful business practises. To register, email us at the Chamber. If you would like to apply for a complimentary ticket provided by TRN, please email Megan Lewis on wib@ resolutionnetwork.com.au For more information about the Manning Valley Business Chamber, becoming a member or receiving our E-newsletter, please contact us on 6551 2299 or visit our website at www.manningvalleychamber. com.au - You’ll also find a list of upcoming events. Like us on Facebook at Manning Valley Business Chamber.
fabulous Summer colours I know it is cold outside, but summer if fast approaching and there will be fabulous bright colours to enliven your world. In the last few weeks I have started sourcing fantastic new product for summer. I was most excited to see the new range of Florence Broadhurst cushions and homewares that will be available in August. If you do not know who Florence Broadhurst is, she was an Australian artist and designer of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. She started out a stage performer, then painter ... eventually transforming her creative talent into a business opportunity, she started a revolutionary wallpaper business in 1959, creating hundreds of unique and luxurious patterns with rich and
vibrant colours, all perfectly matching her flamboyant personality. By the mid 1960s, her company monopolised the Australian market and started exporting worldwide. She died in 1977, only to leave a vast library of her work. Her designs are now reproduced under licence, and we will start stocking this great new range. It is affordable and made with high quality fabrics and inserts; you will love the great prints for both indoor and outdoor living, from silks, velvets, cottons and practical table ware, so there will be something to make your home stand out from the crowd. And this is just the start of some exciting new looks for you home that will be arriving in store soon. We look forward to seeing you. Amanda.
focusinterview.
Independence with your level of care. It’s your life. Make it your choice too! Sunrise offers offers a distinct choicee for seniors when it comes to care and support as they age. Normally they would be faced with little or no choice and usually end up on waiting lists to gain placement in an Aged Care facility.
N
ow Sunrise affords them the ability to continue with their independence in a private and nurturing environment. Independence and privacy of owning their own home is the foundation of a Sunrise Supported Living Community. The social interaction of like-minded residents and the security and personal 24 hour care by dedicated professionals ensures normality and is the most advanced model of senior living available in Australia. Sunrise stands alone compared to traditional nursing homes. When you are part of a Sunrise Community, you live in a happy environment where friendships can be forged while privacy is respected, where you can enjoy a lifestyle with a highly flexible program of care and support services designed to meet your changing needs with both choice and dignity.
At the end of the day, it is the everyday tasks like bathing, dressing and even just getting in and out of bed that define our independence, dignity and quality of life. Sunrise residents can choose to receive around-the-clock personal assistance in the privacy of their own homes such as: bathing, dressing and grooming, getting in and out of bed, assistance at meal times or regular status checks. You make the decisions about what level of care you would like, from domestic assistance
to comprehensive palliative nursing care, from fifteen minutes to 24 hour round-theclock care. As a Sunrise resident, you only pay for the services you choose, and that care is received in the privacy of your own home. You have many choices in how to spend your time, including catching up with friends in the Sunrise Community Room, or in your own home. You can join one of the many clubs or classes available, dig in the garden, get some outdoor exercise or head off on a chauffeurdriven bus outing. All Sunrise Communities are located near public transport, shopping centres and medical facilities too. Living at Sunrise is all about choices, and now you can choose between a one or two bedroom apartment. Each apartment has a fresh, modern appeal that combines comfort, practical features and safety. Apartments are bright and airy, have stylish kitchens and bathrooms and 24/7 emergency call buttons. Freedom of choice, retention of personal dignity and happiness of each and every resident is fiercely protected. Continual listening to the needs of our residents allows all Sunrise Communities to evolve and become personalised to their unique occupants, at all times holding true to the fundamental values Sunrise is based on. Call now for a confidential discussion or to arrange a no obligation inspection of our community. manning-great lakes focus 53
focusinterview.
C arol Holland Carol Holland creates amazingly lifelike animals using papier mache. The painstaking care she takes with each of her creations can be witnessed at Craftathon, August 3 and 4, at the PCYC in Taree.
W
hat originally brought you to the Manning Valley? I moved from the Central Coast to the Manning Valley 11 years ago, for mainly personal, health, family and financial reasons, with a view of retiring here. It is a very picturesque valley and so far, very quiet and friendly. Where and when did your interest in craft develop? I guess I have always been ‘interested’ in art and craft, trying different mediums and experimenting with making animals. My favourites are horses, birds, and reptiles. I loved going to the Natural History Museum in Sydney, where I was born. My secret ambition was to be either an animal artist or a taxidermist and work for the museum, or do palaeontology, scratching for bones! I had lots of ambitions in my younger days, none of which have really come to fruition, but I enjoyed the learning process and discovery. What made you decide to create life sized animals from papier mache? It’s a rather unusual craft activity! I discovered craft fur at Spotlight in Taree, and I thought to myself: “I’ve always wanted my own pony – why not make one!” So now it has become my obsession. I can’t stop buying the fur, and I now have quite a herd of animals in the kitchen and lounge room! I have what you could call a ‘bucket list’ of my favourite animals that I want to make, so I have lots more to do. Some of them don’t have fur, such as Aardvarks. Then there are other rare and unusual animals, like the Tapir and Okapi. Maybe it was a throwback to my ambition to be a taxidermist, without having to contend with the ‘gory bits’.
54 manning-great lakes focus.
I am not too thrilled with making the form of the animal, as that is the boring bit, but using the paper pulp to create the details and the finishing, that makes it all worthwhile in the end. Using papier mache is a cheap and available medium, and it recycles materials too. How did you learn the techniques you use to create one of your animals? Have you had any formal training? The only certificate I have is one for Show Card and Ticket Writing, which I needed for my day job. I would spend my evenings going to Technical College at East Sydney doing fashion drawing, art/painting, and sculpture. I learnt how to make forms in wire, plaster, clay and cement, and plaster mould making. I also continued at The Rocks Sculpture Centre at Circular Quay, learning how to make latex and silicone rubber moulds for resin and cold cast bronze and wax models. I later attended classes in ceramics, pottery, glazing, firing, kilns, and more mould making as well. So in some ways they all relate to using papier mache, as it’s just another medium to use. Most of it was trial and error, eventually gaining experience and technique. What are some of the different types of animals you’ve made? I have ponies, alpacas, goats (oversized and very large), quoll, bilby, pigmy antelope, musk ox, marmoset monkeys, sloth and baby. Hopefully, if I am able to, I would like to make the unusual animals as mentioned before. There are so many, and time, health and finances are the enemies! Too many ideas – that’s the problem! What are the processes you use to create one of your animals from start to finish? The bigger animals start with a wooden
framework for the body made from shelving plank. The legs and neck are attached with brackets and glue. The most difficult part is judging the measurements needed to keep the animal in proportion, and the desired size - not too big and not too small. This is where photographs, sketching and experience come into play, along with lots of trial and error. It is surprising how heavy the project becomes. Polystyrene from old packing boxes is used to create bulk in the body, or you can use scrunched newspaper and foil. Masking tape keeps everything together. Gradually the body proportions fill out. This is a very laborious process and needs to be continually checked, keeping in mind that the fur has to go over it all. The next step is gluing 8 to 10 layers of newspaper strips, the last one being a white layer. The papier mache (or paper pulp) is made from toilet tissue soaked in water, beaten till soft and fine, squeezed out, then glue is added. This pulp is used to create facial features etc. using various modelling tools. Glass eyes are added before the pulp dries. Once all is dry, the head and legs are sanded and the head is given a thin layer of plaster or polyfilla to smooth the surface. The face and features are now painted. Next, the fur is pinned on and glued, and manes and tails are added. With smaller animals, wire or wire netting makes a much lighter framework. How long does it typically take to complete each animal? This is a hard question to answer, as it depends on the size and difficulties that may arise, especially if proportions need to be adjusted. Drying times also vary with the
seasons. The frame for a small animal can take one or two weeks, and the whole laborious process can take several months. Your work will be on display at Craftathon in the PCYC in Taree on August 3 and 4. Will this be the first time you’ve exhibited at this venue? Yes, this is the first time I have exhibited at this venue. There are always new ideas and materials to be found at shows like Craftathon. I will be happy to explain how I make the animals to anyone who shows interest at the show. Why would you encourage others to attend Craftathon? There will be lots of exhibitors with lots of different talents at the show, as well as demonstrations and workshops, so it will be a very interesting experience for anyone with an interest in arts and crafts. Are the animals you create for sale, or created simply for your own pleasure? At this point I haven’t considered selling any of my furry friends. So much has gone into their creation, and I think I would miss their presence. Also, the difficulty in finding fur and materials makes it unfeasible, not to mention the time factor involved. But who knows what the future holds; they might have to leave home eventually. Thanks Carol.
the plug! 3-4
Visit Craftathon at the Taree PCYC on August 3 & 4 to see a whole range of crafts, craft supplies, demonstrations and workshops. Visit: www.tareecraftcentre.com. au/events/craftathon/ for more information.
focusinterview.
t e r c e S ry galle
F AT THE WHAR
Mehry Meybodinik Giving talented local artists an exciting new venue to market their works is the goal of the Secret Gallery at the Wharf.
W
hen en did you open he Secret Gallery the at the Wharf – and what gave you the idea to open the business in the
first place? We opened Secret Gallery at the Wharf on 28 May. On the opening night we had a special party with Vicki Bullard, the president of the Great Lakes Art Society opening the gallery and artists, local art lovers and family and friends and joining us for the celebration. The idea came from our involvement in painting and art as a recreational pursuit in addition to thoughts about creating a wider community participation in the visual arts, which we believe is somewhat neglected in regional areas. In addition, the availability of the premises brought it all together. What is the best thing about owning and operating your own art gallery? The best thing is being able to give talented people the opportunity to display their artwork – something that may not always be available to them. In addition, however, is the creation of a place for the local and tourist community to be able to come to see what ability people from this region have in the visual arts. For you personally, what defines great art? I obviously can’t speak for everybody, because how we feel about and react to art is a very subjective thing but art is, in my opinion, the innermost expression of the artist’s thoughts, feelings and ideas. 56 manning-great lakes focus.
Great art is when those though ts, feelings gall llery is in Suites 5 and 6 at the back of o the thoughts, gallery and ideas make the observer thinkk and feel building. and stirs the emotions. It may be that the art We have found that already we are under provokes the viewer to recall things about pressure for space for exhibition of all the items their own life, to think about something in a made available to the gallery. We would be new way, communicates an idea or just moves delighted if there was some generous person the viewer by its beauty. I see the world in a who was able to assist us with additional collection of wonderful patterns, shapes and space, maybe nearer the centre of Forster, to spectacular addictive colour – this is a great enable wider exposure of local art. fascination for me. What upcoming exhibitions/ What types of artwork or showings are planned for exhibitions would you say the gallery? at the gallery specialises We are always th It may be es ok ov in? changing the display, pr the art ll ca re to We will specialise with new work arriving the viewer n ow r ei th t ou in local art, because regularly. As we are ab things t ou ab k in th that is what we want to having this discussion life, new way, to encourage, with a we are changing the something in a an idea or communicates great display of local display to include a ewer by just moves the vi artists and a wide variety whole new set of work its beauty.” of styles. The styles will that has just arrived. include paintings, sculpture, We are particularly keen photography and mixed media to have the public visit on as well as extending to items such a regular basis to view the as hand crafted surfboards, painted latest items – I am at the gallery silk works, glass art, cedar furniture and from Wednesday to Sunday, 10.30am others. to 5.30pm to assist visitors. Our broad Why did you decide to call your business range of items ranges from the bohemian to the ‘Secret Gallery’ ... what’s the meaning the modern and at prices that will make the behind the name? transition from the gallery to your home or The name was designed to evoke a sense office an easy one. of mystery about the gallery. In addition, the Are you keen to attract new artists to the gallery is somewhat hidden away in an old gallery ... and if so, how do they go about apartment building with many rooms and as showing you their work? well as not being directly on the street, the We are very eager for new artists to show
“
their work at tthe gallery. Anyone with work that they woul would like to exhibit can call in to the Secret Gallery at the Wharf between 10.30am and 5.30pm Wednesday to Sunday at 8 Wharf Street, Forster, or call on 0431 836 140. Would you describe yourself as an artistic person too ... do you paint or draw in your spare time? Yes, I would describe myself as artistic. I have always had an interest in creative areas. From the time I was a young child I learnt from my family a number of skills related to artistic endeavours, such as dressmaking and painting, and I love to paint and draw and have designed wedding dresses. In my adult life I was a hairdresser and although not directly related to creative arts, there is a similarity in relation to use of colour and styling. In the recent past I have taken up painting as a recreational pastime and had some tuition to improve my abilities. I was also recently judged the people’s choice winner of the Go Cart exhibition held at this location just prior to setting up the Secret Gallery at the Wharf. Where exactly is The Secret Gallery at the Wharf located; what are the opening hours and contact numbers? The Secret Gallery at the Wharf is located at 8 Wharf Street, Forster and is open from Wednesday to Sunday between 10.30am and 5.30pm. We can be contacted on 0431 836 140 and would love you to visit us – please come on down and take a look. Thanks Mehry.
focusabode.
M A N N I N G - G R E AT L A K E S
property guide
FORSTER-TUNCURRY AWNINGS & Blinds Family owned and operated local business, Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds have been providing top quality window furnishings and awnings to the local area for over 30 years.
58 manning-great lakes focus.
focusabode.
Innovation and creation has been the driving force behind the continued success of Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds. Chrissy Jones found out more. ell us about your business ... We are fully licensed and have an experienced sales and installation team. We offer before and after customer service, free quotes, competitive pricing, and excellent quality products are at the forefront of the business. Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds was started in 1980 by Ray and Sue Hill, with Geoff Jeffries as their only employee. Their son, Greg, joined the business in 1987 after finishing school. Ray and Sue retired from the business in 2000, at which time Greg and Geoff moved seamlessly into their current roles of business partners along with their wives, Justine and Leteetia. As the business continued to grow, it was decided to employ Kurt Riddell, who has now been with the business for 11 years. Collectively we have over 100 years' experience in the blinds and awnings industry. We believe the strengths of our business are competitive pricing, using the best quality products available, good workmanship and after sales service. What do you offer customers? We supply and install a large range of quality internal and external blinds and awnings. We also supply and install patio awnings, sun sails, folding doors, screened and glassed enclosures, caravan annexes and tropical roofs for caravans. Our blind products include chain control roller blinds, aluminium and timber Venetians, vertical blinds, Roman blinds, panel glides, plantation shut-
T
FORSTER-TUNCURRY AWNINGS & Blinds
ters, external fabric and aluminium awnings. All products sold and installed by our company are covered by warranty. There are so many factors to consider when choosing the right window furnishings for your home. How do you help customers to decide what kind of design would best suit their requirements? After ascertaining what style and function the customer is looking for, we can then determine the type of fabric required – for example, a total blockout fabric for privacy together with light/sun block, a translucent fabric for filtered light and privacy, or a sheer/sunscreen fabric for filtered light and a visual experience. Once these factors have been determined, then a colour can be selected to match the decor. With such a variety of colours, textures and weaves to choose from, there is a fabric to fulfil every function and to suit every decor. Our experienced team can assist you in choosing the right products, together with managing the installation. There are many ways of dressing your windows. Thats why Forster Tuncurry Awnings and Blinds has a series of well-designed products, systems and fabrics that will create the desired look for your home, whilst delivering the functionality required to help create a comfortable living space.
manning-great lakes focus 59
focusabode. verybody has a different style and tastes Technology, which we believe it is the BEST CHAIN can vary dramatically when it comes to DRIVE system on the market. With Forster Tuncurry interior decoration of their home. Tell us Awnings & Blinds being able to offer our customers about your new range of LUXAFLEX® Blinds the LUXAFLEX® range has enhanced our business that can help customers to decide what is best to be able to offer further options to our customers. for them ... The LUXAFLEX® range features Q Motion, We are now the new LUXAFLEX® store in the designed for roller blind systems using an Manning Great Lakes region. The LUXAFLEX® integrated battery powered motor, there is no Window Fashions brand is one of the most widely need for wires or an electrician, they are designed known and respected window covering brands in to operate the blind quietly and seamlessly. Australia. Its products have been sold and supYour experience with us is sure to impress as ported by the Hunter Douglas Group in Australia we make it easy for you to transform your home for over sixty years. Throughout that period with an extensive range of LUXAFLEX® the brand has been synonymous with products you won't find anywhere quality craftsmanship, innovation else. Our interactive, motorised and value in the window coverand manually operated products “ Customer r ou is ings market. n on display mean you can touch io ct fa tis sa y; rit io pr The range of LUXAFLEX® and feel the range of LUXAFe on r be num it k in Window Fashions is the LEX® Window Fashions makth e w hy w that's lp he broadest collection of noning it easy for you to decide to nt rta is so impo w curtain window coverings on which product suits your do in w e you find th ch available in Australia. It instyle and needs ... at m ill w fashions that cludes Roller Blinds, DUETTE® With over 60 years of experi” . ts en your requirem Shades, Venetian Blinds, Vertical ence in the Australian market, Blinds, Timber Venetian Blinds, there is a LUXAFLEX® Window Fabric Awnings, Metal Awnings, Fashions solution for your window Sunscreens, Roman Shades, Panel Glide, covering needs. Each product is custom SILHOUETTE® Shadings, LUXAFLEX® Polyresin made to suit individual requirements. An obligation Shutters and LUMINETTE® Privacy Sheers. free in-home consultation is also available as every Secure in the knowledge that only the highest home is different, ensuring a perfect solution is quality products are supplied most LUXAFLEX® achieved for your individual style, design, function Window Fashions products are offered with the and fit requirements. unique LUXAFLEX® Warranty. Customer satisfaction is our number one priorThe LUXAFLEX® Alliance Program product by ity; that's why we think it is so important to help series now has a 2 tier range: The Classic Series you find the window fashions that will match your which is the core range of products that Australian requirements. homeowners have loved for generations and The To experience why smarter design begins with Living Series providing a more affordable solution us, visit our team at Forster Tuncurry Awnings and but still with the LUXAFLEX® quality. Blinds at 42 Pine Avenue, Tuncurry. Alternatively, LUXAFLEX® specialise in Roller Blinds which call (02) 6554 5300 or visit www.forstertuncurrynow utilise a new chain drive system called Edge awningsandblinds.com.au for further information.
E
FORSTER-TUNCURRY awnings & blinds
60 manning-great lakes focus.
focusabode.
We are proud to have dealings with over 30 builders and 15 real estates in the Great Lakes area. We thank them for their loyalty and hope to continue our wonderful business relationships with all.
What is the future vision of Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds? Our business is actively involved in striving to keep up to date with any new products and technologies which become available in the market place, and we will continue to strive to make sure our customers are satisfied with our before and after sales service. You have a strong association with many builders in the local area. What do you offer them? We are proud to have dealings with over 30 builders and 15 real estates in the Great Lakes area. We thank them for their loyalty and hope
to continue our wonderful business relationships with all. We strive to help them and their clients to the best of our ability always. What gives the company satisfaction? We also have many local home owners with whom we have a long history, and some with a short history, but all of our clients are extremely important to us. Thank you! Happy customers are the best advertisement a business can have; having the best result at the end of a job for each and every customer is our main priority. A P O L L O PAT I O S We can help you to make the most of our
beautiful climate by providing a truly versatile patio system that combines high quality, outstanding design possibilities and functional simplicity, with value for money. Apollo Patios have achieved a breakthrough in building design excellence. A skillion patio is the perfect way to turn wasted outdoor space into a protected, useable and functional patio area for barbeques, entertaining, relaxation or a sheltered play area. We can create an architecturally attractive outdoor extension, finished in a choice of styles and designs that will fit perfectly within the design features of your home. You'll be amazed at the
choices and design styles. Homes with efficient external shade solutions, such as patios and awnings, require much less cooling and heating internally. Awnings can deflect between about 75% and 85% of the sun's heat and light, to help keep your home cool in summer and reduce cooling costs. And by reducing the heat entering your home in summer, you also reduce the need for air conditioning, which of course isn't just better for your household cooling costs; it's also better for the environment.
manning-great lakes focus 61
FORSTER-TUNCURRY AWNINGS & Blinds Already have a patio with an unbearably hot steel roof in A N E W I N S U L AT E D PAT I O RO O F summer? Convert your verandah roof into a great looking inIf you want to create that indoor outdoor alfresco entertainsulated outdoor living area that combats the extreme summer ing area in your back yard, that can be used all year round heat with Ceilink. without worrying about the extreme highs of summer, and the At last, a ready to use insulated ceiling that will help you lows of winter, then a new insulated panel roof is ideal. survive the extreme heat and humidity of the Australian sumForster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds exclusively use Versiclad mer, with the added bonus that it will also keep the chill away structural insulated composite roof panels. A 3 in 1 specialty in winter. product which combine a colour coated exterior profiled steel The Ceilink insulated polystyrene centre reduces radiant heat weather face, a fire retardant polystyrene insulated core, transfer by more than 90% and achieves an R2.75 and a pre-finished ceiling face. thermal performance, making it ideal for outdoor One application is all that's required to living areas such as verandahs, pergolas, provide a roof, insulation, and a mainten sunrooms and sheds. When used in enclosed nance free ceiling face. io at “ One applic areas, the insulation properties help negate Versiclad roof panels will not only d is all that's require the need for air conditioning in summer keep you cool in summer and warm to provide a roof, and heating in winter, appealing to home in winter, but deliver a comfortable insulation, and a owners concerned by increasing energy atmosphere wherever it is you crave a e costs, with a bonus attraction of a dramatic relaxed environment. Long trafficable maintenance fre ” . ce reduction in mould and condensation. free spans of up to 9.1 m can also help fa ng ceili The Ceilink 900 mm wide panels are lightreduce the amount of unsightly support weight, manageable and prefinished with a white beams, to leave you with a fresh clear uninsteel ceiling face. Compared to traditional retrofit terrupted ceiling. ceiling installations, lead time is dramatically reduced, installaAchieving an insulation performance of up to R5.7, tion is a breeze and there is no need for painting or any of the insulated roof panels can transform the way we insulate our mess – making it the ideal ceiling solution. homes and how we live our lives, as well as becoming an As Australians continue to embrace the use of outdoor amazing energy saving component of your home. entertaining areas, Ceilink is an almost instant outdoor living Add walls, windows, glass doors or simple zip screen or café insulation solution and with some of the comments from its blinds to enclose your area to create a perfect weather proof customers, it's on its way to becoming an Australian requireroom. ment. Call Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds on 6554 5300 for Call Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds on 6554 5300 for more information and an obligation free quote. more information and an obligation free quote. R E T RO F I T - A N I N S U L AT E D C E I L I NG
comfortable insulated outdoor living Your new patio awaits
Call us today to talk about * New insulated patio awnings * New insulated screen or glass enclosures * Upgrade your existing roof with an insulated ceiling * Insulated tropical roof for your caravan Upgrade your existing roof with BEFORE
AFTER Insulated outdoor living that combats the extreme summer heat.
Insulated roofing will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter Using structural insulated roof panels for your project will transform your area and extend its use to all year round. Available in a variety of roof profiles, colours and finishes, they have the added benefit of being quick to install, and require less posts and unsightly roof beams, creating a beautiful outdoor living area.
FORSTER-TUNCURRY
$:1,1*6 %/,1'6 www.forstertuncurryawningsandblinds.com.au 62 manning-great lakes focus.
Outside temp 32°
6554 5300
ESTABLISHED
42 Pine Avenue Tuncurry
SINCE 1980
obligation free quotes
focusabode. Shutters are an investment lity of exceptional quality g which will provide long ome term value and home appreciation.
more information and an obligation free quote. SHUTTERS Plantation Shutters are also a big part of our business, supplied by Norman Shutters. They offer a wide range of materials that provide functionality and fashion to your window coverings. Shutters are an investment of exceptional quality which will provide long term value and home appreciation. Some of the range is: WOODLORE: a durable wood composite core wrapped in a tough poly coating to withstand the rigours of today's busy lifestyles, giving the character of wood without the expense. Shutters are available in a range of colours,
from crisp and clean to warm and woodsy; the perfect shutter expression is at your fingertips. WOODBURY, made with ABS material, designed for climate resistant construction, resists chipping, cracking and warping; UV inhibiting finishes resist fading. They are scratch resistant, humidity resistant and washable. They are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms and in homes with young children or pets. NORMANDY: custom hardwood shutter with distinct wood grain; the specialty collection includes shapes beyond conventional squares and rectangles, such as triangles, arches, hexagons and even round.
SUSSEX: these shutters are the finest quality shutters. Crafted by hand from select hardwood and finishes with a silky pallette of 18 solid and 34 stain colours. ALUMINIUM: exterior shutters protect houses from the elements and add a unique element of style and sophistication to any dwelling. Great for patios, balconies, outdoor dining areas, verandahs, carports, or internal and external window coverings. All of Norman Shutters' ranges offer the ultimate expression of elegant window furniture design. Norman Shutters' strengths are based on product design, quality, range and value pricing.
AN
To discuss your shutter options, call into the Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds showroom at 42 Pine Avenue, Tuncurry. Our friendly team will be only too happy to show you the extensive range available.
the plug! For more information on Forster Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds visit 42 Pine Avenue, Tuncurry. Phone: 6554 5300. greg@ftab.com.au
INV E S TM E N T
IN YO U R
HO ME
We believe the best shutter is the result of meticulous management of each step in its creation. Every step: research and development, product design, raw materials sourcing, handcrafting, quality control, and even packaging are car ried out with one goal, to bring you matchless quality, durability, and long-ter m value in your investment.
Forster – Tuncurry Awnings & Blinds www.forstertuncurryawningsandblinds.com.au Established since 1980 Phone 6554 5300 - Address 42 Pine Avenue Tuncurry
manning-great lakes focus 63
D E C A D E S
I N
T H E
T R A D E
28 years in business.
L&C Mugridge Automotive Service Centre.
Roddy Donegan.
L&C Mugridge Automotive Service Centre is your trusted Mechanical Repair Centre having been in business in the Forster/Tuncurry area for over 28 years.
Ever since I was really young I wanted to cut hair and when I scored an apprenticeship at a local barber shop where I grew up it was like a dream come true for me. He was a fantastic barber and what I learned stood me in good stead for the future. A short while later I was very fortunate to meet a barber called Joe Alessi an Italian genius who took me under his wing at the Grafton Barbers in Dublin and taught me all he knew about shaving. He reignited my passion for barbering and I credit him with remaining in the industry.
Following on after Belton's Garage which also was a long standing family owned and operated identity in town. Les and Carla have a great team of friendly and helpful professionals on hand to help you with any of your mechanical needs. Our team of fully qualified professionals can service all makes and models of cars, new or old, maintaining manufacturer warranty and log book service records. Our team can help you with a range of batteries, starter motors and alternators all kept on hand for your convenience all with a Nationwide warranty. Pop in and see us for a FREE battery check.
64 manning-great lakes focus.
You do not need to be a NRMA member for us to service or repair your vehicle Need a pink slip, end of warranty or prepurchase technical inspection? ... we can also help you with this - call us to make an appointment. We also specialize in 4WD servicing, repairs and after market suspension and accessories. Our staff are kept regularly updated with the latest procedures and training, attending regular NRMA Road Service Seminars and Training. Come in and see one of our friendly team Nicole, Brian (service manager), Will, Justin, Chris or Matt and bring along this ad to receive 10% of your next service. You can also find us on Facebook L&C Mugridge Auto Repairs.
Before moving permanently to Australia I travelled to Europe and NZ cutting hair and learning from anyone who was willing to share the art with me. Working with Neville Spence and his crew at Mr. Barber in Auckland was particularly rewarding for me working with barbers from many parts of the world, helped me grow and mature not just as a better
Crackers Barber Shop
barber but as a person as well. I discovered Crackers Barber Shop was for sale in August 2006 and came to Tuncurry from the Northern Beaches to investigate. I fell in love with the area and made the move soon after. It feels an honour and privilege to be involved with an iconic part of local history. Crackers Barber Shop is almost 100 years old and I love the fact that I am a part of its history. If only the walls could talk, the stories would be fascinating I’m sure. Seven years on there is no looking back, Crackers is expanding its capabilities by adding a fourth cutting station. In business you have to trust your gut instinct. The time is right for Crackers Barber Shop to move forward and kick goals. One of my favourite quotes is “Today I will do what others won’t, so tomorrow I can accomplish what others can’t” I’ll drink to that.
D E C A D E S
I N
T H E
T R A D E
Meet Ian Elliott ... who with many decades experience has just recently begun managing Brake, Clutch & Suspensions at 1b Trades Court, Forster. Whether you need the parts to repair your brake, clutch or suspension yourself, or whether you need someone to do it for you, then don't hesitate to drop in! 30 + years in business.
Ian Elliott. es Moy. left school at 16 and started a plant mechanic apprenticeship. On completion, he won 'Apprentice of the Year'. It was then that he transferred to Sydney. He began his studies in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Systems and Design and obtained a Diploma. After this, he started his own Hydraulics and Pneumatics business, which specialised in the food packaging and mining industry. In 1990 he sold the business and moved back to Hallidays Point, followed by Forster. It was then that he started working full-time on cars. That had always been a passion. In 2007 he bought Forster Brake and Clutch, and changed the name to Automotive Services Forster. He continued to specialise in brakes and clutches.
Brake, Clutch and Suspensions has now grown to be a stand alone business, offering sales, service and reconditioning of brake, clutch and suspension components. Des has employed Ian Elliot to manage this business. Des and Ian are supported behind the scenes doing all of the office administration and accounting by Des' wife, Belinda; they have been married for 31 years and have 2 daughters and 3 grandchildren. Ian Elliott Attended primary school in Tuncurry, followed by secondary school in Forster. He did his mechanical apprenticeship in Forster at NRMA when it was down behind the Lakes and Ocean Hotel. He then headed off to Sydney to work for a large tyre and brake service. He initially started out as a mechanic and soon moved up to service manager in one of the
Sydney Metro stores. After about 6 years, he got bored with that and went salvaging aircraft out of Bankstown Airport for a while, until that company was bought out. He then went back to the brake business again, first as service manager, then 2IC, then finally store manager. He moved around some of the country's stores for another 5 odd years, including Griffith and Armidale, then decided it was time to head home to the Great Lakes. Ian snagged a job with the local NRMA depot doing road service, mechanical work and running the workshop, and stayed with this for 10 years. He then moved to Taree and worked for another large brake company doing reconditioning work, fabrication and sales for the last 8.5 years. A few months ago, Ian came on board with Des and Belinda to run the spare parts side of the business, so Des could concentrate on the
Brake, Clutch and Suspensions
workshop (Automotive Services Forster). “An old work colleague and friend for many years once told me you know there's a big difference between a job and a good job, and I reckon I've found it,� Ian Elliott says with a big smile. Brake, Clutch & Suspensions: they don't sell seat covers, paint or radios. They specialise in what the name says! They can sell you all the parts to fix it yourself, or they can do the full job for you in the workshop. Aside from parts, they can build you brake pipes. They make up new brake hoses, both standard and braided.They machine drums and discs, overhaul hydraulic cylinders or machine your flywheel. They service both trade and retail customers. Just drop in or give them a call to see how they can help you. They look forward to seeing you!
manning-great lakes focus 65
D E C A D E S
I N
T H E
T R A D E
I moved to Forster in 1989 with my parents, Kay and Col, to start a new Auto Electrical workshop, and I commenced my apprenticeship under my father.
24 years in business.
Chad Chapman. s soon as we opened the doors, we were amazed as to how busy we were, and within months we employed our first apprentice. Over the years I have strongly pushed for us to continue employing apprentices, as the youth in the local area are able to achieve a trade - and also so the industry will always have tradesmen. Only employing tradesmen and not employing apprentices only damages our industry long term. In 1994 I completed my apprenticeship with Distinction and also won the NSW Apprentice of the Year. Even today I walk past my award hanging on the wall at work and feel extremely proud of what I have achieved and making my parents proud as well, as my
66 manning-great lakes focus.
father, Col, had won Apprentice of the Year in 1953 - the only father and son award winners. For the last 15 years we have also been full mechanical to complement our auto electrical division. I am qualified in both trades as an Auto Electrician and Mechanic, which is very beneficial, as this makes diagnosis on vehicles a lot easier. From the start of my apprenticeship I have always pushed myself to be the best in the industry. I have always enjoyed working on the most difficult and high tech vehicles, which puts you in good stead for future challenges, as the motor industry is constantly changing. This rate of development has ramped up in the last 5-10 years, which means that constant training and workshop equipment is required. My staff and I are constantly training
somewhere in the country every year, and ongoing acquisitions of the latest diagnostic workshop equipment allows us to work on the very latest vehicles. I thoroughly enjoy working on the latest systems on vehicles. Most of the developments have been in the European range of motor vehicles, and my staff and I have all been trained in the latest European brands - BMW, Mercedes Benz, Land Rover, Audi, Volkswagen, Citroen, Peugeot and Renault. With the latest diagnostic workshop equipment, we are able to achieve everything that a dealership can plus more, with software updates and programming, as well as log book servicing. My parents retired in 2009, and this allowed me to implement my ideas into the business.
Great Lakes Auto Centre
What we have achieved in this time has been amazing, with the hard work being recognized by our industry, winning the 2012 BASDN (Bosch Automotive Service Dealer Network) NSW Workshop of the Year and Apprentice of the Year. Unfortunately, both my parents have passed away in the last 2 years, which has been hard, but I am sure they will be looking down with great pride in what we, and later I, with my girlfriend, Vanessa, have achieved so far. I have a lot more to achieve, as the industry is changing quickly and we have to stay one step ahead. We will constantly strive for perfection in quality of workmanship, quality of service and presentation in all areas. I want us to be the best in the industry.
D E C A D E S
I N
T H E
T R A D E
18 years in business.
Mark and Sharon Jefferys. Owners Mark and Sharon Jefferys have been in Marx Tyres for 18 years now. Mark grew up in service stations in Kurri Kurri and always knew he wanted to work with cars. Mark moved to Forster 32 years ago, and for a period of time owned the Salad Bowl in Wharf Street, Forster, in partnership with his parents. Sharon, who is a local to the area, and Mark have been married for a period of 24 years. Together, they have 2 children, Kurt and Dane, who are now 14 and 11. Over the time that they have had Marx Tyres, it has continually grown. The workshop on the corner of Boundary Street and Harbord Court in Forster has a team of 5: one mechanic, one apprentice, Mark himself and the rest are tyre fitters. Not only do they offer everything to do with tyre services, but also full mechanical services, rego checks, batteries, suspension and brakes and mufflers. Next time you are in need of an expert's advice for your car or 4WD, then head down to the workshop. The friendly team will be more than happy to assist you in any way they can!
27 years in business.
Steve McCarthy.
Steve McCarthy Plumbing & Excavator Hire
The McCarthy Family migrated from Sydney to Forster at Christmas time in 1972 -73 to join friends who had already moved here. Alan, my father, worked as a plumber in Sydney and continued the trade on our arrival in Forster. Over the years he built up a good reputation as a tradesman and had a good clientele. My brother, Geoff, left school in 1979, and Dad offered him a plumbing apprenticeship. Then it was my turn in 1981. At first I did not want to do plumbing; I was chasing a bricklaying apprenticeship. I couldn't get a start, so I reluctantly took on plumbing. With two sons in tow, it would have been challenging for him! Luckily, we all get on well. Dad taught great work ethics. Younger brother Dale came on the scene after work as an Oyster Farmer. Dad coaxed him into joining the crew and doing his apprenticeship. A.G McCarthy and Sons grew from there. At this stage we were mainly included in cottage work, which involved a lot of excavating. We decided to purchase a backhoe (as machinery was sometimes hard to get when you needed it). Dale and I did the course and obtained our excavating tickets. In 2007, Alan finally called it a day and retired. The business has continued on, and hopefully McCarthy and Sons can service the Great Lakes area for many years to come. We pride ourselves on service, reliability and honesty.
manning-great lakes focus 67
68M i d - N o r t h
Coast Focus Magazine