Manning-Great Lakes Focus i83

Feature Story MANNING-GREAT LAKES

Alan Small

January 2014 // issue 83

mauboy

focus team.

Welcome to the January 2014 edition of Manning-Great Lakes FOCUS! appy New Year! From the team at Manning-Great lakes FOCUS, we wish you all the best for 2014 – let’s make this year bigger, bolder and brighter than any that have gone before!

You’re either a fan of New Year’s resolutions, or you can’t stand them – traditionally, I avoid making any (I find resolutions work much better for me if I make daily ones!) but this year I’m determined to try some new things and visit some new places. Haven’t quite worked out what or where yet ... maybe I’ll go and have a picnic at a local winery, be a spectator at a motorcycle race, go to see a psychic, or make it a personal mission to indulge in more of our local theatrical performances.

Hey ... guess what? We have all of these ideas covered in this edition of FOCUS! Why not make it your mission to try something a little bit different this year too!

ON THE COVER The fabulous Jessica Mauboy is appearing at Club Forster on January 14, with her To the End of the Earth tour. Jessica has come a long way since her Australian Idol days – she’s definitely a household name these days, with a presence that lights up the stage. Get your tickets fast, as this show has already sold out in other venues on the Mid North Coast.

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contacts.

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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 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.

IN THIS EDITION We were very happy to interview Alan Small from Taree Camera House. Alan chooses not to specialise in one form of photography – his talent behind the lens encompasses everything from macro to abstract photography. Check out his images – they’re stunning!

Local girl Rhiarn Schuck has big dreams – and the ambition to see them through too! Rhiarn’s currently studying at the Whitehouse Institute of Design. Find out where she’d like to see her studies take her ...

And Jaime McDonagh from the Forster Tennis Club tells us about a Tennis Cardio program, which is sure to get us all in shape for 2014!

And these are just some of the amazingly talented and interesting locals we feature this month.

EDITOR’S PHOTO We can thank Shane Chalker for this month’s beautiful image.

FINAL SAY “Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed” – Cavett Robert.

Jo Atkins – Editor jo@focusmag.com.au

EDITOR: Jo Atkins jo@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC / WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Annalise Montgomery annalise@focusmag.com.au

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

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

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Jasmine McQuillan jasmine.m@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Erin Coulson jessica@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones chrissy@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR: Reg Brookhouse reg@focusmag.com.au

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

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

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focus interview. focus interview.

mauboy Aria Award winner Jessica Mauboy is embarking king on her first Australian national headline tour titled To The End Of The Earth and will no doubt wow audiences CUS chats to her about her when she arrives in Forster on January 14. FOCUS exciting 2013 year and what the future holds. t's been an exciting year for you; how would you summarise it? It’s been CRAZY! I have had a HUGE year – with all that has happened with The Sapphires to writing and releasing my new album, Beautiful, working with the NRL, performing at the Emmy's and now a headline tour – it’s just mind blowing when I think about it!

Earlier this year, you worked as a mentor on The Voice, using your own experience. What were you able to help the contestants with? I just tried to give them as much positive feedback as possible. I was really impressed with the level of talent that came through the show and particularly on our team – it’s so hard when you have to make a choice – I wanted them all to go on to the final!

You are currently on your tour, To the End of the Earth. What are you looking forward to most about it? I am SO excited to be out there connecting with an audience and my fans again.

It’s been such a long time, and there feels like a lot of ground to cover.

What can we expect from the show? What's the theme behind it? The show is a musical journey through all my albums and a is The show y will have all the big hits, some ne ur jo al music s m bu al of the new songs and of course, y m l al through big e th l al ve a Sapphires' moment. I just hope to ha ill and w e new th of e m have everyone singing and dancing so , ts hi urse, a with me all night! song s and of co

You've worked with various people through your singing and acting; who have you found most inspiring? I have been blessed to work with some incredibly talented and inspiring ent.”

Sapphires' m om people – Deb Mailman has been an To top off an amazing year, you were incredible inspiration to me for my the recipient of an Aria Award. Tell us acting work – I have learned so much about how this feels and what it means from her, and she has been such a great to you, and how it felt to meet Alicia Keys? support for me. Musically, everyone from It's such an incredible honour to have received writers, producers, to my fellow Australian artists, to Best Female Award – particularly to be up against such my musical idols such as Mariah – there are so many an amazing group of talented female artists and on top of people who inspire me. that, to receive the award from Alicia Keys was such a special moment.

You recently became an ambassador for Yipirinya

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School. What will your role be? What do you hope you will achieve while representing them? My role is to raise awareness for what this school is trying to achieve, which is to give all these kids a balanced education by teaching them both the NT curriculum side by side with indigenous studies.

I hope that my involvement helps them to believe that they can achieve anything they put their heart and mind to and to pursue their dreams.

Your new album, Beautiful, has just been released. Tell us the story behind this? Writing this album was at times a difficult process – I'd just come off a long time away with The Sapphires and was really missing home and my family and friends. There’s a lot of that emotion in the songs on this album; it’s probably my most personal album to date.

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To then have Alicia invite me to perform with her at her Sydney show was just such an honour – she is truly one of the most beautiful and inspiring artists. It's a night I'll never forget!

What have you got planned for 2014? Starting the year off with my To the End of the Earth tour and continuing to work my album Beautiful. After that, who knows; I'm just excited to see what the year will bring!

Thanks Jessica.

the plug!

See Jessica Mauboy at Club Forster on January 14, at 8pm.

For tickets call Club Forster: 6591 6591.

10.

inside this

The MEC Jeremy Miller tells us about the year that was at the Manning Entertainment Centre (MEC), and introduces us to the upcoming 2014 season.

Hold on to your seats, because it’s going to be an exciting year of entertainment!

Issue 83 - January 2014

8.

Marine Rescue

usual suspects.

12.

Each year scores of boats strike trouble on our waterways. Dennis Travers, Unit Commander of Marine Rescue NSW Forster, tells us about a Water Expo planned for January 15, with members of the general public invited to come along and witness the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and a Water Police vessel in action …

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the

7. What’s On for January 18. eat featuring local restaurants 28. Tourism Update with Richard Old 36. Star Guide with Terri

Rhiarn Schuck Rhiarn Schuck is a local girl with big dreams, currently studying creative direction and fashion styling at the Whitehouse Institute of Design.

Already planning her Masters Degree and a possible career overseas, ambition and talent will stand Rhiarn in good stead …

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

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

manning-great lakes focus 5

focusintervie interview. iie ew w..

BRIAN CADD. With such hits as A Little Ray of Sunshine and Ginger Man an under his belt, Brian Cadd - The Caddman – needs no introduction. Now, w, teamed up with long-time friend and Little River Band sensation Glenn enn Shorrock, the duo are lighting up stages around the country with their new tour … t’s an interesting thing, Brian – but as soon as I mention your name to people, they immediately associate you with one song. Any guesses as to what that song is? It would either be Little Ray of Sunshine or Ginger Man. Yes, right first time. Little Ray of Sunshine!

If you’re a songwriter and you get to have a song that lasts as long as that, you’re very lucky.

I suppose the reason it’s lasted so long is because it’s so entrenched in everybody’s memory. It kind of relates to most people … most people either have a daughter, a niece, or they can relate it back to their youth, and then that first generation – which was in the late ‘60s – when they all got married and had kids, they related the song to their kids, and now their kids are having kids – the song still applies. I think this is allowing the song to live a long life, which is really wonderful for me.

You’ve experienced the best and the worst of the music industry, from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s through to modern day … which was the best decade for you musically?

Can I have half of one decade and half of another?

Of course! I’d probably have to pick the ‘70s, if I had to pick a decade, although the last two years of the ‘60s, which were when Axiom really came into its own and made its records … from that period through until the late ‘70s were really a fantastic time for everybody. Particularly in Australia from the ‘70s onwards, you witnessed the birth of the real Australian music industry – the one that took itself seriously and wasn’t just a hybrid of the English and American influences.

There was a lot of originality and lots of lunacy – but also a lot of freedom, and radio was in an

6 manning-great lakes focus.

extraordinarily helpful period where it played a lot of Australian content …

It was an era that produced people who made really unique records – like Daddy Cool, Skyhooks and lots of bands in between, who all figured out for the first time that it was quite OK for us all to write our own songs and record them in our own way, and not rely on what was going on in England and America.

It was a big turning point psychologically for us as an industry – we got to the point where there was a big difference between, “That’s a good record for an Australian record” to “That’s a good record”…

You’ve spent quite a bit of time in the USA – how much of an influence did this have on you music? I actually lived there from 1975 through until 1995, so it really became my musical life. I lived in Los Angeles for the majority of that time and was very much involved in the LA music scene – which was really hot in the late ‘70s.

Then in ’89, I moved to Nashville, when it was really starting to explode. Artists who had previously had massive hits selling 800,000 copies were now having massive hits selling 4 million copies! American Country music really influenced me, and it gave me access to another whole kind of musical world.

I’ve been very lucky, in so many cases, to have been in the right place at the right time in my life. I was born in 1946, which meant when I was 20 in 1966, it was when Australian local Rock music exploded all over the place … I was lucky to be right there in Melbourne, which was like the epicentre of where it was all going on.

When I went to England in ’67-68, we lived off King’s Road, and that was where the whole music world in London was.

In ’74 I was in America, and that was when the Los Angeles scene was just exploding … and then I was lucky enough, again, to be in Nashville in 1995! I do believe luck sometimes places you in the path of getting things done.

In the ‘90s, he came to my studio in Nashville and we made an album called Blazing Salads, and we went on tour with that. Subsequent to that, we’d occasionally get booked to do the same gigs … it’s kind of natural for us to get together to do this tour.

How did you and Glenn Shorrock actually meet? It would have been about ’64. He was So, The Story of Sharky and The Caddman in a band called The Twilights in Adelaide, and I … how much fun are you having with this was in a band called The Groop in Melbourne. tour? It’s outrageous! It’s actually the name of The Twilights moved to Melbourne, and on any both the album and the tour … the tour idea given Saturday night there were probably three came first. We picked a band and went into a or four dozen really top class gigs in studio to rehearse … it was like all the Melbourne … In those days, songs had a fresh coat of paint bands only did about 30 min– and in 5 days we cut that reutes … they did their hits, a cord and mixed it in another t en w I few covers, got into their couple of days. n Whe Kombi, drove 20 miles to England The most interesting ed down the road, set up, in ’67-68 , we liv part of all this is that and did it again. While off Kings Ro ad, about 6 months before and that was they were doing that, that happened, Axiom’s where the whole the other band who drummer, Doug Lavery music world in had driven while they returned after about .”

Lo nd on was were on, were in the first 30 years in America, and club … so, we basically just we’d always stayed in touch crisscrossed Melbourne on with our guitar player, Chris Friday and Saturday nights.

Stockley, so when we formed this

“

Obviously we’d run into each other all the time backstage … then there were industry parties and things. We knew each other for a long time before we actually recorded together. We met in ’64-65, and it wasn’t until about ’69 that Axiom was formed.

The Axiom experience was a fantastic one – it wasn’t very long, but it was an important one.

We made some pretty good music in that time, when it was important to be unique.

We went our own different ways, he ended up in Little River Band, I was in Los Angeles, and every time they toured in LA, we’d get together.

band and this tour, we put them in the band along with three other great guys … so there’s a section on the album and a section in the show where Axiom actually plays again after 44 years! That’s a mind blower for us, and it is for the audience as well!

Thanks Brian – can’t wait to see the show.

the plug!

See The story of Sharky and The Caddman at Club Forster on January 18, at 8pm.

Tickets cost $39.

Call Club Forster on 6581 6591 for details.

A RO U N D T H E R E G I O N //JA N UA RY 2 0 14

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Club Taree We will be holding Kidss Karaoke on Wednesday 8, 15 & 22 January from 6pm to 7pm with free entry.

Where Club Taree,121 Wingham Road, Taree.

Phone (02) 6539 4000..

Art at Café Exhibition At the Bean Bar during January and February, the artworks of local artist Fred Bullen will entertain and delight you. His traditional landscapes and nature studies sit comfortably alongside contemporary abstracts. Covering a great range of styles, subjects and materials, his paintings suit all tastes and budgets. Opening on 9 January and running through ‘til 9 March, this exhibition is the perfect accompaniment to the great menus at Taree’s premier café/restaurant.

26 Photography Exhibition At the Lake Street Gallery, by Gary Bond.

When Friday 10 January – 29 January 2014.

When Thursday 9 January through ‘til Sunday 9 March.

Open Friday / Saturday / Sunday 10am – 4pm.

Where Bean Bar Café/Restaurant, 1 Pulteney St. Taree.

Cost Free entry.

Cost Free.

When 34 Lake Street, Forster, NSW 2428.

More Info. Bean Bar 6550 0022.

Fred Bullen 6559 3787.

More info all inquiries during opening hours, please

Music in the Back Paddock at Great Lakes Winery, Australia Day, from 2pm to 6pm.

phone 0488 271 007.

More info Call 4997 7255 or look us up on Facebook.

Music in the Back Paddock

manning-great lakes focus 7

focusinterview.

Rather than choosing one speciality for his photography, Alan Small from Taree Camera House jokingly says he specialises in ‘life’. Alan’s love for photography started at a young age, when he realised just how special the ability to capture a moment in time really is … and today, he’s still just as enthusiastic about using his camera, or mini ‘time machine’, to achieve this …

i Alan. I’ve read that you caught the photography bug when you were a child – around 7 years old. Who gave you your first camera, – and what make and model was it? All youngsters are generally shaped by their experiences up to about ten years of age. I was fascinated by many things as a child, but cameras that recorded activities and events just amazed me. Here was a time machine, right out of comics, but it was a reality.

After much persuasion, my father gave me a plastic Kodak 127 camera for my seventh birthday, together with two rolls of film. I was in heaven. Now I had my very own time machine. I still have the camera.

What formal photography training have you had (if any); how did this help you develop your skill behind the lens? As a young man, I did a number of courses in photography, and also in the optical-technical field and was fortunate enough to be trained by some very skilled factory people on a variety of the finer cameras and lenses. Apart from a good understanding 8 manning-great lakes focus.

of the technical aspects, I don't think any of this contributed a great deal to my imaging skills; I think imaging skills, whether in photography or art, flow from your inner imagination and a desire to express yourself in an individual way … how you see your world, if you like. The technical aspect simply allows you to join the dots skilfully.

Formal training, as in so many fields, can sometimes be a negative; it can lock your imagination into the so-called ‘rules’ of your creative field. There is only one golden rule for any creative pursuit − writing, photography, art, poetry, sculpture − and this is it: ‘There are no rules in human creativity’. Aspirants should write that golden rule a thousand times and believe it.

One thing that always intrigues me about photography is the technical aspect versus creativity. Having great equipment and lighting is obviously desirable ... but how important do you feel it is to have a creative mind and eye? Great question, Jo. Having good equipment is important, of course, but the very finest gear on its own will not necessarily make anyone a creative photographer. It can be the doorway to great photographs, but someone

− either the individual or a good trainer, generally has to unlock that door so you can walk through into that huge library of knowledge we call creativity. Having said that, every human being is creative in some way; it just needs to be brought to the surface and developed as a fine art skill. But in some very fortunate people, that highly regarded skill can simply be innate.

Incidentally, there is only one ‘secret’ to good image making, and that is understanding light and using it to maximise the quality of the image.

The subjects you shoot are so varied: architectural shots, landscapes, macro work, abstract images ... what do you most like to shoot, and why? People often ask me what I specialise in in my photographs, and I jokingly say ‘life’. Some photographers do specialise, but I enjoy every aspect of image making, and as you say I also enjoy creating abstracts and ‘paintings’. Abstracts bother some people, but you

can't photograph a human emotion − you have to express it in another way.

One of the great challenges is capturing the unique Australian landscape − not just photographing it − capturing it in all its moods and using lighting to preserve the third dimension.

Much more difficult than it looks, but certainly worth pursuing. And of course, another skill can come into play − stitching multiple landscape images together and at times, raising the status of the image to what is known as 'HDR', or High Dynamic Range.

Skill with lighting is the key to all successful photography. The problem is that the less experienced photographers think they can actually photograph how we see. This can lead to disappointment. The fact is, our vision, when interpreted by the brain, is possibly the most sophisticated of any creatures on this earth, so it's difficult to duplicate that in a camera, no matter

focusinterview.

“

There are two major problems with macro photography apart from finding the appropriate subjects. Depth of field − that is, the degree of focus across the subject − and lighting … both of them critical and both quite complex to master. ”

how good the instrument is.

As photographers, we have to learn to 'read' the light and interpret it in the camera settings to give the impression it's as good as human vision.

That takes a lot of practice and experience, but what a great journey in learning the techniques.

Macro photography opens up an amazing world to the viewer that’s not often seen, but many budding photographers I’ve spoken to seem to struggle with this type of photography. What’s some advice you could give to help them out? Macro photography, particularly of nature, is just a wonderful pursuit.

It’s a new world. A hidden world. But, as everyone quickly discovers, fascinating as it is, it is not straightforward.

There are two major problems with macro photography apart from finding the appropriate subjects. Depth of field − that is, the degree of focus across the subject − and lighting … both of them critical and both quite complex to master.

Briefly, you need to close down a lens for macro work beyond F11 to achieve the desired depth and of course to do that, you need additional lighting. That can comes from a flash (or speedlight) balanced LED lights or reflectors, or a combination of that lighting. When down very

close, manual focus is better than autofocus.

Finally! Be patient.

One shot that comes to mind is a close-up of an assassin bug spearing an unfortunate beetle. But it’s hard to pick just one.

Of all the awards and accolades you’ve ‘Abstract’ photography is an interesting received for your work, which one came as topic. What does the term ‘abthe biggest surprise? Hmmm! All of stract’ mean to you, in terms them, to some degree. No one of taking photos? expects or looks for awards or recognition, but when they Certainly is interestcome along it does give epr ing. Sometimes abstract tly ie qu ill Iw you a warm feeling. But can occur naturally, plan a shot I can the odd compliment mera ca e just in a pattern or th e ak m e, se usively, and is almost as valuable texture, but in many settings unobtr ot when as an award. Or, an cases I will create eithen make the sh h as I uc owner of a print ther a semi-abstract I am ready. As m I also y, who asks you to sign love photograph what is or a full abstract ce like to experien the work. I think the using an in image as nd me.” ou ar g in happen biggest surprise was a basis for the work. In when I ran third in a world other cases, I will create a competition in Japan, which recognisable ‘painting’ from was open to thousands of phoa picture. Sometimes it can be tographers. made to look like a soft watercolour,

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What is the most unusual thing you’ve ever photographed, and where was the shot taken?

I am not sure the answer can come down to one image. I have certainly captured some unusual images at times, including many in other countries.

or they can be very dramatic. Not everyone's cuppa, but I enjoy that work.

If you were about to head off on an overseas trip, and you could only take one camera and one lens with you, what would you take? Why these particular items?

I like to travel lightly and like to capture images

simply. No one wants to spend their entire trip glued to a viewfinder or screen. Sometimes people hardly notice that I have captured a special image. But quite often I will quietly preplan a shot I can see, make the camera settings unobtrusively, and then make the shot when I am ready. As much as I love photography, I also like to experience what is happening around me.

For me, heading overseas I would take a good SLR with maybe two lenses: one 'everyday' lens such as a good quality zoom, and a wide angle lens. I would not want to be weighed down with too much gear, but I would add a UV filter and Circular Polariser to my kit.

For non-SLR users, a quality compact or a 'bridge' camera with a versatile zoom lens. Be sure to keep the lens very clean and hold the camera steady at all times.

Where can people see some examples of your photography? We keep a huge selection in the store, and our windows offer a changing perspective on the work from time to time, but the images can be seen in offices and also private collections and from time to time in publications.

But people are most welcome to come and see the images at our place of work.

Thanks Alan. manning-great lakes focus 9

focusinterview.

Jeremy Miller … Jeremy Miller tells us about the year that was at the Manning Entertainment Centre (MEC), and introduces us to the upcoming 2014 season. Hold on to your seats, because it’s going to be an exciting year of entertainment!

i Jeremy. As Manager of the Manning Entertainment Centre, what’s involved with this role?

I have the privilege of leading a team of full-time, part-time and casual staff and a huge team of volunteers who keep the Entertainment Centre running. We present an enormous variety of shows throughout the year and strive to bring the best live entertainment to the people of the Mid North Coast.

Looking back at the year that’s over now – 2013 – what were some of the highlights for you at the MEC? 2013 was the celebration of our 25th anniversary, so it was huge!

The Manning Entertainment Centre was built in 1988 after many years of fundraising and lobbying by the local community, and it has always kept that community focus. We marked the occasion with a Gala Concert featuring the many talented people who started their careers on our stage and are now working professionally all over Australia.

It was important to the original fundraisers that this theatre gives experience to young people starting their careers. So, it was fitting for the concert to show the success of that aim. There are people working on shows such as Mary Poppins and Mamma Mia, in companies such as The Australian Opera, on Packed to the Rafters, who had their first performing experiences on the stage of the Manning Entertainment Centre. We also welcomed back all of the past managers and people who have been involved right from the start of the Centre. It was a very special night.

There have been so many highlights of 2013!

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We welcomed The Wiggles for the first time.

Guy Sebastian returned, as did the Sydney Symphony Orchestra Ensemble. Kate Miller Heidke, Kamahl, Marina Prior and Tom Burlinson entertained us. The Ensemble Theatre’s production of Frankenstein scared us but was the best theatre experience I’ve seen in years.

The Complete Works of Williams Shakespeare toured from Adelaide and had people aching with laughter, as did the Melbourne and Sydney Comedy Festivals.

The 2014 season has now been announced.

How do you personally feel about the upcoming season ... and is there much excitement in the air amongst the other staff members as well? The 25th Anniversary Season was very hard to top, but I am really excited at the lineup for 2014. We have scoured the world to bring local audiences The Greatest Shows on Earth. Young audiences will love shows based on classic books including The Gruffalo, Tashi and Pete the Sheep. The Girls in Grey is a very moving piece that follows three Australian nurses in World War One. The Flying Fruit Fly Circus and 1984 will bring the thrills and cutting edge technology. We are very happy to welcome the Sydney Symphony Orchestra Ensemble back again, and to welcome the Melbourne Ballet Company for their first visit.

We have been working for over two years to present new indigenous voices on Australian stages, and we look forward to presenting the first results in 2014. We are part of a group of theatres that has found Wulamanayuwi and the Seven Pamanui, a fun family show from the Tiwi Islands that debuted at the Darwin Festival.

Wula (as it is known for short) combines pantomime, puppetry, comedy and traditional Tiwi

stories and will be one of the highlights of the year.

What changes/improvements are planned for 2014 at the MEC? There always seems to be a lot happening there! I’m glad you’ve noticed! We gave our bar and foyer a significant upgrade in 2013, and audiences have been telling us how much they love it. It’s a much more versatile space that now comfortably hosts small concerts, gallery displays and is the perfect place for a quiet drink before or after a show. We have some more work to do in the foyer area, including a face lift for the toilets.

supportive of this theatre and recognise the role that it plays in the community. I am very lucky with the dedicated team of staff and volunteers here. Their focus is always on how we can deliver the best experience for our audiences, and I wish you could see the lengths that they go to. They are an amazing team to work with.

Of course, it is all a bit pointless without the support of our audiences, and I’d like to thank everyone who bought a ticket in 2013.

Where is the best place for readers to purchase tickets to upcoming performances and also to read about what’s happening at the Centre? Our tickets are availWe are also upgrading The 25th able online at www.gtcc. our technical equipAnniversary nsw.gov.au/mec - It’s the rd ha ment. We recently Season was very ly easiest way to purchase. al re purchased a set to top, but I am r fo p You can choose your own eu lin e of moving lights, excited at th d re ou sc seat and can even see a ve ha which has lifted the 2014 . We l ca lo g in br sample view of the stage to ld presentation of our the wor atest re G e Th s from each seat so you can ce en dance concerts. We audi rth.”

Ea on s pick the angle that is best ow Sh also purchased a new for you.

If you don’t like purdigital sound desk (a chasing online, then the friendly Midas Pro II for the sound team at Movies, Games and More geeks!) which has brought an Taree will be happy to help you; they incredible improvement to the qualare open seven days a week. If you can’t ity of our sound production, as well as make it into Taree, you can call them on 6552 giving greater versatility to our technical 5699 and buy tickets over the phone. crew.

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I don’t want to give too much away, but trust me when I say there are plenty of exciting announcements to come throughout 2014.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank for assisting with the 2013 season? It is important to acknowledge the role of Greater Taree City Council who own and operate the Manning Entertainment Centre. Council is incredibly

Our website lists all the upcoming shows. We are also seeing a lot of activity on social media and you can find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Our Season Brochure lists all the highlights for the year and is available at cafés, libraries and other locations, or you can give us a call and we’ll happily send you a copy.

Thanks Jeremy.

Matters.

legallight.

[ w ith Alan Tickle ]

PaE NnS ATi T I ck CeL A]I M S [ wit w i t hC OAMlla wi T Tickle cO Nk le NEED EXPERT LEGAL ADVICE Dear Alan,

First Home Saver Account and super.

My husband is on about $100,000 per year,

Because neither of you have owned a home, depositing $6,000 each per year to a first home saver account will enable you to receive the current federal government co-contribution of $1020 per annum each.

but we don’t seem to get on top of personal loans and credit cards.

I am not working at present due to the age

You’re never ready when you are disabled by an accident. It can be a devastating blow that changes your life forever. Financial compensation won’t fix the debilitat-

of our youngest of 4 children.

We have never owned a home and are worried that all of my husband’s super will

ing injury, but it can help you get your life back on track. That’s why it’s important

be used to purchase a house when he retires

to get good legal advice from experienced specialists in compensation law.

in 10 years, leaving very little for retirement.

A friend in similar circumstances said that

ompensation cases can get

C

very complicated when legal arguments get bogged down over who was responsible for an

accident. Take for example this recent case: A man was working on a shed at a rural property he was renting with his partner.

They wanted to use the shed as a stable and needed water. The agent told them it was their responsibility as tenants to clear the shed gutters to connect tank water.

The inspection report by the agent said the shed roof was in good condition. The man climbed on the roof to clear the gutters, but suddenly the roof collapsed. He was severely injured in the fall, losing the use of his legs.

The man sought expert legal help. It was a difficult case. The property owner said the agent was responsible. The agent blamed the owner for not informing him of the condition of the roof. Under NSW law the owner isn’t obliged to provide an inspection report done by a building expert and doesn’t have to provide a property completely free of defects. The injured man was also likely to be held to be partly responsible, as it was

his decision to climb on the roof that was old and weathered. In mediation, the man’s legal team was able to win him a substantial settlement to support him in his disability.

you were able to access their super, but my

In another case a teenager was left badly disabled when the fork holding the front wheel of his $1,200 mountain bike collapsed. Even though he was wearing a helmet, he was left brain injured. Scientific tests found casting defects in the metal compound of the fork.

My husband only has 2 years' income

What followed was an international conga line of blame. The boy’s lawyers sued the importer of the faulty bike. The importer sued the German manufacturer. The German manufacturer sued the Taiwan subcontractor that made the part. They sued another Taiwan firm that fitted the part to the bike.

After a huge effort, the boy’s lawyers finally got the companies to court. Finally, on the fourth day of the trial, the firms settled for an eight figure sum.

and there are some solutions for you.

Most compensation lawyers work on a no win-no fee basis, so they are highly motivated to get a good result for their clients.

husband’s industry fund said we can’t get at his super even though my husband is over 55. protection in the super fund and not much insurance.

There is $200,000 in super now.

Do you have any suggestions? WM Dear WM, There are a number of issues to work through, The big thing in your favour is that your husband is on good income and there is a reasonable amount of superannuation to work with.

Budget A starting point is to record the unavoidable expenses such as rent, electricity, phone, food, school fees, and basic living costs.

The next step is to consolidate present consumer debt and take up some attractive credit card transfer offers.

The trick is to not add to that amount otherwise, the interest saved will be diluted by higher charges on new purchases.

There are some reasonable personal loan rates available now, which makes consolidating a consideration.

The lifestyle budget must be set only after the key goals and the required budget has been established.

This is not based on income and even though you are not working, provided that you can complete a declaration each year that you are an Australian Tax payer but that you have not earned sufficient income to pay tax, you will still receive the co-contribution.

While your husband can’t access the super, he can roll to an account based pension and draw up to 10% of the account balance annually as a pension payment.

This can be used to fund the two home saver accounts.

The $12,000 per annum, plus interest and cocontributions over the next four years (minimum contribution term) will build a nice deposit to purchase a house and paying it off rather than renting.

Salary Sacrifice After taking a hard look at a budget, increasing superannuation contributions as a salary sacrifice will not only save tax, but build up superannuation for retirement or commence paying off any residual that might be left on your home loan.

There are limits based on age (in your husband’s case $25,000 pa including employer contributions) so getting the numbers correct is important, otherwise taxation penalties apply.

Insurance and Estate Planning Only having two years' income cover really leaves the family vulnerable. Having enough cover to continue meeting commitments such as a mortgage and lump sum cover for serious illness, incapacity or death is important for both of you, as well as the family that depends on you. In summary, there are solutions but it will involve getting individual advice and being committed as a family to achieve your goals.

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.

manning-great lakes focus 11

focusinterview.

Each year scores of boats strike trouble on our waterways. Dennis Travers, Unit Commander of Marine Rescue NSW Forster, tells us about a Water Expo planned for January 15, with members of the general public invited to come along and witness the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and a Water Police vessel in action …

How many volunteers do you currently have?

Is the service still actively recruiting new volunteers? We have 133 volunteers at present, made up of both ladies and men. hat’s your position with the local marine rescue service, and how long have you been in this role?

I have been Unit Commander for 3½ years; my position is up for election in June this year.

We are looking for volunteers for both the boats and radio room and also fundraising. Anyone interested can come and talk to me at the Base on Monday, Thursday or Friday mornings between 9am and noon.

What are some of the duties and responsibilities you have to fulfil in this position? My role is to lead the Unit in the delivery of SAR (search and rescue) and emergency response, communication, fundraising and boat safety education.

A special water expo day is being planned for January 15. Where will this event be held, and what time does it kick off?

At the Water Expo Day at the Base on the Forster (southern) Breakwall, on Wednesday 15 January starting at 10am and going to around 1pm, we will have the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and a Marine Area Command (Water Police) vessel.

What are the key aims and responsibilities of the marine rescue service? The main aim of the Unit is to maintain 24/7 radio watch for any emergencies/assists from any boat on the water.

On average, how many rescue operations does the local service undertake each year?

So far this year we have assisted 49 boats, 27 on Wallis Lake and 22 out at sea. The total value of boats assisted is approx. $1,550,000.

12 manning-great lakes focus.

the helicopter onto the vessel and then back to the helicopter.

Who will some of the visiting organisations/ individuals in attendance on the day be? Other agencies that will be having displays are: Marine Rescue NSW Forster Tuncurry, Marine Rescue NSW Crowdy Harrington (with their boat on a trailer), NSW Maritime, NSW Fisheries, Australian Customs and Surf Life Saving NSW.

So far this year we have assisted Wallis 49 bo ats, 27 on at sea. t ou Lake and 22 bo ats of e lu va l The tota ox . assisted is appr $1,550,000.”

“

What are some of the activities that will be happening on the day? Weather permitting, the helicopter and the Water Police vessel will carry out a demonstration of winching a person from

Also, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Fund Raisers will be having a display.

Overall, what is the aim of the water expo – what do you hope it will achieve? The aim of the day is to show the public how the Westpac Rescue Helicopter works with boats at sea and also to have displays where people can ask questions on anything about the marine side e.g. marine rescue, boating, fishing, customs and surf life saving.

Thanks Dennis.

The Best Art on the Coast this Summer!

The Glasshouse Port Macquarie is hosting two outstanding exhibitions this summer – the Archibald Prize 2013 Regional Tour and Bodywork: Australian Jewellery 1970-2012.

the 2013 Archibald Prize is no different.

Needing little introduction, the Archibald Prize is Australia’s most famous and prestigious art prize. It is now on its regional tour, taking 39 finalist portraits to just eight galleries across NSW and Victoria. Glasshouse Port Macquarie is the only gallery on the Mid North Coast to host this year’s tour – and it is on display until January 26 and is expected the draw thousands to the gallery. The Archibald Prize was first awarded in 1921 and over the years some of Australia’s most prominent artists have entered and the subjects have been equally celebrated in their fields – and

jewellers exploring jewellery from a number

Also on display is Bodywork: Australian Jewellery 1970 - 2012 from the National Gallery of Australia, featuring the work of 42 Australian of viewpoints. The exhibition presents the visitors with a fabulous and intriguing display of jewellery, examining the themes of Romanticism, Interpreting the Vernacular, Encapsulating Nature, Technics, Social Message and Sculpture for the Body. Jewellery designers work on a small scale and exercise advanced craft skills to bring a variety of materials together as desirable and durable objects. All of the works are from the collection of the National Gallery of Australia.

The National Gallery of Australia acknowledges funding support from Visions of Australia, an Australian Government Program supporting touring exhibitions by providing funding assistance for the development and touring of cultural material across Australia; and the National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program, an Australian Government program aiming to improve access to the national collections for all Australians.

Susan Cohn Systematic Gibsonia no. 2, condom pendant 1995 National Gallery of Australia, Canberra purchased 1995. The National Gallery of Australia is an Australian Government Agency

manning-great lakes focus 13

focus focu fo cus cu usin iinterview. ntte erv rvie iew. ew w..

RedTail

What better way to spend a day than driving in the Manning Valley hinterland then calling into a boutique winery and sipping some of our local flavours? Warren and Sue Stiff from Red Tail Wines offer a variety of wines you can sample and buy, and they’re happy to have a chat with you about not only their products, but some of the special things you can see and do in the local area as well …

hat’s the history behind Red Tail Wines? The block of land we purchased was cleared and vacant throughout, so establishing the vineyard required deep ripping of the soil and an application of superphosphate before the erecting of the trellising and planting of the vines.

We collected the cuttings from Cassegrain in 1992 from their prunings and planted them in a nursery bed for a year to establish a good root system. These became our trial plants …

We then decided to buy in cuttings of certified clones of vines and planted en masse the majority of the vineyard as it is now. Sue undertook a horticulture course at Taree TAFE and then drove weekly to Kurri Kurri TAFE to refine this knowledge to viticulture.

We entered our first three vintages in the NSW Small Winemakers Show and won a ‘best in class’, 2 silver and a bronze medals. We then entered them into the Australian Small Winemakers Show, and all three won bronze medals.

These results proved to be an indication that we were on the right track to creating a quality product.

Where is the winery located? Located 10 minutes’ drive from Wingham on the Tourist Drive 8 along Bulga Road; you can make it a day trip and continue another 40 minutes to Ellenborough Falls. In the scheme of things, we are a micro sized vineyard, but prefer to be known as boutique.

What varieties of grapes do you grow? With 8 acres – or 6,000 vines to tend, we are unique in regards to location and climate, and this reflects the fruit flavours present in the wines.

We have five varieties of grapes: Semillon, Verdelho, Colombard, Merlot and Barbera. With 14 manning-great lakes focus.

these we can play around with having straight varietals or combine them to create a blend. We strive in using only our own fruit in our wines, with the exception of our Marlee Summer Red, which we blend with Bago Chambourcin.

Share with us the processes involved in harvesting… Our busy time commences before Christmas, when we put out bird netting over every row. We harvest early and had the first harvest in Australia in 2005, with our Verdelho being picked on 5 January. Last year we harvested on 6 January, and this year we could be harvesting in December, as the fruit is almost ready and is very early.

We like to enlist groups to help with our picking and donate to their group, rather than hiring pickers. This is a fun affair and requires only a few hours per variety to get all the fruit off.

Warren and I and the family then run around collecting the buckets of grapes from the rows and transporting the fruit to Bago, where the processing is undertaken. We let them know the style of wines we want – dry, medium, blend or straight, so that the correct yeasts and temperatures can be given to the juice. Then we wait …

Our harvesting is completed with the Merlot and Barbera picked in mid February; the Semillon and Colombard are in early to mid January also.

When the initial fermentation is completed, we will go to Bago and sample the young wine. It is then cold and heat stabilised and filtered prior to bottling.

Due to wine being a living product, after sitting happily in a vat for a few months then being pumped into bottles, this disturbs the wine and a process called ‘bottle shock’ results. When the wines are then returned to us, we sample them again. Sometimes they are fine and ready to sell, but most times they require a few months to settle, as the characteristics are too sharp or acidic to enjoy if drunk immediately.

What’s the busiest time of year at the vineyard? Our busiest time in the vineyard is pruning time. We have a deadline – budburst. We begin in June when the vines are dormant and begin with the Verdelho and Colombard, as they will have budburst in August. We don’t prune in the rain, as this can cause diseases in the pruning wounds. We like to have the pruning done early so that when the sap starts to run, the stored energy can be directed to the new buds.

about the wines as you taste them, some history of the vineyard and things to do in the area.

What facilities do you have for visitors to the winery?

We do not supply food at the Cellar Door, so we encourage people to shop in cover. We enlist a chef to come out and cook for you if you have a group between 20 and 30 people. He can create a menu to suit your tastes and budget, from a two course salad and sweets to a seven course degustation. You can have a wander through the vineyard and enjoy the colour display of the waterlilies on the pond. Sometimes the local echidna is on patrol – it is so cute.

The most hectic time in the vineyard is harvest.

You need to consider the weather, as rain can change harvesting from a day to a week to not at all, then having to get pickers at the last minute. It’s usually a 40 degree day, so early starts Lo cate d 10 om are a must to get the minutes’ drive fr t is ur To e fruit picked, packed Wingham on th a lg Bu g and shipped before the Drive 8 alon ake it heat.

Ro ad; you can m

“

Apart from wine, what other products/produce do you currently ue in nt co d an produce on the ip tr a day In 2008 we lost the utes to in m 40 r property or sell in he ot an entire crop three days orough Falls. ” nb the cellar door? If le El before Christmas – three someone in your group weeks before harvest – due does not impart in drinkto a severe hail storm of small ing wine, then we also offer but driving hail which went a range of wine glasses, serving through the nets and out the other dishes and cheese plates, candles, side. Nothing was saved. jewellery and in winter, knitwear to purchase as When is your cellar door open? a gift for someone or for yourself. We also sell Our Cellar is open on weekends, 11am to 4pm. fresh, seasonal fruit which we are expanding We are flexible and a sign on the driveway states in the orchard with sweet peaches, nectarines, that ‘if the gates open, we are open”. Some blackberries, citrus and figs – to name a few. people call first to have a wine tasting at a time More info? to suit them during the week, which is fine Our website redtailwines.com.au has informawith us if we are available. We offer free wine tion in print, but we also attend the Wingham, tastings and serve small portions so that the Gloucester, Nabiac, Wauchope and Bobin entire range of up to 5 wines can be sampled. markets, so you can sample the wines and have Some visitors tell us they only drink whites, but a chat at a location nearer to you. Try before you after sampling the range find that they enjoy the buy!

Summer Red or Liqueur. Along with a full wine Thanks Warren and Sue. tasting, we can spend up to an hour chatting

focuseditorial

Summer in the Lakes When you find an amazing place you are often torn between keeping it a secret and telling all your friends – the Great Lakes is one of those places. Here you will discover what makes an amazing holiday. In the Great Lakes, it is all about YOU!

W

ith 145 kilometres of stunning coastline, a glittering mosaic of clear waterways based around the impressive Wallis, Smiths and Myall lakes and a hinterland ribboned by streams and rivers, the Great Lakes is a region defined by water.

At its heart is its unique triple lakes system surrounded by vast tracts of forest, stunning coastline, golden beaches, true wilderness, rich history and a rolling hinterland, all with the magnificent Great Dividing Range as a backdrop. This amazing space contains everything anyone would need to create

memories to last a lifetime and in summer, it comes alive.

Summer in the Great Lakes means long days, warm blue water, sandy beaches and cool forests. It’s all about getting outside and exploring new and old places, it’s about reconnecting and rekindling, about celebrating and reflecting.

Summer in the Great Lakes is all about you. There is no shortage of things for the family to do. In the great outdoors you can go swimming, boating, grab a round of golf, paddling, cycling, trekking, exploring, sailing, diving, fishing, just for starters. After all the

outdoors action, you can kick back and be pampered at one of our retreats or tackle an amusement park, watch a movie, go shopping, visit one of our many clubs, have a seafood dinner by the lake, explore a market or celebrate with the locals at an event.

There are hundreds of adventures that await you. The only thing that limits you is your imagination.

The Geat Lakes has all you will need to create the ultimate family holiday and memories that will last a lifetime.

To celebrate summer and to make sure you make the most out of your stay, Great

Lakes Tourism has produced a special guide which has everything you will need to get the most out of summer in the lakes. Ideas, must dos, what’s on, activity guides, information on our beaches and parks and a fantastic competition. This guide is also a gateway to the most up to date Great Lakes info.

Using a technology called ‘Layar’, we have created links on some of the pages to live updates, videos, weather reports, updated event listings and even accommodation prices and availability. What other guide can provide that? Grab a copy at the nearest coffee shop, visitor centre or where you are staying.

summer in the lakes Swimming, kayaking, horse riding, boating, VXUoQJ ZDONV oVKLQJ FUXLVHV HYHU\WKLQJ \RX ZLOO QHHG IRU D *UHDW /DNHV DGYHQWXUH 3LFN XS \RXU IUHH JXLGH WRGD\ GRZQORDG D FRS\ DW greatlakes.org.au RU FRQWDFW Great Lakes Tourism on 1800 802 692

manning-great lakes focus 15

ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT

Gillespie secures Early Wins for Manning and Gloucester The Federal Coalition Government has announced new funding for:

Taree Northern Gateway project Thunderbolts Way upgrade Gloucester High School P&C Association School Bus Taree Motorcycle Club facilities expansion Wingham Scouts Hall refurbishment and upgrade

$10 million $3,840,000 $45,000 $70,000 $50,000

Contact David david.gillespie.mp@aph.gov.au

www.davidgillespie.com.au

ph 1300 656 685

fax 02 6584 1022

Suite 1, 75-77 Clarence Street (PO Box 1112), Port Macquarie NSW 2444 144 Victoria Street, Taree NSW 2430 Authorised by David Gillespie MP, Suite 1, 75-77 Clarence St, Port Macquarie 2444, using Parliamentary entitlements.

16 manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

R NE COR

Joh n Bonventi Meet this is month’s Collectors Corner guest … John Bonventi is a true military buff and has an extensive and impressive collections of militaria.

A

mong his many items is what is commonly called a ‘dog biscuit’, which formed part of servicemen’s rations during WWII. What’s incredible about this biscuit is that not only has it survived intact, but the story behind how it was originally sent to Australia as a Christmas card! Other items include mannequins beautifully dressed in genuine military uniforms, medals, photographs, books, bullets … and, the sky’s the limit, really! The collection has to be seen to be believed.

Hi John. What brought you to the ManningGreat Lakes? I was born here, and my mother is the daughter of one of the first settlers here in Tuncurry. Andrew Delore was my grandfather.

My mum married one of the early Italian fishermen who settled here … there’s a street here named after my dad, Bonventi Close.

I was born in Tuncurry in the old house they just tore down to build the new Woolworths.

That’s a long history in the area … what keeps you here? You must love it!

I do love it. I’ve got 8 sisters and brothers and there are 6 or 7 of us still here. You can’t get any place better than this! I went to primary school here and high school in Forster, and it’s been a great place to live …

How did you become interested in militaria?

I’ve always been interested in militaria. I had a lot of uncles on my dad’s side, who were Italian, and were in the Army. The history of the Bonventis in Italy is that they were nearly all military people.

On top of that, from my mum’s side of the fam-

ily, I have two photos of two of my uncles from the Boer War for Australia, then my dad was in the First World War, my eldest brother was in the Second World War, the next brother was in the Korean War … and I’m always in the wars (laughs)! I’ve done national service in the CMF (the Country Military Forces).

This will test your memory ... what was the first piece of militaria you collected? Ohhh … that’s a good question! I’ve always been a collector, from when I was young – and not just military stuff. I like old things and antiques … I think it was a few old military medals that shot me off, and I got right into collecting medals. I have quite a few hundred.

Then I went to New Zealand for a while, and I saw some auctions of some quite rare medals.

I couldn’t afford much then, but I bought two or three and I still have them today. That’s how I got started, then I went into more military stuff.

That started me reading up on it – the history of the wars – and that made me much more keen to keep the things that my father, uncles and brothers had.

What do you think would be the oldest piece in your collection? You mentioned the Boer war, so that’s going back to the late 1800s … I did have an Australian Boer war tunic, but it had a lot of moth holes and it was falling to pieces. It was quite a rare piece, and I wrote to the War Memorial in Canberra to find out I could preserve it. They wrote back with pages of literature – I would have had to freeze it, which kills the eggs, then I would have needed to thaw it carefully, as it could break or crack, plus lots of other things, so I ended up selling it to a big

collector in Sydney.

I have some older, smaller pieces from other wars, like medals – from before the Boer War, back to maybe the early 1800s.

Now, I generally ask collectors what their favourite item is, and I know yours is the dog biscuit. What’s the story behind this piece?

As probably a lot of your readers will know, the Breckenridge family were one of the first settlers in Failford – they were timber millers. Mr Jack Breckenridge gave me quite a few old things, as he knew I was a collector – and one of the things he gave me was this dog biscuit.

I really couldn’t believe it when he showed it to me. C. Allard was a local boy from Failford and probably worked for the Breckenridges, as most people in Failford in those days did! He sent this biscuit home, written on with indelible ink, from Gallipoli as a Christmas card in a Cadbury box. I went on to get a photo of C. Allard and his history from the archives in Canberra. It was fascinating to see this dog biscuit still the same today as when it was sent. It’s marvellous!

How do you source the types of items you like to collect? They must be hard to find … They are. The more you collect, the fussier you get. You can go to a lot of military shows and wander around just looking for something that’s a bit different or has a bit of a story. I go to Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney quite often, I’ve been to New Zealand three times, I’ve been to England; I’d like to go overseas more, as you can find some great stuff.

I have bought stuff online too.

Tell us about your jeep, which readers can

see in the photos… My Jeep is a 1942 Willys.

There were two types of Jeep the Americans brought out – Willys and Ford, and they were completely interchangeable; you can often get Wills Jeeps with Ford motors, or vice versa. My Jeep did service in New Guinea in 1942, and it was owned by a chap out the other side of Wingham, and I bought it off him about 12 years ago.

Ever since, I’ve used it every ANZAC DAY for our local services and on some of the national service days, to carry a few of the diggers.

Your collection is already extensive, but you mentioned you’re planning to add an extra room … so I guess it’s safe to say your collection is still growing? Oh yes – it sure is! I just love it.

I’m going to set the new room up like the trenches in the First World War, with sandbags and mannequins.

Are you happy for people to contact you to make an appointment to come and see your collection? I can take small groups of people of around 6 through if they ring me first: 6555 5305 I’m also looking for a World War II nurse’s uniform at the moment, so if anyone knows where I can get one – please let me know!

Thanks John.

are you a collector?

We want to know about you! Let us know what you collect, and you might just be our next Collectors Corner guest! e. jo@focusmag.com.au ph. (02) 6555 3381.

manning-great lakes focus 17

Manning-Great Lakes

Enjoy a great Momenti Coffee from Coffee Grind.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android mobiles. www.focusmag.com.au/eat

18 manning-great lakes focus.

eat.

Live Music every Friday from 6.30pm & Sunday from 12.30pm

FLOW Espresso Bar

Bent on Food

For Love Of Water!

Breakfast and lunch 6 days per week

Bent on Food – not just a café but a destination.

Dinner Friday and Saturday nights; chef’s new menu weekly. Please book!

A few Lunches at FLOW:

Winner of 2013 Northern Region Restaurant and Catering Awards – Best Café Restaurant and Best Breakfast Restaurant.

• Moroccan Chicken & Couscous Salad with Roasted Sweet Potato, Apricots, Pistachios, Baby Spinach, Caramelized Onions & a Herb & Lemon Yoghurt –17

Fully licensed.

• Portuguese Beef Espetada; Marinated Beef Skewers with Goats Feta, Pickled Cucumber, Confit Tomatoes, Hoyts Peppers and a Olive & Coriander Dressing served on a Lebanese Flat Bread – 18 • Cajun Chicken Burger with Bacon, Avocado, Baby Spinach, Tomato and House made Garlic Aioli served on Turkish Bread with Chips – 18.

Check out the website for children’s holiday cooking classes or arrange a group of children for a private class.

Proud stockist and contributor of 100 Dishes of The Pacific Coast Cookbook.

Head Chef Nick Samaras

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

31 David St, Old Bar t 6557 4224 f www.facebook.com/flowcafe

open 7 days. Breakfast, lunch and tasty treats.

Friday and Saturday nights for dinner (Bookings recommended).

open Tue to Sunday, 8am to 3pm and Fri to Sat nights from 6pm.

Fully licensed – bookings recommended.

Raspberry & blackcurrant, ice blended, dairy free, fruit frappe.

On and offsite catering, cooking classes, cheese making workshops, barista training.

Beach Bums Happy New Year everyone from the Beach Bums crew! Now is the time for relaxing and enjoying our beautiful beaches.

There is something for everyone at Beach Bums Café: super summer salads, ice blended fruit frappes, fresh coffee, full cooked brekkies and much more!

Don’t forget to visit the hole in the wall for quick takeaway coffee, cold drinks and icecreams.

Checkout our Facebook page for daily specials and summer activities on Forster Main Beach or see our full menu on our website.

Remember, salt water (and an esspresso) cures everything! Enjoy the holidays

Raw Sugar Café

Owners Kate and Darrin.

North & Beach St, Forster Main Beach. t 6555 2840 w beachbumscafe.com.au open Sunrise to sundown. (weather permitting)

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.

Freshest local ingredients.

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

manning-great lakes focus 19

eat.

Bowlo Bistro

Club Taree

Taree West Bowling Club

Club Taree offering all day dining.

Head down to the Taree West Bowling Club for some great dining specials, like the great tasting homemade chicken schnitzels for just $8 on Tuesday Nights or Fish and Chips for $8 on Wednesday Nights.

Always available is our famous BBQ duck noodles and the succulent roast pork with crackling. Come down and experience the homemade difference; you will be pleasantly surprised.

Enjoy a meal at the Iron Bark Restaurant with a selection of options to enjoy. Choose from the range of dishes featured in our à la carte or try one of Chef’s tempting weekly specials. The kids are also catered for, with a selection of meals under $10.

Head Chef James Nossiter.

116 Edinburgh Drive, Taree t 6552 2094

Relax in comfort indoors or take advantage of the warmer weather, enjoying a meal on the verandah whilst enjoying the surrounds of our beautiful golf course.

Chef Kevin Williams.

121 Wingham Rd, Taree t 6539 4000 w www.clubtaree.com.au

open 7 days. Lunch: noon ‘til 2pm.

Dinner: 5.30pm ‘til 8pm.

Roast Duck with a Sweet Fig Sauce , in a crispy crepe , with salad.

The Lilly Pilly Café, also open daily, features a tempting variety of light meal options along with hot and cold beverages and tempting cakes, desserts and slices.

open from 10am daily.

Bonappetite Café Ray and Tony have returned to Old Bar with the new BONAPPETITE CAFÉ, the Manning Valley's latest café and restaurant with something new.

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.

Coffee Grind Located in Wharf Street, Forster, Coffee Grind boasts its own unique style with its simple yet tasty and fresh menu and beautiful Momenti Coffee.

From fresh gourmet salad wraps, homemade spinach and feta pie, to the original thick cut toasted sandwich, there’s something for every palate.

Make sure you bring your appetite and your sweet tooth; with some of the most delicious locally made treats, you’ll find it hard to resist.

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.

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Remember, takeaway is available, and phone orders are welcome.

59 Wharf St, Forster t 6557 5155 open 6 days. Monday - Saturday from 8am.

Matthew Thrippleton

manning-great lakes focus 21

s o c i a l s c e n e

Right. Nigel from Edstein.

Below. John Reynolds and Fiona Latimore’s wedding.

with Donna Carrier from Bent on Food.

Below. MEC staff.

Left.

Ann Russell.

Right.

Jeremy Miller and the boys from Well Creative.

Below. At the screening of Tim Winton’s The Turning.

Above. Lauren, Christeen & Droplet.

Social/scene.

Here we are in 2014 wondering what happened to 2013; nothing changes, as this is exactly what I was doing last year. he end of one year and the beginning of another is a perfect time to reflect on the year that was and plan for the following year. All the same things come up for me: more time with my partner, family and friends, more exercise, less wine, more order in my life, more time off, more horse-riding, more music, more dancing, more beach, less stress and more holidays. Yep, that broken record has come out again, but at least in 2013 I did manage to get into the exercise; that was until I danced too hard and busted my fibula.

So, I didn’t fail completely. Just this morning I was looking at photos on the new Facebook page for ‘Laneway’ in Forster and dreaming about sitting up there looking at the lake with a cocktail in hand (it’s OK ... I only said less wine; cocktails do not apply) listening to one of the wonderful bands that Stefanie always manages to find, then I thought about heading out to Flow in Old Bar and doing much of the same.

I got to thinking once again about the great venues we have in the region. We should all support them so we can keep them. I know I don’t get out enough either, but I am busy in the café so it can be tricky. Well, that was in 2013; in 2014 I am heading out! I am lucky to have a great team in place who can look after things, so no more excuses.

2013 was a great year for the region. The Manning Entertainment Centre (another one of our great venues) celebrating their 25th anniversary with a spectacular show, and then the fabulous production of Cabaret, along with many, many great performances. This year is looking pretty exciting too, with the 2014 season looking pretty damn impressive. I attended the launch in early December, where Jeremy presented the fabulous looking program designed by local designers, Well Creative. ‘The Greatest Shows on Earth’ are coming our way this year, and I am pretty excited. Pick up a

22 manning-great lakes focus.

program, or why not purchase a subscription ... it is going to be a great year with something for just about everyone. The staff and volunteers at the MEC do a fabulous job, as do the staff and volunteers of another one of our local assets, The Manning Regional Art Gallery. Who needs to live in a city when we are surrounded by great art, entertainment and natural beauty. I did not get to the gallery nearly enough in 2013, but plan on quite a few visits in 2014.

Jim Bird was our musician for the night.

Taree Film Society is another group of people who work hard to deliver a great program of events throughout the year. The society recently screened Tim Winton’s The Turning at the Manning Entertainment Centre. Shown in two sessions, 17 short films from acclaimed film makers depicted the recurring characters and themes that run through Winton’s book.

Talented local artist Donna Rankin displayed two paintings of Tim Winton that she completed e liv to s for a portraiture ed Who ne n he w competition. A large ty ci in a by ed nd ou crowd enjoyed the rr su we are nment ai rt te en t, festive spirit, as the ar t grea ty. au be l ra tu society finished the na d an e year with a highlight I did not get to th gh ou gallery nearly en of Australian cinema.

So, December, then?

Another busy month for all of us, I imagine.

I have often been dubbed ‘the bridesmaid’ ... yep, that’s me, always the bridesmaid, never on in 2013, but plan Each year Ashley Town the bride, but I do not in ts si quite a few vi and Country Garden mind. I am quite happy 2014 .”

Club Wingham give to to live vicariously through charities nominated by its the weddings of others. I members with money raised don’t have time to get married throughout the year. The money anyway! Sometimes people find their raised comes from the members who soul mate much later in life, or they find sell plants and raffl e tickets at their monthly another soul mate to spend the rest of their meetings.

This year, member Lauren Newell years with. I love the weddings where the nominated Koalas in Care, which was voted bridal party is made up of the children of the on unanimously due to the amazing job they bride and groom. In the case of John Reynolds do, especially in the recent bush fi res.

Koalas and Fiona Latimore, their older children have in Care is run by Christeen and Paul McLeod grown into wonderful, mature young adults in Taree and their dedicated volunteers, and it who are so happy to see that their parents have is a 24/7 service. The organisation receives no once again found love. Around 150 people recurrent government funding and relies on attended the wedding of John and Fiona, the kind generosity of the public for donations/ which was held on Saturday 14 December at bequests and support. Lauren presented a the Wingham Town Hall. Fiona made all the cheque for $200 on behalf of the club and decorations that dressed the hall, so the hall enjoyed a tour and talk on the koalas currently looked very special. John’s son travelled all in care, including the rare blue eyed koala, the way from the UK with his partner. It was ‘Petal’. These guys work so hard around the a lovely evening; Fiona and the girls looked clock rescuing and caring for the koalas; they stunning, and it was a wonderful occasion and I need our help. felt privileged to be there. The Australian Hotel I enjoyed my evening at the 2013 NSW Tourism did a great job with the food, and the talented

“

awards last month, where Honeycomb Valley at Nabiac took home a string of awards, including Gold in Hosted Accommodation, and Bent on Food won bronze in the Restaurant and Catering category. The night after the Tourism awards, we went along to the NSW Business Chamber Awards, where we were thrilled to see local business Edstein Creative Stone take home the 2013 NSW Business Chamber Award for Sustainability. This is an amazing achievement for the business and for the region, as the competition is really tough and the winning business must prove that they are worthy recipients of the award. Edstein do an amazing job with their sustainability program, not only helping the environment, but saving the company money to ensure a sustainable business model. Congratulations to Nigel and the team; you are a fantastic example of a local business and as a community, we must celebrate the success of local business. On the social side, this event is amazing ... held in the carriage works at Eveleigh, the entertainment, the food and the buzz was fantastic – not to mention, I had George Negus at my table.

The lovely Ann Russell recently held a high tea at Bent on Food for 10 ladies to celebrate her graduation from university. It was a beautiful day in our garden, complete with cucumber sandwiches, risotto balls, mini scones, mini pannacottas, assorted cakes and tea in our high tea crockery ... oh, and just a few glasses of bubbles.

It has been a great year. I have enjoyed another year of writing this column; it’s been 5 and a half years, and there’s so much more happening now than when I started writing. Our region is full of things to do, so make sure that you all venture out and about in 2014. Wishing all the readers a happy and prosperous 2014.

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

Send pics and info to donna.carrier@bigpond. com. Cheers, Donna.

Yarads Menswear What is your advice for getting the perfect fitting suit?

Have your measurements taken and suit fitted by a professional.

A suit should fit well, but not be uncomfortable. If a suit is too small, the jacket gapes and the shoulders bunch. On the other hand, if it is too big, it hangs off the body with little or no shape.

Congratulations Paige Mid Coast Connect would like to congratulate Wingham High School student Paige Conley who has been awarded the prestigious TVET of the Year Award for 2013 at North Coast TAFE - Taree Campus.

Paige has been mentored by Mid Coast Connect as part of her school-based traineeship; working at Wingham Primary School one day per week. Paige is completing a Certificate III in Education Support and also attends NCI TAFE Taree Campus one day per week, training as an Education Support Officer.

Mid Coast Connect’s Project Officer, Ruth Hurrell, has been supporting Paige and is very proud of her achievements. “After finishing school, Paige plans on attending the University of New England to study a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Teaching to become a Primary School Teacher. This traineeship is a great start to her career and the award recognises how hard Paige has been working.”

Mid Coast Connect has been able to support Paige through the Indigenous Youth Career Pathways (IYCP) Program.

The program provides Indigenous students with personal mentoring and case management to help them manage issues that can make the move from school to work difficult.

The IYCP Program focuses on the provision of school-based traineeships and associated support activities for Indigenous students in Years 11 and 12. Through the program, Mid Coast Connect also works with selected schools to deliver aspiration building events. These activities aim to inspire and encourage students from all years to complete their schooling and move into further education and/or employment.

What are the current trends/colours/styles?

Summer accessories are in abundance!

As the seasons change so do our outfits and of course our accessories. The beautifully coloured accessories this year do not disappoint many boasting 1980s fluro colours. Yes they are back however they are a little more subdued. They do look great with a tan!

Accessorising with colour can be very enjoyable and challenging at the same time. The great news is that this summer it has never been so easy! Clothing, handbags, necklaces and shoes the colour range available is quite amazing and really refreshing!

It’s great to see that people are embracing colour as I really do believe it can make a difference to the way we feel about ourselves and others. We have a wonderful range of shoes at In House Homewares this summer. We have shoes from Italy by “Sempre Di” and “Walnut” shoes designed by a sister team from Melbourne.

The three piece suit is popular, with slim fitting tailored suits the order of the day. The most popular colours are charcoal greys, pinstripes with lighter greys and beiges making their mark in the warmer climates. The grooms tend to wear neutral coloured accessories, with the groomsmen coordinating their accessories to match or complement the bridesmaids’ colour.

The Yarads Wedding dress code cracker: Black tie/Formal: A dinner suit or tuxedo with satin trim with a formal shirt and neckwear.

Very Formal: The groom may opt to wear tails although this trend is less popular these days.

Cocktail or lounge suit: A regular black suit (no satin) with a collar and tie. (Morning & lunchtime weddings) Beachside Weddings: Groomsmen are opting for the look of natural linen trousers, crisp white shirts and thongs.

Hats and scarves are amazing this season. Again the colour range available is huge. At In House Homewares our hats carry a 50SPF protection from the sun. Our style of hats vary from something for the beach to something for a more dressy occasion. Our scarves are lightweight made from either silk or cotton great for covering up from the sun or the evening cool air.

So whatever you do this summer add a little colour to your life!

For more information on the support Mid Coast Connect is able to provide to students please contact Ruth in the Taree office on 6551 5463.

manning-great lakes focus 23

SteveAttkins.

from Great Lakes Winery

Sparkling Wine . . . f o r a n y o c c a s io n

steve atkins

I've developed a renewed interest in sparkling wines and am drinking it as a complement to food in the same way as you match wine with food.

M

any people tend to only drink sparkling wine on special occasions – which is a shame, as it is a fabulous complementary drink to have with meals.

Sparkling wine, Champagne and Spumante are essentially all the same; it just depends on its origins. Sparkling wine can only be called Champagne when it originates from the Champagne region of France, so the majority of foreign producers use the term Sparkling Wine. Other regions within France use the term Cremant and Italians use the term Spumante, rather than Sparkling Wine.

In the same way as wines differ, so do sparkling wines, ranging from light and dry to sweet and fruity, while others can be heavy and yeasty. A special treat for me at this time of year is drinking sparkling with oysters ... a wonderful appetiser.

Chicken is a classic combination with champagne as an accompaniment, or adding it to a sauce is

24 manning-great lakes focus.

simply delicious. Like any wine, the enjoyment is in experimenting with the various flavour combinations.

Another fascination with in our Champagne. The story Champagne is its history. of Veuve Clicquot is also Dom Perignon was a In the same way worth a read. The trials of as wines differ, Benedictine monk producing and distributing , es win who is given credit so do sparkling this 'liquid gold' back in d an ht ranging from lig uity, for turning what the late 1700s and early fr d an t dry to swee was considered be 1800s really required n ca rs while othe to be unappealing ” . ty entrepreneurs with nerves as ye d an heavy discoloured bubbly of steel. Using hand blown wine into something glass bottles, with all their similar to 'drinking the irregularities to be stacked stars'. He mastered blending and shipped from France across red and white grapes together, the English Channel to the UK and pressing them gently to prevent any even further afield to Russia for royalty and the discolouration from the skins, and he also wealthy, was a mine field of challenges. Many mastered the retention of carbon dioxide in times entire shipments were lost due to breakage the bottle. Both were major milestones in the – every shipment was potential disaster. development of what we take for granted today So what makes Bubbly bubbly? A base wine is

“

produced using fruit that is typically harvested early to ensure good acidity, lower sugar levels/ lower alcohol. Once the maker is happy with his base wine blend, a second fermentation process is generated and dependent upon the method being applied the resultant wine, is either bottled under pressure or stored in specialised tanks under pressure. The bubbles occur as a result of the carbon dioxide releasing into the wine. The pressure created by the bubbles is the reason sparkling wine is bottled with a style of bottle strong enough to cope with the pressure.

So now you’ve got a better appreciation of champagne’s history, get that bottle of champagne that has been sitting in that special place for too long and put it in the fridge and bloody well drink it ... what are you waiting for?

You can go and buy another one tomorrow!

manning-great lakes focus 25

focusinterview.

RHIARN SCHUCK Rhiarn Schuck is a local girl with big dreams, currently studying creative direction and fashion styling at the Whitehouse Institute of Design. Already planning her Masters Degree and a possible career overseas, ambition and talent will stand Rhiarn in good stead …

hiarn, were you born in the Great Lakes area? How much did you enjoy growing up here? Yes, I was born in Smiths Lake. I enjoyed growing up here while I was young; I couldn’t think of a better place to grow up … though as I reached my teens, I was excited to leave and explore the city.

Where did you attend school? I attended primary school at Pacific Palms, and then went onto Great Lakes College Forster High for 7 to 10 and Tuncurry Senior Campus for 11 and 12.

When did you first start to become interested in fashion design? I actually don’t study fashion design, I study creative direction and fashion styling; it’s a common mistake made by people when they ask what I have been up to.

Though I was always interested in a hands on career since I can remember, I used to say I would never sit in an office all day surrounded by air-conditioning.

Fashion was a strong passion from around the age of 14, but after doing my work experience in Year 10 at the Sydney Morning Herald fashion section, where I attended Sydney Fashion Week, I was hooked. From that stage on, I knew it was what I wanted and have ever since.

Who are some of your idols in the fashion industry – and what is it about them you admire? My main idol is Alexander McQueen, though McQueen himself is an idol to anyone who loves fashion. He was constantly pushing boundaries and making statements through his designs and fashion shows.

I also love Australian designers Sass and Bide. Their designs are very unique and recognizable; you always know when someone is wearing Sass and Bide.

You’ve been studying at the Whitehouse Institute of Design. That’s an amazing place to study fashion!

How did this come about? Through school I found out

26 manning-great lakes focus.

about all the institutes and universities that dealt with fashion, and spoke to a few friends who study at Whitehouse … though what really pushed me into Whitehouse was the fact that it was the only course in Australia that really did what I wanted to do and in such a practical way.

How much longer until you finish your studies? I have two years left, but am in the processes of looking into doing my masters in Paris at the Institutio Marangoni.

What are some of the experiences you’ve taken away from your studies that have inspired you the most? Volunteering at fashion shows has been a major inspiration for me. One day I hope to work behind the scenes of the rong shows, styling the looks and creating Fashion was a st nd ou ar m the concepts of the show in a new passion fro r te af t bu , 14 the age of way that isn’t often done. rience

“

doing my work

expe

What are some of the pieces Sydney in Year 10 at the fashion ld ra you’ve styled so far that you’re He ng ni Mor tended at I re he really happy with? I’m quite section, w eek, I W Sydney Fashion critical when it comes to my own .” ed was ho ok work, so I always see improvements, but I have an image from one of my first shoots that I love. It’s of a boy and girl dressed rather avant-garde in strong static posing, facing each other with only their noses touching. The shoot itself told a story of equality between men and women and the image represents the coming together.

What’s the ultimate career dream for you? For me, my ultimate dream is to be working overseas. There are so many aspects of the industry that inspire me, it’s impossible to pinpoint one avenue, but I’m very drawn to fashion shows and photo shoots, and have started exploring fashion film.

Thanks Rhiarn. All the best with your future studies and career!

manning-great lakes focus 27

focusTourism. Richard Old - Great Lakes Manager Tourism & Marketing

fort is made to capitalise on the increase in

already know how wonderful this place is,

activity. This is even more important when

and now this is our chance to share the love.

looking at tourism activity, which influences

To help, Great Lakes Tourism has again pro-

all parts of the community and is the primary

duced ‘Summer in the Lakes’, a guide to ev-

economic driver for the region.

erything in the region over summer – events,

Tourism generates an estimated $136 million

activities, beaches, parks, food and lots more.

for the Great Lakes. This is a huge amount of

Copies of this fantastic booklet have been

money. The tourism multiplier affect means

spread far and wide. If you haven’t seen it

this money flows through the whole commu-

yet, ask for it next time you are grabbing a

nity – everyone benefits in some way.

coffee or having lunch. You can also get one

Summer visitors are the ‘bread and butter’

from your nearest Visitor Centre.

of our community, bringing new money,

So – locals – say hello when walking along

ideas and personality and then going back

the beach or down the street, offer help to

and marketing the region to their family and

someone who looks lost, be patient when

friends. The value of ‘word of mouth’ expo-

looking for a park and be prepared to share

sure is incredible.

your favourite patch of sand.

Visitors today are after ‘real’ experiences.

Business owners – focus on over delivering

They are very different from even the visitor

excellence in customer service, value adding

two years ago and very discerning. They will

to the experience and most importantly, work

not tolerate fake, manufactured experiences

with other businesses. For tourism impact to

and definitely not poor customer service.

be maximised, yield must be increased – what

They like to research before they travel and

is that? Not more people, but more spending.

People are visiting their families, taking that well-earned break, rekindling relationships or starting new ones, getting the boat, board or kayak wet and importantly, getting out and about.

most importantly, they are after value for

Your local Visitor Centre has copies of ‘Sum-

money. Value for money does not mean

mer in the Lakes’, as well as loads of other

they will not spend, but rather they will only

information and contacts/ideas for every

spend where they feel their dollar is being

possible scenario. They are open every day, so

well spent.

make sure if you need anything to drop in.

It has been said that a good or bad summer can make or break the year ahead. It makes sense then that during this period every ef-

So, this month, the success of our region is in

All the best and – happy New Year!

all our hands! During summer, everybody is

Richard Old,

effectively an ambassador for the region. We

Great Lakes Manager Tourism & Marketing.

Tourism Richard Old Summer in the Lakes is in full swing - the sky is blue, waters clear, the forests cool and green and the sand golden. Nothing beats getting outside and feeling the warm sun on your back (making sure, you are being sun smart, of course!) love this time of year, especially being able to grab a swim after work – it is a brilliant way to end a day.

I

Summer is also the peak season for our region. During January visitor numbers, local population movements and all activity levels are at their highest. It is estimated that 50% of our total visitors come at this time of year.

28 manning-great lakes focus.

focusbusiness. with Gary Gersbach from Great Lakes Business Chamber

garygersbach The Great Lakes is currently in the part of the year where it showcases itself to a myriad of visitors ... uring this time all the businesses strive their hardest to ensure that when these people leave the area, they do so with wonderful

D

experiences and memories.

This should ensure that, even if they can’t return, then their glowing reports of the area will tempt many others to do so.

At the Chamber’s recent AGM, the majority of the committee was reelected, with a new Treasurer and Secretary. This meeting was followed by the monthly meeting in early December, wherein a progressive plan was adopted with a view to: 1. Establish regular meetings with the Great Lakes Council wherein the Mayor, General Manager and Director of Planning would be involved.

and agreed to be put into place as soon as practical.

8. Further efforts to be made at increasing membership by the promotion of the benefits attainable and some real advantages realised by members.

9. Each member to be encouraged to bring along a visitor to the breakfast meetings, and in so doing help to better unite the business community.

10. The Chamber was to pursue the obtaining of donations to support further benefits to members.

11. The further encouragement of new business to be brought into the district.

ittee Any new comm d se fu in lly ra is gene of with a new wave this d an , sm ia enthus exception. committee is no ket’ ar m The more ‘up has not approach within e where been the only plac this can be seen.”

“

2. Through the more regular contact with the GLC, there should be a flow on effect where the Chamber would be a conduit of pertinent information between Council and members.

12. Every effort to be encouraged to bring the various business groups together for more uniformity.

4. Wherever possible, the breakfasts should be held in the premises of a Chamber member.

Any new committee is generally infused with a new wave of enthusiasm, and this committee is no exception. The more ‘up market’ approach within has not been the only place where this can be seen. The Great Lakes area has recently had a number of imported events, such as the Forster Running Festival triathlon, the L J Hooker Beach Bash and the Lakeside Festival, which have proven to be an ‘up market’ approach and an added incentive for businesses to do well.

5. Every effort to be made to have a noted speaker at all breakfasts, whereby the members attending would benefit in some way.

Even before these beneficial events, the main streets were displaying a more positive feel than we have seen for some time, and it is most welcomed!

6. The previous aim of promoting a 'shop locally' programme was to be continued.

The Chamber would like to wish all visitors, family friends, and all business owners and employees the very best health and happiness for the New Year.

3. The regular breakfast meetings would continue to be held on a monthly basis.

7. An exchange of discount benefits between Chamber members was proposed

manning-great lakes focus 29

ack ps on uary ub roy c.

FOR SOME HEART-POUNDING, ADRENALINE-FUELLED MOTORCYCLE

Photo Focus Photography, Kempsey

ACTION, DON’T MISS THE TROY BAYLISS CLASSIC ON JANUARY 18.

TAREE MOTORCYCLE CLUB’S TRACK

Photo Focus Photography, Kempsey

e club ting

focusinterview.

AT PAMPOOLAH WILL BE THE VENUE FOR RACES IN VARIOUS CATEGORIES, BOTH THROUGH THE DAY AND UNDER LIGHTS AT NIGHT, WITH SIX WORLD CHAMPIONS FROM VARIOUS MOTORCYCLE DISCIPLINES ALSO VISITING AND RACING ON THE DAY. JODIE NELSON (PUBLICITY OFFICER) TAREE MOTOR CYCLE CLUB, FILLS US IN ON THE FINER DETAILS …

TROY BAYLISS CLASSIC - TAREE MOTORCYCLE CLUB

ow did you first become involved with the club, and what's your role there these days? I am a relatively new member of the club. My husband, Craig, introduced me to the world of dirt bike racing, when our family went to the Taree Twilight race meeting in January 2011. Craig raced with the club as a Junior, before giving competitive bike riding away for a number of years. He has always maintained an interest in dirt bike racing and the club's progress.

When our 4 year old boy showed great interest on that night in 2011, that's all the encouragement Craig needed to get the whole family involved within the club.

Since our A.G.M. in November this year, I have taken on the role as publicity officer for the club.

Tell us a little bit about the club ... how long has it been around and how did it get started? Taree Motor Cycle Club (T.M.C.C.) was formed in the 1940s using a small track at the Taree Showgrounds. The club later raced at the Old Bar Aerodrome, before buying the land and building a track at its current Old Bar roadside location in 1961.

For a period of time T.M.C.C. was known as Taree Motor Sports Club, and cars were also raced at the track.

Now we are exclusively a motorcycle club, with the inclusion of a class for quad bikes and side cars.

Our track on the complex is a rolled, smooth surface and approximately 500 metres in length.

This makes for very fast and exciting racing.

Spectators can see all the action taking place.

30 manning-great lakes focus.

Roughly how many members does the club have today? The club has about 80 riding members, 50 non-riding members and 10 Life Members.

Our youngest members ride in the 50 cc demonstration class and can begin at age 4. Our oldest member at 81 is Noel ‘Curly’ Godwin. Curly was one of the members who established the track at its current Old Bar Road location and is one of our life members. He shares that honour with other great contributors like Cheryl Andrews, Adam Border and Troy Bayliss.

Where does the club regularly hold its meets? The club's track is situated at 328 Old Bar Road, Pampoolah; it's about 4 km from the Taree South overpass.

We hold club days on the first Sunday of every month, with the exception being January. We also hold open meetings throughout the year, including a Tri-series between Kempsey, Gunnedah and Taree.

This year the club will be hosting the Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships and of course, on Saturday, January 18, 2014 the club will host the Troy Bayliss Classic.

You mentioned the club will be hosting the Troy Bayliss Classic on January 18. Describe the action that will be taking place on the day… The club is very proud and grateful for the opportunity to host the Troy Bayliss Classic. It is a great event for the club and for the Manning Valley. This event is very unique. I don't know of anywhere else where you can go to see champions from all disciplines of motor cycle racing and competing against each other and the fastest club riders in the country.

For the 2014 Classic there will be about 100

Who are some of the local co community groups and/or individuals you'd like to thank for their support in making the Classic possible? We have received great assistance from the local community.

Many local businesses provide Who are some of the support to the club through better known riders annual sponsorship that will be racing ub This ye ar the cl arrangements, provide on the day? Which will be hosting th ing cash or discounted t ir other motorcycle or D Australian Seni products to help us ims ip sh clubs will be repreTrack Champion prove our facilities. Also, on , sented on the and of course , 18 local community groups y ar nu Ja day? There will be Saturday, the st ho ill have been marvellous in w ub cl e 6 world champions 2014 th c.” si as Cl s providing assistance on is yl Ba racing on the day.

Troy the day and without their Shane King from help, we simply wouldn't Motocross, Jason Crump have the resources to run the and Darcy Ward from event.

The Lions Clubs (Taree Speedway, Chris Vermeulen, and Old Bar) and the Southern Cross Karl Muggeridge and of course, Troy Cruiser Motorcycle Club help to run the BBQ and Bayliss from road racing. canteen facilities. The SES provide on site traffic Other well known champion riders include Stecontrol and parking. phen Gall, Jeff Leisk, Gary McCoy, Robbie Phillis, There are many other individuals from the comChris Watson and Toby Price. Michael Kirkness munity who help us out on the day. All up, over will be back to defend his 2013 Troy Bayliss Clas100 volunteers give up their time to help us run sic title, and international dirt track specialists the Classic. Many of these volunteers are also Sammy Halbert and Henry Wiles from America helping the club all year round, running other and Masatoshi Ohmari from Japan will be strong events and assisting with maintenance and infracontenders for the main event. structure upgrades.

Motorcycle clubs from all over NSW, Queensland How much are tickets to the event, and and Victoria will be represented in the support where can they be purchased? Tickets can be races. purchased online at www.troybaylissevents.com What facilities will be available at the Troy or over the counter at Taree Motorcycles and Bayliss Classic? Full canteen facilities will be Fineline Motorcycles in Taree. available on the day. There will be a trade show Adult tickets are $30, children (5 – 15 years) $15 area that will include a mini freestyle Motocross and families (2 adults; 2 children) $75. display, and there is other off track entertainThanks Jodie. ment planned.

races on the day day, with the main finals finals under lights. In addition to Troy's 36 invited champions, there will be more than 140 riders competing in junior, senior, quad and sidecar support races.

“

Be Daring These School Holidays The secret is out! Artisans on the Hill is THE unique place to visit these holidays.

Open 7 days during the summer school holidays, Artisans offer something different for the whole family.

Workshops & Craft Activities - Creative Kids fun workshops daily 2pm to 4pm, 30 December 2013 to 26 January 2014.

Various activities, including kite making, candle making, paper, wood, wool & leather craft, plus lots more. Prices vary, and bookings are essential. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

You can also take a short class in woodturning, kiln formed glass, PMC (pure silver jewellery from 'clay') or lots more. Have some fun and make your own masterpiece. These workshops are scheduled 'on demand', so call 6553 1199 to arrange a time.

Gallery - Artisans unique gallery space has functional pieces from some of Australia’s top artisans – from one-off jewellery pieces to artistic, practical glass, to amazing world-class timber items. There is even a contemporary grandfather clock with a hand-made wooden movement!

Coffee Lounge - It is worth the short drive to Artisans on the Hill just to relax in the coffee lounge, gazing at the magnificent view while enjoying mellow coffee, specialty teas and homemade goodies.

Where is Artisans?

Only 10 minutes from the Pacific Highway Taree Service Centre, Artisans is on the road between Tinonee and Wingham.

Scan the QR code below for the website.

Get your LUAU ON Summer is the perfect time to plan your next Murder Mystery Party – perhaps Murder in Margaritaland.

Visit the The Costume Party Shop. From pool floaties to margarita glasses to bamboo sticks – you can find just about anything and everything you need to help you go all out with a great (and affordable) themed event! All you need is some imagination – and we can help you with that!

Come and visit The Costume Party Shop – we have some great deals. From leis to beach balls to garlands galore, nothing sets the mood more than having LOTS OF IT! So grab your favourite Hawaiian shirt and hula skirt and start planning for a party that will definitely set you in the mood for summer ... and MURDER! The other awesome thing about a summertime/luau/pool party is that you can throw it ANY TIME OF THE YEAR! That’s right.

While summer seems optimal (and in many cases is), sometimes the best time to have one is in the dead of winter, to shake the winter blues away!

Whether you are planning for next month, or 6 months from now, the time to get your LUAU on is NOW!

Meet the WILDLIFE Wow! What an incredible 12 months its been at Billabong Zoo! Shrek the monster croc has made himself quite at home and has been thrilling crowds with his feeding shows at 12.30 daily. Our gorgeous 'Happy Feet' Little Penguins star in their own daily feeding routine at 10am, and not to be missed are our beautiful red panda sisters, Rato and Tito, who enjoy their dinner at 2.30pm daily. The latest arrivals are our two mischievous meerkats, Bido and Pongo, who are on the go nearly all day, digging, taking turns to act as the sentry and of course, munching down on as many bugs and worms as possible.

Our special animal encounters are a great way to get even closer than you think and feature our pythons, koalas, snow leopards, penguins, meerkats and red pandas. Prices, times and experiences vary, and bookings are essential.

If watching the animals eat is making you feel hungry, why not grab a bite yourself from the zoo café; our new chefs are sure to have something to tempt the tastebuds, with fresh ground coffee, homemade scones and biscuits, and burgers, wraps and sandwiches made to order. Take home a special memento from our huge gift shop and remember, Billabong Zoo is the place for you!

Make it a Memorable Holiday

Gallery Coffee Lounge Craft Activities and more!

Air Conditioned!

Open 7 days from 10am all Summer Holidays 702 Tinonee Rd, Mondrook Ph: 6553 1199 www.artisansonthehill.com.au manning-great lakes focus 31

NonSurgical Facial Rejuvenation Facial rejuvenation attempts to reverse facial skin damage caused by ageing, poor skin care and protection, a poor diet or due to smoking.

F

acial skin damage affects both the superficial (epidermis) and deeper (dermis) parts of the skin, resulting in blotchy red marks, brown pigmentation, hyper (excessive) pigmentation of the epidermis and loss of tone in the dermis due to compression of collagen and elastin.

For many years, surgical methods were the mainstay of facial-rejuvenation.

With the availability of injections (dermal fillers and skin-muscle relaxants) as well as Intense Pulsed Light and Carbon Dioxide lasers, there now are genuine, long-lasting methods of nonsurgical facial rejuvenation.

Injection Treatments include dermal fillers (injections into the dermis) to reduce the depth of established grooves on the face, and skin muscle relaxants, which reduce the appearance and severity of facial lines,

32 manning-great lakes focus.

especially on the forehead, glabella (the part of the forehead between the medial / inner ends of both eyebrows) and ”crow’s feet" (smile lines around the outer parts of both eyes).

With IPL treatment, there is no down time as the skin surface is intact

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Carbon Dioxide laser bring about improvements by working on the basement membrane of the epidermis.

This layer contains the basal cells, which are the core skin cells and which have the capacity to “repair“ or to “regenerate“.

The extreme precision of the pulsed CO2 laser permits removal of the damaged basement membrane and replacement with a new basement membrane from cells deeper in the dermis, in effect causing “regeneration“, and with significant new collagen and elastin formation.

Repair of the basement membrane, as seen in IPL treatment, is caused by the IPL being converted to heat, which has a healing effect on sun and age damaged basal cells.

The “ improvement “ has to be seen to be believed! The treated face appears fresh and youthful, and the changes last for many years.

A course of four treatments at two or three weekly intervals brings about significant improvement in the skin, with reduction of red and pigmented marks, smoothness of the surface of skin and some new collagen formation.

The gold standard in nonsurgical facial-rejuvenation is CO2 laser full face resurfacing.

The procedure is done under general anaesthesia, and there is a 10 to 14 day “downtime“.

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, done when the skin damage is less, has a reduced downtime of about 5 to 7 days.

manning-great lakes focus 33

New Year New You 2014. Another other Christmas full of drinks and too much fo food is over. You feel the pants around your waistline are tighter, and you know it: you need to lose weight!

Before you join the next self punishing fat blasting program, take a moment to read about these 3 inspiring members at the YMCA Great Lakes. They are normal people just like you and me; find out how they changed their lives just by discovering the joy of moving.

to the support of the trainers and members. “Being encouraged by the trainers was something I really needed at that point in my journey, and I thank them Kathryn Ford ba so much for being discovered Zum s ar ye of le up there!” You at the Y a co r he as w ba can read more ago. Zum oubled escape from a tr on her blog ch hi life at home, w http://pinkinoz. d in lte su re eventually wordpress.com ”

Sarah Cooper started 2013 with the firm intention to lose weight and increase her health. Her doctor told her that she was prediabetic, which was like a slap in her face. She is now an amazing 45 kg lighter and free of diabetic risk. She had tried to lose weight many times before, but this time she thought of her weight loss as a journey, rather than a quick fix 'diet'. Her family and friends were great support all along. About mid year she joined the YMCA and noticed a boost of motivation, thanks

Kathryn Ford discovered Zumba at the Y a couple of years ago. Zumba was her escape from a troubled life at home, which eventually resulted in separation.

All through those distressed times, Kath made the YMCA her second home and escape. In the process, she lost 30 kg! She was inspired by the supportive instructors and the encouragement from the whole Y 'family', as she calls them.

mages of you sweating profusely in a gym full of beautiful people rush to your head.

“NO!” you cry. “I don’t want to be yelled at by some super fit instructor; I’m not a gym person!” But your protests do not make your waistline any smaller.

I

34 manning-great lakes focus.

“

separatio n.

She was shocked when discovering she was able to run on the treadmill for the first time. Kath likes the fun of exercising, such as joining in the social classes or cranking her Ministry of Sound app on her iPhone in the gym. She has refused to give up, and has worked around injuries by asking for advice. She learned a lot in a nutrition challenge that was offered to members earlier in the year and wants to thank the instructors for their inspiration and help in achieving her goals.

fabulous by losing an amazing 9 kg in just 6

Don Craig joined the Y for the 'Fit, Firm and Fabulous' challenge. He certainly became fit, firm and (to the female member’s delight)

are looking for a fresh new start, NOW is the

weeks! He loved the group fitness classes, the instructors and especially the overall fun and friendly environment. He thanks his weight loss success to the encouragement he received from all the staff at the Y. He found meeting so many new people really positive and inspiring.

Don’s advice is: “Anyone who wants to get fit and lose weight should join YMCA Great Lakes, because it’s fun. You meet lots of people who make your goals achievable, thanks to the support you get.” He wanted to pass on his special thanks to Cath and Renae, who ran the challenge.

So there you go. Imagine this was you. If you best time. Call the Y on 6591 7199 and ask for our New Year’s special offer today.

34 manning-great lakes focus.

JANUARY 2014

WITH TERRI

Yoga for Surfers & Board Riders If you take your surfing or water and board sports seriously then this is the course for you! Yoga Avenue is offering a 4-week Yoga for Surfers & Board Riders Intensive for experienced and amateur surfers, bodyboarders, skate boarders, kite and wind surfers and SUP boarders.

Yoga Avenue is providing specifically designed yoga classes (2 classes per week over a 4 week period) to improve strength and flexibility while building core power, balance and mental focus. The classes are dynamic, yet accessible and provide the perfect workout to compliment surfing fitness and improved coordination and capability in the water.

Yoga for Surfers & Board Riders Intensive is suitable for men and women. With a regular yoga practice, expect to enjoy physical benefits plus strengthen specific areas around the body including the knees, hips, shoulders, neck, back and the torso.

This yoga intensive is held Wednesday & Friday mornings at 6am (1hr classes), commencing from Wednesday 15 January (concludes Friday 7 February 2014).

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to improve your surfing performance!

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

September 24 - October 23

Your leadership qualities are likely to be drawn on this month in the workplace. You have brilliant arbitration skills and a very strong sense of justice or fairness. You are also very inspirational to those who may be unmotivated, and have the ability to pull the team into action to achieve the best result. You will also notice personal confidence growing. Have fun.

Lapis Lazuli is great for clarity of thought and direction.

Choices bring total change into life, as you know it can be expected. Setting some fresh goals will be beneficial at this time also. Your manifestation ability will also be amplified, so have fun and give yourself permission to succeed. A peaceful atmosphere will be essential, as your mind is likely to be working overtime.

Citrine attracts abundance; try wearing some.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

February 20 - March 20

June 23 - July 23 Ju

A lot of people will be drawing on your strength and wisdom this month. Protect yourself by thinking you are inside a bubble, as this will create a barrier between their stress and your divinity, allowing you to offer guidance at no personal cost to your energies. You will hear yourself speak wise words; hear these for your guidance also.

Turquoise is a great crystal for communication.

Carry some when counselling.

Time to stimulate that quick thinking brain.

You may be feeling a little intellectually bored at present and since your brain is like a muscle, it needs to be used so you don’t lose it. Find an interesting topic, book or a class to satisfy yourself and have fun learning something new passionately.

Record Keepers are fantastic for holding and retaining information.

October 24 - November 22

Try paying attention to how gifted you are at creating what you desire. The quicker you recognise this gift, the more success you will experience in manifesting. Try finding a place in nature you feel safe in, remove your shoes to earth yourself and think about what you want. Fill yourself with the excitement of already having it, then think a BIG thank-you to the universe and let it go.

Citrine will assist in creating.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

November 23 - December 21

An opportunity to access something from your past will be likely to present itself. Be prepared for it by identifying what it may be and write a list of all the things required, then take action and get some things from the list so you can achieve full success. Avoid sabotaging it by thinking, “Too hard; can’t do”. This opportunity will greatly benefit your self-esteem and self worth.

Citrine is a very powerful motivator carry some.

Self worth and a sense of deservability may need a little personal attention this month, as the universe has some special rewards aligning for you. However, if you don’t know you deserve them, you may be vulnerable at sabotaging them. Try smiling at your reflection as often as possible each day to reinforce a knowing that you do deserve great things.

Clear quartz is a powerful amplifier for reinforcement.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

Justice for any unresolved issue from your recent past could be anticipated. Identify any fear that may have been triggered and release it. Thinking of its answer or opposite will replenish a sense of justice and empower you. A knowing that you are creating every influence in your life will give you more confidence and ownership of your reality.

Selenite shatters negative thoughts and fears.

36 manning-great lakes focus.

Relationship bliss can be anticipated, as your personal confidence reflects your love life.

Validate your partner’s strengths and be compassionate toward their weaknesses, as you are both helping each other reach your full potential. Joy will be experienced in the quality of giving that your connection offers. Enjoy!

Rose Quartz, the crystal of love, will amplify your heart’s contentment.

You will benefit enormously by looking inward and reflecting on all the qualities and attributes you chose to bring into this life, as this will keep you impervious to conflict or anxiety. Your sensitivity is amplified at present, so tune into your nurturing qualities for inner peace and calm.

Playing in nature with animals or the garden will benefit you incredibly.

Aquamarine will keep your energy light and conflict free.

If you have been feeling unsupported lately, this is because you are required to recognise how strong and independent you already are and how little you need from external sources.

Identify what emotions you feel you want from others and wake them up inside by breathing them through every cell. This will replace neediness with a knowing that no hurdle is too big for you push out of your way.

Ruby aids in building personal confidence.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Listen to your ‘gut feelings’, as they will lead you into an exciting experience that is a ‘meant to be’ one. You will enjoy playing with gifts or talents that will relate to this opportunity and your confidence and self-esteem will benefit enormously. Have fun discovering something new you are already very good at.

Apophyllite is a great crystal for aiding in reaching full potential in projects.

focustravel with Susie Boswell

T R AV E L D E S T I N AT I O N : SYDNEY SUMMER s this Sydney’s best address? We’re in the city to see the summer shows, installed in a Mantra on Kent deluxe apartment. From this convenient location, we reach like an octopus to multiple CBD and environs attractions, mere moments away. No costly cab rides, no waiting, no parking worries – in fact, as they say: “hakuna matata!” That’s the Swahili phrase for “no worries at all” that Elton John wove into an Oscar-winning signature song for Disney’s The Lion King movie 20 years ago.

I

Sixteen years ago the Lion King stage musical – far outstripping the movie for sheer spellbinding

spectacle – premiered, becoming Broadway’s biggest-grossing show ever and earning more than the greatest movies: more than the Lord of the Rings trilogy, than the six Stars Wars films in total, than Avatar and Titanic (the two all-time biggestgrossing movies) combined. The show first came to Sydney ten years ago, playing for two years to 1.35m theatregoers; now it’s back at the Capitol Theatre for a season to June.

We saw it in 2003 and again at its latest opening, the day Nelson Mandela died. The black African cast paid tribute to Madiba with a special joyous traditional tribal chant, an overwhelmingly

special memory for the audience that evening.

But The Lion King is, appropriately, a majestic musical on any occasion. Its staging, costumes, melodies, song, African drumming, ballet and entire sensuous experience are unequalled, and unmissable. You must take the kids, or grandkids.

The animated movie has nothing on the live stage experience with its masks, puppets, colourful African art and stunning, soul-stirring energy.

(Whitney Houston’s former backing singer, Buyi Zama, plays Rafiki). TLK has played for more than 10 years both on Broadway - winning six Tony awards - and in London’s West End. Some 536 other Broadway shows have opened and closed in that time! The Sydney show’s one of eight productions currently playing around the world, from nine language versions. Some critics’ comments: “A memorable, moving extravaganza”, “exuberant”, an “amazing, gorgeous musical”, “gasp-inducing spectacle”, a “cornucopia of dazzlements” and “the most visually captivating theatre you’ll ever see”.

But let’s save some superlatives for our Mantra hotel. Easily reached from the airport by taxi or rail, an appealing aspect for country visitors is the ease of optional budget-priced mid-city parking in Kent Street, between Market and Druitt (Town Hall/ Park Street). Hotel guests get a preferential rate at Wilson Parking right next door, about a third the regular tariff. As parking stations go, this one’s as agreeable as they get. We walked to Darling Harbour and the Aquarium (100m away!), DJs and QVB (a couple of blocks) and to The Morrison at The Rocks ($5 drinks daily at 5; oysters $1 at 6pm Wednesdays; $10 burgers) while we took

the car out to remote destinations on the single exit permitted daily. Friendly 24-hour reception staff volunteered tips for further carpark savings at weekends. But you’ll want to stroll to most city destinations: Sydney Festival, from Wed Jan 8 through to a big Australia Day program on Sun Jan 26, and the essential Sydney summer experience of Open Air Cinema at Mrs Macquarie’s Point from Fri Jan 10. If it’s all sold online: nightly, some seats are kept for sale at the gates; check https://www. facebook.com/St.GeorgeOpenAirCinema. It’s really worth doing. Opera in the Domain is on Sat Feb 1 and Opera on the Harbour, Madama Butterfly, from Fri March 21. Hop a ferry to Twilight at Taronga concerts from Sat Feb 1.

Our newly-furnished deluxe apartment had every appointment, with washing machine/dryer, iron and board, plus fully-equipped kitchen for easy self-catering. Room service meals also; on-site restaurant. Foxtel, WiFi, disabled facilities rooms.

“Stay Longer & Save” two-night package: 1brm deluxe apartment from $266/night (Sun-Fri) to 31.3.14, subject availability and conditions. With parking, estimate around $600 for two nights for up to three guests.

Bookings: www.mantra.com.au/kent

manning-great lakes focus 37

focusinterview.

JULIANNE P A L M E R

C L A I RVOYA N T M E DI U M

WITH ALMOST 58,000 ‘LIKES’ ON FACEBOOK AND CONTINUING TO GROW BOTH BY REPUTATION AND IN POPULARITY, LOCAL CLAIRVOYANT MEDIUM JULIANNE PALMER MAY JUST HAVE SOME GUIDANCE TO HELP TAKE YOU INTO 2014 AND BEYOND …

hat’s your family background, Julianne? I was born in Taree and have lived in the Great Lakes area my whole life, attending Tuncurry Primary School and Forster High School as Julianne Fazio and marrying the love of my life, Noel Palmer.

When did you first discover you had psychic abilities? I had always had a natural intuition, but figured that it was just normal. When I was around 18, I had a boyfriend I wanted to break up with, but I didn’t have a good enough reason. One day, I thought to myself, “If I can just come up with something to break up with him”.

Instantly, a story come into my head that I could use as an excuse. When I approached him with the story, it turned out to be 100% accurate right down to names and locations. The details completely blew me away, as I had absolutely no knowledge or understanding of the psychic realm.

Things developed from there. I found that I would just know when things were going to happen. I would have an inner sense when I should or shouldn’t be somewhere, or if I should or shouldn’t do something.

For many years I just accepted it as part of who I was and just lived my life. When I didn’t listen, things would happen, and it became obvious that something not quite normal was happening.

Things really changed in 2000, when I started seeing 11:11 everywhere I went, starting with the birth of my first son at 11:11. I completely freaked out, because I didn’t understand what it all meant. Friends encouraged me to see a clairvoyant, which I did, even though I was a sceptic.

The second I walked into the room, she said, “Wow, you are extremely spiritual”. She wanted 38 manning-great lakes focus.

waas still too great - so I to train me, but the fear was dismissed the whole idea off doing psychic work. i d experience i It tookk time and to come to terms with what I could do. In 2006, I saw a clairvoyant, who then taught me the knowledge and understanding I needed to connect with the spirit realm.

The word ‘psychic’ covers a lot of territory ... how would you describe your skills – are you clairvoyant, clairsentient, or empathic?

I am a Clairvoyant Medium, but I also have Clairsentient and Empathic abilities.

lar. Clairsentient is where I feel the energy of the person, while empathic is where I take on the person As a Clairsentient I gain an energy of the person. insight into their emotions, while as an Empathic I feel what they are feeling, their emotions, illness and bodily ailments. It’s like viewing an item of clothing versus wearing the item of clothing, or watching a play versus being in the play.

What do you use in readings? Tarot cards, crystals and my guides are key to the readings.

The cards provide a quick insight, such as a chapter heading in a book and my guides take me deeper, giving me insight into the client when needed, just like the chapter of a book. The crystals provide love, protection, connection and focus for both me and my client.

Being a clairvoyant is where you have an inner knowing that can incorporate a sense of thought, feeling and vision, such as remembering a dream. You have Guides or Spirit the power of seeing Guides are two n the same objects or actions terms that mea they are beyond the range of thing. I believe beings natural vision, which highly evolved teach d is often referred to as who guide an opened ve ha Clear Vision. those that

“

Take us through a typical reading...All readings are unique and always deal with a past, present and future. I am there to guide or translate aced br em d an between the spirit realm es lv themse Mediumship is speaks. ” ft gi al itu ir and humanity.

I go through sp r thei ing to people who are a process for each reading. I passed. It works in line pull out my cards, put crystals in with my clairvoyant abilities, a certain place. I call in my guides, so that I get a mind’s eye vision of we speak about the clients and they the person; I get a sense of them being help create a connection to the client and I around, and they communicate with me program the cards in preparation for the readthrough my thoughts. Conversing with ing. During the reading my guides are instrusomeone who has passed is like talking to somemental in providing the core information; they one with a different language that are at differhand me a book about the client, they guide ent levels of learning English; sometimes they me to the important parts and help me find the can be very clear, sometimes it is very difficult, answers to the client’s questions. so I use a clear sight strategy, which my guides How do you deal with sceptics? I love taught me, where I use different coloured roses. sceptics, particularly because I was one. I love The roses provide a system to get core mesit when a sceptic comes to me for a reading. sages across, which can then be expanded upon Something has bought them there; something depending on how well we can communicate. triggered them to make a booking and to follow Clairsentient and empathic abilities are very simi-

thro ough with it. They come in with their aarms through cros ssed, often saying things like, “I don’t believe crossed, iin allll thi ” I watch t h th k th f this”. them ttake the iinformation and be blown away by what they get out of the readings, the detail and the information that there is simply no way for me to know.

Sceptics tend to not have any expectations, so the reading is actually easier. The beauty in a sceptic is that you can open them to the spirit world. You can enable them to find their own inner voice and learn to trust themselves. It’s like giving someone a gift they never believed was possible, which is my greatest gift to the world.

It’s what I was given!

I’ve often heard the term ‘Guides’ or ‘Spirit Guides’ mentioned in conjunction with psychic phenomena. Who, or what, are these?

Guides or Spirit Guides are two terms that mean the same thing. I believe they are highly evolved beings who guide and teach those that have opened themselves and embraced their spiritual gifts.

Why would you encourage people to come to you for a session? People are individually guided to the clairvoyant that is right for them.

It is up to each individual to make the choice for themselves to see a clairvoyant and which clairvoyant to see.

How can people contact you?

Facebook Page for weekly card readings: Julianne Palmer – Clairvoyant Medium, facebook. com/JuliannePalmer.ClairvoyantMedium Email for email and phone reading bookings: julianneclairvoyant@gmail.com Phone for face to face readings at Thoughtful Things, Tuncurry: 0419 973 278.

Thanks Julianne.

Forster Dental Centre Recognised for service excellence in the 2013 Australian Business Quality Awards, their strong focus on customer satisfaction led Forster Dental Centre to win the Gold Award.

Forster Dental Centre, the leaders in dental prevention in the Great Lakes Area, achieved the esteemed Australian Business Quality Award for successfully adhering to its high service standard and going beyond customers' needs. “We are truly proud of this accomplishment, which clearly demonstrates our commitment to please our customers by providing overall quality. Smiles are important to us, and they come from satisfied customers,� shared Dr Richard Oxenbould, Principal Dentist at Forster Dental Centre.

Forster Dental Centre has a very simple philosophy that is very much prevention oriented. Clients are enrolled into a long term preventative care system and are encouraged to visit our dental hygienist, who promotes their dental and oral health. We have found that most of our clients who attend regularly by responding to our recall system are avoiding the most common dental problems and are living happy dental lives!

Call Forster Dental Centre to make an appointment for any of your preventative and restorative dental work. Phone 6555 5554. Conveniently located in Forster Tower on Wallis Street, Forster.

manning-great lakes focus 39

focusinterview.

Jaime McDonagh.

F o r s t e r

T e n n i s

C l u b

Jaime McDonagh – Tennis Australia certified head coach and facility manager at the Forster Tennis Club located on Lake Street, Forster explains the many benefits of tennis.

If one of your New Year’s Resolutions is to work on your fitness, Cardio Tennis may be just the ticket! i Jaime. What’s your position with the club, and what does it involve on a day to day basis?

My position with the Forster Tennis Club includes facility and office/pro shop management in addition to my passion which is daily coaching of senior and junior members as well as the general public that may be residing or visiting the Great Lakes.

What’s your background with tennis ... have you played from a young age? At age 10 my parents, Carmel and Gerry, gave me a private tennis lesson birthday present and I had my first instruction with the coach at the time, Danny Biancardi. I live in Forster and the courts are close to school and home, so I could play and practice as much as I liked.

How and when did you first become involved with the club? From as long as I can remember, I’ve always enjoyed tennis and started to play competitively as a child out of the Forster Tennis Club. I also played cricket and other sports in our region. After finishing my junior and open ranking state and national tennis tournament career, I wanted to get involved in coaching and became certified through Tennis Australia in 1993 at the Club Professional level.

I worked under Ron Lee in 1993 and then took over the head coach position from Alan Fing in 1996 to continue to present day. I also hold certification from the University of Queensland in Applied Science – Sport Coaching. I look forward to the being part of the club daily.

40 manning-great lakes focus.

I am primarily on court coaching approximately 35 hours a week, which includes private lessons, children’s group lessons, elite junior’s training and Tennis Australia’s Cardio Tennis registered program. I also have a pro shop, and manage the day to day operations of the Forster Tennis Club that includes the 14 court facility and surrounding structures. I have several assistant coaches to help with the programs.

Describe the tennis cardio training program you currently offer ... The Tennis Australia registered program Cardio Tennis is tennis based fitness activity that is used in over 30 countries worldwide. Participants wear a heart rate monitor that is preset to their target heart rate for their age. The one hour long program has a fun and active warm up followed by equal time of drill based and play based tennis. The program uses special decompression tennis balls that are lighter and easier to hit than a regulation tennis ball.

There’s music pumping in the background and players keep their feet moving and hit lots of balls under the guidance of their coaches. We wrap up the session with a nice cool down and stretch.

What age group and skill levels does this program cater for? The age group we cater for starts at 16 years of age and our most senior Cardio Tennis player is member Carol Roper, who is just a bit over 60! The beauty of Cardio Tennis is that anyone who can run a little, and swing a racquet can have a go.

There is no ability standard that is required.

How is this program unique from

anything else offered locally? We are the only licensed and registered Tennis Australia Cardio Tennis program in the Great Lakes.

Cardio Tennis is different to most fitness programs and is a high intensity cardio workout that offers great feedback with the use of Sunnto target heart rate monitor watches. It’s also outdoors in the fresh air, which is great.

competitions that are ongoing throughout the year. Cardio Tennis is held over three times a week, with the possibility of more classes in 2014. Privates are all booked on request and fit into the busy week.

Why would you encourage people to play tennis – what are the benefits? There are many health and social benefits being part of the Forster What other Tennis Club. It’s a tralia programs/classes The Tennis Aus great environment ram registered prog does the club to be part of, and tennis Cardio Tennis is ity offer? At the Club we have one of tiv based fitness ac we offer many the best facilities 30 er that is used in ov e. ” different programs, in NSW to play at. id w countries world with the youngest Our Forster Seniors being our 3 and 4 year Tennis Tournament old Dynamic Champs’ competitors and many Friday morning sessions junior tournament players that run for 30 minutes. love to come back to play We offer our Hot Shots after here each year because of what school program for primary aged kids on we are so fortunate to have.

Monday and Tuesdays from 3.30pm to What are the club’s days/hours of 4.30pm. operation, and whom do people contact

“

On Tuesday evenings, the Dynamic Elite Junior Squad trains from 4.30pm to 6pm, and these are our kids that are competing in tournaments or have achieved the standard of play that is needed to be part of this group.

On Wednesdays we have our Developing Competition Juniors play, and these kids have graduated out of our Hot Shots program.

On Saturday mornings we have the Dynamic Challenge for juniors run by club assistant Darcy Duggan. There are also many senior

to find out more information?

The Forster Tennis Club is open daily, with a one day closing on Christmas. We open each day early in the morning and have 10 flood lit courts for evening play; our hours are flexible, depending on demand. We can be found through Google at Forster Tennis Club Inc. or Facebook at Forster Tennis Club, by telephone on (02) 6554 9120 or email to myself at jmmcdongah@bigpond.com Thanks Jaime.

manning-great lakes focus 41

focusinterview.

with Linda Bryant from Photography by Linda

ChrisBryant Now before I begin this month’s article ... and before I get dozens of emails ... yes, this month I am interviewing my husband! And it’s for two very good reasons. The first is that he is a great businessman in Taree - and has been for over a decade. The second is that I had a tight deadline, so I was able to do it quickly! So here is my interview with Chris Bryant, owner of Noeledge Systems.

Business ou've been in business now for 13 years. What are some of the biggest trends you've noticed? Showing my age now, my first computer was a Dick Smith VZ200; it only had 8 k of RAM and a tape drive to save programs onto. Now they have 16 Mb of Ram, and we save to the cloud!

Over the years I have seen the floppy disk come and go, simple graphics to amazing near real simulations, lugable computers to tablets. I think the biggest changes have been in the last few years. The massive growth of Apple with iTunes and iPods/iPhones, introduction of tablets, remote support and the cloud. We are adapting the cloud very fast and don’t even know it; in most cases when you backup your iPhone, it is backing up to the cloud, or using your Windows phone/tablet and saving your pictures using a Windows account.

And on a local level? On a local level I see people and business embracing new technology. Taree and District people are happy to touch/try and feel the new technology and eager to learn how to best use it. The biggest local change was moving from dial up to ADSL broadband a few years ago. We will see that change again once the NBN is completed.

What makes you different from other computer stores? Most computer stores are either focused on retail or business. We focus on both, and it is these synergies that make us different. Our retail has a large range of stock, the latest notebooks, desktops and accessories with a full service centre that we are warranty agents for: Toshiba, Canon, ASI and Oki. We are part of the Leading Edge Computers buying group of 140 stores around Australia, and this allows us to stay competitive with the big end of town. Our business division focuses on small to large business, from single trades to multi site nursing homes. These staff need additional skill sets to manage 42 manning-great lakes focus.

large servers and different types of networks. We have a highly qualified team of service engineers and remote access to most of these large organisations to be able to give fast, prompt service.

The other is just hard work. I know the hours I have put in over the years – and still do now – into the business.

If you want the best results, then it is about hard work.

Long nights, long days and working your way up the chain. The world’s best atheletes didn’t win because they were lucky; they trained for days and years to get there.

Because technology is so fast moving, what do you do to stay up to date with the new trends?

Reading, watching and listening. e, Yo u can sit ther What are some exciting I read a lot of the industry d an es ur fig n ru new things coming up for magazines and websites. We analyze sometimes over e or Noeledge systems? Hmmmm, have a lot of product Webing your product ra I don’t want to give too much nars and product training that ur w venture. If yo ne t, away here. We have some we do directly with suppliers. s righ head says it feel .” great ideas that we want to kick There are a number of confergo a it ve gi then off with in 2014, like a showences that we get to, and we room and store upgrade. get to see a number of products and talk directly with suppliers. I A huge range of new products to have been lucky to be on the Steerplay with, like 3D printers. Just imagine ing Committee for the Leading Edge if you’re buying a new kitchen and the Computer group for a number of years, and this kitchen company gives you a scale replica of your gives the business great insight on new trends and kitchen. The plumber might need a special plastic a direct voice with suppliers. fitting that he could make himself. The Microsoft Kinect

“

In business, what do you believe makes the difference between those who struggle and those who excel? I think there are two differences – being a ‘do-er’ and just plain hard work.

You can sit there run figures and sometimes over analyze your product range or new venture. If your head says it feels right, then give it a go.

Sometimes it might not work, you might not get the returns you expected, and other times it pays off. I have made my mistakes over the years, lost money, but each time I make the business better and learn while moving forward, always improving our service and systems.

You would never know if you didn’t try it. I love Nike’s advertising: ‘Just Do It’.

you see on the Xbox allows you to play games by moving your hands. This technology is coming to business and schools.

Doctors will be able to use this technology by operating a computer during surgery without touching the computer. In business it will connect with your projector or large screen, and you can move objects around with your hands. No more laser pointers or mouses! Thinner, lighter, faster with all day battery powered notebooks and tablets are just around the corner!

I am excited about new technology and love leading the Noeledge team in implementing these new systems into their homes and businesses.

Thanks Chris.

Charles Sturt University Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Port Macquarie is looking forward to a huge 2014, with new teaching facilities to open and construction to begin on its new main campus.

Campus director Dr Muyesser Durur said the work would allow CSU to expand its course profile into social science and psychology to complement its existing courses in business, creative industries, health and rehabilitation science, justice studies, medical radiation science and paramedics.

CSU recently redeveloped a building in Munster Street to offer students studying the Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science access to the latest technology and equipment.

“The Munster Street campus will have two medical imaging laboratories with advanced x-ray equipment and image viewing stations,” Dr Durur said.

“It will include three teaching spaces, suitable for 30 students each, two smaller classrooms, for up to 12 students each, additional space for practice rooms, and office and storage space.

“Along with our current campus on Grant Street, the Munster Street campus is temporary until the new, main campus on Major Innes Road is opened.”

VERTO Apprenticeship Centre.

The first buildings in the $40 million campus building project will be available to students in 2015. Construction will also include the $8 million Food, Soil and Water Research Centre to be built by CSU in partnership with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

VERTO encourages employers to sign up apprentices early!

CSU received $13 million in Federal Government support under the Education Investment Fund for the establishment of a permanent campus at Port Macquarie, and a further $5.9 million in the recent federal budget toward the research centre’s construction.

VERTO Australian Apprenticeship Centre Area Manager, Gabby Barlow, is encouraging employers of new apprentices and trainees to organise their sign up as soon as possible to avoid delays in commencing TAFE. “We’ve found in previous years it can be disappointing for apprentices to miss their first week at TAFE, simply because their paperwork hasn’t been completed.”

“Charles Sturt University’s vision is for the Port Macquarie campus to draw on the strengths of the region and its people to create a sustainable learning community dedicated to local growth and prosperity,” Dr Durur said.

Based in Taree, VERTO is a free service and has 3 consultants with extensive local knowledge and years of combined experience to assist you with your sign up. “Employers like the fact that our consultants are able to

Curious about where you’re heading?

visit the workplace and discuss government incentives, as well as completing the required paperwork,” says Carrie Escbach.

Having recently expanded its services, VERTO now includes two new programs.

The ACCESS program provides job seekers with pre-employment training. “Our recent class has provided 12 local people with the opportunity to secure employment,” says Heather Hands. Kristen Burgess recently commenced with the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) program. The SEE program develops skills such as communication, problem solving and technology.

For more information, visit www.verto.org.au/apprentices.

Apprenticeships? Call the Local Experts!

Providing employers and apprentices with accurate advice and support via: • •

Sign up of apprentices and trainees Free onsite consultations to assess your need

• •

Management of the administration process Payment of incentive funding

At Charles Sturt University we believe curiosity and passion lead us all on the path to greater knowledge.

That’s why our Port Macquarie Campus offers a growing range of courses with a practical focus, helping you gain the knowledge and skills you need to find employment on the Mid North Coast, as well as further afield.

Scholarships are available to help you with the cost of getting a degree and a huge range of courses is also available for study by distance education.

Gabby Barlow 0429 907 812 Heather Hands 0418 373 671 Carrie Eschbach 0408 948 709

There’s never been a better time to talk to us.

F3133A

www.CSU.edu.au/port 1300 135 435

verto.org.au/apprentices

manning-great lakes focus 43

The Art of New Wave Coffee Brewing.

There are many people who argue that coffee is the most exciting food product on the planet.

Not only is it the world’s second most traded commodity after oil, but it has been used for religious devotions, edicts and led to many a riot in the 17th Century when it was banned by King Charles II. In recent years there has been a new wave of coffee preparation techniques that unabashedly pushes all the boundaries.

In response to this, North Coast TAFE Great Lakes Campus is launching its 'The Art of New Wave Coffee Making' workshop, to help participants explore methods of coffee preparation that unlock flavours and aromas from your favourite brew, without costing a fortune for expensive grinders and espresso machines.

Ken Oldfield, hospitality teacher and program coordinator at North Coast TAFE Great Lakes Campus, recently attended a workshop at London’s Prufrock Coffee, which was established

by World Barista Champion Gwilym Davies. Ken said, “Brewing techniques in Australian and New Zealand cafés have dramatically influenced contemporary London and even European café

44 manning-great lakes focus.

culture. It’s similar, in a way, to the effect Australia had on the wine industry in the '70s and '80s, when our wines became the international touchstone for new techniques and market driven tastes."

"The techniques we will be exploring in the workshop include the siphon, the pour over, the aero-press and the cold filter drip methods.

Participants will be provided with full course notes, videos and suppliers lists to help acquire the equipment for their favourite brew method,” explained Ken. Workshops will be delivered on Great Lakes TAFE Campus in the Café Lab, which Ken boasts is equal to if not better equipped than any other coffee training facility in the state.

The program’s teachers, Ken Oldfield and Joanie Nardi, are both local café owners who are passionate about coffee and its limitless possibilities.

To find out more or to register your interest in attending the 'new wave of coffee making' course, visit northcoast.tafensw.edu.au or call the Customer Service Centre on 1300 62 82 33.

Kellie Turner Embroidery WHAT should I wear?... No, I just wore that.

How about ... No, that doesn't even match.

Ugh! I have nothing to wear!" Mum ...

Sound familiar?

Having school uniforms would cure this morning indecisiveness and have many other positive effects.

It has been argued that uniforms force conformity, yet many uniform-wearing students like the fact that everyone looks the same.

In schools without uniforms, students are often judged by what they wear.

"I didn't mind wearing uniforms at school, because it made everyone feel equal. There was no competition; everyone felt the same when it came to that."

High school students sometimes avoid those who dress differently. "We should have uniforms so that people will not judge others based on what they wear; it also helps prevent bullying, which has become a major issue in our society.”

With uniforms, students can see past superficial appearances and get to know personalities. A recent study shows that uniforms decrease peer pressure, while increasing student discipline and academic concentration.

Uniforms not only knock down barriers, but also unite the student body.

"I definitely think uniforms bring the school closer together.”

focusinterview.

PLC

Northern NSW’s top independent girls’ school

Saskia Kennett and Darcy Campbell hail from the Mid North Coast. Saskia from Forster, and Darcy from Nabiac, both started boarding at PLC Armidale last year in Year 7. Twelve months on, we chat with them and their parents about their experiences at Northern NSW’s top independent girls’ school.

W

hy did you choose Armidale, girls? And specifically, why PLC Armidale? Saskia My parents wanted to look at Armidale over boarding schools in the city, because it is a regional centre with a rural influence but it also had lots of academic and artistic things happening. I chose PLC Armidale because it is full of kind, caring and thoughtful girls who respect you and everyone around them.

Being a boarder at PLC is a wonderful experience, as it is like being in one big family!

Darcy I chose Armidale because it is such a beautiful town to live in. Being bigger than my hometown, it's provided many opportunities I couldn't have enjoyed at home. I chose PLC specifically because of its high educational standards, nice living spaces, lovely grounds, as well as the outstanding success all the PLC Old Girls have had.

What activities are you involved with at PLC Armidale? Saskia I am involved in the Cattle Team, where I learn about junior judging and parading animals for show. We even went to the Brisbane Royal Show (or Ekka) to compete this year. I am also involved in the touch football and soccer teams, speech and drama, choir, Eisteddfod, and I am in the group of boarders who go swimming in the mornings at the TAS (The Armidale School) pool. I have also been competing in the equestrian team, which participated in the North West Horse Sports Expo

at Coonabarabran. Each year there is a musical collaboration with the other independent schools.

I have been rehearsing for the production of West Side Story, which will be held at TAS in March. The productions are amazing! There are so many other activities to choose at PLC, including: indoor hockey, netball, tennis, athletics, basketball, water polo, kayaking and many others ... oh and of course, school work too!

Darcy I'm very active in the basketball scene at PLC. I have played on three different teams, and for a while I was coaching Pre Kindergarten. I love basketball so much, and PLC has really provided a great support for the sport. I'm also very active in speech and drama, competing in Eisteddfods, debating and public speaking. My other activities include horse riding, touch football and running.

What’s the best thing about living and studying at PLC Armidale? Saskia Living at PLC is just great! The best part about living at PLC is the deep friendships you make along the way. It is different to the close friendships I have at home, because we all live together and we are away from our families and their support, so when you meet someone you trust and you share secrets and problems, you really help and depend on each other.

Darcy The lovely people are definitely the best thing. Everybody is so nice here. It's like you walk into a school filled with your family. Teachers take extra time and effort to support you out of school (such as watching touch footy games), the students are all so lovely and caring, especially

the Boarders.

easily met our eye, seemed grounded and were

What would you recommend to girls your age considering the Boarding School experience? Saskia I would definitely recommend the boarding experience. There are so many opportunities that are different to what is at home, and you make friendships that last forever. This doesn’t mean leaving your friends from home, but making new ones with very different backgrounds. Yes, it may be daunting to think of leaving home and your parents, to go and live in a house full of girls you don’t know, but you will make friends quickly and just remember, everyone else is in the same boat as you!

very amiable. In addition to an excellent academic

Darcy It's such a great idea to go to boarding school. Boarding school forms you into a caring, happy, independent and daring person. You get so much responsibility and independence from boarding. You'll have the time of your life!

rich in the arts as well as education, and PLC

What has the experience been like for you and your families? Saskia’s mum, Amanda, shares her story about enrolling her daughter at Boarding School in the New England.

at TAS. Boarding also means sharing your life

Amanda Kennett My husband and I both boarded for our secondary school years, so the notion of Saskia boarding was not a daunting one for us. The schools we attended were too far from home, and we preferred a regional town over the city schools. We started the search when Sas was in Year 4. Later, she enjoyed 'experience days and nights' at a number of schools, but we loved the feel of PLC Armidale. There, the girls

standard, there was a lovely 'spirit', and the girls seemed happily engaged in their chosen pursuits.

The Enrolments and Boarding Staff at PLC were fantastic and worked with us to closely sort out the logistics of boarding and accommodating Sas and her horse! Saskia was fortunate to secure a Visual Arts Scholarship, which obviously helps financially; in fact, PLC offers a really wide variety of scholarships, not just academic.

We love the opportunities that boarding, particularly in the New England, offers Saskia.

Armidale reflects good old country values, is has access to resources from the University of New England, the Conservatorium of Music, as well as the facilities offered by the other independent schools, such as the Hoskins Centre and experiences with a broad cross section of other people, and I think this helps your child to develop independence and a greater awareness of how to accommodate other people’s needs as well as one’s own. Obviously we miss Sas in our daily routines at home, but it is wonderful when she returns for holidays and her close knit group of Forster friends once again fill our house with giggles and gossip!

Thank you Saskia, Darcy and Amanda for sharing your experiences with us.

manning-great lakes focus 45

WLP

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

In January 2014, WLP Accountants Pty Ltd will celebrate 60 years in business in the Manning and Great Lakes area.

T

he firm has seen many changes over the past 60 years, moving from laborious hand-written documents, books and ledgers to manual adding machines and typewriters, up to our current electronic environment, where computers have helped streamline the taxation and accounting profession to a 'paperless' or 'cloud' based system. The firm is proud to have achieved this milestone and even though the ways in which we attend to our clients' needs may have changed, our core values of assisting our clients to meet their taxation and business requirements remains the same.

The firm began with Alan Cowan opening a Chartered accountancy practice on 20 January, 1954 in Temple Chambers, Victoria Street, Taree, with one part-time employee. Today, we have offices in Taree and Forster and have a team of twelve people. In 1973, Bruce Walker joined the firm as a partner and in 1975, Roger Lynch, who had worked in the firm since 1963, also became a partner. The firm was then known as Cowan, Walker & Lynch. In 1998 the firm changed its name to Walker Lynch Petersen, reflecting the then partners of Bruce Walker, Roger Lynch and Mark Petersen. Mark Petersen tragically passed

46 manning-great lakes focus.

away in August 2001. Roger Lynch retired in July 2000, handing over the reins to Stuart Horsburgh. Stuart more recently retired in July 2012 and is consulting for the firm on a parttime basis. Bruce Walker retired as partner from our accounting firm on 1 July 2005 and is still a partner of our audit firm.

The current directors of the firm, Rhonda Haworth and Scott Dawes, continue to maintain the high standard of technical excellence and professionalism demanded as members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia. Rhonda Haworth joined the firm in 1999, working in our Forster office initially, relocating to Taree in 2002 and becoming a partner in July 2003. Rhonda has over 30 years' accounting experience. Having attained her professional qualifications in the early 1980s with a tier 1 Chartered accountancy firm in Sydney, she moved to the small township of Bingara in Northern NSW, where she managed an accounting practice for 15 years, before the sea change beckoned. Scott Dawes was initially employed in our Forster office as a trainee accountant, progressing to a Client Manager role and upon successful completion of his professional qualifications, was admitted as a

Director of the firm in 2010.

More recently, the firm has merged with Davis Ford Accountants, welcoming many new clients and existing employees from that firm and consolidating its already strong position in the local accounting profession.

Currently, the firm is a proactive, people-based organisation, committed to providing a prompt and highly professional service, specialising in the areas of business services, tax and accounting, self managed superannuation funds and audit. WLP Accountants’ team has a wealth of knowledge and experience across a diverse range of industries and professions, enabling us to provide our clients with an exceptional level of service.

Our firm is focused on our clients' business

needs over and above the mandatory tax compliance work. We can assist you to achieve the key business and personal goals of Cashflow, Profit, Growth, Asset Protection, and Succession Planning. Providing these services to our clients requires a proactive approach, where we discuss our business clients' needs and future direction with them and offer quarterly planning sessions and an end of year strategy meeting.

The Directors and team members at WLP Accountants Pty Ltd take this opportunity to thank their many loyal and long-standing clients for their business over the years.

To celebrate being in business for 60 years, the firm will hold a celebration in January with past and present business owners, employees, clients and business associates.

manning-great lakes focus 47

focusabode.

MANNING GREAT LAKES

property guide

NH O EM EWS A N HD IOn vRe sIt Zm eOn tNs 48 manning-great lakes focus.

NH O EM EWS A N HD IOn vRe sIt Zm eOn tNs

Custom Built Homes and Investment Properties to suit you and your lifestyle.

ather and son team Rob and Tim Donohoe are owners of New Horizon Homes & Investments, which specialise in custom Built Homes and Investment Properties to suit you and your lifestyle.

Chrissy Jones found out more about this local family based building company from Tim Donohoe.

New Horizon Homes & Investments builds its success on, firstly, creating custom designs. We have over 50 years' experience between us, of industry knowledge in the design and construction of homes. From contemporary single storey, acreage style, two storey and multi dwelling developments, New Horizon Homes & Investments work with our clients to develop the home

that is just right for them in every way.

We will deliver impeccable construction. Many potential customers decide on New Horizon Homes & Investments to build their investment due to the commitment and the dedication shown by the entire management team. We strive towards understanding our clients' individual taste and requirements. By offering an ongoing commitment to providing the latest lifestyle concepts and trends, by delivering innovative quality homes and superior value, we provide the ultimate customer experience when building your new home. continued over

manning-great lakes focus 49

focusabode.

Secondly, our success continues with our Investment Range of homes. Many decide on New Horizon Homes & Investments to build their Investment property. We work closely with other professionals in the industry, looking at areas that will secure our clients a good return for their money. We offer a range of homes that have been designed especially for the investor. Combining quality fixtures and fittings and cost effective building, we are able to offer investors quality homes at a very good price.

What do New Horizon Homes & Investments offer their Clients?

There are so many elements to consider when deciding to build a home. Obviously our client’s budget, size of home, style of home as well as the other technical elements of land topography, orientation, bushfire constraints

etc are just a few things that need to be considered. We, as your builder will listen and develop ideas and use our experience and knowledge to have your home just right for you. It becomes an exciting partnership between our client and us. We saw a need for these Custom Homes to be designed for our clients. Not just picking a home out of a book.

The construction of every home is managed

by Rob or myself. Our clients have us, the owners of New Horizon Homes & Investments, looking after the construction of their home.

They deal directly with us, answering any of their queries, walking them through their home at different stages of the build. Effective communication across the board throughout the design and construction phases ensure your project runs smoothly and efficiently from start to finish.

Find the floor you’ve been searching for

CARPET

TIMBER & BAMBOO

VINYL & LAMINATE

RUGS

Choices Flooring Port Macquarie 6584 7180 • 99 Hastings River Drive choicesflooring.com.au

50 manning-great lakes focus.

We offer a 2 hour Colour expertise and creative hand over “We, officially Interior and Exterior skills to help build w ne the keys to their Consultation with Erin your future home or g in cit home, a very ex to from Stylebox Designs. This investment property. us d time for them an e m ho is where you are able to We, officially hand ity al see another qu use a professional Interior over the keys to their finished. ” Designer to assist in all your new home, a very selections for your home. exciting time for them Advice on finishes and colours and us to see another quality for the home, ideas on bringing life home finished. and detail into those spaces including kitchen, Currently, we have an exciting offer in bathrooms, living and exterior combinations is conjunction with Flight centre. A $5,000 Gift all offered.

Card towards a holiday if you build a home As well as the above we are supported by with us. Take a holiday while we build your a team of professional tradesmen, suppliers, home! For a limited time only. engineers, conveyancers, surveyors and Tell us more about the Investment certifiers, some of which we have used for Packages you have available? over a decade; based throughout the Mid We specialise in assisting the astute Investor North Coast, who together bring a wealth of in seeking the best return for their money.

focusabode.

NH O EM EWS A N HD IOn vRe sIt Zm eOn tNs

From Stylebox Designs Working together with Finance Brokers, real Estate Agents and Conveyancers throughout the Mid North Coast we are able to offer some of the most competitive Home and Land Packages available in areas that have very good rental returns.

There are some fantastic Investment hotspots all up and down the Mid North Coast including Port Macquarie, Harrington, Kempsey and inland to Tamworth and Armidale. New Horizon Homes & Investments will offer specially designed homes, fitted with quality fittings so our Investors can then command a good rental return for their Investment.

Currently we are offering a Four Bedroom, two bathroom, double garage House and Land package in Harrington at a fixed price investment of only $375,000.

These homes are finished with quality fixtures and fittings throughout including window furnishings, porcelain tiling, stainless steel appliances, landscaping, driveway, rainwater tank and more. At this price and along with the tenancy rates, it is a great return for an investors money.

Experience the difference by building through New Horizon Homes & Investments.

the plug!

For all enquiries for building with New Horizon Homes & Investments call 4910 0924 or call Tim direct on 0422 231 488 or email: sales@newhorizonhomes.com.au

Erin, tell us about your business Stylebox Designs and what you offer clients of New Horizon Homes and Investments.

I have worked alongside Tim, Rob and the Team at New Horizon Homes and Investments for almost five years. During this time I have been tasked with many and varied Building Design and Interior/Exterior Design projects. I have worked closely with Tim, drafting residential floorplans to ensure the satisfaction of the specific requirements of their clientele. I also work on the Interior and Exterior Design of their Custom homes. I assist New Horizon’s clients on selections for their home with a 2 hour consultation.

From basic elements including paint colours and brick and roof choices right through to feature material choices involving cladding options or rendered areas, timber features, feature tiling and the list goes on. Most of the time a client may have

an idea of what they would like in their home. My passion is in drawing all these ideas together and creating a beautiful flow through their home from the outside in.

Further to the custom builds, I worked with Tim in developing colour and selection schedules for their Investment Range on offer. We focused on including quality and robust fixtures and fittings required in investment properties, as well as colour selections that are modern and contemporary, appealing to the majority of people.

I am looking forward to my continued role as a consultant to New Horizon Homes and Investments as well as being available for private consultations in Building Design and Interior/Exterior Design. I can also provide assistance in dealing with Local Council in gaining approval for your home, a sometimes daunting task. I can be contacted on 0421 397 647 or email me at info@styleboxdesigns.com.au

manning-great lakes focus 51

focuseditorial.

Top Left: Boral tradesman at work, Herons Ck; top right: Hardwood Wharf Timber (Wharves 8 and 9 Pyrmont) supplied by Haydens Timbers, Telegraph Point; Beneath right, Boral Timber’s kiln dried structural timber used at UWS Climate Change and Energy Research Facility.

Forrest NSW N o r t h

C o a s t

& Timber North Coast Forests Taskforce - the journey from primary producer through to the refined finished products starts and ends here on the North Coast with our rich supply of Australian woods. We meet some businesses of the region.

ayden’s Sawmill As the timber industry evolves into the 21st Century, it is faced with new challenges including smaller diameter trees, reduced volumes of timber and tightening environmental and planning regulations.

With these issues in mind, Darrell Hayden, owner of Hayden’s Sawmill, set about building a high recovery mill that minimises wastage.

In Darrell’s view, the conversion of timber to woodchip is not consistent with his vision of achieving the highest and best use of local hardwoods.

Accordingly, Hayden’s operation places as much emphasis on the lower end of the market as on the high-end premium logs.

“Over the years we have found that we can achieve some really positive results by converting off cuts into products such as mine timbers, pallet timber and fence palings,” said Darrell, who is obviously very proud that he operates what he calls a true recovery mill. A message from the Hatch Timber Group: “Australia has some of the best quality renewable resources available in hardwood timbers, and none more distinct than NSW North Coast Hardwoods. The NSW North Coast region has been a valuable supply resource in quality hardwoods to the Hatch Timber Group for many years. A stand out example is the hardwood wharf timbers supplied for the construction of Wharves 8 and 9 Pyrmont.

Without the combination of quality NSW North Coast hardwood resources and the milling expertise of Hayden Timbers sawmill, we may not have been able to admire the natural beauty of hardwood timber featured at Pyrmont,” Mark Campbell, Sales Manager, Hatch Timber Group.

Boral Timber – North Coast operations Boral has developed and produced wood products in Australia for over a century.

52 manning-great lakes focus.

Today, Boral Timber is one of the largest manufacturers of Australian hardwood products and a major supplier of certified hardwood and softwood in Australia.

Boral offers a wide range of Australian native hardwood timber products, including solid strip flooring, overlay, parquetry, green and seasoned structural timber, decking and cladding, with Boral Timber an industry leader in hardwood flooring.

Production and distribution operations are coordinated through Boral Timber’s headquarters in Sydney and timber products are produced at long established mills in Central and Northern NSW. The company employs more than 250 people in its hardwood operations, with mills located at Murwillumbah, Kyogle, Namoona, Koolkhan, near Grafton and Herons Creek, near Port Macquarie.

Over 80 per cent of Boral’s hardwood timber products come from their North Coast mills in Australia. The Herons Creek Timber Mill, near Port Macquarie, is one of the largest hardwood saw mill sites in Australia, providing sustainably managed hardwood structural and decking products throughout Australia. The Herons Creek Mill employs over 80 people across the 20 Hectare dry mill and saw mill sites, dispatching over 50 trucks per week. In recent years Boral Timber has invested in upgrading the Mill at Herons Creek with safer and more efficient technology and recently finished construction of additional drying kilns.

In addition to the Herons Creek site, Boral Timber continues to invest in energy efficiency through improving green power generation and upgrading mills to ensure that the utilisation of resources is maximised and material wastage is reduced.

Boral Timber General Manager, Stephen Dadd said: “The timber industry is currently facing import pressures, high energy costs and resource uncertainty. As an industry leader and major employer in the NSW North Coast,

it is important for Boral to support the locality and the timber industry. We will continue to invest in the main North Coast timber mills, with the focus on equipment, safety and technology. We are also involved with the North Coast Institute of TAFE supporting apprentices in joinery, cabinet-making, wood machining, and shop fitting.”

Boral Timber products are used for structural, commercial and residential renovation projects across Australia.

For example, Boral Timber’s Kiln Dried Today, Boral the F27 structural timber Timber is one of rs re tu was used in the largest manufac wood using locally sourced rd ha n ia development of al tr us A of hardwood in the late or aj m a d the University of products an ‘80s, starting first with ed ifi rt ce of Western Sydney’s supplier ood w ft Rose Gum (Flooded so d an d oo hardw Climate Change Gum) and then Sydney .” ia al tr us A in and Energy Research Blue Gum soon after.

Facility at Richmond in They also use prominent New South Wales (NSW).

Australian hardwoods such as Boral Timbers hardwood Tasmanian Blackwood, WA Jarrah flooring products are also currently and Tasmanian Oak, using these timbers being used in the refurbishment of the to make furniture of a very high standard Laurieton services club, located near Port and attention to detail, design and build Macquarie. quality. No MDF or particleboards are used at Francis Furniture – only solid timbers and select Francis Furniture plywood using features such as their unique Francis Furniture has been designing and sliding tapered dovetails, which allows the custom building quality solid timber furniture timber its natural seasonal movement on all in Port Macquarie since 1982; this year their carcass work and mortise and tenon on represents our 32nd year in business. Operated tables and chairs giving extra security. Combine by brothers Kim and Chris Francis, Francis this with an uncompromising approach to Furniture has expanded production and sales ensuring they use only the most appropriate in recent years to meet demand for Australian fittings and hardware available for a long made quality furniture from customers from service life, and you begin to realise why many as far afield as Victoria in the south and of their customers keep coming back and are Queensland in the north. still happy even after decades of owning their At Francis Furniture they use some of the finest first piece. timbers available, many of them North Coast Kim and Chris Francis are passionate about the hardwoods such as Sydney Blue Gum, Rose furniture they produce. They have developed Gum and Blackbutt. Francis Furniture started

“

focuseditorial.

Top left - Outdoor area, designed and manufactured by Bago Woodworks.

Top right - Galston Forest Dining Suite by Francis Furniture, Port Macquarie.

Planning for our Future The growing population of the North Coast is stimulating an increase in the demand for renewable building materials, of which timber is the most environmentally friendly. a reputation for designing and creating unique pieces to suit their customers’ individual needs.

Imagine being able to see your furniture come to life, as Kim uses 3D software to create a virtual model of the piece you have envisioned.

Their free custom design service is particularly popular with people trying to find something that will compactly and neatly store all their gear, be it entertainment equipment, books or crystal. Each piece is unique, whether made from a standard design or modified to the customer’s requirements. Their website has a mountain of images to look at and will give you an idea of what they have available and some of their unique designs: www.francisfurniture. com.au – or call in and see Kim and Chris at their showroom, located at 3 Belah Road, Port Macquarie or phone them on 6581 0276 for fine custom made furniture.

Bago Woodworks Bago Woodworks has partnered with ‘Sentrel’ balistrading over the last 6 years to design and manufacture a handrail and balustrade system.

This has had its challenges over the years, from sourcing consistent straight and defect free timber, to supply shortages in required sizes and species. Having trialled various timbers, methods and sources, they now mainly utilise NSW Spotted Gum. To overcome some of these issues they source small quantities of green private and NSW State Forest timber from Hayden’s Timbers and Coffs Harbour Hardwoods, then air, solarkiln and process to our requirements.

Between Bago Woodworks and Sentrel, this product alone has created direct employment for 6 - 7 workers and maybe 2 - 3 indirectly.

With Spotted Gum’s natural beauty and durability, it has been the outstanding market winner with our customers.

The other side of the business produces high end Australian hardwood joinery and furniture.

Again, they source both green and kiln dried products to meet these needs, green timber coming solely from local Hayden’s Timbers and KD from Boral, Moxons and other reputable suppliers.

With the local hardwoods’ strength and density, they have been able to come up with

some unique furniture designs that would not be possible with other imported timbers. With nearly all their products being ‘Made To Order’, and Australian hardwood’s unique difficulties, they have to be quite innovative in their construction methods.

Australian timbers have a very special uniqueness that can’t be matched by imported species, with local Blackbutt and Bluegum in both select and light feature grades featuring highly in the range.

Affordable Flooring The Dorney family operates two hardwood

On the NSW North Coast, over 800 000ha of State Forest is sustainably managed to produce timber products ranging from beautiful floors and timber decks, to strong bridge girders, electricity poles and wharving piles.

The industry-led North Coast Forests taskforce believes that it is now time to change the many misconceptions about this truly sustainable industry. Visit the website (www.forestmatters.com.au) or our Facebook page www. facebook.com/NorthCoastForestsTaskforce) for good news stories about this most important local industry.

Of course, illegal logging is a major contributor

to tropical deforestation and forest degradation. Australia has recently passed legislation to prevent the importation of illegally logged wood. However Australia’s forest management practices still rank amongst the highest in the world in terms of environmental sustainability.

Consumers who buy local timber can be confident that they are purchasing a high value, environmentally sustainable and long lasting product.

To ensure you are purchasing sustainably managed timber buy wood that has been sourced under certified standards such as the Australian Forestry Standard.

The Taskforce is also investigating, adding a local branding to all timber products grown, harvested, processed or retailed within this region.

sawmills: Newell’s Creek at Markwell and S A Relf & Sons at Bulahdelah. The company is now widely known for its quality flooring and decking products and have won a number of prestigious awards, including the ATIC Quality Assurance award (twice) for timber flooring manufacturers. Anthony Dorney says, “The properties of timber offer qualities unlike any other material – flexible in its application, durable yet not harsh underfoot, along with a wide range of colours and attractive features.

Since timber is a natural product, it may have a wide variety of natural features and colour variation within the one species. Every floor is unique and may well vary from timber samples or showroom displays”.

Anthony goes on to say: “Flooring available from S A Relf and Sons is made with a secret nail profile and end matched; the wider floorboards, 130 mm x 19 mm, are top nailed to minimize cupping. All timber is sourced locally and kiln dried on site.

The species available are: Sydney Bluegum, Coastal Blackbutt, Brush Box, Turpentine, Grey Ironbark, Flooded Gum and Stringybark and graded in accordance with the amount of naturally occurring features such as gum vein, tight knots, checks (thin shrinkage cracks), borer holes etc.

This is another great North Coast timber company producing a distinctive and very appealing product from sustainably managed North Coast forests. manning-great lakes focus 53

Australian Solar Timbers

LJ Hooker Harrington Harrington & Crowdy Head. An ideal and popular holiday destination for friends and families to come together!

With white sandy beaches, great fishing and a great family friendly holiday atmosphere, it is no secret why people are staying at Crowdy Head and Harrington year after year!

Visitors are welcome to come along and enjoy our many local and community events and facilities. At the Harrington Bowling Club, social events like bingo, trivia, and Harrington Hotel has raffles and fundraising activities for community projects are a regular part of what happens. There is also community markets along the foreshore with attractions for the kids!

If you are thinking of a family trip away where everyone is made to feel at home, then consider staying with LJ Hooker Harrington!

With over 55 properties that range from 2

54 manning-great lakes focus.

bedroom units through to large 4 bedroom homes, and being walking distance to Harrington’s famous Breakwall, Lagoon and other popular amenities, there is a property to suit every family & every budget.

Holiday accommodation prices start from $350 per week for 4 people or $530 for 10 people dependant on each property and the time of year that you book. LJ Hooker’s professional team are able to assist people with their accommodation needs & tailor their accommodation to compliment their trip away!

Take advantage of our comprehensive website which allows you to check availability, bedding configuration & pricing online. Bookings are able to be made online as well.

To take a look, please visit: www.harringtonaccommodation.com.au Further queries can be directed to Leah at LJ Hooker Harrington on (02) 6556 1000

Australian Solar Timbers are the premier manufacturer and supplier of solid hardwood flooring on the Mid North Coast, at the forefront of the industry since 1919.

CEO Dr Douglas Head and Business Support Manager Lisa Head took some time out to chat with Chrissy Jones about why they feel privileged to be a part of AST. Douglas why do you like working for AST? Many reasons really. Firstly I enjoy being with a company that has a history now approaching a century, and especially that it involves family members such as my grandfather, brother, wife, son and uncles and aunts. There is a story that emanated from World War 1.

Secondly I enjoy the mixing of Australia’s best innovators and real Australian country workers.

AST has been a pioneer in environmental processing and has been the world’s biggest timber solar drying operation since 1994. I love the AST approach of embracing innovation and respecting traditions.

Finally I enjoy working with fellow workers who are very real and generally have a respect for

quality and work ethics.

Lisa AST flooring products have been certified. What does this mean for the end user? Our wood is sourced from local sustainably managed NSW Forestry Corporation accredited under the Australian Forestry Standard.

This means that our hardwood flooring products are AFS and PEFC Chain of Custody certified to international standards of best practice ensuring that they are from legally sourced and sustainably managed forests.

For the end user they can be confident that when they purchase a floor from AST it is a carbon neutral, natural product resourced and produced under stringent environmental conditions.

We are also extremely proud to be a member of the North Coast Forests Taskforce whose mission is to substantially improve community understanding of, support for and confidence in, the environmentally sustainable management of North Coast forests and their timber products.

manning-great lakes focus 55

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