New England Focus i104

NEW ENGLAND

January 2016 / // Issue 104

G L A N D'S NEW EN

Feature Story The Waifs

LIVE AN EASIER LIFE AT OAK TREE

O

ak Tree resident Kerrie Reeves is living testament to the improvements in life when making the move to a retirement community. Kerrie decided to make the move to a retirement village after she no longer had anyone to help her with the gardening and other household chores.

“I have been on my own for a while now and have a very bad back, so I thought I should start looking after myself; which led me to sell my home and make the move to a retirement village,” Ms Reeves said.

“I don’t want my children to have the burden of looking after me, because they have their own families now, so it is great to have people here to help me whenever I need.”

“The Oak Tree village is affordable and I really like my villa, as it is very comfortable and also lovely and cool in the warmer weather.”

“I was attracted to the Oak Tree village’s secure grounds, as well

as its ongoing gardening and maintenance services.”

“What I like the most about living at Oak Tree is that I don’t have to worry about anything, they take care of the lot, so all you need to look after is the inside of your home,” Ms Reeves said.

“There is a lot of maintenance that they take care of, which means I can get up whenever I like, go wherever I like and do whatever I like, knowing that there is always someone here looking after my property.

“It’s great not having to worry about the lawn and garden – the gardener even helped me plant some new flowers the other week.”

The village centre and recreation facilities are built and ready to enjoy with a program of social events planned this year.

To learn more about the Oak Tree village or inspect the display homes, pop down and see Village Manager Kate today.

Oak Tree Armidale resident Kerrie Reeves

“After moving to Oak Tree, I’m now enjoying retired life – in my spare time I like to sit outside in the sun and also play bingo at the Armidale Ex-Services Club.”

“The village is nice and peaceful – I’m really enjoying new residents moving in and joining me at the village, our community is growing each month.”

89 MARTIN STREET, ARMIDALE Sat 13th and Sun 14th February 9am – 1pm 1 BEDROOM HOMES SELLING FROM $235,000 2 BEDROOM HOMES SELLING FROM $260,000 1300 367 155 2 new england focus.

www.oaktreearmidale.com.au

focus team.

focus team.

focus team.

Welcome to the January edition of New England FOCUS.

W TO

elcome to 2016 and region, but something was missing. No artworks, so they last as long as possiwelcome to our January real beer! No regional beer - just beer ble. edition of FOCUS. What from the cities.

BrokenWord and Enflux have teamed an exciting year we have They started brewing in early 2013, up to release a new EP. Hailing from Welcome ofEngland New England FOCUS. planned for you! This month we have to a the andOctober the focus is edition on the New Armidale, these well known hip hoppers very special feature called New England’s North West region of NSW, but they also are making a name for themselves in the thegoNovember New England FOCUS. EAM NOTE Welcome toWe in-depth withedition all that isof NERAM: for 35 years

by New England locals.

“Best Kept Secrets”; it’s your guide to send their beers to leading bottle shops industry and getting airtime on big time Welcome one, the new café - Studio 52, Packsaddle, Walcha Mountain Festival is in its some of our beautiful hot spots. and bars along the East Coast. School radio stations like triple j. Find out what n thisregion’s month’s front at to Screenwise St Brasserie. welcome all to edition andstudies we talk the new Acting Director. eighth year now, with this year set to Take a peek insidecover to find a secret you INSIDE THIS ISSUE it takes to get something like this ng off the is Barbara Albury, - Australia’s leadingfeature film and And finally, read how a local 101. You are about Our Dream Home is TV set school to impress.

Held over two days,golfi it will may not have known about.

FOCUS delves into the life of Barry ground. starson in A Streetcar for actors. community come Helicopter together toMounsave towho embark another impress, with many of the fantastic include the has Westpac ON THE COVER Named Desire, showing at Dawson, who is the President of the Retraction/Apology Webusinesses also speak to the wonderful the Uralla Golf Club. Billy Cart Derby, journey into the lives of local showing you howAdetain Bike Challenge, Piers Thomas an Armidale local who Nashos.

Don’t know who the Nashos On page two the December edition Hoskinsis centre from happening the 21st of laide author Sue Panagaris, has WELCOME TO of JAMES BROOKS locals,TAS businesses and what’s to create your next extension who or new farmers’ market and trash and treasure has been working as a ranger for the are?

Read his interview on page 35. of FOCUS, the Oak Tree Group and The to December This event house just build. released her third bookeasy! for Mills New England FOCUS very to in andNovember around this marvellous6th. region.

Building made New market.

This event is isfun forproud the whole National Parks and Wildlife Service in Milk comes from where?

UnfortuFOCUS team apologise for referring has alook “stella” cast and will be sure & Boon titled Falling for Dr December, welcome James Brooksand to to We alway forward to bringing youto England FOCUS have your renovations family, with free“Jimmy” face painting Walcha for over 15 years.

He is part of a nately, it is true that many children think Member for Northern Tablelands MP impress. the story set in the New England our team.castle, Jamesand has something joined the team the best stories, features and columns, on with lock-down. jumping a little large INSIDE team who looks after the 150,000 that(taking milk comes from a Armidale supermarket.

Adam Marshall as Simon.

THIS ISSUE place in both and as an advertising well as so, grab yourself a comfy position and With a day on the green destined for different - an eggconsultant throwingas competihectare Oxley Wild Rivers National Wayward Jerseys is helping to very change FINAL Practicing local“you accountant Uralla).

We at were excited helpingSAY us out with photography, so give yourself some time”! for 40 New England, weFOCUS thought it apt to feation!

Park and 31Bob smaller national and this misconception through their farmtheygive weren’t good for you in 2015, years, Locke tells us parks how advanchave a chat with Sue and also happy “If please ON THE COVER turetoone of the most iconic musicians FINAL SAYJames a call if you have any nature aroundhave Armidale and big staythat outside is run by they won’t be great for you in 2016. Let esreserves in technology had a very she’s Armidale, showcasedwhich the New England enquiries.

This month we feature Packsaddle. in Australian culture - Daryl Braithwaite.

“I am so clever that sometimes I Walcha.

Debarea O’Brien Lauri Pulkkinen. them go.” impact on the way business is done to theand world.

FINAL SAY Thirty years on, and Packsaddle is still Braithwaite’s influential songs have don’t understand a single word of what Georgia Smith (with the guitar) is a Hidden in NERAM ... Did you - Robert Tew. depend on your eyes, these days.

We alsoSecrets travelled to the Uralla Bowling “You can’t going strong! For those who aren’t au I am saying.” - Oscar Wilde. been on many a playlist and his well 19 year singing writing that NERAM has the Howard Weold talkplaying, to Lachie Sewelland about why he know club, where Lyn Ferguson has recently when your imagination is out of fofait, Packsaddle is an annual fund-raisknown songs, such as The Horses, are up and coming starinwho hails from justus Hinton stored room inside? chose to stay Armidale; he tells takenCollection over the dining as Want head cus”- Mark Twain. ing exhibition for the New England now anthems. outside Guyra.

She write her own songs it?producing Visit NERAM and ask there are many job opportunities here to see chef, satisfying andabout moreish Regional Art Museum (NERAM). Find Has it been 35 years already? Well, that are fusion of jazz, pop, blues, thismeals amazing exhibition that we so for athe younger generation. for the whole family to are enjoy. out why, who, what and when inside. to the team at Hubbard Hire, time flies with an feel.born and bred Armi- happy in back our local artNew gallery.

Wealternative catch up with Lyn to hashave come to the England INSIDE THIS ISSUE when you’re having fun! FOCUS talks dale lady Monique who shares Ever Ben Rylands from theHowe, New England wondered how kept region because sheartworks loves theare mounThis month we have all sorts of wonwith the team at Hubbard Hire and her Co ambitions become actress fresh NERAM air. Another big change Brewing and histoteam lovedanthe for tains long and periods? helps preserve derful stories, including Anthony Kelly, finds out more about this service, that and tells us about the exciting mois the name of the restaurant in the smashing and setting world records. has been proudly owned and operated ments from her career so far. Monique

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Uralla Bowling Club, now titled the Hill

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MANAGING EDITOR:DESIGNER: Jay Beaumont SENIOR GRAPHIC Dylan Gaul SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul jay@focusmag.com.au dylan@focusmag.com.au dylan@focusmag.com.au

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GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable michael@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment joey@focusmag.com.au michael@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC GRAPHICDESIGNER: DESIGNER:Jeff JeffCowan Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Annalise Montgomery jeff@focusmag.com.au annalise@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle GRAPHIC DESIGNER: KyleRathbone Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan kyle@focusmag.com.au jeff@focusmag.com.au ACCOUNT MANAGER: Louise GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Michael Beaumont Marchment louise@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone michael@focusmag.com.au kyle@focusmag.com.au SUB EDITOR: Jo Atkins COPY EDITING: Rite ‘n’ Rong Services ACCOUNT MANAGER: LouiseMedia Beaumont jo@focusmag.com.au rnrmedia@bigpond.com louise@focusmag.com.au

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Comments and opinions of our contributors do notdo necessarily reflectrefl the or view of the Publishers or Editor.

Comments and opinions of our contributors not necessarily ectopinion the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor.

All reasonable efforts have beenhave made to trace holders.Information appearing in Focus believed to be to correct at theattime of going to press however nono liability will bebeheld orsupplied suppliedbybyadvertisers advertisers All reasonable efforts been madecopyright to trace copyright holders.Information appearing in is Focus is believed be correct the time of going to press however liability will heldfor forinaccurate inaccurateinformation information approved approved or oror

new england focus. 3

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BROKENWORD AND ENFLUX.

Popular Armidale bred Hip Hop group BrokenWord has teamed up with a fellow former local MC, Enflux, to create a new joint EP called Cost of Living, which is scheduled to be released this month.

issue I S S U E

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THE HINTON COLLECTION. The New England Regional Art Museum often talks about something called the Howard Hinton Collection - but how many people know who he was, what the collection is, why it’s important, and how they can see it?

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1 0 4

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J A N U A R Y

WHAT’S ON FOR JANUARY SOCIAL SCENE KATE MITCHELL BEST KEPT SECRETS IN THE NEW ENGLAND

2 0 1 6

TOURISM UPDATE WITH KATRINA GEORGE STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI HALL BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL FEATURE

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WAYWARD JERSEYS.

Deb O’Brien and her family simply wanted to share with others what they considered to be fortunate to have. At Wayward Jerseys, they believe in the philosophies of free range kids, natural produce and being surrounded by lots of animals, and they wanted to give people the opportunity to experience this too.

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new england focus. 5

focusinterview.

AFTER RELEASING A NEW ALBUM, A BEAUTIFUL YOU IN AUGUST, W.A. TRIO THE WAIFS ARE HEADING OFF AROUND AUSTRALIA, BRINGING THEIR FOLK DRIVEN DITTIES TO TAMWORTH FOR A ONE NIGHT ONLY PERFORMANCE. JOSH CAUGHT UP WITH FOCUS AND CHATTED ABOUT THE BAND’S JOURNEY SO FAR ...

H

i Josh. Tell us the story about how The Waifs first came to be …

It was 23 years ago last August that we all met up in Broome, Western Australia. The girls were travelling around as a duo seeing the country, and I was kind of doing the same thing in another band I was playing in, and our paths crossed in Broome back in 1992. We had a jam, played some music together, and it was very apparent there was a D onna popped musical connection the question, and there was also a join ‘D o you wanna personal chemistry as make up with us and well; we just felt like usic?’ a life playing m family. Donna popped h uc m And I didn’t take the question, “Do you persuading .” wanna join up with us and make a life playing music?” And I didn’t take much persuading.

At that time, was “The Waifs” a name that Donna and Vicki were going by, or was it something that was collectively chosen after you became a trio?

It was probably about a year after we got together, we were travelling around the country playing music, and as we came

“

6 new england focus.

focusinterview.

across to Queensland, we stopped in at my grandmother’s place. She was horrified by my long beard and my long hair and my hippy looks and told me that I look like a waif, and then when we made it all the way back to Albany, Western Australia, where the girls are from and their grandmother said, “Oh, my little waifs have come home”. It wasn’t a word that we’d ever really used that much, so it really stood out when both of our grandmothers had used it in reference to us ...

So we looked into it a bit more, and it became apparent that was a good description for the way we looked, and also our lifestyles a bit as well. So that’s how we got the name our grandmothers gave it to us.

Earlier this year you released the album, A Beautiful You. How would you describe the vibe of this album?

It’s a joyous feeling within the band getting together to play music, write songs and record and tour again; it’s a bit of a celebration really.

We had a lot of fun making the album ...

There’s a theme to the record which is a wistful, longing sense. Vicki’s got a couple of songs that kind of speak about that; she’s been living over in the States for a few years now and she misses home a lot, and that comes out in some of the songs. But, that’s been a theme for quite a long time; going back to London still and even earlier than that, it’s been a bit of a theme of ours. We’ve travelled so much and been

away from home so much which was a ukulele. I read All the that it kind of tends to as much about it as I could, instruments I come out in the music.

I talked to people, and om play on stage, fr What does your I thought I’d jump into electric the acoustic to ve ha instrument the deep end and have ,I guitars , ukuleles g I in collection look like? a go. All the instruments th built - the only d ol an is Do you have any I play on stage, from didn’t make r fo t ou ll pu I favourites? the acoustic to electric banj o that ” s. ng so o tw I’m building a house guitars, ukuleles, I have one or at the moment, and built - the only thing I didn’t I’m going to have a music make is an old banjo that I pull room in it where I’m going out for one or two songs. to eventually be able to have all Early next year you’re embarking on my guitars and instruments out, but at the a national tour, with a mix of regional and moment they’re all stored in various locations. city shows. What do you love about being I thought I’d get them all together, and I was on the road? astounded at how much I had collected over First of all, it’s such a blessing to play music, the years. I don’t even know in numbers, but especially with people that you love and are the thing is in more recent times I’ve been your family, and then beyond that probably the building guitars. I’ve stopped collecting them, reaction - the way the music affects people. but my collection grows every time I build a We have such a great audience, and new instrument. everywhere we go we just hear wonderful Can you elaborate on your love of building stories of how the music has meant so much to guitars? people over the years. We’ve had people come I’ve always loved being creative and doing up who’ve been struggling with depression stuff with my hands, making things. When I or grief, and a certain song of ours has really was a little kid, that was very much encouraged spoken to them and helped them through a by my family; I guess it was only a matter of time in their life. On the other hand, people time before my passion for that and my passion talk about how the music has been uplifting for music and guitars merged. It was probably and a soundtrack to a wonderful time in their about 10 years ago - maybe even a little bit life as well ... longer - was the first instrument that I made, You know, you sit in your bedroom and write

“

a song, and you never know what it’s going to turn into or who it’s going to reach - and when you hear the stories back from people who come along to the shows, and hear the way it’s affected them, you realise how important it is.

One of these shows is in Tamworth. What are you looking forward to about being in the city of the Golden Guitar?

I love Tamworth. My mum grew up in Inverell, which isn’t too far away, and I’ve always loved that region and have a lot of great memories there. Some years ago actually, not a lot of people would know this, maybe some locals will remember it, Vicki, myself and another one of our friends and some of our other musicians put on a play during the Country Music Festival at the Retreat Theatre.

So, there are always great memories, and plus at that time of the year there so many people in town and they love music. There’s a great atmosphere in the air of celebration.

Thanks Josh.

the plug!

Don’t miss The Waifs on Tuesday 2nd February 2016 at the Capitol Theatre, Tamworth. www.entertainmentvenues.com.au (02) 6767 5300.

new england focus. 7

focusinterview.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL, AND MAY 2016 BE FILLED WITH LOTS OF ART!

T

he art exhibition calendar at Gallery 126 fight with the computer programme or printer, is off and running, with lots of exciting and the exhibition is on its way. The works new shows in the rear gallery. With the arrive at the gallery, much deliberation as to the two exhibition spaces, there is always placement of the works, and then the physical something to look at. process of the hanging! Unlike other galleries, The front gallery is revamped with there are no teams of volunteers, just Stuart, new artworks every few weeks; whereas, the Robyn, myself (Anne)! But it is also a lot of fun rear space has a change over with great fanfare and a great time to really acquaint oneself with and an opening function, where everybody the individual pieces. is invited to come along and meet the Opening night! It’s a busy time for us, featured artist or artists on a Friday but for the artist, it can be a nervous evening. wait for the first arrivals ...

A lot of work goes into Then suddenly the gallery is e th Some of r fo an exhibition, not least overflowing with people, s ht highlig an e ud of all, the making of the admiring and discussing cl in this year ry ua br Fe in art itself by the artist. the artwork. After a n tio exhi bi tist ar e ap sc It may take months relaxing wine, the artist nd la by llowed or years to physically settles into an enjoyable Stuart Bogg s, fo tist ar produce the body of evening. The artworks

by Guyra based with , Anna Henderson red work for the show, remain on show for four ye la d her moody an while there has been to six weeks, and it is landscapes .” years of study and practice always worth another visit by the artist to arrive at a to the gallery. point where he/she is confident This process occurs each month enough to share their work with the for every new exhibition. If you would public. like to be added to the gallery mailing list, Then the works need to be readied for contact the gallery. presentation, either framing or tidied up for Some of the highlights for this year include a canvas, or sometimes even problem solving as an exhibition in February by landscape artist to how to physically hang a piece on the wall or Stuart Boggs, followed by Guyra based artist display on a plinth! An image which either sums Anna Henderson, with her moody and layered up the body of work or tantalises the viewer landscapes. A new artist to the area, Emily to want to see more has to be chosen for the Simson, will be included in a group show, and invitation, as well as a title. a project with paper and charcoal and a group Invitations are printed, address labels of artists is in the planning stages. Rest assured completed, which may sometimes include a there will be a lot of art at Gallery 126 in 2016!

“

8 new england focus.

focus_What’s On New England

January 2016

GOLDEN GATE RODEO

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The success of the Walcha Rodeo has meant that it has continued to run over 50 years. It has a magnificent display of cowboy skills, bull riding, rodeo, buck jumping and camp drafting. There is a barbecue and a bar that is open all day, snacks are available and there are sideshow events also to entertain. When Saturday 9 January 2016.

More info www.walchansw.com.au

FIRST SATURDAY CHATS

Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Elizabeth Stahlut (Solicitor) from 10am to 1pm at our offices on Saturday 9th January 2016. As this is a popular programme, bookings are essential. When Saturday 9th January.

Bookings Essential (02) 6788 1100.

13

STARTS

THE LAMB AND POTATO FESTIVAL

The Lamb and Potato Festival aims to showcase local produce, with delicious lamb and potato meals, boutique stalls, and daily entertainment and activities. Nestled under the beautiful elm trees on the New England Highway at Guyra, it is the perfect stopping point for weary travellers during the school holidays. The festival runs in January every year, and the community hosts a variety of other events in conjunction with the festival, making it the perfect destination for your summer break. Escape the heat and take a break in Guyra this coming January. When Wednesday 13th January 2016 to Tuesday 26th January 2016. More info guyra-lamb-potato.com

LA TRAVIATA

You’ve got to get to Tamworth in January for the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival from Friday 15th January to Sunday 24th January 2016. It’s Australia’s largest music festival and one of the top 10 music festivals in the world. When Friday 15th January ‘til Sunday 24th January 2016.

Opera New England brings live, fully staged opera to regional NSW, featuring young adult Conservatorium singers.

S

TAMWORTH COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL

START

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STARTS

When January 2016, Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata will be performed in Armidale for four performances - January 21, 22, 23, @ 7:30pm and 24 @ 2:30pm. Where The Hoskins Centre - TAS.

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AUSTRALIA DAY ARMIDALE THE McCLYMONTS “10 Years Of Hits” Live in Concert is set to thrill audiences when it launches at the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January 2016. Don’t miss the stunning harmonies of Australia’s #1 Country Music group, along with their incredible live band.

Where Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre (TRECC). Tickets adult $49.90; pensioner/senior $39.90; child 12 years and under $29.90.

Come and celebrate being Australian at Curtis Park in Armidale on Australia Day. The official Citizenship and Awards Ceremony starts at 10:30am in Armidale Town Hall, followed by fun activities for all the family.

When Tuesday 26th January 2016.

Where Curtis Park, Armidale.

26

SUPPORTING THE MICKERTS FAMILY

Featuring Terra Firma, Mr T and Rick Cuthel. Races, live music, jumping castle for the kids, charity auction, foods stalls and more.

When Tuesday 26th January 2016 from 11am - 9pm.

Where Armidale Racecourse. Entry $21.50 per person. new england focus. 9

Kate MITCHELL from Armidale Live

Business Chamber end of month drinks

Armidale locals celebrating the Reclaim the Night markets in the mall

Father and daughter Mel and Terry up from the Central Coast for a day on the green at Petersons Winery

Georgia Smith performs at the Archibald Tour 2015 at NERAM

Performers Ruth and Melanie Gray reconnect at the Armidale Business Chamber end of month drinks

Revellers attending the ADOTG after party at The Armidale Club

SOCIAL/SCENE

L

ast month was jam packed with live music events, our favourites of which were seeing Yhan Leal perform at the Welder’s Dog after starting off in Central Park, and the boys from Mr T with special guest Melanie Gray performing at Uralla’s Top Pub. Armidale’s inaugural Air and Auto Spectacular at the Airport on the 14th November hosted 3,000 people. Despite the unfortunate weather, the show attracted many unique acts, and it is set to be the first of many more successful events.

The following weekend, Armidale’s favourite saw more than 6,000 people travel to celebrate a day on the green. The ADOTG weekend has been getting better each year, with the Armidale Dumaresq Council creating initiatives

WE’VE HAD A BIG MONTH AT ARMIDALE LIVE, WITH MORE EVENTS BEING HELD OVER THE WARMER MONTHS, AS WELL AS GREATER SUPPORT OF LIVE GIGS IN TOWN. I JUST WANT TO SAY THANK YOU FOR ALL THE SUPPORT, AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO CONTINUALLY HIGHLIGHTING OUR FAVOURITE EVENTS AND LIVE MUSIC ACTS THAT ARMIDALE HAS TO OFFER!

to involve more local musicians. This year they held the Big Busk, which attracted local artists to compete for their place to busk at the entrance to ADOTG at Peterson’s Winery. The Sunday markets in the mall were organised with a band, Welder’s Dog licensed bar, and the biggest selection of markets this year. A tip for any musicians in the area: watch this space, as I hear things are going to get exciting!

The weekend also coincided with the White Ribbon Race day, and the opening of the 2015 Archibald Prize at NERAM, with local musician Georgia Smith performing to approximately 200 art enthusiasts who attended the event.

The exhibition remains open until 10th January 2016.

All of the events ensured that the after parties in town were pumping, with our

favourites at The Armidale Club, and Chai performing live at The Imperial Hotel.

The Armidale Business Chamber has been ramping up their social events, this month holding a “What’s Armidale Talking About” event, which discussed future projections for the town by 2020, and their monthly Chamber drinks at the Armidale Club. The chamber are now embracing young business people, giving them a forum to be heard, and it was great to see this reflected in the attendance this month.

On Friday the 27th, Reclaim the Night Market was held in the mall, which aimed to spread awareness to violence and was celebrated with light dancers, food and guest speakers.

Early December has got off to a busy start, with Christmas in the mall getting everyone together to celebrate over beers and music;

and the 2015 New England Hot Rod Show and Shine held at Armidale Tourist Park, which had the park booming with 150 cars on show and live music to entertain the 400 motor enthusiasts each night.

This month we are looking forward to the Armidale Club Friday nights’ house mix, Carl Barron performing at Lazenby Hall and of course, the return of all the locals to celebrate Armidale’s infamous Christmas Eve parties!

Check out www.armidalelive.com for a full list of gigs.

If you have any upcoming events you’d like to see in these social pages, milestone birthdays, university reunions or just want to see your friends’ smiling faces in the paper, send them into armidalelive@gmail.com and we’ll profile them in the next edition of FOCUS.

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10 new england focus.

new england focus. 11

focusinterview.

T H E G O L D E N G A T E R O D E O

GERARD O V E R S B Y

THE GOLDEN GATE RODEO IS SET TO BE AN EXCITING EVENT, WITH COMPETITORS TRAVELLING FROM ALL OVER. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH WALCHA LOCAL AND CHAMPION BULL RIDER GERARD OVERSBY ABOUT THE EVENT AND HIS PASSION FOR THE LIFE AND SPORT THAT IS RODEO...

H

i Gerard. Tell us a bit about yourself ... Where did you grow up, and how do you do spend your time when you’re not competing in Pro bull riding competitions?

I grew up in Western Australia in a town called Bindoon, and then moved over to the Eastern States when I was around 19 to compete in rodeos more. During the week I work as a Farrier and also ride horses for fun and do a bit of camp drafting for fun as well. It works out good riding horses for rodeo; it helps your balance and gets you in the rhythm of a bull or a horse.

When did you discover bull riding as an interest?

When I was about eight or nine, I went to a rodeo with my brothers, and from there I always had the interest. I didn’t really get right into it until my teenage years. I started doing it properly every weekend when I was around 18 or 19, but I always had the interest from a young age - I just never had the opportunity to compete, as living in Western Australia there wasn’t that many rodeos to compete in.

What styles of the sport do you compete in?

Bull riding and bareback mainly; I do a little bit of saddle bronc and steer wrestling as well.

How do you prepare for an event?

12 new england focus.

Winning the Australian da bareback title , an in s le tit d un few all ro , ia al tr us A rn Weste da na and over in Ca int I won the High Po of y bo w Co d all roun n. They WRA Associatio est gg bi would be my ” . ts achievemen

“

On the day of the event, I tape my knees and arms, get my boots and chaps and vest on, I do a fair bit of stretching before I get on ... I don’t really warm up at all; it’s more about stretching and getting all the gear ready. In the lead up to the event when I was in Canada I was going to the gym a lot, but living out of town here I go for a run three or four times a week.

Probably the best thing is getting on the bulls; otherwise, you can think about doing it, but the only way to learn and get better is getting on.

When it comes to getting on the bull, do you get to choose your beast, or is it selected for you?

The Stock Contractor puts his bulls forward, and then the ABCRA Rodeo Association draw your name out of an automatic draw to match you, so you have no control over what bull or animal you get; it’s all random.

How would you describe the feeling of getting on the back of a beast triple your size and raging mad?

Depends on the bulls. I normally get excited and adrenaline starts rushing; it’s hard to explain. It’s a feeling of justing wanting to get on and get out and see what the bull has in store for you. The excitement and adrenaline is the

best part about it.

You’ve spent some time overseas competing; what was that experience like?

I’ve been to Canada four times riding barebacks and bulls mainly and America once. I normally go to Canada in their summer and come home in our summer, so I miss winters. Canada only has a six month season, as it gets too cold in the winter, so I spend between four and six months a year over there and come home for our summer.

Tell us about some of your biggest achievements …

Winning the Australian bareback title, and a few all round titles in Western Australia, and over in Canada I won the High Point all round Cowboy of WRA Association. They would be my biggest achievements.

What are you looking forward to about the upcoming event in Walcha?

I’m looking forward to the Walcha Rodeo.

It’s always good to have a rodeo in your home town; you don’t have to travel, and you ride in front of your mates. We always have good stock at the Walcha Rodeo.

Do you have any advice to give to young

up and comers looking to get into the industry?

Get on and have a go. If you don’t have a go, you’ll never know - and don’t give up! Just keep trying hard.

What do you love most about about the rodeo lifestyle?

All the travelling and parties with your mates.

The mates you make at the rodeo are the best mates you’ll ever make; we spend a lot of time travelling around together, and we make our own fun.

Any final words you’d like to share with our readers?

I look forward to seeing you all at the Golden Gate Rodeo!

Thanks Gerard.

the plug!

Golden Gate Camp Draft and Rodeo, Saturday 9th January 2016.

Adults $15, children 5 - 15 $5, children under 5 free, family pass $35. www.abcra.com.au

e p a c Es

TO THE MID NORTH

COAST Colonial H O L I DAY PA R K

Pathfinders The annual Tilbuster Pumpkin Run will be held again in 2016 and with the assistance of many community organisations and benefactors, Pathfinders are ready to make it bigger than previous years.

Planning and planting is well underway, with over 1,000 pumpkin seeds in the ground and with the generous support of the Northern Tablelands Local Land Services, Tankworks and the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation, an irrigation system and tank has been acquired, built and installed.

With the assistance of Tilbuster’s project coordinator, Charlie Winter, many young people have been involved, from laying the pipe through to building the tank. Not only will this water grow the vegetables, it will also supply water to troughs for the cattle, which will also enable rehabilitation of Tilbuster Ponds creek that runs through the property.

The aim of the Pumpkin Run has always been to give back to the community, growing and supplying fresh vegetables, especially pumpkins, to refuges, nursing homes and to feed those less fortunate.

The Pumpkin Run commences from Armidale in April and will finish in the middle of Sydney’s CBD at Government House, where His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley generously invited Pathfinders during his visit to our Inverell office earlier this year.

Elders INSURANCE Have you set 2016 New Year's resolutions for your business?

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1. Refresh your business plan and marketing strategies As the Australian Small Business Commissioner suggested, reviewing your business plan and updating your marketing materials and activities intermittently gives you the agility to respond to new opportunities and situations.

2. Expand into new markets Whether you take your business online, set up shop overseas or pursue new product offerings, these endeavours could be a great way to expand your operations.

As your assets and activities grow, be sure to update your business insurance accordingly to protect investments new and old.

3. Compare your business to other organisations in your field While it's also great to focus on improving cashflow, streamlining your operations and more, you might also want to consider how your activities stack up against your competitors.

By benchmarking yourself against similar organisations, you can identify areas you excel in, as well as ways you need to improve to stay at the forefront of your field.

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focuseditorial.

PASFIELDS R E S T A U R A N T SET HIGH ON THE HILL IN THE BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED GARDENS AT PARADISE PALMS RESORT, KORORA, COFFS HARBOUR, PASFIELDS RESTAURANTWAS FULLY RENOVATED AND OPENED TWO YEARS AGO AND HAS NOW ESTABLISHED ITSELF AS ONE OF COFFS’ PREMIER RESTAURANT, FUNCTION AND RECEPTION CENTRES.

P

roviding exceptional food, whether it be fine dining, a six course degustation menu, casual pizza, schnitzel and ribs or family meals, Pasfields provides something for

everyone to enjoy and afford.

With the owners, Todd and Kylie Pasfield,

another bride around the corner getting married or in the next room sharing what should be your special day.

If you have always dreamed of

Pasfields has been decorated at so beautifully th l of al t guests commen have u yo o the time, ‘D ght?’ ni to on a wedding there ... But no, often s isn’ t - it just look e th beautiful all of time. ”

“

owning and running the restaurant and

a beachside wedding,

managing the resort, it brings the warmth and

then why not hold your

hospitality of a family owned business and the

ceremony at one of Coffs’

ability to tailor make weddings and occasions

many beautiful beaches and

to just how you dreamed they would be.

then hold your reception at Pasfields

For stunning wedding packages, Paradise Palms Resort and Pasfields team up to provide the complete stunning package in one venue.

In just one appointment you can organise

Restaurant? You don’t see the sea at night anyway, but you do feel the wind!

Pasfields has been decorated so beautifully

5 - 8pm), a function or a romantic dinner.

You can spoil yourself in the beautiful surrounds of

court tennis, games room and acres of lawns and landscaped gardens to roam provide hours of entertainment for all ages and a relaxing atmosphere.

Situated just two minutes’ drive north

Pasfields Restaurant

of the Big Banana on 12 acres of hills and

any time, without

landscaped gardens, Paradise Palms Resort

having to break the

accommodation provides many rooms with

bank.

panoramic or sea views, more than most on

Landscaped gardens, the

the sea.

restaurant deck and the quaint onsite chapel provide beautiful indoor and outdoor ceremony options (and the added peace of mind of the chapel for an automatic wet weather option).

Pasfields Restaurant can cater for sit down

Check in and take a dip in one of the pools, a walk around the grounds, order room service from either the restaurant’s casual or fine dining menus, or just sit back and watch the world go by!

Take a look at paradisepalms.net.au for rates

that guests comment all of the time, “Do you

functions of up to 140 guests inside or 100

and room pictures and layouts and choose

your ceremony, reception, theming (Pasfields

have a wedding on tonight?” ... But no, often

guests outside, and for cocktail functions the

what suits your budget and eye.

provides their own options included in many

there isn’t - it just looks beautiful all of the

venue caters for up to 300 guests.

packages, rather than the need to pay for

time.

and the hassle of appointments for theming companies) and accommodation.

So many brides to be come in after having been through the run around with other

Floor to ceiling chiffon curtains provide

Seminars, presentations and work dinners are becoming popular at the venue, as the

Always book direct for the best rates and not with all of the International agencies (booking.com = Holland, Wotif and Expedia

intimacy should a booking of 20 to 80 like to

word gets out about the quality and versatility

= USA, Agoda = Thailand …) which are

have some segregation.

of it with morning tea or breaks on the deck

never cheaper, take commissions and money

and presentations inside.

outside of our country and outside of the local

Dimly lit small chandeliers throughout the

venues having to bring in external theming and

restaurant shimmer off the flickering candle

just love the look of the venue, even without

light at night, setting a warm and welcoming

options, from brand new executive rooms to

when you need to change anything. Buy

theming, and love the hassle free approach of

atmosphere.

budget rooms, couple and family spa rooms,

Australian made and book direct!

all with a balcony to enjoy fresh air rather than

Pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au 6653 7710

being cooped up in a motel room.

Paradisepalms.net.au 6653 6291 675

booking at Pasfields - but still without cutting back on quality.

The new Merbau deck overlooking gardens and hillscapes is the perfect spot to enjoy

Privacy is also a big drawcard of Pasfields

either a casual pizza (Thursday nights there is

and Paradise Palms Resort. There will never be

$12 big 14” pizza and $4 tap beer and wine,

14 new england focus.

Onsite accommodation provides many

A newly renovated large outdoor pool, heated outdoor spa, heated indoor pool, half

business and are very strict and expensive

Pacific Highway, Korora, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450

focusinterview.

Top left Brokenword; Right Enflux

BROKENWORD POPULAR ARMIDALE BRED HIP HOP GROUP BROKENWORD HAS TEAMED UP WITH A FELLOW FORMER LOCAL MC , ENFLUX, TO CREATE A NEW JOINT EP CALLED COST OF LIVING, WHICH IS SCHEDULED TO BE RELEASED THIS MONTH.

F

OCUS sat down with both Brendon Stace (Stas) from BrokenWord, who’s currently living in town, and with Enflux - otherwise known as Ben Middleton - to find out about how the project came together.

Tell us how the joint EP with Enflux came about?

Stas: Me and Enflux originally met in Armidale. We’d been mates for a while and collaborated on a few songs and shows; I liked the sound of the music that Benny and producer Mitchell James had been making, and we just thought it would be a bit of fun.

The collaboration was announced to fans almost three years ago. Why has it taken so long to be finished?

Stas: That's a very good question; it's a seven track EP ... The original idea was just to smash it out nice and quick.

There were a lot of reasons for the delay - travelling was probably a big interruption, jobs, moving cities etc ... But also that once we got started on it, we wanted to make sure that we made a high quality product - something that might stick around for a while.

What did you love about working with Enflux?

Stas: He is really easy to play practical jokes on ... It’s brilliant ... Although he is starting to learn.

But mainly it's just good fun working with a good mate ... And we tend to bounce ideas

I suppose Describe the process around really well.

BrokenWord of writing and workSame with working g and I love rockin d ing with Brokenwith Mitch James ... an shows together, Word to produce Recording weekends s there has alway ere; Cost of Living? have always been th y been chemistr Enflux: It’s difficult. pretty loose, but a lot re to d te we just wan ” Not from a creativity a fun at Mitch’s place. g. in el fe at create th point of view - pureA lot of credit for the ly due to the fact that EP has to go to Mitch getting everyone in one the production is top notch. room at the same time is nearly Describe the process of as rare as Clive Palmer not saying writing and creating the songs something closed minded and offensive. on Cost of Living?

In terms of the process, it started with Stas: Mitch gave us a beat disc to start selecting which tracks we liked of Mitch's the with ... It was awesome having a disc of most, brain storming ideas, writing hooks, fresh beats to pick from. writing verses independently, coming back From there, it was a matter of finding the together and testing out the material, deright concepts or hooks, and everyone just veloping structure and sound, recording and started doing their bits and contributing, then trying to make time to head to the Gold tinkering with the beats and music until it all Coast together to mix and pre-lim master came together. with Mitchell James, then finally sending it to How did the EP with BrokenWord come Joseph Carra at Crystal Mastering in Melabout? bourne.

Enflux: Well myself, Stas, Al and Maxy are For a seven song EP, this process took three all from Armidale, and it was the music which years, due to some international movement these boys made that really got me into wantfrom all of us at some stage. ing to make music.

It’s worth it, because it is the best we have Once I released my second EP, I hit up all created as artists.

Mitchell James for a bunch of beats and just Why is the EP called Cost of Living? took them to BrokenWord's house, and we Enflux: If you look at it this way ... The cost began to vibe hard. of all of us "living" was it took three years for Finding concepts was pretty easy, as Mitch's us to complete this EP. International travel, tracks are so full of emotion, funk or straight work, money and relationships have impacted up nastiness.

“

us producing this EP. That's part of the cost of us living.

The EP also holds a strong message of the internal struggle most independent artists deal with. You'll hear tones of nostalgia, bad decisions, issues associated with living in the city, and just losing control.

I felt all of these things contribute some form of cost to living; that's why I agreed with the name.

What was your aim in making this EP, and what do you hope it achieves for you as an artist?

Enflux: I suppose BrokenWord and I love rocking shows together, and there has always been chemistry there; we just wanted to re-create that feeling.

In terms of goals - we would love to have at least one spin on the J's.

A spin on the J's and maybe a festival booking would be awesome. However Al, who is currently overseas, has said he would come back early especially for a show if we were to play in front of more than 500 people (essentially capacity at a smallish venue).

At the end of the day we released something that was true to us and our lives, and hopefully people can relate and people will enjoy - that's all you really aim for as an artist.

You can listen to the first singles from Cost of Living, which is due to be released in full soon via https://www.triplejunearthed.com/ artist/brokenword-enflux Thanks guys. new england focus. 15

focuseditorial

Icing on the cake with Susie Dunn

Icing

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

dclutterbug order from chaos dclutterbug is a locally owned business which addresses the growing need for professional organising services for those who are moving, downsizing, renovating or for those revitalising or decluttering a home, business or home office.

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W

THE PALE BLUE DOT… as the name of astronomer Carl Sagan’s essay on Voyager 1, the space probe which in 1990 journeyed 6 billion

kilometres from Earth to the edge of our solar system. Sagan asked NASA to turn the camera to take a picture of Earth, and there was 0.12 of a pale blue pixel on a black curtain with dots of stars glittering around it.

We are on the pale blue dot. Very fragile and very precious.

As we move into another New Year, we have a blank black curtain hanging in front of us, and we have to do our best to aim for some of those glittering stars to guide us into the sort of future we want. I believe across our region we have lots of tools to succeed in creating fulfilling happy lives, and we have to fold them in together to maximise their effect.

One of the most interesting benchmarks to watch is the process whereby Armidale was named in the world’s top 21 Smart Communities for 2016 by an Intelligent Communities of the World forum. The evaluation is “based on the six intelligent community indicators - Broadband, Knowledge Workforce, Innovation, Digital Equality, Sustainability and Advocacy”.

The next step is applying by January 15 for shortlisting to be among the top 7 in the world for 2016 and although Armidale has the smallest population of the top 21, we have a very good case to make here, which I don’t think a lot of us really appreciate.

In the bush, as opposed to the way things work in the city, we also have the advantage of knowing the people who drive things locally, and we have very easy access to them.

And yet at the same time, we are all global citizens now. Peter Sniekers is the Business Development Manager, Northern Inland NSW, and it was through him that I first learnt about Smart 21. He has pointed out that we have “a digital champion in our midst” who has kept the DEIG (the Armidale Digital

16 new england focus.

Economy Implementation Group) “enthused, focused and on topic for over four years to take up any and all opportunities as they arise”. Take a bow, Alun Davies. Anyone who has had any in depth contact with the digital world in Armidale knows Alun. Too many good ideas can wither on the vine without passionate, determined people prepared to persevere. They are the ones who build a smart team and keep it together.

For the fresh new year of 2016, there have been shifts in thinking on many fronts. A headline on the financial pages of the SMH showed one of them: GREED - with the ‘D’ crossed out to read GREEN IS GOOD. Another hopeful straw in the way the world is moving towards renewable energy and what seems to be good sense. A shift in thinking can bring about a democratic revolution. We have the advantage of such a varied base here that with the digital take-off of the NBN, we are particularly well placed for a balanced and effective business climate and lifestyle, yet still immersed in the natural world. An increasing number of city-livers around the world are detached from the realities of the natural world as they make decisions they don’t fully understand. And that’s dangerous.

Taking our future into our own hands is far from impossible - the worst thing is to complain without doing anything to find solutions. The new business attitude among many of our city retailers is very positive and that “in” word - “empowering”- at the same time. And the end of year financial figures coming out from Canberra have shown positive upward movement. The future is always an unknown quantity and can change very quickly, so why shouldn’t WE help mould it?

“Seize the day” is a pretty good motto for this fresh new year on our pale blue dot. Or there is always the old adage, “Use it, or lose it”.

Happy 2016.

Susie Dunn.

focusinterview.

HINTON COLLECTION

THE NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL ART MUSEUM OFTEN TALKS ABOUT SOMETHING CALLED THE HOWARD HINTON COLLECTION - BUT HOW MANY PEOPLE KNOW WHO HE WAS, WHAT THE COLLECTION IS, WHY IT’S IMPORTANT, AND HOW THEY CAN SEE IT?

ho was Howard Hinton?

“The inspirational story of Howard Hinton is one of generosity of spirit and a passionate belief in the lasting value of art,” said Robert Heather, Director of the New England Regional Art Museum. “He was a successful businessman who literally gave everything he had to supporting the arts in Armidale, a community far away from where he lived.”

Howard Hinton O.B.E. (1867-1948) was born in England and came to Australia in 1892, where he started work as a shipping clerk and had a career as a successful businessman, eventually becoming the Director of the W & A McArthur, shipping agency, before retiring in 1928. He lived quite simply in a boarding house in Cremorne, and in WWI he was refused entry into the AIF due to his poor eyesight. He was described as a shy reclusive man “diffident of manner and hesitant in speech” who never married and died in 1948.

What is the Howard Hinton Collection?

Hinton became friendly with the artists who lived and worked in artist camps around Mosman’s Bay and was a regular patron at art exhibitions around Sydney, buying works by younger artists in whom he saw promise, often supporting them before they became famous. After he retired in 1928, he decided to donate “a complete collection illustrating the development of Australian art from 1880 onwards” to the new Armidale Teachers College, and over the next three decades he donated over 1,300 paintings, drawings and prints to the College including works by iconic Australian

artists such as Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton, Norman Lindsay, Hans Heysen, Nora Heysen, Esther Patterson and Ethel Spowers. These were displayed in the halls and corridors of the college for many years, until community concerns led to the opening of the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) in 1982 as their new home.

So why is the Hinton Collection important?

“The Howard Hinton Collection is probably the most significant art collection in regional New South Wales, because of the value and quality of the artworks in the collection,” says Robert Heather. “The Collection was donated as a gift because of Hinton’s interest in education and his strong belief that students and teachers would benefit from being surrounded by great artworks. It is an important legacy for the whole community of the New England region to celebrate.”

“The Hinton Collection creates a rich picture of an important moment in Australian art history and collecting,” said Anne Ryan, Curator of Australian Art at the Art Gallery of NSW. “It is an incredibly rich testament to an individual’s vision and his rare act of philanthropy. The appeal of the artworks has lasted, and they are still relevant to contemporary audiences.”

How can you see the Hinton Collection?

The collection is too large to be displayed in its entirety at NERAM at any one time, so gallery curators research and display it within temporary thematic exhibitions. There are currently a number of works in the Operation Preservation exhibition, which explores the conservation issues involved in looking after art collections.

Paintings, drawings and prints are vulnerable to

damage by moisture, temperature changes, light, pests and poor handling. This exhibition has been put together to show visitors how these different issues affect artworks and how they can support NERAM in looking after the collection through the Adopt an Artwork programme.

Artworks from the collection are also loaned to other galleries. The beautiful Tom Roberts painting Mosman’s Bay is currently on display at the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra as part of their blockbuster exhibition on that artist.

“By lending out artwork, we are contributing to research into Australian art history and creating interest in the collection,” said Robert Heather.

“We hope that people will take the opportunity to then come to Armidale and find out more about what we have on offer here.”

Visitors to NERAM can also book in for a Storeroom Tour of the collection by an experienced volunteer guide. These tours are a popular way to see behind the scenes at the gallery and get up close and personal with some great artworks. Small groups of visitors are taken into the secure climate controlled storeroom, where the paintings are kept on special racks and hear the stories behind the collection and individual artworks; it is described by participants as a very special experience.

How can I help the Hinton Collection?

“While we are always hoping that the next great benefactor will walk in the door and write a big cheque to support our work, we understand that generosity on the scale

of Hinton’s only rarely comes along each generation,” said Robert Heather. “We have a great community of supporters who make it possible for NERAM to look after and make accessible the artworks in the collection. We are also working on big plans for its future research and display, as well as creating educational and online programmes to encourage new generations of people to learn about art. Your support of these makes a huge difference to our ability to make our collections accessible.”

“Anyone can make donations to the Howard Hinton Trust or the NERAM Foundation to support the costs of the collection and our programmes of exhibitions and activities. The successful Adopt an Artwork programme is open to people who want to support the conservation of works in the collection, and it has been exciting to see many individuals, community groups and businesses make a pledge towards looking after an individual artwork that they know and love.”

How can I find out more?

The informative exhibition Operation Preservation is on display at NERAM until September 2016, and includes details about the Adopt an Artwork programme. You can also buy a copy of the fully illustrated book Munificence: The story of the Howard Hinton Collection, at the NERAM Museum Shop. To learn more about the collection, make a donation, or book a Storeroom Tour, just visit the NERAM website at www.neram.com.au new england focus. 17

Best Kept Secrets

18 new england focus.

Best Kept Secrets

Discover Walcha’s Secrets

Visit Inverell Nestled in a valley on the Macintyre River, Inverell is a jewel in the crown of the New England region.

The township dates back to 1837, when Allan Cunningham came through the region on his exploratory journey.

The town is synonymous with sapphires, with many visitors arriving throughout the year to fossick for this beautiful gem. The area is rich in minerals, with areas available to search for diamonds, quartz, topaz, jellybean crystals, rutilated quartz (grass stone) and tourmaline.

Inverell is surrounded by beautiful national parks and bushland areas.

Copeton Dam is a fisherman’s paradise and is currently the only inland waterway where there is no closed season on Murray Cod. Other

species include Yellow Belly and Catfish. The dam is almost three times the size of Sydney Harbour and with camping options to suit everyone, it is the perfect place to get away from it all and view the spectacular night sky.

Renowned for its diverse and beautiful boutique shopping district and amazing array of quality attractions, Inverell is a popular destination due to the pride the community has in it and the welcome received by locals and visitors alike. Many visitors comment on the friendliness and beauty of the town and district and those coming for a day, find they need to stay on to truly experience all that is on offer. If there’s one thing that should be on your bucket list, it is a visit to experience the beautiful Sapphire City.

Inverell

Walcha, a New England High Country town enriched with public art, cafés, galleries, and shops from antique to boutique. Walcha’s high altitude offers a distinctive and fascinating landscape, where rich farming county atop undulating hills suddenly meets a maze of dramatic gorges, sheer deep ravines - some plunging 700 m to the depths below, creating expansive and awe inspiring views, all packaged up with the occasional stunning waterfall. AND, all just a stone’s throw from town!

So, by that rationale it would have to be said that Walcha’s best kept secret, without a doubt, is the 160,000 hectare, world heritage listed, Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, with scenery to rival the Kimberley and thousands of kilometres closer.

Green Gully Track, a four day trek through

Take a 4x4 adventure to Mary’s View for a day or two, or head down to Riverside and enjoy a swim in the lower Apsley River. Enjoy the extensive flora and fauna at Apsley and Tia Falls (2WD access) with breathtaking views, bushwalks and waterfalls, both with great camping areas. If you are looking for a challenging adventure, book your trip on the

Gorges by Chopper with Fleet Helicopters. The

the gorge country staying in refurbished mustering huts, the only long distance walk in Australia where you don’t need a tent, bed or cooking gear. Or for one of the most amazing experiences you will ever encounter, do the Best kept Secrets are quite often right under your nose … Start to explore your own back yard!

Some areas have restricted access; please contact: Walcha Visitor Information Centre; P: (02) 6774 2460.

Walcha

where wild rivers run

Put yourself in the picture

Discover Inverell nature • heritage • fossicking • boutique shopping Inverell.com.au

Inverell Visitor Information Centre P: 02 6728 8161 • 11-31 Campbell Street

Copeton Dam.indd 1

Discover Walcha’s secrets... walchansw.com.au

15/12/2015 3:04:23 PM

new england focus. 19

Best Kept Secrets

Lamb Guyra and

POTATO festival C E L E B R AT E 3 0 Y E A R S Birthed from an idea back in 1986 to a thriving festival today in 2016, the Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival celebrates 30 years with FOCUS …

ho were the founding members of the Lamb & Potato Festival committee, and how was the initial plan brought to life?

The concept of a Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival originated in the kitchen of Frank and Mavis Presnell in the presence of Royce Newbury.

Looking back at the lamb that was ...

In 1986, Royce Newbury and Frank Presnell, members of the Guyra Rotary Club, decided that the major products of Guyra, being prime lamb and potatoes, should be promoted with a week long festival to be held in January.

The first Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival was held January 1987 in Rotary Park, to catch the eye of passing holiday traffic and to coincide with travellers to and from the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Over the years, this has proved a very successful tactic and now is a “must stop” at Guyra for people travelling to the Tamworth festival.

In 1988, just one year after the first festival, the “Lamb and Potato” sculpture was constructed and erected. Tell us about the sculpture itself and also the story behind the creators …

The Lamb and Potato statue was erected 20 new england focus.

and unveiled on January 26, 1988 by Mr Cliff Axelsen, a sculptor from Sydney. The base of the statue consists of an inner core of concrete surrounded in granite. The stone work was carried out by Hans Model and his father of Armidale, who are experienced stone masons.

Cliff Axelsen, who trained under Tom Bass, Australia’s foremost sculptor, put eight weeks into producing a full size clay model using two tones of clay; from this he constructed 20 plaster moulds. Cliff, along with several friends from the art world, treated the moulds and placed them in position in Rotary Park.

The cement was mixed on site and consists of two types - one for the interior and one for the external face. After two weeks of curing, the moulds were removed and the completed textured surface resembles a stone face. It took the takings of two festivals to pay for the statue and the lighting for the statue.

What kind of positive impact does the festival have on the community?

The Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival has brought together the whole Guyra community and organisations that help out each year in the gazebo - working and having fun together.

The Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival has brought money from outside Guyra by travellers stopping and spending money at

local businesses, and is a great promotion of a “lean to”.

Guyra.

Now there is a large gazebo/kitchen The gross takings of the first festival were (extended again in 2005 - 2011, 2013 and about $7,000. A large percentage of the 2015 through the kind donation of services money raised at the festival is reimbursed to and goods by local contractors) that was built community organisations each year. Some with blood, sweat and tears of those early funds are kept aside to ensure the volunteers, and there are market stalls spread continued operation of the the length of Rotary Park, with festival. Wherever possible, regular ones rebooking before all produce used at the they leave Guyra each year. : ct fa festival is purchased This festival has put nt ca ifi gn Si locally. It is only where Guyra on the map over the the festival is d and an item is unavailable length and breath of the totally organise by y el in Guyra that eastern states of Australia, it’s run entir no volunteers with purchases are made with visitors from as Guyra government or outside town. far away as northern Shire funding.”

How has the festival Queensland to Victoria. progressed over the In closing, are there any businesses or supporters past 30 years?

The festival was started you would like to thank for their support over the years? by people who ha000d a “can do” attitude and has evolved from a The following organisations have few volunteers working out of an old completed a shift at the festival every year for caravan and a “lean to”, with legs of the past thirty years: Guyra Ladies Bowling Club lamb being cooked in kitchens all over town!

Guyra Show Society There were nightly deliveries of the lamb, and Ben Lomond CWA/Hall Committee in the early morning volunteers drove around Guyra CWA picking up the cooked products.

Rotary Club The gazebo was built and completed for Lion’s Club the 1993 festival. This replaced the makeshift Thanks everyone. gazebo of the Rotary and Lions caravans and

“

Best Kept Secrets

Armidale Outdoors The New England region ... New South Wales’ best kept secret? Sure, we think so!

One of the most diverse regions in the state, with access to as wide a range of wilderness as you could find anywhere, from winter snowy adventures to lazy summer BBQs. Time spent floating down a river on an old tractor tube, walking the Green Gully track, to 4WD exploring Georges trail and the ocean views of Point Lookout ... The Oxley Wild Rivers National Park most certainly holds some of the state’s best kept secrets (check out awildland. blogspot for inspiration).

This unique landscape give us the inspiration to enjoy running an outdoor store all the more - a testament to this is the fact the store has been here since 1974.

We have been working hard to retain the individual nature that makes us so unique.

With a huge amount of change afoot globally, we have been focusing on strengthening relationships with some really unique Australian businesses: Cindy and Max at West Kunderang (one of my personal secret summer getaway destinations) to One Planet backpacks and KLE, who have the ability to make us some very individual products to our design!

Built to last and made in Australia, that’s the mantra we will take into 2016. We will continue stocking the best available product, along with some exciting new Australian innovations, while endeavouring to provide good service and up to date advice on the best of the local region. Get out and enjoy all that the New England has to offer; we will be!

From me and my team at Armidale Outdoors, we wish everyone all the best for 2016.

Andrew Coventry.

new england focus. 21

Best Kept Secrets

Wayward The Farmstay at

JERSEYS

D E B O ’ B R I E N & F A M I L Y

Deb O’Brien and her family simply wanted to share with others what they considered to be fortunate to have. At Wayward Jerseys, they believe in the philosophies of free range kids, natural produce and being surrounded by lots of animals, and they wanted to give people the opportunity to experience this too.

Photo credit John Nalder Photography

22 new england focus.

Best Kept Secrets

ell us about yourself and your family ...

My name is Deb O’Brien, and I grew up in the local area. After ten years of travelling Australia, my husband and I realised that “home” was a pretty awesome place and made the decision to move back. I would describe myself as a unique blend of quirky and earthy, and I believe Wayward Jerseys Farmstay reflects that. Wayward Jerseys would not be, without the love and support of my husband, Lauri Pulkkinen. Lauri is the type of man who not only supports his wife to follow her crazy dreams, but also says, “Fine, you want to buy a milking cow … Well, let me build you a dairy”.

We also have three beautiful little girls, ranging in ages from six to eleven, who love their way of life and love sharing it with other people. I have always loved animals and am passionate about the New England area. I truly believe I have the best job in the world!

What prompted the beginning of Wayward Jerseys?

The name “The Home for Wayward Jerseys” (shortened to Wayward Jerseys for convenience) was initially a term that my husband jokingly used to describe my penchant for Jersey cows.

It also alludes to what we see as their unique personalities. Simply, we wanted to share with

others what we consider to be fortunate to Pop as well. I find our guests often come from have. At Wayward Jerseys we believe in the either Sydney or Brisbane, or both in a lot of philosophies of free range kids, natural produce cases, as it is a good place to meet in between and being surrounded by lots of animals, and (we are exactly half way between Sydney and we wanted to give people the opportunity to Brisbane). We also get a lot of overseas guests experience this too. who are interested in getting off the beaten What can visitors experience at track and seeing what Australia Wayward Jerseys? is like outside the cities.

Basically, a visit to Wayward As to what “type” of urite Jerseys is like a visit to people we get, a One of my favo things is being a petting zoo … On pleasant surprise child at steroids! We are extremely has been how nice introduced to a stay a the beginning of interactive, so expect to all our visitors ad down who has their he get up close and personal have been - kids their and focused on d an to the animals. We are and adults alike. e, m ga favourite video ay st r famous for our “morning I have thought a ei th by the end of you ll te en ev routine”, which includes lot about why this ’t dn they coul device g in m ga r ei learning how to milk one is, and this is what th where of our Jersey cows, feeding I have come up with. ” . is our baby animals and collecting The types of people eggs. For our day tour people, who visit a Farmstay are added to this is a country style, home the types of people that are cooked morning tea and marshmallows to engaged with their children and toast on the fire. Our overnighters get all of this family, interested in how others live, complimentary to their stay, as well as other love animals and they’re prepared to try inclusions such as an optional ghost tour at something new. All in all, this makes for pretty night. amazing people, on the whole.

What type of demographic visit the farm?

Tell us about some of the reactions you get I must say the majority of our visitors are from visitors? families with children. We accommodate up to “Milk comes from where?” Unfortunately, seven people at a time, so often it is Nan and it is true that many children do think that milk

“

comes from a supermarket, and a wonderful part of my job is educating them otherwise. Our guests are a pretty open minded lot and even if incredulous at the beginning, it is not long before they get into the spirit of things and are milking cows like a professional. Actually, one of my favourite things is being introduced to a child at the beginning of a stay who has their head down and focused on their favourite video game, and by the end of their stay they couldn’t even tell you where their gaming device is.

Do you think locals like us take for granted what’s in our own back yard in regards to primary produce?

Yes and no. Yes, because I think we are truly spoilt here in regards to our primary produce.

But just because we are spoilt, doesn’t mean that most people don’t know they are on a good thing by living here. It’s like this area is a wonderful secret, and all us locals are in on it. There is a lot of buzz around local food and produce at the moment - justifiably so - and there are also a lot of amazing and dynamic people starting to really do some incredible things. I would have to say that it is pretty exciting times here in New England.

Plans for the future?

Yes, yes and yes. At the moment my lips are sealed, but think tourism and think local produce, and watch this space!

Thanks Deb.

new england focus. 23

A day out in Dorrigo

locomotives that supplied the Western Front natural attractions in our region’s When it’s time to relax, enjoy in World War One. the last time With you visited Dorrigo? natural attractions in our region’s world-famous fabulous meals at reasonable When it’s time to relax, enjoy Way, hailed as backyard, when was the last time you visited Dorrigo? drives, and prices from Heritage Hotel Best Kept Secrets fabulous meals at reasonable Travel the beautiful Waterfall Way, hailed as ted natural one of the world’s most scenic drives, and Dorrigo’s acclaimed ‘Table’ prices from Heritage Hotel marvel at World Heritage-listed natural When Hotel Dorrigo was opened in 1925 it Dorrigo’s acclaimed ‘Table’ he tree tops wonders.

was renowned as the most modern country rom the Sky Hotel Dorrigo was opened in 1925 it hotel in NSW and, for what was called back then,When its ‘Table’.

In those days ‘Table’ meant You’ll see majestic views over the tree tops A Day Out In Stop for a was renowned as the most modern country and down the Bellingen Valley from the Sky the range, quality and excellence of meals. rest Centre hotel in NSW and, for what was called Walk and Griffith look-out. Stop for a Now, 90 years later in 2015, Heritage Hotel Dorrigo continues to be treasured for its back then, its ‘Table’. In those days ‘Table’ mean s. the range, quality and excellence of meals. while at the Dorrigo Rain Forest Centre ‘Table’. ks and walk Now, 90 years later in 2015, Heritage Hotel Dorrigo continues to be treasured for i and learn about nature’s secrets.

This ‘Table’. is what guests have told tripadvisupported by towering trees intertwined with vines and Choose short or longer tracks and walk er.com.au about Heritage Hotel Motel orns and bush orchards.

This is what guests have told tripadvi through rainforest cathedrals supported by towering trees intertwined with vines and Dorrigo: WITH WORLD-FAMOUS NATURAL y spectacular waterfalls including Dangar Fallshorns where er.com.au about Heritage Hotel Mot adorned with tree ferns, stag and bush orchards.

ATTRACTIONS INWalk OURbehind REGION’S “Every meal was hearty, very tasty and nicely metres to the swimming hole below. gentle Dorrigo: Experience the thrill of THE manyLAST spectacular waterfalls including Dangar Falls where presented. Hats off to the Chefs.”

BACKYARD, WHEN WAS e new observation suspended bridge.

“Every meal was hearty, very tasty and nicel Bielsdown thunders 30 metres to the swimming hole below. Walk behind gentle TIME YOURiver VISITED DORRIGO? “Meal prices reasonable in the restaurant and spot the abundant birdlife. presented. Hats off to the Chefs.”

Crystal Falls or view it from the new observation suspended bridge. and the food great.”

0-year-old Tallowwood trees just a short stroll into the “Meal prices reasonable in the restaurant Keep quiet along Lyrebird Link and spot the abundant birdlife.

“Also good pub food which was tasty and ravel the beautiful Waterfall gentle Crystal Falls, or view it from the new and the food great.”

Pay homage to the mighty the 600-year-old Tallowwood trees just a short stroll into the well-priced.”

Way, hailed as one of observation suspended bridge.

Surrender to the serene and friendly “Also good pub food which was tasty and Norman Jolly Reserve. world’sofmost scenicafter drives, quiet along Lyrebird Link and spot the country charm Dorrigo a round KeepThere’s no better base to explore the wonders of the nine well-priced.” to the serene and friendly andvia marvel at World birdlife. forest drive the picturesque Platypus abundantSurrender country charm of 600-year-old Dorrigo a round Plateau national parks on theafter Dorrigo andno thebetter charmbase of the natural Pay homage to the mighty There’s to explore the wonders of the nin Flat picnicHeritage-listed area and Cascade. forest thestroll picturesque wonders.

Tallowwood treesdrive just avia short into the Platypus township than the Heritage Hotelnational Dorrigo.

Walk the retail centre and discover the parks on the Dorrigo Plateau and the charm of th Flat Reserve. picnic area and Cascade.

You’ll see majestic views over the tree tops Norman Jolly distillery, an old-fashioned sweet shop, and down the Bellingen Valley from the Sky Surrender to the friendly township than the Heritage Hotel Dorrigo.

Walk theserene retail and centre andcountry discover the arts and crafts, antiques and bric-a-brac Walk and Griffith lookout. Stop for a while at charm ofdistillery, Dorrigo after a round forest drive via shop, an old-fashioned sweet shops. the Dorrigo Rain Forest Centre and learn about the picturesque Platypus Flatantiques picnic area arts and crafts, andandbric-a-brac meals at reasonable prices from Heritage Dorrigo: Children love exploring the line of yester- Cascade.shops. nature’s secrets.

Hotel Dorrigo’s acclaimed ‘Table’.

“Every meal was hearty, very tasty and nicely year steam locomotives from 1878. Walk the retail centre and discover the Choose short or longer tracksdating and walk When Hotel Dorrigo was opened in 1925, presented. Hats off to the Chefs.”

Children love exploring the line of yesterthrough rainforest cathedrals supported by distillery, year an old-fashioned sweet shop, arts from and 1878. it was renowned as the most modern country “Meal prices reasonable in the restaurant, steam locomotives dating

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towering trees intertwined with vines and adorned with tree ferns, stag horns and bush orchards.

Experience the thrill of many spectacular waterfalls, including Dangar Falls, where Bielsdown River thunders 30 metres to the swimming hole below. Walk behind

1

crafts, antiques and bric-a-brac shops.

Children love exploring the line of yesteryear steam locomotives dating from 1878.

Among this world-class rail museum are two locomotives that supplied the Western Front in World War One. When it’s time to relax, enjoy fabulous

hotel in NSW and, for what was called back then, its “Table”. In those days, “Table” meant the range, quality and excellence of meals.

Now, 90 years later in 2015, Heritage Hotel Dorrigo continues to be treasured for its “Table”. This is what guests have told tripadviser.com.au about Heritage Hotel Motel

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Phone: (02) 6657 2016 Fax: 6657 & 2059 Cnr(02) Hickory Cudgery Streets, Dorrigo NSW 2453 robyn@hotelmoteldorrigo.com.au Web: www.hotelmoteldorrigo.com.au Phone: (02) 6657 2016 Fax: (02) 6657 2059 Email: robyn@hotelmoteldorrigo.com.au Web: www.hotelmoteldorrigo.com.au

Best Kept Secrets

Visit NERAM Get involved in making art Are you interested in exploring your creativity? Do you feel the urge to pick up a paintbrush or pencil and make a new artwork? If so, then enrol in one of this year’s art classes at the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) Armidale.

Regular art classes include:

New England Brewery Well, 2015 has been a big one at the brewery. It’s hard to believe that we’ve nearly been going for three years. Best news is that we’ve got a heap of new outlets in the New England, Sydney, Brisbane and Newcastle. We’ve added new local taps in Armidale and Tamworth, where we are getting great support for local beer. To make it all possible, we’ve got a few new staff members on board and have installed two new conditioning tanks.

Next year is sure to be another big one. We’ve got a massive line up of seasonal beers on the calendar. Keep an eye out for our desert lime release in February and our second annual release of our coffee cannon stout in March. To add to our brewery door experience, we’re installing a kitchen in the brewery early next year, so we can showcase simple local food matched to our beers.

Get down to the brewery this summer, or catch us at the local having a beer!

• Adventures in Art with Del Burnett (children’s after school art classes) • Drawing/painting/mixed media with Kerry Gulliver (adult art class) • Advanced painting with Ross Laurie (adult art class) • Printmaking with Jonathon Larsen (adult art class) • Starting art with Del Burnett (adult art class) • Continuing art with Del Burnett (adult art class) • Life drawing (drop-in session for experienced artists) It is easy to enrol for these classes online or in person at the gallery and they are very popular, so it is suggested that you get in touch with NERAM early to confirm a place.

Students from NERAM art classes also get an opportunity to exhibit their work within the gallery walls as part of the annual Postcard Fundraising Exhibition, currently on display.

The Open House Postcard Fundraising Exhibition is on show at NERAM until Sunday 31 January 2016. Information and enrolment details for the 2016 art class programme are available online at www.neram.com.au or at the gallery.

Downstairs Bar Tucked away in the eastern end of the CBD, conveniently located within walking distance of the Armidale strip and undercover parking, Downstairs is the hottest new venue in town, located below the iconic Red Grapevine Restaurant.

Downstairs offers guests a chance to sample a large variety of New England wine, locally sourced beers and ciders, and even some award winning sprits from the New England region. You can sample most varieties of wines from the region in one stop at Downstairs. Featuring Merilba, Dobson’s, Why Worry Wines, New England Brewing Co, to name a few.

At Downstairs, you can have the quality cuisine that’s made in-house at the Red Grapevine in the eclectic atmosphere - that is - Downstairs. The menu is contemporary, with distinct Italian accents, married with hand picked elements.

The menu is designed to share, from tapas style dishes to fine cheese and charcuterie boards. Saturday night is when Downstairs transforms, with live and local musicians playing until late.

Why not stop and and let the staff at Downstairs take you on a tour of New England’s finest wines, sprits, beer, cider and cuisines, all at Downstairs.

new england focus. 25

Best Kept Secrets Photo credit John Nalder Photography

Mountain the from the

to

SEA

E X P L O R E T O U R I S T D R I V E 1 4

Many of us will make the trip down to the coast to enjoy some surf and sand during the upcoming holidays. If you have a little extra time or you’re just looking to explore some of the pretty villages along the coast, Tourist Drive 14 is a picturesque drive that takes you through several smaller coastal villages of the Nambucca and Macleay Valleys. We talk to tourism marketer, Libby Foster from Bold Marketing Services, to find out more about her local piece of paradise.

here exactly does Tourist Drive 14 take you?

Tourist Drive 14 will literally take you from the mountain to the sea. It’s such a pretty drive. Not only are there the coastal villages, but you can drive through old forest and amongst macadamia, avocado and fruit farms and then drive up to the mountain - Mount Yarrahapinni.

Essentially, you make a loop from the Pacific Highway into the coastal fishing villages of Scotts Head, Grassy Head and Stuarts Point.

You then follow the drive to Yarrahapinni and back towards the highway, towards the village of Eungai. Or, you can start at the southern end and take the Stuarts Point exit at Brushbox Road from the Pacific Highway and make your way east and back to the northern entry point just five minutes out of Macksville.

What are the highlights of Tourist Drive 14?

For me, there are a number of highlights, but in particular the Pines Picnic Area in the Way Way State Forest with its backdrop of towering Flooded Gums and old Hoop Pines, where the sun filters through the forest canopy to the picnic area, is a true highlight. There are toilets, 26 new england focus.

picnic tables and barbecues available here. You can marvel at the amazing adult sized mosaic that depicts stories from the dreamtime, or walk the easy 300 m Way Way Rainforest walk.

From here it is worth the drive up to Mt Yarrahapinni, in the Yarriabini National Park.

Mt Yarrahapinni sits 498 m above sea level, ensuring a beautiful panorama all the way down to the coast on a clear day. Another highlight is watching the whales during the season from the viewing platform at Scotts Head. I never get tired of that view.

If you’re into water sports, then stand up paddle boarding at Scotts Head is growing in popularity, kayaking along Warrell Creek makes for a great family day out, and fishing still remains the perennial favourite!

What are some other interest points or things to do along Tourist Drive 14?

Whilst surfing and fishing would arguably be the main things to do, there are a number of other hidden treasures for you to discover along your drive. We have a number of large mosaics throughout the drive completed by renowned local artist Guy Crossley. These are well worth finding - they are at Scotts Head, Stuarts Point, Unkya Reserve at Eungai and in the Pines Picnic Area. You can challenge yourself mountain bike riding through the Way Way Forest, visit

brunch, or the Greek inspired Taverna 6 at the studios of local wood, textile or Grassy Head, which is open for glass artists in Yarrahapinni lunch on Sunday. and of course, visit our If I wanted to stay for a gorgeous uncrowded few nights, what are and unspoilt Essentially you my options? beaches. om fr op lo a make to in ay You have What about hw ig H fic the Paci llages vi ng hi a surprisingly stopping for fis l ta as the co Grassy wide range of a coffee or of Scotts Head, s Point. rt ua accommodation lunch?

Head and St the drive You then follow options.

You can There are and back to Yarrahapinni ay, choose from B&Bs, a number of ards the highw w to modern apartments, picnic areas, ge of toward sthe villa beach houses with most with ” Eungai . a view, rustic beach seating, toilets cottages, farm stays, and some with bbqs and then there are the three at the beach reserves waterfront caravan parks - North at Grassy Head and Scotts Coast Holiday Parks Scotts Head and Head, along the river at Stuarts Point, Macleay Valley Coast Parks Grassy Head both at Unkya Reserve in Eungai Creek (no have direct beach access, while Macleay Valley toilet) and The Pines Picnic area. There Coast Parks Stuarts Point is nestled along the are playgrounds for the kids and shops river. or cafés close by to pick up a coffee or supplies For more information about the at Scotts Head and Stuarts Point. If you want Nambucca Valley or about Tourist Drive to treat yourself to a great coffee, brekky or 14, you can contact the Nambucca Valley maybe lunch, you have a number of choices, Visitor Information Centre on 1800 646 587 including the Peppercorn Mobile Café in or email: Stuarts Point for quality takeaway, the Ocean Street Diner in Scotts Head for a delicious nambuccatourism@nambucca.nsw.gov.au

“

Best Kept Secrets

Discover Guyra N E W

E N G L A N D ’ S

H I G H

C O U N T R Y

At the heart of the New England High Country, Guyra Shire offers the peace and tranquility of the rural countryside, along with spectacular natural attractions for hikers, bikers, and 4x4ers to enjoy. There is plenty to enjoy in the great outdoors; escape the heat and experience the mild summer in Guyra this January.

TROUT FISHING In our high country, Rainbow and Brown Trout thrive in lightly fished streams that can be fished between October and May. Western streams: Laura, Ollera, Moredun, and Limestone creeks. Eastern streams: Booralong, Rockvale, and streams in the Ebor area. Dam fishing is permitted year-round at locations that provide this service, with the trout literally at your doorstep.

FOSSICKING Guyra has some interesting fossicking locations which are less well-known than those of the Glen Innes and Inverell areas.

There are several locations where public access is possible to fossick for sapphires, and at Stannifer for jelly bean crystals.

LAGOONS The Mother of Ducks Lagoon is one of Guyra’s most important landmarks. Mother of Ducks Lagoon is situated at the south-western

edge of the Guyra township. Come face-toface with a huge variety of birds, including endangered and threatened species. See if you can glimpse the renowned Japanese Snipe, which lives here from August to April, before returning to Japan, and keep an eye out for other migratory birds, including common greenshanks and white-throated needletails. Only a short (25 km) drive away you can also visit Little Llangothlin Lagoon - a birdwatcher’s haven. This is one of only a few high altitude wetlands in the country and is an important breeding and feeding area for migratory birds.

NATIONAL PARKS Guy Fawkes River National Park is a wilderness paradise popular for bushwalking and birdwatching. Featuring the spectacular Ebor Falls, the national park offers a tranquil rest stop for travellers and an exciting destination for locals.

There is plenty to enjoy in rs; ea the gr t outdoo d an at escape the he mild experience the ra uy G in summer ” y. ar nu Ja this

“

LAMB & POTATO FESTIVAL Explore the natural wonders spread throughout the shire this January, while based here for the 30th Annual Lamb and Potato Festival. The festival kicks off on 13 January and runs until 26 January 2015 and has a lot to offer, with musicians playing daily, the ever popular rail trike rides to the rail museum, various car clubs and the annual antique machinery display and swap meet, which is one of the biggest in Australia. The best thing about the festival is enjoying the local lamb and

potato meals. The whole purpose of the festival since its inception has been to promote the lamb and potato industries in our region.

AUSTRALIA DAY There will also be the annual Australia Day Movies in the Park in Guyra on 23 January and Tingha on 26 January. Each event will be followed by a brilliant fireworks display

by Holy Smoke. As part of the Australia Day celebrations this year, we are excited to be hosting Australia Day Ambassador, Jeff Sayle, a rugby union legend.

new england focus. 27

Best Kept Secrets Photo: Vicki Taylor

The Uralla Wool Room Go Create! New England Set in a spectacular pastoral landscape, Go Create! New England’s studio provides a beautiful sunlit space for the many creative classes on offer throughout the year, including dyeing, no-rules printing, textile painting, contemporary surface embellishment, contemporary lace making, design and personal development. Most have a textile theme, but there is also painting, photography, shoe making, drawing, encaustics, jewellery and felting classes, all taught by professionals drawn from the region and abroad. Workshops are mainly held on weekends, and participants can choose to stay on farm and indulge in the complete “retreat” experience, with accommodation and meals provided by Go Create!.

Go Create! New England is owned and managed by Vicki Taylor, Jan Clark and Kath Caddy. Vicki is a contemporary lace maker and has been teaching and hosting bobbin lace making workshops for many years. The studio and accommodation is situated on Vicki’s farm, and she is more than happy to share it with visitors. Jan is a textile artist based in Uralla. She has broad experience in teaching and exhibiting her own work.

She teaches a number of our textiles and drawing workshops and helps Kath with graphics for Go Create!. Kath is the administrator for Go Create! and participates in and teaches shoe making and jewellery workshops.

28 new england focus.

The Uralla Wool Room has consistently specialised in fine quality merino wool and natural fibre garments and accessories. Now, the shop’s extensive stock includes quality cotton and linen garments, plus an ever-increasing selection of yarns and fibres available for those who enjoy knitting and crochet.

Woollen stock, available in-store all year, includes knitted jumpers, jackets, cardigans, trousers and accessories. Many labels are Australian-made - including Merino Gold, Walnut Hill, Hedrena, Uimi, Merino Snug, Smitten Merino, Aklanda, Woolerina, Signatur Handknits, Skibo, Humphrey Law and Stockpile - with a selection of Merino and possum fur blends from New Zealand.

For the warmer months, an impressive range of quality cotton and linen garments is available - classic styles that offer years of wear.

Our range of yarns and fibres include the exquisite Patons and Cleckheaton 8 ply super fine Merino yarn. The full colour range is available!

Mollydale Yarns are also featured, with a range of hand-dyed yarns in wool, mohair and silk.

For those who wish to dye their own yarns, there are skeins of natural (un-dyed) 8, 12, 16, 20 and 30 ply. Dyes from the Kraftkolour range are available to choose from.

Knitting and crochet classes are ongoing, with plans on the drawing board for workshops in sock knitting, hairpin lace, and dyeing techniques.

Best Kept Secrets

Uralla Tourism

Saumarez HOMESTEAD A N N U A L

A U S T R A L I A

D A Y

O P E N

D A Y

Tuesday 26th January 2016 from 10am to 4pm.

Download the Saumarez Homestead App, or find us on Facebook for more information.

F

ree entry to Saumarez Homestead grounds for everyone in Armidale and New England, as well as our visiting travellers.

To raise funds to support the conservation and education programmes at Saumarez Homestead, on Australia Day we will be offering special guided house tours for a gold coin donation, and we hope to have plenty for people to buy on our cakes, craft, white elephant and garden stalls.

We will also have our annual Australia Day hamper raffle and tickets available for our quilt raffle. We will have our Saumarez Café/Tea Rooms open and a sausage sizzle BBQ as well.

Bring your picnic basket and have a family outing in our splendid gardens and farm area.

Everyone is welcome, and it’s free.

The Heritage Rose Garden Saumarez Homestead is now open for the public. It is fabulous. Come and see for yourself.

All in all, Australia Day at Saumarez Homestead should be a great family day out.

Don’t forget Saumarez Homestead is now open every day, 10am to 5pm (except for Christmas Day and Good Friday).

Entry tickets available from Saumarez Homestead Office/Shop.

Guided tours: (10:30am, 2pm and 3:30pm) and the Saumarez Café open (10am - 4pm) on weekends and public holidays only.

Saumarez Homestead, enter via Armidale Airport from New England Highway, Armidale 2350.

SPECIAL LIMITED OFFER Join the National Trust of Australia (NSW) at Saumarez Homestead on Australia Day and receive:

• $35 off the membership joining fee (annual subscription still applies) • 10% off all items in the property shop National Trust Heritage Festival 2016 Discovery and Re-discovery Reserve the date in your diary for a very special event at Saumarez Homestead on Sunday 1st May 2016.

“Rediscovering Miss Mary White” - 9:30am to 12:30pm.

Exhibition of Miss Mary White’s garden journals, photos, cameras, travel documents and cases.

Lectures about: Miss Mary White’s Garden re-discovered in the 1990s and when Miss Mary’s Garden Journals were unpacked, cleaned and catalogued.

Miss Mary White’s Travels re-discovered, when her briefcases, letters and travel documents were recently given to Saumarez Homestead by the White Family.

Miss Mary White as a collector.

Miss Mary White and the Armidale Community.

Brunch provided by the wonderful Saumarez volunteers in the Saumarez Café.

Guided tours of Miss Mary’s Garden and the main homestead concentrating on Miss Mary’s collection, room and craft work.

Tickets available from Saumarez Homestead Adults: $40; concessions and trust members $30; family (2 adults plus 2 children) $100.

For more information, contact Les Davis (02) 6772 3616 or Email: saumarez@nationaltrust.com.au Website: www.nationaltrust.com.au/ placestovisit/saumarez/

Uralla is a unique country town and a great place to visit and explore. It is a recognised place to meet, with a vibrant café society and a variety of pubs and restaurants located along our heritage main street.

Uralla has a remarkable history, including a gold rush in the 1850s, nominated as a possible national capital site in the early days of Federation, and the home to Australia’s last bushranger. One of Australia’s most photographed country churches is nearby.

Australia’s first world champion sculler, “Ned” Trickett, is buried in Uralla Cemetery.

But what are Uralla’s best kept secrets? Make time to stop and relax in Uralla and, these secrets with be unveiled to you, one by one. Staff and volunteers at the Visitor Centre will provide you with information on: • Heritage walk around town • McCrossins Mill Museum • Gostwyck Chapel and Deeargee Woolshed

• Thunderbolt gravesite, rock and statue • Scenic drives and bushwalking • Brewery, wineries and distillery • Harry Wooldridge precious stone collection • Lagoons - Barleyfields, Dangar, and Racecourse • Aboriginal Rock Art at Mt Yarrowyck • Natural wonders, including Rocky and Gwydir Rivers • Fossicking and fishing opportunities • Motor Bike and Recreational Vehicle Friendly Town There’s plenty to talk about when you explore the wonderful antique and specialty stores, galleries and museums spread throughout town. You may be tempted to extend your stay; why not? Uralla has a wide range of quality accommodation offerings.

For further information, contact: Uralla Visitor Information Centre 104 Bridge Street T: 6778 6420

new england focus. 29

Best Kept Secrets

Like a

Heather Ferris

Rodd Carr

Carol Elder

My family members: My great husband, Neil, and wonderful sons, Sam and Nick.

My family members: My wife, Amanda, and son, Daniel.

My family members: Tony (husband), Alex (son), Vester (cat), Ziggy (dog).

Number of years living locally: 36 years.

Number of years living locally: 16 years.

Number of years living locally: Quite a few.

Living in: Armidale.

Living in: Armidale.

Living in: Armidale.

How I came to call Armidale home: I came from Sydney to visit my parents in 1979 for six months. It's been a long six months!

How I came to call Armidale home: We bought the Newsagency 16 years ago and made the move from Young.

How I came to call Armidale home: I was born here, but I did have a few years in Melbourne in the ‘90s.

I have discovered the best thing about living here is: The close, warm and friendly community, where there are no secrets! The seasons. Icy winters, fresh springs, colourful autumns and balmy summers.

I have discovered the best thing about living here is: The people and the climate.

Our summers aren’t too hot, which is terrific, and the winters are nice and cold, so you get to snuggle up.

Favourite café/restaurant: Caffiends, of course!

The schooling, health industry and the university.

Favourite outdoor photographic spot: The Old Teachers’ College - the best views over town, and it’s a magnificent building.

Favourite outdoor photographic spot: The Pine Forest.

Favourite café/restaurant: There are too many to choose from, and all the coffee shops are great.

Best shopping spot: I always love to visit the smaller, local shops in any town, and we have some of the best right here!

Best shopping spot: Carrs News Xpress OF COURSE!

Best kept secret: We are so lucky to have so much local talent in Armidale, including musicians, actors, dancers, artists, sports people.

Best shopping spot: All the unique and quirky locally owned shops and our markets.

Best kept secret: Our beautiful gorges and waterfalls.

Best new attractions locals may not have seen yet: The refurbishment of the Armidale Railway Station.

Best entertainment hub: The Armidale Club. Something for everyone.

Best place for families: Picnics and bbqs in our fabulous parks around Armidale, or a ride on the heritage tour or a trip to the Art Museum for a bit of culture.

Must not miss while in Armidale this summer: Incredible bush walks, trip to the Blue Hole for a dip, a round of golf at our gorgeous Golf Club or a wee ale in one of the beer gardens.

30 new england focus.

Best kept secret: Our lifestyle; if you can go from work to home in less than 10 minutes, everything is close by.

Best new attractions locals may not have seen yet: NERAM, our art gallery, is always holding new exhibitions.

I have discovered the best thing about living here is: Being part of a friendly, vibrant community that always has so much going on!

Favourite café/restaurant: The Red Grapevine - always good food and friendly service.

Best new attractions locals may not have seen yet: Studio 52 café at NERAM is very good, as is the newly refurbished Armidale Club.

Best entertainment hub: The Armidale Club is my favourite spot to head out on the weekend to enjoy some music.

Best place for families: Our national parks are great to go for a walk, a wander or a picnic with the family.

Best place for families: Spectacular Dangar’s Falls is a great place to go bush, and just 20 minutes away; it’s so easy!

Must not miss while in Armidale this summer: Armidale itsel;, it’s just beautiful. Everywhere in Armidale is nice in the summertime.

Must not miss while in Armidale this summer: The 2015 Archibald Prize Tour at NERAM and the Opera New England’s production of La Traviata.

Best Kept Secrets

Petersons Winery and Guesthouse Petersons Winery and Guesthouse welcomes members of the public and the Armidale community for dining at our magnificent property.

Whether you fancy lunch with a group of friends, high tea for a special celebration, dinner for two or even a cheese plate with a bottle of wine to be enjoyed in our grounds, Petersons has it all.

If you have not yet enjoyed lunch in our gardens, you are missing out - incredible trees and birdlife surround you in this peaceful setting, which feels like you could be a million miles away from anywhere - but you are only seven minutes from central Armidale!

A delicious meal with friends or family accompanied by local wines cannot be beaten,

and there is plenty of space for the kids to play.

On those drizzly days, lunch is served in our magnificent light filled drawing room, which has big windows overlooking the grounds.

Evening à la carte meals are served in our dining room, complete with high ceilings and a fireplace for those chilly winter nights.

We are open for lunch at weekends and dinner most evenings, subject to reservations. We also serve High Tea on the lawn, on the verandah or in the Drawing Room.

Bookings are essential. We host functions including weddings, conferences and private parties. Don’t hesitate: call us today to enquire or to book. Visit our Facebook page “Peterson’s Guesthouse Armidale” for reviews and more photos.

The Welder’s Dog Why The Welder’s Dog? For a point of difference and a taste sensation.

Where does our product come from?

Why craft beer? It epitomises what we stand for: craft breweries are generally small, independent, family owned businesses that focus on a boutique and handcrafted product.

few special overseas products. We continually

Why not the other beers? Many of the iconic Australian beer brands are in fact owned by large international conglomerates. They are mass-produced, arguably have less flavour, and profits ultimately leave the county. By supporting craft breweries, we are supporting the little guys and helping the establishment of an exciting growth industry in Australia.

Predominantly Australian craft breweries with a have changing product lineups and have the newest and most interesting brews from our friends in the industry.

We believe in getting back to the historical roots of a pub - that is - good old fashioned conversation, no distractions, no gaming or blaring sporting screens. Just you and your friends catching up over an exquisite drink in a relaxed atmosphere that creates excitement to return for the next tap lineup at The Dog.

new england focus. 31

Best Kept Secrets

Thunderbolt Inn The Royal Hotel Foodies thrive in the Bistro at The Royal Hotel Armidale.

With our large selection of specials, there’s something that’s sure to please.

Mondays, shout a mate - two for the price of one chicken parmigiana deal. Then let them return the favour on Tuesdays, with our two for one steak meal. Buy any steak meal from the grill, and receive another for the price of one.

Wednesdays you can grab two chicken schnitzels and a jug of house beer for only $36!

Sundays are “Sunday Roast” day; choose from two roast of the day meals.

Looking for a great lunch during the week? Then this is for you! We have ten choices of meals for only $10. Lunch is served from 12 - 2; our hearty ten for $10 options will make you want to come back every day!

Every Saturday we have live music, featuring an assortment of talent from local to touring artists. Live FREE Music starts from 8:30pm EVERY Saturday; be sure to bring your dancing shoes!

Visiting the New England? Why not stay with us? We have many configurations of room styles, so let us wine, dine and entertain you, then relax in our newly renovated and appointed accomodation.

32 new england focus.

Meet Tony and Lizzy, new managers at the Thunderbolt Inn Uralla on behalf NM & AE Christian Holdings.

Tony and I have come over from Moree and have many years’ experience in the pub/ hospitality industry.

Tony has family in Uralla, being the reason we found out the Thunderbolt Inn was up for lease - and it’s a little more enticing having opportunity to be close to family.

When we first came over here to look at the pub, we fell in love!

It’s a beautiful historic building. We have many ideas and are taking on board the locals’ ideas to make the place more appealing to everyone. There is a balance required here to incorporate the history, bringing something new for young and old. The Thunderbolt Inn has changed hands over the last few years quite a few times. We want to bring back stability and gain back the trust of the locals; that’s going to be our biggest challenge here.

Our bistro is growing more popular every day, we have real pub grub, generous portions of hot home style meals at affordable for the whole family prices.

Pubs are great meeting places. We are slowly getting to know the locals and have already enjoyed the company of a few travellers.

Looking forward to meeting more friendly faces at the Thunderbolt Inn over the summer months, when a cold beer is the best afternoon chill out.

More news to come in 2016 from NM & AE Christian Holdings and The Thunderbolt Inn.

Saumarez Homestead Armidale’s best kept secret Hidden just 3 km behind Armidale Airport is the stunning Saumarez Homestead, with its magnificent Edwardian mansion and 10 hectares of grounds including the historical Farm Area, formal gardens, Mary’s cottage garden, the picking garden and now the heritage Rose Garden Saumarez Homestead.

The gardens at Saumarez Homestead, Armidale, were planned and constructed by the Saumarez Whites at the turn of the 19th Century to complement and provide a setting for their significant Late Victorian-Edwardian house. They were planned on the model of an English prototype, but included plantings of trees, shrubs and exotics from the Americas, Africa, Europe, Asia, New Zealand and Scandinavia. Mary’s Garden was inspired

by Jocelyn Brown.

The Heritage Rose Saumarez Homestead, which has been created and is maintained by the Northern Branch of the Australian Garden History Society, has been established on the site of the old homestead orchard, with the nucleus of the rose collection donated by Miss Catherine MacLean, a long time Armidale resident and dedicated rosarian. The main collection, when completed, will include over 600 roses representing each of the major rose cultivar groups, mostly bred before 1930.

Adjacent to the formal garden will be beds recognising the contribution of important rose breeders in Australia.

Best Kept Secrets LOVED

Award-Winning Forests On Your Doorstep

Best Kept Secrets

State Forests of the Coffs Coast and Sealy Lookout were recently awarded medals at the NSW Tourism Awards 2015. These awards recognise tourism excellence and follow gold award wins at the recent North Coast Tourism Awards in 2015.

Sealy Lookout is home to the now worldfamous Forest Sky Pier, a 22 metre cantilevered “pier” above the forest canopy. Designed by local Bellingen resident Steve Gorrell, the pier showcases hardwood timber in a majestic structure that frames the view. And what a view: panoramic vistas from the hinterland to the ocean are on offer. With plans in place to rejuvenate the adjacent picnic area, ample parking, toilets and the view from the pier, it’s an unmissable stop on your Pacific Coast travels.

State Forests of the Coffs Coast are home to a myriad of experiences and destinations that allow you to explore, unwind or play. Mountain biking, four wheel driving and trail biking are popular pursuits. Walking tracks through cool, subtropical rainforest are for those wanting a quieter forest experience, whilst the “church pew” seating at Korora Lookout is a must-stop for anyone wanting to commune with nature.

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

Best Kept Secrets

Wayward The Farmstay at

JERSEYS

D E B O ’ B R I E N & F A M I LY

Deb O’Brien and her family simply wanted to share with others what they considered to be fortunate to have. At Wayward Jerseys, they believe in the philosophies of free range kids, natural produce and being surrounded by lots of animals, and they wanted to give people the opportunity to experience this too.

Photo credit John Nalder Photography

22 new england focus.

ell us about yourself and your family ...

My name is Deb O’Brien, and I grew up in the local area. After ten years of travelling Australia, my husband and I realised that “home” was a pretty awesome place and made the decision to move back. I would describe myself as a unique blend of quirky and earthy, and I believe Wayward Jerseys Farmstay reflects that. Wayward Jerseys would not be, without the love and support of my husband, Lauri Pulkkinen. Lauri is the type of man who not only supports his wife to follow her crazy dreams, but also says, “Fine, you want to buy a milking cow … Well, let me build you a dairy”.

We also have three beautiful little girls, ranging in ages from six to eleven, who love their way of life and love sharing it with other people. I have always loved animals and am passionate about the New England area. I truly believe I have the best job in the world!

What prompted the beginning of Wayward Jerseys?

The name “The Home for Wayward Jerseys” (shortened to Wayward Jerseys for convenience) was initially a term that my husband jokingly used to describe my penchant for Jersey cows.

It also alludes to what we see as their unique personalities. Simply, we wanted to share with

others what we consider to be fortunate to Pop as well. I find our guests often come from have. At Wayward Jerseys we believe in the either Sydney or Brisbane, or both in a lot of philosophies of free range kids, natural produce cases, as it is a good place to meet in between and being surrounded by lots of animals, and (we are exactly half way between Sydney and we wanted to give people the opportunity to Brisbane). We also get a lot of overseas guests experience this too. who are interested in getting off the beaten What can visitors experience at track and seeing what Australia Wayward Jerseys? is like outside the cities.

Basically, a visit to Wayward As to what “type” of Jerseys is like a visit to people we get, a One of my favourite things is being a petting zoo … On pleasant surprise child at d steroids! We are extremely has been how nice introduce to a stay a the beginning of interactive, so expect to all our visitors down who has their head get up close and personal have been - kids their and focused on to the animals. We are and adults alike. game, and favourite video stay famous for our “morning I have thought a by the end of their tell you routine”, which includes lot about why this they couldn’t even device gaming learning how to milk one is, and this is what their where of our Jersey cows, feeding I have come up with. is. ” our baby animals and collecting The types of people eggs. For our day tour people, who visit a Farmstay are added to this is a country style, home the types of people that are cooked morning tea and marshmallows to engaged with their children and toast on the fire. Our overnighters get all of this family, interested in how others live, complimentary to their stay, as well as other love animals and they’re prepared to try inclusions such as an optional ghost tour at something new. All in all, this makes for pretty night. amazing people, on the whole.

What type of demographic visit the farm?

Tell us about some of the reactions you get I must say the majority of our visitors are from visitors? families with children. We accommodate up to “Milk comes from where?” Unfortunately, seven people at a time, so often it is Nan and it is true that many children do think that milk

“

comes from a supermarket, and a wonderful part of my job is educating them otherwise. Our guests are a pretty open minded lot and even if incredulous at the beginning, it is not long before they get into the spirit of things and are milking cows like a professional. Actually, one of my favourite things is being introduced to a child at the beginning of a stay who has their head down and focused on their favourite video game, and by the end of their stay they couldn’t even tell you where their gaming device is.

Do you think locals like us take for granted what’s in our own back yard in regards to primary produce?

Yes and no. Yes, because I think we are truly spoilt here in regards to our primary produce.

But just because we are spoilt, doesn’t mean that most people don’t know they are on a good thing by living here. It’s like this area is a wonderful secret, and all us locals are in on it. There is a lot of buzz around local food and produce at the moment - justifiably so - and there are also a lot of amazing and dynamic people starting to really do some incredible things. I would have to say that it is pretty exciting times here in New England.

Plans for the future?

Yes, yes and yes. At the moment my lips are sealed, but think tourism and think local produce, and watch this space!

Thanks Deb.

INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG new england focus. 23

ONLINE FLIP BOOK

Sealy Lookout in Orara East State Forest is 10 minutes north of Coffs Harbour via a turn-off just north of the Big Banana. State Forests of the Coffs Coast can be accessed the same way. These forest destinations are open 7 days a week including public holidays and entry is free.

Find out more: www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit www.facebook.com/forestplayground Twitter: @visitnswforests Instagram: #visitnswforests YouTube: Visit NSW State Forests

The mini-mags are a compilation of our Best Kept Secret feature from the print edition of each region! United in one flip book and delivered online for you to download... for free.

COFFS COAST ARMIDALE NEW ENGLAND

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

MANNING - GREAT LAKES

VIEW THIS MONTH’S FEATURE ONLINE AT FOCUSMAG.COM.AU/MINIMAGNE GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

new england focus. 33

focus_tourism

with Katrina George from the Armidale Visitor Information Centre

tourism UPDATE

KATRINA GEORGE

SECRET GEMS THIS MONTH THE VOLUNTEERS AND STAFF HAVE DECIDED TO SHARE THEIR “SECRET GEMS’. THESE ARE THE FAVOURITE PLACES, LOCALITIES AND THINGS TO DO IN OUR REGION THAT ARE NOT AS WELL KNOWN.

W

hether you have friends or family to visit or you’re just spending time with the kids, here are some “secret gems” to ensure you enjoy your holiday break.

Sally - the Yarrowyck Picnic area located a little way out of Armidale along the Bundarra Road. Spread your rug, enjoy a picnic and have a swim in the river.

John - Long Point, south of Hillgrove has a delightful patch of dry rainforest on the edge of the Macleay gorge. Take the Chandler View Circuit from the picnic area north-eastwards for about 600 m. There will be a dramatic change in vegetation, including Kurrajongs!

Kerry - a picnic on the Gara River at the end of Herbert Park Road provides for a great day out. Alternatively, drive along Puddledock Road to Black Mountain and picnic at the Puddledock Hall.

Judy - the archaeological display at McLeans Corner (corner Marsh and Dumaresq St). This is the “dig” of a small portion of the building foundations of the house built for James McLean around 1858.

Annette - the Arboretum is a great play area for children, with the gardens, waterfall, picnic area and new playground.

Glenda - the Tank Traps at Ebor are a fascinating relic, although you have to know where to find them. Little (and not so little) kids love rock hopping and paddling at the Blue Hole and Dangars Gorge. McCrossins Mill provides fascination for its Thunderbolt and gold displays for all ages.

Marilyn - sitting on the verandah at Booloominbah for morning tea, lunch or afternoon tea. The building and view is amazing (and the coffee is very good).

Josh - the Dangarsleigh War Memorial provides a moving tribute to the First World War veterans. Open to the public at any time, the monument is a lesser-known but fascinating gem of Armidale, reflecting out town’s heritage and sacrifice.

Jack - captivating cloudscapes are a spectac-

34 new england focus.

ular and little appreciated feature of the New England High Country. We are treated to wonderful displays of all types of magnificent clouds that frequently contribute to vivid displays of beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

Katrina - Wattle Flat in the Styx River State Forest is a beautiful grassy picnic area near scenic river pools that are just perfect for swimming or a spot of fishing.

Some additional family fun ideas for the holidays: • All Things Thunderbolt - the last of the NSW bushrangers ruled the highways and byways of the New England High Country. Thunderbolt’s grave, Thunderbolt’s statue, Thunderbolt’s rock, McCrossins Mill Museum and Thunderbolt’s Cave will delight and capture children’s imagination.

• Animal Encounters - Wayward Jerseys Farmstay and Sunhill Goats both offer a farm tour experience, and WIRES in Uralla provide an opportunity to pat koalas, kangaroos and other native wildlife. The Dutton Trout Hatchery has aquarium displays, fishing workshops, as well as opportunities to hand feed trout whilst you learn about the breeding and rearing of Brown and Rainbow Trout.

• Outdoor Experiences - there are an abundance of outdoor activities on our doorstep, such as fishing, fossicking, golf, tennis and even mountain biking. Fishing spots include Dumaresq Dam, the Oakey and Serpentine Rivers. For those interested in fossicking, pans are available for hire from the Uralla Visitor Information Centre, and Wooldridge Recreation Reserve is a great fossicking, swimming and picnicking spot. Mountain bikes can be hired from the Armidale Bicycle Centre and Bicycle Central on Marsh. Information on the various trails is available from the Visitor Information Centre and Bicycles Central on Marsh.

If you would like more information on any of these holiday ideas, please come in and visit the Armidale Visitor Information Centre. We are open throughout the holiday period seven days per week, from 9am - 5pm.

focusinterview.

Armidale and District

NATIONAL regiment story

SERVICEMEN’S association

Photo by Danieli Studios

PRESIDENT BARRY DAWSON TELLS FOCUS READERS ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION’S INVOLVEMENT WITH OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY.

H

ow long have you lived in the area, and how long have you been associated with the Armidale and District Nashos?

I have lived all my life in the area, with the exception of the two years I served in the army completing national service obligations from October 1966 to October 1968. My association with the Nashos began with the inaugural meeting held on the 4th June 2001 and the formation meeting 9th July 2001. Since then, I have been 2nd Vice President, 1st Vice President and I’m currently President. In approximately 2010 I was elected as a Country Liaison Officer for the NSW Committee.

When and why did this organisation first come about?

The National Servicemen’s Association was formed in 1987 with the purpose to represent Nashos in Governments, communities and media in such matters as health, welfare, Nashos’ role in defence and to commemorate their service (212 Nashos died on active service) and to provide Nashos with the opportunity to serve their community and to engage in comradeship/social activities within their own groups. In NSW, there are 37 sub-branches.

During 2016 we will be observing four special days, commencing with National Servicemen’s Day on the 14th February with a Church Service in St Paul’s Presbyterian Church at 9:30am, Commemoration Service in Central Park at 11:30am and a luncheon at 12:30 - 1pm.

Followed by ANZAC Day, Vietnam Day (this year will be the 50th anniversary of the battle of Long Tan) on the 18th August and Remembrance Day,

11th November.

Tell us about your members ...

Our members come from the two National Service Schemes: 1951 - 1959, where the Army My association were required to serve three with the Nashos l months full-time and two inaugura began with the years part-time in the the on meeting held during June of d the Citizen Military Forces an 01 20 4th June g tin each year. With (CMF), and Navy and ee m n io format e nc Si . the proceeds going 01 Air Force served for six 20 ly Ju 9th 2nd to a number of months full-time; 1965 then , I have been 1st local charities, our 1972, they were required Vice President, d I’m an t en id es favourite is “Kids to serve two years full-time Vice Pr ent.” currently Presid with Cancer”, where in the Army (Regular Army we donated $700 last Supplement) and placed on a November. In February we reserve list for a further three years. will be making further donations The call up involved young men from a to other charities, which is a difficult variety of backgrounds with a range of different task, because unfortunately we are unable skills, levels of education and experience; this to support all of the charities we would like diversity is replicated in the Nasho sub-branches to. This year we will be running a special raffle today. from January to the end of April; the prize will Some are in their early eighties and still have be a hand-made queen size quilt. The proceeds the drive to pursue common and personal will go to Ex-Service welfare benefit groups activities and interests, without giving in to the supporting veterans suffering from physical and trials and tribulations of old age. psychological wounds.

We are very fortunate to have our wives help Secondly, we have contact with the RSL and us with our various projects and activities; some have joined as full members and others volunteer, Legacy by assisting them with selling of ANZAC Day badges, poppies and Legacy badges. We and it is great to see some of them have also assist in ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day maintained their membership after the passing functions. Six of our members are also members of their husbands. We have members who live in of the RSL, and two are members of Legacy.

Newcastle, along the North Coast and Brisbane.

We have a motto: “We once served our What is the organisation’s involvement in country and now we serve our community”. the local community?

Can community organisations contact you Our involvement is mainly two-fold. First, we for assistance? conduct a wood raffle, our major fundraiser

“

Yes, they can. We would love to talk to them Are you looking for members/volunteers? If so, how can they get in touch?

We would like all former national servicemen to become members; also ex-service men and women (including the Army Reserve), Police and Emergency Services personnel. We also welcome volunteers to assist us through the year in our activities, particularly fundraising. The more funds raised, the more to donate.

They can contact me by email: dawsonbarry@ bigpond.com.au by phone 6772 7386 or our secretary Mr Bob Tonnet, 1/173A Markham St; email ltonsam2@hotmail.com Plans for the future?

We will be providing our members with information on health, welfare, legal, financial, safety in the home, Centrelink, travel, age care issues and other lifestyle topics. This information will be presented at monthly meetings by experts in the various fields. To organise a number of day and overnight trips. To develop education and information programmes on National Service/ Conscription to be presented to community groups and schools. Increase the amount of funds raised each year, so we can make donations to more charities. Greater contact with other Nasho sub-branches to exchange ideas.

Thanks Barry. new england focus. 35

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

JANUARY 2016

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Avoid concerning yourself with morbid thoughts of what you believe others are thinking of you. You are very capable of being extremely charismatic; you just need to occupy your thoughts with self-esteem and compliments.

Who cares what other people think? Rose Quartz is a powerful self loving crystal.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 You may be feeling unsupported at present.

Identify any emotion you wish to feel externally and wake it up on the inside by breathing into it and igniting it. By becoming the answers to your fears, you will avoid facing them and having to challenge or grow through them. Ruby is powerful for inner strength.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Now is a great time to plan for completing a dream that you’ve carried for a long time.

Write a list of all the things needed to achieve your dream and take action; go and get something on your list so that when the opportunity arrives, you are prepared for it.

Have fun!

Clear Quartz is a wonderful motivator.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

It’s a great time to set some fresh goals.

Be aware of your motive, as this ensures no insecurities or fears will motivate your intention. Cater to the needs of your mind, body and spirit to guarantee a feeling of complete contentment. Selenite shatters fears and encourages positive energy.

36 new england focus.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Justice will finally be served to you. Anything that was unfair toward you in the last twelve months should be balanced. Become the answer to your fears, so you won’t need to challenge or face them. A nice feeling of ownership of your reality will be enjoyed soon. Ruby protects us from our fears.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 You may have outgrown some of your old beliefs at present. Instead of feeling comforted by your beliefs, it is likely that you are feeling trapped in them. Do some debating with your beliefs and enjoy the change in every aspect of your life.

Citrine helps us to be objective and grow.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

Anything you put your nurturing into will grow and expand very quickly at present.

Play with your talents and watch your confidence grow. Relationships offer you the chance to mirror yourself and see how loving you are; acknowledge your kindness and enjoy the rewards.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

Restless energies can be your motivational force at this time. Set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to achieve them.

Practice some self-love techniques, such as kindness to yourself in thought, and enjoy the change.

Malachite brings past hurts to our awareness for releasing.

June 23 - July 23

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 Love yourself as much as possible to release insecurities that might be playing with you at present. Give yourself permission to love and be loved fearlessly and feel that “Leo” passion revive your senses. This will bring peaceful, uncomplicated emotions back in to play.

Rose Quartz restores self-worth.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Avoid criticism, as this is washing back on yourself. You are very clever and have a natural charisma. Your energy is the first thing people experience when they are in your space, so be aware of what thoughts you are entertaining about yourself in company.

Turquoise is great for self-esteem.

October 24 - November 22

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Relationships will provide ample opportunity for self-awareness and growth at present.

Enjoy a mutual project with a loved one and experience a newfound level of love. See your own divinity in your relationships for self-approval.

Rose Quartz is a beautiful loving crystal, helping us to feel our unconditional love.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Total change is likely to take effect. Your need to achieve your life’s purpose is on your agenda. Set some new goals and be realistic, then thank yourself for achieving. Selfappreciation is most beneficial for attracting new success.

Rose Quartz is the crystal for self-love.

Norco RURAL Norco Rural Armidale has everything you need.

Whatever your needs are, you’re sure to find it at the Norco Rural store Armidale. Rod and his team are on hand to help you with a whole range of products, their applications, and any advice you may require.

Whether you are farming cattle, sheep, you’re a hobby farmer or maybe a keen gardener, the Norco Rural Store Armidale has everything you need to help grow your business or grow the best veggies on the block.

With a wide range of products such as seed,

fertilizer, ag chemicals, we can assist you to prepare, sow, grow and harvest the best possible crop for your animals. With a good range of sheep and cattle handling equipment and fencing options available at the Norco store, your herd and property will be well secured.

There is also fodder, dog food and hay to feed all of your four legged creatures. As you can see, Norco Rural definitely has all your rural, farming and production needs covered.

We look forward to helping you grow your business or enhance your garden and in doing so, you are supporting fellow Aussie farmers!

Because There’s A Farmer In All Of Us

Norco – an Australian, farmer owned dairy co-operative since 1895

Armidale

02 6771 4669 new england focus. 37

38 new england focus.

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SCHOOL

SH ES THE PICK OF THE BUNCH

KIP MCGRATH Colouring books and pencils are all the rage at the moment, amongst both adults and children.

You may ask, why my interest in colouring? Recently I’ve been pondering the role of handwriting in learning. Early humans began making tools roughly 2.6 million years ago, and from that time our brains began developing a special relationship with our hands. Our hands, in conjunction with our brain and eyes, produce our handwriting - communicating of our thoughts and feelings through written symbols.

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When we write, a unique neural circuit is automatically activated, and it appears that this circuit contributes to making learning easier.

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Touch-typing is a great skill, and perhaps in another hundred thousand years our descendants will have developed a different learning circuitry.

You can assist your child’s development of their hand, eye and brain circuitry by encouraging them to take up creative non-screen based activities such as crafts with colouring (the closest to writing), cutting and gluing. Instead of creating one dimensional online worlds, have them design and construct 3D worlds and objects. Even undertaking everyday tasks that require manipulation and give tactile feedback, such as sewing on buttons, doing the washing up and ironing, will help them develop their hand-eye circuitry.

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new england focus. 39

40 new england focus.

BACK TO SCHOOL

ESL

HOMEW RK CENTRES

Founded in 2009, the ESL Homework Centres help students for whom English is an additional language. Fay Paris tells us more about the service.

W

hen were the English as a Second Language (ESL) Homework Centres first founded, and what is their mission?

The Tuesday and Wednesday ESL Homework Centres started in 2009 as the “Refugee Homework Centre”, an initiative of Northern Settlement Services and Armidale Sanctuary Group to assist young refugee students, mostly South Sudanese at the time, with their homework.

Our mission now, is to help primary and high school students for whom English is an additional language with their school homework. These students might be from migrant or refugee backgrounds, or are children of international students, but they are all at an educational disadvantage.

What does an afternoon programme look like?

The students arrive from their school either by bus or are driven by parents and are welcomed with a healthy afternoon tea. We have a brief catch-up about their school week, and then they are allocated to a volunteer and get started with their homework. Our volunteers are from all walks of life, some UNE students, some retired folk - even high school students. I have been an ESL teacher for eight years and am available to assist with any homework questions. We finish the afternoon with either a game of soccer or a language based game to encourage talking and listening ... and for some fun.

Where are the centres located?

Since 2010, the Homework Centres have been

based at Drummond Memorial Public School.

This year we started using the library, which has been great - lots of space, big desks to spread out on and a whole library of books and computers to y access. We are very grateful 2015 has certainl e to Drummond MPS, who on g bi a en be armidale.nsw.gov. ework also cover our student for us at the Hom e were w il au) continues to insurance costs.

Centres. In Apr st Be e’s al id find us the most Congratulations on named Arm am for fantastic volunthe exciting award Volunteering Te ctober teers, and we are 2015, then , in O the ESL Homesful in we were succes truly grateful. All work Centres have llege of Co n an Australia volunteers require a received; tell us about n io inat Educator ’s nom Working With Chil” this accolade … d. ar for the Harris Aw dren Check number 2015 has certainly been a and must be registered big one for us at the Homewith Northern Settlement work Centres. In April we were Services for insurance purposes. named Armidale’s Best Volunteering What is the process for students Team for 2015, then, in October we were sucto participate, and what are the costs cessful in an Australian College of Educator’s incurred? nomination for the Harris Award. This was for Students can be nominated from any of the a programme that shows initiative, innovation, public primary or secondary schools in Armidale, planning and action. It was a huge honour and and participating in the Homework Centres a very exciting night for the team. I am certainly is free. Students or their parents can ask their hoping that winning these awards will help findEnglish as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D) ing ongoing funding easier. teacher or principal, and permission notes will be Are you looking for more volunteers? arranged. Attendance at the centres is reviewed Yes, we always seem to be looking for more each six months to ensure that those needing the volunteers. While some of our volunteers have service most are attending. The value of spending been with us since 2009, there is a certain “turn one and a half hours a week with a native English over” of volunteers as UNE students finish their speaker is invaluable for the children. We aim courses, other volunteers find paid work or people leave town. Jane Davies, of Armidale at a one to one ratio, and parents have often Volunteer Referral Service (6770 3838, jdavies@ commented on how quickly their children are

“

becoming familiar with the speed that Australians speak at, our idioms and that their children are sounding like “little Aussies”. The children also have opportunity to discuss how school is going and explore cultural differences in a safe, supportive environment.

Lastly, are there any special mentions or thank yous you’d like to make for those who have supported this fantastic community building programme?

I have been so fortunate to have Judith Roberts, of Northern Settlement Services as my supervisor. She processes the paperwork for the volunteers, purchases the afternoon tea and is always there for support. The University of New England has contributed to the funding to help support their valued international students.

Armidale Dumaresq Council has given us a number of Community Small Grants that we use to pay for the afternoon tea and stationery. The public schools send a steady stream of students.

And lastly, we couldn’t run a single afternoon without the volunteers who give so generously of their time ... Of course they enjoy working with the students, but their commitment of time week after week to assist these youngsters is so magnanimous.

Thanks Fay. new england focus. 41

2015 HIGHEST ACHIEVERS

FOR ENROLMENT ENQUIRIES Please call 6772 1488 or 0477 731 740 or email: newling-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

42 new england focus.

THANK YOU TO OUR SCHOOL SUPPORTERS + SPONSORS

• • • •

Jacksons Quality Meats Armidale Market Fresh Junes Jewellery and Gems Sportspower

• • •

Irresistible Style Armidale Ex-Services Club Newling Parent and Citizens Association

NEWLING PUBLIC SCHOOL Quality Education in a Caring Environment

new england focus. 43

BACK TO SCHOOL

CA

NCER

COUNC

IL

LUNCHB X TIPS

Cancer Council NSW is encouraging parents to create healthy lunch boxes for their primary-school aged children that are packed full of fruit and vegetables. Our Eat It To Beat It programme recommends eating five serves of vegetables and two serves of fruit every day to help reduce your risk of cancer.

W

orryingly on the Mid North Coast, just 12.8 percent of adults eat enough vegetables, while 53.7 percent eat enough fruit. These low numbers mean there is plenty of room for improvement. We know that what parents eat impacts an entire family’s food choices.

To help turn this around, the Cancer Council NSW Eat It To Beat It programme provides free workshops and sessions for parents, to help them understand the importance of eating the right amount of fruit and vegetables.

Eat It To Beat It gives parents simple recipes full of fruit and veg, ideas on what to pack in school lunch boxes, nutritional news and clever tips on how to entice fussy eaters. The programme is based on the latest scientific evidence around healthy eating and the benefits of fruit and vegetables.

School children eat more than 2,500 lunches in their 13 years in the playground. We see that as 2,500 opportunities for them to eat fruit and vegies. Eat It To Beat It helps parents navigate the often confusing world of lunch box snacks.

Follow this six-step method to make school lunches easy, healthy and eaten every day!

1. Include a serve of fruit (chop into small piece or try stewed fruits (like apple and pear) for an easy snack)

44 new england focus.

2. Include a serve of vegies (cut up vegie sticks (carrot, celery, cucumber) and don’t forget legumes like baked beans count as vegies too!)

3. Include a serve of wholegrains (bread, rice or pasta leftovers) 4. Include a serve of reduced-fat dairy (cheese, yoghurt, milk popper) 5. Include a serve of protein (egg, chicken, tuna).

6. Include a bottle of water instead of fruit juice Top Healthy Lunch Box Tips: • Look out for fruit and veg in season • Avoid packaged foods • Bake vegie/fruit muffins e.g. carrot, zucchini, banana as a treat • Make lunch the night before to save time • Include your children and get them to choose from healthy choices foods they would like in the lunch box Visit our website: eatittobeatit.com.au and join our Facebook page: facebook.com/ eatittobeatit for inspiration, recipes and lunch box ideas.

Local schools can book a Cancer Council NSW Eat It To Beat It Healthy Lunch Box presentation for their Kindergarten Orientation Programme. Parents who attend receive a showbag of goodies, including our fun and interactive lunch box kit to use with their children. To book a session please contact Juanita Nantes on 6639 1306 or visit our website for more information: eatittobeatit.com.au

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llera” Santa Gertrudis Stud based at the entire property (Two of NatraMin Cal-S, three Uralla near Armidale, is owned and of NatraMin Hi-Phos, and one NatraMin S). run by Lance and Marj Jerrett. Lance is Manure provides an indicator ... the Jerrett family’s third generation on According to Lance, the quality of the manure this property and has been there for is a clear indicator of the health of his cattle. his entire 70 plus years.

“I could tell the weaner heifers were eating Super Phosphate History ... the blocks as soon as I saw their manure. With Like most properties in the New England MegaMin Lick Blocks, their manure region, the Jerrett’s property has softens up, so it's clearly helping an extensive Super Phosphate their rumen function on the history as well as various dry feed. other blends of fertilizer it was time t gh ou th I “It was even over the years. se; for something el , suggested that I put “I thought it was e good our pastures wer ding time for something MegaMin Lick Blocks on but weren’t resp should else; our pastures in with some bulls that ey as quickly as th e er were good, but th k in th I'm feeding on grain or once did. I weren’t responding es like this pellets. I had assumed are a lot of plac England as quickly as they around the New that they would be .” should or once did. I area these days getting everything that think there are a lot of they needed, and I was places like this around the surprised when I saw the New England area these days. change in their manure as well. The “I was dubious about NatraMin manure actually firmed up, and it was a initially, but I made the decision to try it better colour.” because of the favourable comments that I

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had heard. We applied the first application of NatraMin Cal-S in 2006.”

Plentiful Clover since using NatraMin ...

Any hesitation Lance initially felt towards trying something completely “new” was soon forgotten, as his pastures responded well to the use of NatraMin. “I’m glad I tried NatraMin; we definitely saw a response. The difference has been the thickening up of our grasses, and we now have clover all through our pastures.

“We had been struggling to establish pastures in an area of old cultivation; however, this paddock has responded well to NatraMin applied in 2006, and there is good grass coverage in areas that previously had bare patches. The clover is a picture!” The Jerretts have now applied six applications of NatraMin to

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Thinking Migration – with Joy Tekinay (Senior Solicitor, Migration Agent)

THINKING

MIGRATION

CHARACTER, PROCEDURAL FAIRNESS AND CITIZENSHIP

I

n recent months the issue of migration has dominated much political and legal debate, both in Australia and internationally. Domestically, the protective stamp of citizenship has also been in the spotlight. This renewed focus is due in part to the federal parliament giving consideration to extinguishing the Australian citizenship of dual nationals on security grounds. It is also attributable to an increase in the number of visa cancellations of Australian permanent residents on the basis that they fail the character test.

The character test is defined in subsection 501(6) of the Migration Act 1958 (the Act) and provides that the Minister of Immigration and Border Protection (the Minister) may refuse to grant a person a visa if the person does not satisfy the Minister that the person passes the character test. On 16 October 2015 the High Court refused to grant special leave to appeal the Full Federal Court decision ([2015] FCAFC 53) that upheld a cancellation of visa ban for Mr Alex Vella applying the character test.

Mr Vella had migrated to Australia from Malta in 1967 aged 14 His wife, sons and mother are all Australian citizens, but he did not hold citizenship. Mr Vella became the national president of the Rebels Motorcycle Club in 1973 and had at least one conviction for trafficking marijuana. He left Australia in June 2014 to travel to Malta and shortly thereafter the Minister cancelled his visa. The basis of the Minister’s decision was a finding that Mr Vella did not meet or pass the character test based upon his association with a “group, organization or person” who the Minister reasonably suspected was involved in criminal conduct. The effect of the visa cancellation was that Mr Vella remained stranded in Malta and unable to return to Australia.

Mr Vella claimed that he had been denied natural justice and procedural fairness because the Minister had refused to release information relied upon in making the original cancellation decision and later, in refusing to revoke the cancellation including intelligence provided by an Australian Crime Commission-led task force, Attero. That information

suggested that among other things Mr Vella had overseen the expansion of the Rebels and its alleged business of drug dealing, money laundering, assaults and firearms offences.

Section 503(A)(2)(c) of the Act provides that: “the Minister or officer must not be required to divulge or communicate the information (that has been given by law enforcement or intelligence agencies on the condition that it be treated as confidential) to a court, a tribunal, a parliament, or parliamentary committee or any other body or person”. The Full Court was asked to consider whether principles of natural justice would require disclosure of such information provided and relied upon by the Minister.

Mr Vella’s lawyers argued that the section should be read narrowly. The Court rejected this interpretation and instead held that the provisions of section 503A of the Act override the requirements that would otherwise normally apply.

Accordingly, information that has been provided to the Minister by a law enforcement or intelligence agency on a confidential basis can be treated very differently than other information that is normally relied upon for making a decision to cancel a visa. Information that falls within this class is protected from disclosure. Principles of natural justice and procedural fairness do not require that this information be disclosed to the person who is the subject of any visa cancellation and therefore cannot be the subject of scrutiny.

This clarification is likely to become more significant in the coming years as further intelligence is sought and obtained concerning potential visa applicants and current visa holders. If Mr Vella was a citizen he would not have been subjected to the risk of losing his visa.

If you are intending to migrate, make an application for Citizenship or apply for any other Australian visa you should start by obtaining initial advice from a registered migration agent. Talk to us. You’ll be inspired!

Joy S. Tekinay Senior Solicitor/Migration Agent (MARN 1575740) new england focus. 47

48 new england focus.