New England Focus i109

NEW ENGLAND

June 2016 // Issue 109

N E W

E N G L A N D

Feature Story Kelly Love

Oak Tree Retirement Village Warwick resident Daphne with her beloved dogs Tara and Molly

A SECURE AND PET FRIENDLY VILLAGE

O

ak Tree Retirement Village Armidale is steps ahead of the rest offering residents the opportunity to retire and enjoy an easier way of life, in a secure living environment, with the companionship of their beloved pet.

Approved pets are welcome in the Armidale village and can be accommodated by way of a private fenced yard in the case of a dog or cat.

Whilst many retirement villages throughout Australia do not allow pets, Oak Tree has always taken the stance that pets offer proven positive effects on happiness and wellbeing.

With villages as far north as Cairns to as far south as Hobart, Oak Tree has multiple pet-loving residents.

“Research by the RSPCA states the presence of a pet can help you to relax and feel happier, as well as less lonely, less depressed and have a higher sense of self-esteem,” said Managing Director of Oak Tree Group, Mark Bindon. “The needs of our residents and their wellbeing is important to us and with this research in mind, pet friendly accommodation is a necessary part of our product offering. 2 focus. Street, Armidale 89 Martin new england

A pet friendly policy is in place in the village to respect the rights of all residents, including non-pet owners, and to encourage a harmonious living environment.

“For empty nesters, and in particular for those who live alone, a pet offers companionship and security like no other and this is important as we age and our living and social circumstances change,” says Mr Bindon.

“We ascertain this to the life expectancy rates of women and their intrinsic need to want the security of a companion (pet) and a secure village living environment where they can carry on with life with the comfort of village support.” With the promise of a secure, gated community and an abundance of lifestyle benefits to match, Oak Tree Retirement Village Armidale is an easy and affordable lifestyle choice for seniors and their pets. Residents of Oak Tree can live a low maintenance lifestyle where all lawns and gardens are taken care of by Village Management, enjoy new activities and new friendships, access community facilities including the bowls green, hair salon, library and computer at their leisure and use the village bus service for transport.

“We may lose a spouse, or become more socially isolated due to restricted mobility or to family/friends moving away. “Oak Tree Armidale could be the best move you and your pet ever made.” “Over the years in this sector we have seen a gradual increase of single people, For more information, visit Kate and our and in particular single females, living in display homes open Monday to Friday our villages along with their pet. from 10am-2pm.

1300 367 155

www.oaktreegroup.com.au

focus team.

H

Welcome to the June edition of New England FOCUS.

ere we are at June. We think that we have been pretty lucky with the weather so far ... This time last year it was cold, like New England cold. However, we have finally started to notice a change in the air, with the nights cooling off earlier and the mornings where it’s a little bit harder to get the motor running - (our engines, not the cars’!) Perhaps we are being lulled into a false sense of security, thinking that “maybe it won’t be that cold this year”, or, “Gee, it’s probably going to be a quick winter this year”. Well, we can continue to wish that, but, we think winter is going to come ... and catch up with a vengeance! Us tough New Englanders are seasoned winter weather experts, so let’s look forward to it (or at least tell ourselves that)! ON THE COVER Arts and culture is the flavour of the month and in our region. There is no shortage; if anything, in the New England

contacts. Looking to advertise in FOCUS? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS: 5/164 Beardy Street, Armidale PHONE: 02 6771 5551 FAX: 02 6772 5551 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/ne.focus TV: www.focustv.com.au

we are lucky to have an overflow! With an abundance of industry leading arts and immense and fruitful culture, we feel that the New England paves the way for other regions as an example. So, this month we feature many well known faces, like Suzanne James of New England Conservatory Of Music (NECOM) on the grand Piano, Tony Elder of Black Dot Music and a plethora of bands, groups and alike on the beautiful Gretch guitar, Tom Croft and Dan Emery from The Welders Dog, who have brought a unique flavour to town - craft beer, and finally, Anne and Stuart Boggs of Armidale Framing & Art Supplies - Gallery 126. INSIDE THIS ISSUE As mentioned, this is our arts and culture special. We have compiled a huge feature, with lots of great stories for you. Trading for over a decade is something worth talking about, and FOCUS wanted to recognise some special businesses; we have put together a great feature called Decades

in the Trade. Kelly Love, now fashion designer in London, is making waves in the fashion world. FOCUS finds out what made Kelly choose this unique field, and Kelly tells us about her upbringing and her travel throughout the industry sector. We get cultured with the Ash Hall Trio, a band from Armidale, who tell FOCUS what it’s like to hear the sweet sounds of this influential and well known trio. FINAL SAY Our final say this month comes from the mind of Lizzie Velasquez: “Sometimes we need someone to turn the flashlight on for us. Other times we need to turn it on for others”.

EDITION CO-ORDINATOR ADVERTISING CONSULTANT:

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable

Tracy Le Messurier

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan

tracy@focusmag.com.au

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

joey@focusmag.com.au jeff@focusmag.com.au

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

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Margaret Turner GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Michael Marchment margaret@focusmag.com.au

michael@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: James Brooks

COPY EDITING: Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services

james@focusmag.com.au

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

rnrmedia@bigpond.com

PHOTOGRAPHER: David Elkins davidelkinsphotography.com.au

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

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders.Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. New England Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications Pty Ltd ABN: 62128786005. Material in New England Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications Pty Ltd 2016 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

new england focus. 3

focusinterview.

JESS AND SIMON LEE HAVE RECENTLY MARRIED, AND THEIR RECEPTION WAS HELD AT THE QUALITY HOTEL POWERHOUSE ARMIDALE. THEY TELL US ABOUT THEIR SPECIAL DAY.

W

here are you both originally from? Simon grew up in Coffs Harbour, and Jess grew up in Byron Bay. How did you and Jessica first meet, and how did you propose? We both met while we were studying here at UNE - I was living at Earle Page, and Jess at Duval college. We met through a mutual friend, got talking, and our relationship grew from there. The proposal is a little funny! I picked Jess up from work and told her we should go out for dinner (she thought it was because I forgot to get anything out of the freezer that morning). Little did she know I had arranged for a romantic picnic to be set up at the

4 new england focus.

lookout for dessert, burnouts. We laughed! It was perfect! which is where I would I After dinner How did you plan pop the question. All to up r drove he your special day? through dinner, I was ch hi w t, the lookou d di Pinterest is so nervous! I could e w ng hi et was som is th AMAZING! There barely eat! But Jess just at so y, rl la regu dn’t are just so many thought I was sick and point she still di .” ng hi yt ideas on there, but it might’ve eaten part of suspect an helps when you have my meal too! such an amazing group After dinner I drove her of friends and family to up to the lookout, which help as well. was something we did regularly, We're also very spoilt here in so at this point she still didn’t suspect the New England; everywhere is so anything. It wasn’t beautiful, that the planning of where and until I led her over to the candlelit picnic when was easy. that she realised what was happening. I Tell us how Monty and the team at got down on one knee and asked her if she Quality Hotel Powerhouse Armidale would marry me, and she said yes! It was helped make the day so special? at this precise moment that a group of cars Monty and the team were wonderful! drove into the lookout and started doing

“

They helped make the whole process so easy and stress free! There was very little we had to do; they just took care of everything - the setting up of the room, the food and the bridal suite. It was all just perfect! We cant thank them enough. Who else what you would like to thank? All our friends and family, our amazing photographer and sister Jess Lee, the volunteers at McCrossins Mill in Uralla, the ladies at Le Salon for our fabulous hair and makeup and the team at Lowes. What was the highlight of the day? We can’t pinpoint one particular moment. The whole day was just perfect! Plans for the future? For right now, we both want to take the next step in our careers, start saving for a home loan and just continue living happy! Thanks Simon.

issue I S S U E

1 0 9

-

J U N E

18

2 0 1 6

KELLY LOVE.

Armidale born and bred Kelly Love was always creative from a young age. After a move to Japan working with a clothing designer, Kelly returned to Sydney to study fashion design and now has her own label and is living her dream in London.

ASH HALL TRIO. If you’re from the New England, you probably know one of these likely suspects, Tony, Ash and Steve from the ASH HALL TRIO. FOCUS delves into the minds of these creative geniuses to find out what makes them tick, tock, rock and/ or roll ...

32

25

When and why did you become a property valuer? I always had an interest in the property sector, and from school (Moreton Bay College, Brisbane) I studied Property Economics at Queensland University of Technology. After graduating, I moved back to my family property in Walcha NSW and started working in nearby Tamworth as a graduate valuer. Being a certified practicing valuer for two years, I have recently relocated office to the firms Armidale office in Hannas Arcade. Tell us about your services? We conduct valuations for various reasons, including depreciation, mortgage, stamp duty, family law, market and rental value assessments, and government assets. Depreciation valuations assists property owners, including commercial property tenants, to claim the depreciation of their assets on tax. Mortgage valuations, on

the other hand, play a major role in obtaining finance from lending institutions in order to purchase a property. Stamp Duty Valuations are required by the Office of State Revenue when a property was not sold on the open market and where there is a relationship between the two parties. Family law valuations help to relieve possible disputes regarding current property values during a divorce. What do you love about what you do? Being stationary in an office 9 to 5 would be the death of me. Now being based in Hannas Arcade, I value all property types between Walcha and Tenterfield weekly. While driving the long distances can be tiresome at times, the views never cease to astonish. The properties I value are all vastly different, and the job is social, which keeps things interesting.

SARAH STOCKHAM. FOCUS welcomes Sara Stockham to Armidale, as she joins Scott Williams at White Leaf Dental, formerly Colin Pateman’s Dental Surgery.

R EGU L A R S 10. 29. 45.

PINA GUERRINI PROPERTY VALUER

14

WHAT’S ON FOR JUNE STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI HALL TOURISM WITH KATRINA GEORGE

follow us on

facebook.com/newengland.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

No matter where you are in the world, read Focus for free online every month @ www.focusmag.com.au new england focus. 5

focusinterview.

ELLEN BRIGGS AND MANDY NOLAN BRING THE DAY TO DAY LIVES OF BEING A WOMAN TO THE STAGE, TOUCHING ON (NOT SO GENTLY) THOSE TOPICS NOBODY WANTS TO TALK ABOUT, IN A HILARIOUS TWO HOUR STAGE SHOW … FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH THE PAIR IN BETWEEN SCHOOL RUNS ...

like us

LIKE US!

T

ell us a bit about yourselves off stage. How did you meet each other, and where did the inspiration behind "Women Like Us" come from? Ellen: I am a mum of twins, have been with the same bloke for 25 years (God help him), run not only my comedy business but our business from home, and run a farm with a small amount of cattle on it. I am a short, plain woman and if not for comedy, you wouldn't even notice me in a room. I can slip in and steal your purse, and you'd never know. That's my super power! We met 10 years ago when I decided to do Mandy's comedy course that she runs three times per year. This gets people writing five minutes of stand up comedy, and it culminates in a performance called The Virgin Sacrifice, where all the students perform that five minutes. It's kind of like a rite of passage around these parts - almost everyone who lives here has done the course. The idea for Women Like Us came from us both performing in regional areas, and having so many people approach us and tell us how refreshing it is to hear the voice of a regional, middle aged woman. It's probably the group in Australia that is least heard from - certainly in the comedy industry, that's for sure! So, we decided to put together this two-hour show and take it to all the regional centres that are really starved for good comedy! Plus, we like each other and are happy to 6 new england focus.

We created Women Like be Us, cause we both think that comedy targets and male audiences e ar s that our storie ed ne d hysterical an to be told .”

“

travel together - that's important to us. There aren't many comedians I'd be happy to spend extended periods away with! Mandy: I am a mother of five kids; I've had three husbands. One I decided to keep. I've been a comedian for 30 years, a mother for 21. I am six foot tall, blonde, and 90 kilos. Let's just say I don't just slip easily into a crowd. I've always stuck out a little bit ... been the girl with toilet paper trailing out her undies. Been too loud, too fat, too big to be a trophy wife. Instead, I collected trophy husbands! I write, I teach, I basically spend my life telling other people what to do. Ellen and I met when she came to do my comedy course about a decade ago. She told people she was learning the piano. She just had it, I thought immediately. Either I kill her, or I love her. I chose the latter option. We created Women Like Us because we both think that comedy targets male audiences and that our stories are hysterical and need to be told. Our shows have been selling out wherever we go - and audiences have raved that they love our material, that it was like we were telling stories from their life. And we do. It's because those lives, are our lives too! There is a stigma around women's issues, but you make sure there is no stone un-

turned … What are some of the more "controversial" topics you cover in your show? Ellen: What don't we cover? We cover the frustrations of parenting, being a wife, ageing and what happens to your body and your mind, body image, death, sex after 25 years of marriage ... we don't leave anything out! Mandy: I always find it weird that women's experience is called "women's issues", but men's experience is seen as universal. I think thats why we need to talk about women's experiences - we have to make it part of the universal domain. After all, as women we do have the majority when it comes to planetary population. As for controversial, we do the usual - weight, sexuality, labiaplasty, who unpacks the dishwasher, and I like to declare a war on botox. As much as we love and adore our kids, most mums will have a story of when our kids have embarrassed us in public. Ellen, Mandy, please share yours … Ellen: I have so many stories. My kids are great at this. Once one of them told a story at kindergarten news that consisted of the words: "My mum has holes in her undies". The teachers couldn't wait for me to pick the kids up that day! Another one of them is the loudest vomiter you will ever hear, and I had him at the

doctor's surgery with a bowl from home, and he sounded like a freight train coming down the tracks. Never mind the fact he was sick - I was embarrassed! Mandy: When my middle daughter was about seven, she once gave a talk about what her mummy did for work and said in front of the school assembly, "My mummy gets paid to swear. She can use the F word. She gets $50 every time". You both have had success in the comedy industry. As mothers and wives, how do you juggle career/life/sanity? Ellen: We have very supportive families, and without them, it wouldn't be possible to travel and work evenings the way we do. I write lots of lists. I have lists of lists I have to write. I literally cut up my day into chunks of the different work I have to do, i.e. morning will be comedy admin, afternoon will be housework, evening performing, etc. Otherwise, there would be no sanity. Actually, maybe there is no sanity? Maybe my excessive list making and chunking is actually a little bit crazy? Anything else you’d like to share with our readers? Mandy: Women Like Us isn't just comedy. It's therapy. You will walk away feeling normal. Wonderful. Like you're not alone. Ellen and I are on a mission - to bring Women Like Us to women, particularly regional women in Australia, because we believe that so often no one really speaks to our real experience. WE do. Thanks ladies.

VALLA BEACH Tourist Park Come be inspired by our local and surrounding areas’ most fabulous wedding providers. Our creative exhibitors will be showcasing their work and showing off their wedding services. This down to earth event is filled with genuine, helpful businesses that will assist with all your wedding questions, big or small. Exhibitors include an array of local wedding services: wedding gowns, honeymoon ideas, bridal makeup, florist, wedding celebrants, wedding planners, wedding receptions, car hire, fitness and much, much more. The unique historic buildings and surrounds of Valla Beach Tourist Park is the perfect setting to hold this function. It has a long history of hosting wonderful, memorable events. It is an excellent day to inspire, enthuse and engage with all things wedding. It will be full of colour, inspiration, fun and live entertainment - an event not to be missed. Valla Beach Tourist Park meanders along the banks of Deep Creek and is within a short walk to the beach. Entry will be by gold coin donation, which will be donated to a local charity. If you would like more information about our Valla Beach Bridal Expo, please phone Heidi on (02) 6569 5555 or email info@ vallabeachtouristpark.com.au

new england focus. 7

focusinterview.

WANT TO ESCAPE THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE THIS WINTER? CAN YOU PICTURE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY RECLINING ON THE VERANDAH OF YOUR VERY OWN BUSH RETREAT? IMAGINE SNUGGLING UP TO THE CRACKLE OF THE OPEN FIREPLACE, THEN WAKING UP TO SEE THE MIST ROLLING THROUGH THE HILLS … EAST KUNDERANG HOMESTEAD HAS ALL THIS AND MORE - A MAJESTIC, QUIET AND SCENIC ESCAPE WHERE YOU CAN JUST RELAX TAKE IT ALL IN.

W

e talk to Aaron Simmon from the National Parks and Wildlife Service. As the famous movie, The Castle states,

“How’s the serenity?” What can customers experience upon staying? You see the word “unique” used a lot,

E A S T

K U N D E R A N G

HOMESTEAD “

so to experience that while having the comforts

outside barbeque,

of a restored 1890s era Red Cedar homestead is

and a fully equipped

pretty special.

kitchen complete with

How many people can stay at East

huge gas electric oven

Kunderang?

and table setting for 14,

It can sleep up to 14 people, but the bedding

East Kunderang is a two hour idale, drive from Arm 4WD a ed and you ne e th as e, er th to get p ee st tle lit a is ro ad is d in places an most unsealed along ” e. ut ro of the

the only things you need

configuration ideally suits two to three families,

to bring are personal effects,

with five bedrooms and two queen beds, four

linen and plenty of food, as it is a

but in this case it really is true. Staying at

single beds, a bunk bed and a king bed that

long way to the nearest shop!

East Kunderang takes you away from normal

can be split into two singles. There are also

What activities can a family do?

everyday life - there are no TVs, radio, Wifi or

two foldaway beds that can be moved where

mobile phone coverage, so you just get time

needed.

from Armidale, and you need a 4WD to get

out to explore the Macleay River and surrounds

What facilities are available at the

there, as the road is a little steep in places and

with your family and friends. Waking every

homestead?

is unsealed along most of the route. You can

East Kunderang is a two hour drive

around. For the more adventurous, you can take extended bushwalks to some old hut sites and for the super fit, even up the side of the mountain to Marys View, which is one of the

most remote but best lookouts on the Northern Tablelands and Mid North Coast. Do you have any special deals for autumn/ winter? Over the winter months of June, July and August we have reduced rates that can save up

morning to the sun’s rays slowly working their

The homestead was constructed from

drive to the river, where the fishing for Bass is

to $350 per booking. A three night booking

way from the mountain tops to the homestead

locally cut Red Cedar in the 1890s, and was

spectacular. Remember to bring your licence,

in winter costs $1,025, but if you bring 10

while the mist lifts is something not to be

painstakingly restored in the late 1990s, with

though. Swimming, canoeing, liloing are all

people that is less than $35 per person per

missed. It is one of the very few places in NSW

some more changes being made five years

fantastic along this stretch of the Macleay

night. Rates, availability and online bookings

that is both state and world heritage listed for

ago to build a magnificent eat in kitchen. With

River, as there are huge, still pools, as well as

are available at www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

the cultural and natural values that it contains,

five bedrooms, two showers, three toilets, an

a few small rapids for people to play in and

- just search East Kunderang.

8 new england focus.

new england focus. 9

focus_What’s On New England

June 2016 FIRST SATURDAY CHATS Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Christopher Serow (Principal Solicitor, Notary Public, Migration Agent). When Saturday 4 June 2016; 10am to 1pm. Where At our offices. As this is a popular programme, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

BARBARIANS LADIES DAY Conan and the Baa Baas would like to invite all sponsors and supporters to this year's Ladies Day, as we take on the Robb Rugby Club in four grades, plus Women's 7s. With a complementary drink on arrival for the ladies, there will be $5 collected on the gate for charity. When 25th June @ 11am.

12

TOASTMASTERS

KENTUCKY MARKETS

Come along to the Kentucky Seasonal Craft & Produce Market. Let all your friends know, and make it another big day! This market is run by the Kentucky Progress Association.When Sun 12th June; 9am - 1pm. Where Kentucky Memorial Hall.

WOMEN LIKE US

18

Stand up comedians Mandy Nolan and Ellen Briggs join forces in Women Like Us to deliver two hours of rapid fire, sharp, honest, sometimes self deprecating, somewhat irreverent stand up comedy for audiences who love their humour straight from the lip. When June 18 @ 7:30pm - 9:30pm Cost $20. www.armidaleservies.com.au

10 new england focus.

20 30

We are excited that University of New England’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Annabelle Duncan, is our guest speaker at New England Toastmasters, to share her ideas and experience on communication and leadership in an academic environment. Toastmasters is a non-profit educational organisation that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. When 20th June at 6:30pm. Where Homestead Boardroom, University of New England, Northern Ring Road.

25

WINTER FESTIVAL Armidale Tourist Park is hosting a Winter Festival featuring lots of kids’ activities, including ice slide, jumping pillow, face painting - TBA, kids’ playground, faux snow - the theme, Shakespeare’s A Winter’s Tale. When Saturday 25th June. Time noon - 7:30pm. Cost Adults - $12. Students - $10. Kids $10. Family - $45 (2 Adults + 4 kids).

MELANIE GRAY The Armidale Golf Club will host Melanie Gray’s opening event on June 30 from 7pm, supported by local legends Terra Firma, with drinks, dancing, and food available; the perfect way to start the tour. Where The Golf Club. When June 30 from 7pm. Cost $20 adults; $15 students with FREE drink ticket.

ARMIDALE FARMERS’ MARKETS We'd love to see you at the Armidale Farmers' Markets and Car Boot Sale! Join us and buy fresh, seasonal produce, home made gourmet food, and plants; get a hot cup of gourmet coffee and relax under a shady tree in the park; stay for breakfast or lunch. When First and third Sunday of every month from 8am until 1pm. Where Curtis Park (cnr. Faulkner and Dumaresq Streets, Armidale).

thi si

sc ool

focus_local recipe

emu australia boots LYN’S SHOETIQUE AND GIFTS

Delivering the magic of Australian Merino, these EMU Australia boots offer cosy warmth and a naturally soft feel. These hiker inspired shoes are your answer to luxury casual. Super lightweight, flexible in form and function. Also available in Taupe.

Available at Lyn’s Shoetique and Gifts Centre Mall Armidale, Phone. 6772 9077

with Ross from Daily Ritual Armidale

INGREDIENTS

(Makes 12)

2½ cups of self raising flour ¾ cup of caster sugar ½ cup of crushed pineapple ¼ cup of pineapple syrup 1 cup of coconut cream ½ cup of vegetable oil 1 egg 2 Tbsp of lemon juice Icing 50 g of butter (softened) 200 g of cream cheese 50 g of coconut cream

MASALA CHAI TEA

1 Tbsp of lemon juice ½ cup icing sugar Toasted coconut and chargrilled pineapple thins to decorate; sprinkle of lime geranium.

Adrian - Travel 195

method Preheat oven to 190 degrees; grease muffin pans. Sift flour and sugar in a bowl. Make a well in the centre. Add lemon juice, coconut cream, pineapple syrup, pineapple, oil and egg. using a wooden spoon, stir until just combined. Spoon mixture into prepared tins. Bake for 10 - 12 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Combine all ingredients for icing together with an electric beater until thick and smooth. Add to muffins once cooled. Cook pineapple thins on high heat with a pan until caramelised on both sides. Cut in half and add to the top of your icing.

Masala Chai Tea is a flavoured winter tea beverage made by brewing black tea with a mixture of aromatic Indian spices and herbs. Originating in India, the beverage has gained worldwide popularity, becoming a feature at Daily Ritual. Although traditionally prepared by a selection cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, ground cloves, ground ginger, and black peppercorn together with black tea leaves, Daily Ritual offers a selection of nine blends

WHERE

of Chai, including organic, green, no caffeine. The most popular is Punjabi Chai, spiced black tea: the original “Silvertip Punjabi Chai” with a sweet, spicy fruity flavour. Contains: Black tea, citrus peel, rose petals, almonds, cloves, cardamom, vanilla, flavour. Brew 5 - 8 minutes at 95°C - 100°C.

Find out more about other quality blends at www.dailyritual.com.au new england focus. 11

focuseditorial.

Heritage ROSE GARDEN WINS PRESTEGIOUS AWARD

Emalene Gemmell solicitor Emalene Gemmell Solicitor is pleased to now provide our clients with the opportunity to meet with us in either Armidale or Uralla. We can be found at 9/108 Dangar Street, Armidale NSW and 60a Bridge Street, Uralla NSW. In celebration of our office opening in Uralla, we are launching our “Outside the Square” sessions: on Market Saturday in Uralla (the last Saturday of every month) we will be offering free legal sessions and JP services to the community between the hours of 9am and 1pm. Our first “Outside the Square” sessions will be on Saturday 28 May 2016. So, if you are a local, or fancy a drive to check out what a wonderful weekend retreat Uralla is, you can take advantage of our “Outside the Square” sessions. Take a break and enjoy the bustling hub of fine food, local produce, history, arts, antiques and café culture while you are at it. Please telephone (02) 5773 5885 or email office@emalenegemmellsolicitor.com.au and book your “Outside the Square” session now, or call in and see us, behind the Uralla Community Street Stall, 60a Bridge Street, Uralla … Look for the red door!

At the 2016 National Trust Awards presented in Sydney recently, the Heritage Rose Garden at Saumarez Homestead, Armidale, was recognised with a Conservation Collection Award.

T

he Judges’ notes read: “This is a project that preserves a living collection of historic or ‘heritage’ roses. It is the work of dedicated and tireless volunteers and managed by the Northern NSW subbranch of the Garden History Society.” This wonderful Award recognises the relocation of many hundreds of heritage roses, formerly in the garden of Miss Catherine MacLean of Armidale, into a new site at Saumarez Homestead. These plants now form the basis of a

garden of some 600 roses, representing over 24 distinct cultivar groups in 44 formal beds. This is the “living collection of heritage roses” referred to by the judges. The importance of the work of the volunteers was also mentioned at the Award presentation. The northern subbranch of the Australian Garden History Society has some 70 members, who have who have literally started from the ground up, designing beds, digging the ground, planting roses, etc. The result

has been the creation of this wonderful Heritage Rose garden. This site was kindly made available to the Australian Garden History Society NNSW by the National Trust based on a Memorandum of Understanding developed between the two bodies. The development of the Heritage Rose Garden has contributed to extending the opening hours of Saumarez to seven days a week, and it is anticipated that more visitors will be attracted to our town because of the rose garden.

Health Tips from the

Dai Fu Tony Bennett

A

rmidale has four seasons, and I’m

As winter approaches , ods we need to eat fo in g in m ar w e that ar t ea m t as ro , re natu ea ar es and vegetabl ” t. great star

“

loving it! Oriental Medicine places great emphasis on diet and lifestyle and living and eating according to the season. It’s really quite simple, and we probably do things correctly

12 new england focus.

I can’t believe I’ve been back in Armidale for more than eight years. Apart from the fact that my beard has gone grey, my dogs have become senior citizens and whenever I leave my house I’m always running into my clients for a chat (that’s a good thing), I’ve noticed one major difference between Armidale and Tweed Heads.

instinctively. Firstly, try to eat foods that are grown locally and are in season - nature knows what you need. As winter approaches, we need to eat foods that are warming in nature; roast meat and vegetables are a great start. Generally red meat, especially lamb, is

much more warming than chicken and fish. Soups and warm drinks are great for the cooler months. Winter is a time of hibernation for many species. Whilst we may not have that luxury, it doesn’t hurt to slow down and take it easy. I won’t be hibernating this winter, so if you have any health problems or need a tune up, I’d love to hear from you on 6771 3964.

focuseditorial.

FEEL AT

Photo: Raphaela Rosella’

HOME AT NERAM A new exhibition at New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) will bring Armidale’s international communities together with the Aboriginal and broader communities.

T

he exhibition HOME creates connections around the idea of “home” through art and stories. Featuring large scale photographic portraits by awardwinning photographer Raphaela Rosella, along with images, personal stories and creative contributions collected from and created by the community during Beyond Empathy’s HOME project in 2015. HOME was a multi-arts project that included the creation of a community choir and drumming group, photographic portraits and storytelling. The choir and drumming groups were a forum for

connection, as music can speak across borders! The groups met regularly. Friendships were formed as these created a diverse and multicultural repertoire. “Raphaela Rosella’s powerful photographic portraits will form the heart of this exhibition, which explores how a number of different communities have made their home in Armidale and the New England region,” said Robert Heather, Director of the New England Regional Art Museum. “It is also an opportunity for these communities to express themselves through a range of artforms, which will be

used in a large installation here at NERAM that will include their words and images.” Beyond Empathy uses art forms that resonate with participants and aims to disrupt old ways of thinking and empower marginalised people to re-engage with their communities, create new narratives and shift perceptions. The HOME project was supported by the Multicultural NSW Unity Grants programme. On show at NERAM from 24 June until 14 August 2016. Further information: www.neram.com.au

focuseditorial.

carr’s newsxpress Carr’s newsXpress is a locally owned and operated newsagency that sells and distributes magazines and newspapers, as well as stocking gift lines and stationery. Rod and Amanda love being part of the vibrant Armidale community, and they show their appreciation by supporting a variety of local fundraising efforts and school fetes. The newsagency distributes at least 7,000 newspapers a week to individuals and businesses, and they deliver newspapers to approximately 350 homes per day. In fact, it takes Paul (the delivery man) over three hours each day to complete his paper deliveries! The newsagency also stocks an extensive selection of magazines, with titles as diverse as Aussie Aussie Aussie oioioi, Chicks Smashing Grunters and Bacon Busters! Being situated in the centre of the Armidale mall, Rod and Amanda have witnessed many interesting and entertaining scenes, especially during UNE’s O-Week. They also love the mall itself, as it is full of locally owned and operated shops, which gives Armidale its distinctive character. Some of the most exciting times for Rod and Amanda in the newsagency have included being visited by famous customers. For example, the newsagency has hosted visits from Kerry O’Keeffe, the famous cricketer and commentator, and the original red Wiggle, Murray Cook!

LOCALs 4 Locals GIVEAWAYS

Introducing the new Locals 4 Locals feature page; check here monthly to see the latest winners from the previous month! Every month, Locals 4 Locals gives away 5 X $100 to lucky winners.

W

e hear you ask - how can I win? Well, that’s easy! Just visit one of our participating stores, spend $25 or more, fill out an entry form and go into the draw to win your share of the prize pool. It’s just that easy! You could be featured in the next edition of FOCUS, pictured proudly with your prize in our July edition.

There are so many shops you can enter from. Look for our Locals 4 Locals stamp in store; every business that’s part of L4L has the red stamp. For a detailed list of all the places you can enter the competition, visit www.L4L.com.au/ businesses/ FOCUS is proud to be partnering with Locals 4 Locals to showcase one business each month, highlighting each

unique part of the community. So keep your eyes peeled for this page to see great specials, winner and more - every month! Locals 4 Locals - show support for your local community by supporting your local businesses. Visit: www.L4L.com.au for more information and remember, fill out the form for your chance to win! new england focus. 13

Howard Hinton Collection | NERAM

Esther Paterson, The Yellow Gloves (also known as Portrait of Betty Paterson), 1938, Oil on cardboard, Gift of Howard Hinton 1939.

14 new england focus.

focusinterview.

go

C R E A T E ! TIME HAS FLOWN OVER THE LAST TWO AND A HALF YEARS! GO CREATE! NEW ENGLAND HAS GROWN FROM A SEED OF AN IDEA TO A FLOURISHING ENTERPRISE BRANCHING OUT IN MANY UNEXPECTED DIRECTIONS. WE NOW HAVE STUDENTS WHO RETURN MONTH AFTER MONTH FOR THEIR CREATIVE FIX, CHOOSING FROM A WIDE CHOICE OF INSPIRING SKILLS.

W

e have students who come to meet like-minded people, having recently moved to the area, and then there are students who are choosing to spend time with friends from afar while enjoying the studio atmosphere and a break from the daily grind. All learn new skills and make new friends.

studio for an afternoon. We showcase our tutors with displays and demonstrations, while visitors enjoy local cheese with matching teas. Last year we had a working 3D printer that had been designed and built by a Uralla local. Cathy Moon, originally from Armidale, filled our outdoor space with pots of bubbling dyes and Shibori dyed silks. This year on the 22nd October we will be showcasing Sunhill Dairy Goat cheese paired with yummy teas.

Jan, Kath and Vicki feel privileged to share A highlight for us at Go Create! is participation their space with passionate tutors who are in the Seasons of New England generous with their skills and Market Day in Uralla annually. experience. Tutors have We have been overwhelmed included local favourites by the enthusiastic such as Judy Wilford support for our creative teaching embroidery, A highlight for endeavours. photographer Terry us at G o Create! Cooke and Jan Clark in We are constantly is participation ew initially teaching fabric N of s updating our website, on the Seas ay D t ke manipulation and now ar M Facebook, and d an Engl ly.” al nu an including drawing due lla Instagram sites with ra U in to demand. International images and videos of tutors have visited, such as past workshops providing Patricia Baldwin Seggebruch insight into the studio (USA) for encaustics and Liz classes. If you have wondered Maidment from France for creative what we do at Go Create! there embroidery. Classes for 2017/18 will include is nothing like a picture to answer the contemporary basketry, paper making, question. leather bags, indigo dyeing, solar etching Not only has our presence on social media and more. grown substantially, but our team has grown

“

The studio is now in demand for Guild weekends, group gatherings and tourist stops. Groups have booked their tutor of preference, enjoyed good food, camaraderie and accommodation on site. The Tamworth Embroiderers Guild had a wonderful weekend with a specially organised workshop with Judy Wilford from Armidale. Our “Teas and Cheese Tasting” events have been very successful and are now a yearly occurrence, attracting over 100 people to the

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

TA M WO RT H R E G I O N A L GA L L E RY Emporium presents a revealing look at the phenomenal rise of the department store, the advent of ready-to-wear clothing and the proliferation of image-based advertising as an art form during the 20th century. The exhibition focuses on items collected before its closure from one of Albury’s longest-running department stores - S.M. Abikhair’s - including more than 40 mid-century in-store fashion posters, along with women’s fashion accessories and foundation garments, original shop mannequins, and the minutiae of millinery, menswear and haberdashery. The store had three entries, a main entrance plus one each for men and women, which navigated patrons to appropriate sections of the store. As it was considered inappropriate for men to see, let alone purchase, women’s unmentionables, the entry for men took them through sporting goods

This exhibition reflects the lifestyle and climate of the 1950s and the fashions aspired to by Australian women. The beauty myth of the idealised woman stretched far from the bustle of the cities to the country streets of Albury or Tamworth. In the same vein as the Mad Men television series, this exhibition investigates the role of women from their dress and their hobbies, to their work in the home and the messages portrayed in the 1950s-era marketing materials. Curated by Bridget Guthrie, Gallery Director, Emporium is an accessible exhibition that connects to the everyday and our consumer heritage. On exhibition from 21 May to 2 July at the Tamworth Regional Gallery.

21 May to 2 July 2016

Emporium

An Albury City Touring Exhibition

2014 Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award A Grafton Regional Gallery Touring Exhibition

11 June to 6 August 2016 Wendy Sharpe Backstage Burlesque with Venetian Mask 2013 (acquired 2014 JADA). Grafton Regional Gallery Collection. Copyright of the artist

Back to Burra Bee Dee Warwick Keen

too. We have welcomed Erica Peterson to Go Create! and she will be assisting us in preparation for workshops as our student numbers grow. As formal art classes in the education system decline, it is obvious that people and their communities still need to learn creative skills and to express themselves creatively. Go Create! New England is dedicated to help answer that need. And have a lot of fun on the way.

and men’s supplies. Women were directed past the women’s, children’s and household supplies counters before reaching the register.

8 July to 27 August 2016 Warwick Keen, Sacred Place 2013, Digital Print on Art Rag photographic paper, 90cm X 60 cm. 466 Peel Tamworth, Open Tue - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 4pm. Closed Sunday & Public Holidays. P: 02 6767 5248, e: gallery@tamworth.nsw.gov.au www.tamworthregionalgallery.com.au www.facebook.com/tamworthregionalgallery

new england focus. 15

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

TA K E A V I E W O F T H E L A N D S C A P E AT N E R A M

A RT I N A L L F O R M S Bursting at the seams with artists and art, it’s evident Walcha is an avid supporter of culture and oozes the OOMPH it takes to embrace such appreciations. Whether it’s the initiative and ongoing development of the Open Air Gallery, an ever-growing permanent gallery, currently consisting of nearly 50 artworks and sculptures - posing as guardians of the town - greeting you at every entrance, enhancing the stunning streetscape and lining either side of the Apsley River upon her levee banks; OR, the galleries that complement this iconic asset. The Walcha Gallery of Art exhibits fine and contemporary art, often showcasing prominent local artists, many who are renowned for their work far beyond the local region. And then there’s the more recent addition of a Steam Punk gallery, Antipodean Tynker, exhibiting fascinating black-smithery,

jewellery and bespoke motorbikes that would remind you of, if not rival, the ones seen in Mad Max. The thriving cultural buck doesn’t stop there; events such as Opera at Langford, and Voci Stupende attracting large crowds; shops such as Walcha Handmade, a fresh, vibrant retail outlet for local creatives also boasting a kids’ craft corner that is available to everyone and a studio where courses are often run. The Creative Craft Centre sells local woodwork and knitwear, and the Antique Junque shop is a work of art in itself - an absolute must see for anyone passing through. Walcha has a fabulous food culture, abundant with wonderful pub-grub and cafés who know how to tantalise your tastebuds and make a great coffee!

In 1921, the artist Elioth Gruner passed through the New England region on his way north, setting up his easel and painting the landscape as he went and reputedly staying with farmers and graziers in return for giving them an artwork to keep. Later in the 1930s, he returned to the region and obviously travelled along the Waterfall Way, because a series of gorgeous landscapes he painted around Bellingen are now in the Howard Hinton Collection at the New England Regional Art Museum. A selection of these local landscapes will feature in the new exhibition, Views of Landscape, which open at NERAM in June and provides visitors with a glimpse of the rich selection of paintings to be found in the museum’s collections. “The Howard Hinton Collection was originally assembled as a teaching collection, and Hinton wanted to make sure that it included all of the key painting themes of his era,” said Robert Heather, NERAM Director. “Looking through

our collection, we have wonderful examples of portraits, still life, nudes, landscapes and seascapes to choose from for our exhibitions. “The exhibition explores the way in which artists’ views of the landscape have evolved from the traditional English countryside of nineteenth century painter Samuel Palmer, through to the contemporary interventions of Christo around Sydney Harbour in the late 1960s and the work of contemporary urban artists today such as George Gittoes. “This exhibition will include works by leading Australian artists including Arthur Streeton, Elioth Gruner, Adrien Feint, Margaret Olley, Lloyd Rees and many others, that will enable our visitors to experience a range of quality landscape painting, prints and drawings right here in Armidale.” Views of Landscape will be open at New England Regional Art Museum from 24 June until 18 September 2016. Further information: www.neram.com.au

Views of Landscape

Art in all forms

Walcha

A unique perspective on the collections of the New England Regional Art Museum Arthur Streeton – Elioth Gruner – Lloyd Rees – Margaret Olley – Cressida Campbell – Adrien Feint and others

24 June -18 Sept 2016

New England Regional Art Museum Discover Walcha’s art, fine food, natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.

neram.com.au 106-114 Kentucky St ARMIDALE NSW 2350 Open 10am – 4 pm Tuesday – Sunday

walchansw.com.au • 02 6774 2460 Elioth Gruner, Winter afternoon, Bellingen 1937, oil on canvas, Gift of Howard Hinton 1938

16 new england focus.

The Marriage of Figaro Mozart

new england focus. 17

new england focus. 17

focusinterview.

K E L L Y

ARMIDALE BORN AND BRED KELLY LOVE WAS ALWAYS CREATIVE FROM A YOUNG AGE. AFTER A MOVE TO JAPAN WORKING WITH A CLOTHING DESIGNER, KELLY RETURNED TO SYDNEY TO STUDY FASHION DESIGN AND NOW HAS HER OWN LABEL AND IS LIVING HER DREAM IN LONDON.

18 new england focus.

“

I WORKED FOR A COUTURE HOUSE WHEN I FINISHED STUDYING, AND THIS REALLY INFLUENCED MY DECISION TO FOCUS ON BEAUTIFUL FABRICS AND REALLY HIGH QUALITY. I BELIEVE THAT THE INSIDE OF A GARMENT SHOULD BE JUST AS BEAUTIFUL AS THE OUTSIDE.”

W

here are you originally from; tell us about your up bringing? I was born in Armidale and remember spending a lot of time outdoors with other kids in the neighbourhood, which was one of the beauties of living in the countryside. I had a wonderful group of girlfriends that I spent so much time with, as we all lived quite close by, and I still have a close bond with all of them. My parents brought me up with a very strong work ethic. They both worked really hard for us, and it was definitely them that inspired me to eventually start my own business. My dad and brother, Greg and Ben Love, run Armidale Windscreens & Automotive along with New England Rods Customs, and my mum, Marianne Love, works for The Benevolent Society.

I attended Armidale High School, which completely fell in love with the whole process was also the school my dad, sister and of creating something unique. brother attended. When I finished high What took you to the UK? I knew I wanted to start my own label, school, I left Armidale to go to university and there is no better before moving to Japan, place to do this than then Sydney and later London. I have Paris on London, which is where I IT WASN’T my doorstep, where have been based for the REALLY UNTIL I have spent a lot of past eight years. I MOVED TO JAPAN time showcasing the What do you miss most AND WORKED collections, and the about Armidale? WITH A CLOTHING main market that I sell My family and friends. DESIGNER THAT into is Europe. I also When did your interest I KNEW IT WAS love that I can travel in design first begin? WHAT I WANTED TO to so many different I was always creative PURSUE.” places really easily, and from a young age London in itself is such a and loved art, textiles, beautiful city with so much energy. photography and English at school. It wasn’t Tell us about your designs? really until I moved to Japan and worked I specialise in hand drawn prints on with a clothing designer that I knew it silks and hand knitted wools and linen. I was what I wanted to pursue. I returned worked for a couture house when I finished to Sydney to study fashion design and

“

studying, and this really influenced my decision to focus on beautiful fabrics and really high quality. I believe that the inside of a garment should be just as beautiful as the outside. My designs are feminine, but with a contemporary edge, and the label is now stocked in stores throughout the UK, Europe, US, Canada, China and Japan. How can people view and purchase your clothing? You can find a list of stockists on my website at www.kellylove.com and I also have an online store that ships worldwide. Plans for the future? My stockist list is growing each season, and I’m about to start working with an agent to extend the label into Germany, Austria and Switzerland. I’ll also be working on a couple of collaborations with well-known brands, which you’ll soon see details of on my Instagram at kelly_love_com Thanks Kelly.

new england focus. 19

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

C O U N T RY A RT E S CA P E S COUNTRY ART ESCAPES IS THE REGIONAL ART TRAIL IN THE NEW ENGLAND NORTH WEST OF NSW.

S

ince being launched in 2012, Country Art Escapes has gone from strength to strength, with around 60 subscribers on the trail; it features individual artists, arts and cultural venues across the region from Tenterfield in the north to Quirindi in the south and west to Moree and Narrabri. Anyone visiting the area can include at least one stop at one of the venues. Whether you are interested in arts, history or Aboriginal culture, there are a diverse range of wonderful and welcoming venues on the trail, some with overnight stays, some with tempting treats to sample. There are galleries, theatres, museums and historic houses, art studios and residencies and gallery/theatre cafés, to name a few. Last year Arts North West, the programme manager of Country Art Escapes, partnered with the website-based Kamilaroi Highway route for inclusion on the art trail and with our sister regional arts development organisation, Outback Arts, whose gallery is now also listed on the trail. Both additions extend this innova-

tive art trail into the neighbouring regions. How do you find out more about Country Art Escapes? Colour brochures are available in all of the region’s visitor information centres, there is a free iPhone app available for download from the Apple App Store (Country Art Escapes), and the beautiful user-friendly website provides detailed information about the attractions along the art trail. The website is designed to offer visitors to choose their destinations and add to a personalised online art trail with the ability to print a downloadable map with directions to each venue. Depending on time and taste, you can visit two or twenty! Catch a live show or a movie, visit an exhibition, try your hand at making jewellery, or ponder our history at one of the many volunteer-run museums, all with fascinating stories to tell. Armidale has many listings on Country Art Escapes, including artist studios where you can visit and talk to the artist about their practice and perhaps pick up an original work or two. There are several museums in the city, with

items as diverse as dinosaur bones and ancient world relics at the University of New England Museums. At the Museum of Printing you can view early models of printing presses, or at Saumarez Homestead, whole rooms that have been lovingly preserved as they would have been used a hundred years ago. Or perhaps a feast of visual art is called for at one of the several art galleries, many displaying the works of local artists, sculptors, photographers and potters. As Country Art Escapes embraces so many aspects of the New England North West’s rich

REGIONAL art trail NEW ENGLAND NORTH WEST www.countryartescapes.com.au 20 new england focus.

cultural resources, it is a one stop portal to the array of arts and culture in the region. We encourage you to become a cultural tourist and enjoy the hospitality on offer at the venues on Country Art Escapes. Remember to give them your feedback; they will make you feel welcome and love to share the wealth of history, imagination and culture that is on offer in this wonderfully creative region. For more information on Country Art Escapes, please contact the Arts North West office on (02) 6732 4988 or go to the Country Art Escapes website: www.countryartescapes.com

FREE APP Search ‘Country Art Escapes’ Available for IPad and IPhone on the App Store SCAN the QR code to view the website directly

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

T H E

N E W

E N G L A N D

S O C I E T Y

THE NEW ENGLAND ART SOCIETY HAS BEEN WITH US FOR ALMOST 25 YEARS, SO WE VISITED THE ARMIDALE ART GALLERY AND SPOKE TO SOCIETY PRESIDENT, MALCOLM MCCLINTOCK.

H

i Malcolm. How did the New England Art Society begin? Well, we’ve been around for a while now; I’m told that the idea of a society came about back in the early ‘90s. Rick and Joy Joyce, who at that time owned the local picture framing business, invited a small group of community minded artists to a meeting. The society grew from there. In those days the society didn’t have a permanent gallery, so exhibitions were held wherever they could find a venue. Some of our members remember using an old hardware shed, a school gym and empty shops. I’m told that the effort to set up and dismantle exhibitions was huge, but there was no shortage of enthusiasm. Good fortune finally came along when a permanent gallery space at the old Armidale Teachers’ College was found. Ultimately, the college site proved to be out of the way, so the gallery moved closer in first to the Wicklow pub complex, and then to some small rooms near the present day gallery. In 2002, the Society’s nomadic existence ended when it moved to our present location upstairs in the Beardy St Central Mall. It’s certainly proved to be a wonderful space. We’ve been here for 14 years now. What does the Art Society do? Our society provides support to local and regional art practitioners in lots of ways. We operate the Armidale Art Gallery, where we showcase the creative works of painters, sculptors, photographers and others. Gallery sales help the artists. The society is not-for-profit, so we

depend on the hard work of our many loyal volunteers; all up, we have almost 300 members. The gallery is really the heart of our society and serves as a meeting place for members. With monthly exhibitions, workshops in life drawing and painting, two major annual art competitions, a photographic competition, and an annual weekend art retreat, the society has a full calendar. What does the gallery offer? The gallery building is well over 100 years old and has real charm. Of course, the society has done an enormous amount of work to bring the rooms up to today’s professional standard. At a recent exhibition, we had room to hang 180 artworks. With four large rooms, we have no problem hosting three to four separate exhibitions at the same time. Most months bring two or three new exhibitions. Opening nights are always enjoyable; everyone is welcome, and it’s an opportunity to meet the artists. The gallery is open weekdays and Saturday mornings at no charge. We invite the community to climb the stairs and enjoy some of the latest works produced by our artists. There’s no problem finding quality works to suit the collector, the decorator, the tourist seeking a memento, or simply a gift, all at reasonable prices. Do any humorous events come to mind? Oh yes, just a couple. You see, oil paints take time to dry. When one large piece came in after being transported on an open vehicle, to the artist’s horror it had acquired a very unusual texture during transpor-

tation. There, embedded in the surface, was the swarm of grasshoppers the artist had just driven through. Fortunately, we were able to extract most of the offenders. On another occasion, an over confident entrant to one of our art prize competitions successfully raised a chuckle amongst our packers; in place of an entry fee was a note asking that the fee be taken out of their future prize money. It’s a shame they weren’t awarded a prize. Tell us about your next major event. You’ll be pleased to know, that the exhibition for DAPHNE YOUNG WATERCOLOUR ART PRIZE 2016 opens this July. This prestigious art prize is one of only a few competitions solely for watercolour and brings together some of the most impressive art produced over the last year. Entries from across the New England and beyond have filled the gallery, creating an outstanding exhibition that celebrates the creativity of our region’s artists. The art prize is named in honour of Daphne Young. Daphne was part of the New England arts community in the 1990s and worked hard to give watercolour the prominence she felt it deserved. Many of our local artists were inspired by her. Sponsorship by community minded businesses is so important. Without their support, it would be impossible to run this and our other art prizes. The official opening is at 6pm Saturday 2nd July in the Armidale Art Gallery, upstairs in the Beardy St Central Mall. All are welcome; meet the artists, drinks and nibbles provided. The exhibition continues to the 22nd July. Thanks Malcolm. new england focus. 21

focusinterview.

m z

D U Z Z Y BASED OUT OF AUSTRALIA’S WOOL GROWING HEARTLAND, ARMIDALE, THE CREATORS OF MOZ & DUZZY, MICHELLE BOOKALLIL AND TRACY WRIGHT, ARE WELL-VERSED WHEN IT COMES TO NATURAL FIBRES.

W

ith Michelle hailing from the rich plains of Moree, and Tracy the agricultural hub of Narrabri, the rural environment and community provides the inspiration and philosophy behind the brand’s natural and minimalist ethos. Both passionate about quality textiles, vibrant colours and wearable fashion, Michelle and Tracy’s friendship has naturally evolved into the creative collaboration that is Moz & Duzzy. For Michelle Bookallil (nee Carrigan), it seems fashion and growing up with natural fibres is in the blood. Michelle’s parents, Anne-Marie and Eric, have nurtured Merino sheep, producing fine wool at Tyrone Merino Stud, Gurley. The family has a strong heritage of five generations in wool. Her mother, Anne-Marie Carrigan, owned one of regional NSW’s premier boutiques, Anne-Marie’s Boutique, for nearly 30 years. Michelle grew up surrounded by Australia’s most prominent designers, such as Lisa Ho, Jill Fitzsimon and Trent Nathan.

The maternity label saw Tracy develop a keen interest in pattern making and cemented her determination on creating garments which flatter women of all shapes. The combination of beautiful fabrics and well cut garments is something she is passionate about. With her mother a highly regarded dressmaker, having taught her the skills of sewing and knitting from a young age, Tracy’s path was destined for the creative arts too. This qualified teacher has spent the past eight years sharing her love and knowledge whilst teaching Textiles and Designs at a local Armidale school. With five daughters between them, positive self-image is another cause close to heart, with Michelle and Tracy both passionate advocates for the female form.

Secondary education and university in Sydney enabled Michelle to become heavily involved in the purchase of stock and liaising amongst designers with Anne-Marie, and her career expanded into staff and stock management for David Jones and Next in London.

They are particularly aware of the potential for Moz & Duzzy to become a vehicle to reduce the stigma surrounding the female body size. Michelle’s strong background in Educational Psychology, and Tracy’s experience in educating young women, is advantageous.

These retail roots developed Michelle’s flair for colour and design that ultimately influenced her future path into the visual arts.

The elegant and complex Dragonfly has been adopted as the brand’s “spirit being”. In a unique approach to sizing, Michelle has designed a visual representation of Moz & Duzzy’s garment proportions, with the dragonfly appearing as differing colours on each size. This exclusive approach has been proudly designed by the brand to help re-focus fashion away from the traditional size chart and society’s expectations and pressure that it can conjure.

Also a trained teacher, Michelle is heavily involved in the New England’s art culture and taught at The University of New England for 12 years. A strong advocate for regional artists, Michelle has helped hand curate the New England Regional Art Museum’s renowned Packsaddle Exhibition; a quality showcase of Australia’s finest artists, for the past 15 years. Tracy Wright, a talented seamstress with a strong background in fabrics, design and manufacturing, has been involved in the creation of garments, including many bridal gowns, for almost 25 years. A “pocket money” venture creating outfits for her friends whilst a student of the University of New England was the start of Tracy’s long career in dressmaking. Several years working in the cotton industry in 22 new england focus.

Wee Waa contributed to a deeper appreciation and insight into the processing side of the industry, her talents and knowledge culminating into a successful maternity wear label, Glow Maternity Wear and dressmaking shop, Altered Stitches, in Armidale.

Moz & Duzzy is dedicated to promoting the Australian textile and fashion industry, specifically through the use of natural fibres. They believe women should feel fabulous every day through their clothing choices, from the more casual weekend wear, week day work and evening garments. With quality garments made to last, Michelle and Tracy will continue to search for inspiration across the beautiful Australian landscapes and beyond.

focusinterview.

b e y o n d COMMUNITY ARTS ORGANISATION BEYOND EMPATHY IS BRINGING “MAVENS” TO ARMIDALE TO WORK WITH SOME OF THE REGION’S LOCAL ABORIGINAL ARTISTS.

M

avens are experts in their fields established artists who want to share their knowledge and experiences. For BE, its mavens are taking on mentoring roles and producing some acclaimed results. Sydney duo Spit Syndicate (Nick Lupi and Jimmy Nice) are one of Australia's most exciting, forward-thinking Hip Hop acts. Joined by indigenous singer Thelma Plum, they have been working with Nate Weatherall and Isaac Tanikomave and Liana Simmions aka Sneaky Ell, alongside other young people in Armidale, to record the track TRY. The video produced by Brendan Blacklock and Nick Waterman scored 33,600 views and reached over 118,858 people on social media. For Isaac to work with these accomplished artists, it was a culmination of everything he has learnt over the past few years. The amazing track they created has catapulted his skills to a new level, as the young people sing, “We got to try, giving it my all, the time has come for us to work together”. A maven can be anyone with a deep understanding of their field, which is especially true of David Leha from the Kamilaroi nation and Tonga. Best known as Radical Son, David’s diverse range of singing and song-writing experiences includes working with Archie Roach, the Australian Opera and the lead role of Pemulwuy in I am Eora for the Sydney Festival. From Hip Hop roots to soulful social statements, David’s

music, both potent and sublime, conjures uncompromising visions of where we’ve come from and what could be, from troubled past to songs of humility and healing. “Mum is a Kamilaroi woman, and I was raised by her, with my younger brother, pretty much on the road,” says the Sydney-born artist, whose family originates from Tamworth. David brings his healing approach to his mentoring of Leetona Pitt, an emerging singer in Armidale, who is exploring song across generations with her family. Song signifies a new pathway for Leetona, as she now shares the stage with her father Denis Pitt, a well-known local artist from Inverell. Another fertile collaboration is for the dancers Carmel Vale and Steve Quinlan, who have been travelling to Sydney to do workshops with the Bangarra Dance Theatre, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation widely acclaimed for its powerful dancing and theatrical voice. The intensive workshops were a first for both BE and Bangarra, with Carmel and Steve taking their process to a new level, learning how to teach and choreograph

novice dancers. This experience means they’re now mavens themselves, passing on their insights and lessons to the next generation. BE is based in Armidale and has been working with the region’s young people since its inception in 2004. Its projects over the past 12 years has earned the company many awards for its innovative approach to artistic endeavours. BE’s feature film, Rites of Passage, won the Special Jury Prize at the prestigious Warsaw Film Festival, the Just One Less project aimed at binge drinking in Armidale won the 2011 Health Promotion and the Arts Award for Excellence, and the Ngwarra project that focuses on making belly casts for young pregnant women won the 2010 Arts and Health in Rural and Regional Australia Award for Excellence. Malcolm Gladwell, the US author who originated the “maven” term, says, “If you want to bring a fundamental change in people's belief and behaviour ... you need to create a community around them, where those new beliefs can be practiced and expressed and nurtured.” new england focus. 23

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

N ecom FA N TA S T I C O P P O RT U N I T Y F O R

C H

R I S T E R S

G O C R E AT E Go Create! New England is a workshop collective formed by three creatives: Jan Clark, Vicki Taylor and Kath Caddy. Established in 2013, Go Create New England brings like-minded people together in the beautiful setting of The Studio on Vicki’s farm to learn, create and be inspired through mainly weekend workshops. Many talented tutors, local Australian and from around the world, come to teach their diverse skills year round. The workshops range from photography to shoe making and include many textile skills, such as eco-dyeing, shibori, art quilting, bobbin lace making, felting and weaving. The Go Create Studio sits in the picturesque surrounding of the New England countryside on Vicki and Jon Taylor’s sheep farm, which has been in the Taylor family for generations. Renowned for their sustainable farming practices, the Taylors have created a tree covered and scenic environment which is bound to inspire the budding or expert artist. For anyone travelling from afar, Go Create! offers comfortable accommodation and delicious meals.

“THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR MAKING SUCH AN OPPORTUNITY POSSIBLE FOR THE YOUNG SINGERS OF ARMIDALE! OUR SON IS SO THRILLED AND TALKS OF LITTLE ELSE” – PARENT OF CHORISTER. THE NEW ENGLAND CONSERVATORIUM’S PRESENTATION OF OPERA AUSTRALIA’S TOURING PRODUCTION OF THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO AT LAZENBY HALL ON 11 AUGUST PROMISES TO BE THE HIGHLIGHT IN EVERYONE’S MUSIC DIARY FOR 2016.

O

pera Australia visits Armidale only every second year for an exclusive onenight-only performance, and this year Mozart’s comic masterpiece will be a super-special night out, suitable for the whole family. For 24 talented young singers from NECOM’s choral programme, it will be the night of their lives. As the Children’s Chorus they will be sharing the spotlight with some of Australia’s finest opera singers when they join the cast to perform onstage in The Marriage of Figaro. The Children’s Chorus initiative, brainchild of Opera Australia’s Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini, gives children the chance to learn about opera in the best possible way - by performing it alongside professionals. This is an incredible introduction to opera for NECOM’s choristers from Cantilena and New England Singers. This is not the first time NECOM choristers have performed with Opera Australia. After being part of The Magic Flute Children’s Chorus in Armidale in 2014, talented chorus member Christopher Tall went on to successfully audition for the Opera Australia’s Children’s Chorus and has since performed in many OA productions at the Sydney Opera House.

24 new england focus.

Congratulations to the choristers in the 2016 Children’s Chorus:

part singing, where they quickly learned one of the choruses from The Marriage of Figaro; solo singing, where each child performed a song of their own choice, allowing them to show off their individual vocal abilities; and stagecraft.

Mia Baivucago, Leila Bejaoui, Felix Bowles, Nina Breckenridge, Delphi Collins, Pip Constable, Gabrielle Cotterell, Chloe Davison, Harriet Mozart’s The Marriage Eastment, Piyumi of Figaro is set over Ekanayake, Eloise the events of a Gooch, Lily single day. Telling Graham, Meg ed nt le ta 24 r the story of Fo Lawry, Lily ers ng si g un yo two servants, McCarthy, William choral from NECOM’s Figaro and Mackson, Veronica ill be programme, it w es . ” Susanna, who Marshall, Heidi r liv the night of thei are attempting Martin, Naomi to get married Martin, Alissa despite the efforts Moloney, Jasper of their employer, O’Neil, Sophia Count Almaviva, who Smart, India Smith, Aiden is desperately in love with Swick, Kaylee Swick and Maddie Susanna and will do everything in Sim. his power to foil their plans. The children were selected after a Filled with moments of hilarity, drama, lengthy audition process from New danger, and romance, The Marriage of England Conservatorium’s Cantilena Figaro has been a mainstay of popular Choir and New England Singers. The opera all over the world for centuries. Children’s Chorus is an extension

“

programme for NECOM’s gifted and talented choristers to enhance their audition and performance skills. This was the first time for many of the choristers to experience an audition, and all of them were outstanding. The children were auditioned in three areas - choral

The Marriage of Figaro will be presented by NECOM for one night only on Thursday 11 August at Lazenby Hall, University of New England at 7:30pm. Tickets are on sale now at http:// www.trybooking.com/LBCU Information Tel: 6788 2137.

focusinterview.

T r i o If you’re from the New England, you probably know one of these likely suspects, Tony, Ash and Steve from the ASH HALL TRIO. FOCUS delves into the minds of these creative geniuses to find out what makes them tick, tock, rock and/or roll. We talk with Ash about all that is the glorious melting pot of sounds - The Ash Hall Trio …

U

nlike Ben Folds Five, who are actually a trio, the Ash Hall Trio are true to the “trio” title - a band of three! Ash, please introduce the band’s members to us. There are three members in our band! Ash Hall - trumpet, Steve Thorneycroft guitar, and Tony Elder - vocals. We all come from varied musical backgrounds; however, what we share in this group is something very special and unique. What we are doing is exploring standard material; however, we approach the songs in fresh and new ways. We hold respect for tradition and the great songbook, yet through creativity and improvisation we explore and push boundaries. This can be risky and may not always go to plan, but the results are always interesting and exciting for the audience and us. The band’s name is currently Ash Hall Trio, but stay tuned, as it may be renamed the Tony Elder or Steve Thorneycroft Trio! Genre - can you define yourselves? Describe your performances? There is no denying there is a heavy jazz influence in what we do, but our music is a melting pot from all three members’ pasts and influences, which creates our unique sound. We have played a variety of gigs, from festivals to weddings and everything in between, and have always been very well supported by both local venues and the public. Working as the Ash Hall Trio has taken the trio as far

north as Cairns and recently as far south especially at weddings, where emotions as Melbourne.Due to the freedom of are running hot. There is no guarantee in improvisational music, each gig is different the life of a muso, and flexibility and an and special, and we have shared many open heart and mind are essential. We amazing musical moments. We often are very proud to be offering something perform in restaurants and local venues, different and are looking forward to more providing great ambience and an exciting musical exploration. We feel audiences atmosphere should the moment and are looking for something unique and audience take us there. different and thrive on watching a A very special longrisky creative process unwind term supporter of the in front of them. Ash Hall Trio has, Where can our no is e er Th for the past three readers see your denying there is ence flu years, hired us next upcoming in zz ja y av a he t our to perform at gigs? in what we do, bu pot g his house on Well, that’s an music is a meltin bers’ em special occasions. easy one; find us from all three m ces, Intimate gigs at the fantastic pasts and influen r ou s te which crea such as these are a Red Grapevine unique sound.” special gift to both Restaurant from the audience and us. 8pm on the 10th We often reflect how June, 1st July and the compatible we are as a trio, 5th August. and realise that what we have is To book a table, call the Red very special and unique. All three of Grapevine on (02) 6772 2822! us have great respect for each other Can readers hire a fine trio like and this trio works so well due to us yourselves? all having open minds and open ears. We Can they ever! We cater to all sorts of are all great friends outside of the trio and events. If you are planning a wedding, work in different line-ups together and celebration, anniversary, product launch, with other musicians, so our histories go we’d love to add the required ambience to back 20 + years! the occasion. If you couldn’t be successful musicians Give us a call on (02) 6696 3530; we’ll any more, what would you be doing? be happy to adorn you event with our Crying! musical stylings. Tell us about any funny disasters that Thanks for your time, Ash; we look occurred at one of your gigs. forward to your next gig! There are always funny moments,

“

new england focus. 25

focusinterview.

LANDSCAPE ARTISTS EMILY SIMSON AND KERRY GULLIVER ARE THE NEXT EXHIBITORS AT GALLERY 126, COMMENCING FRIDAY 3RD JUNE. E M I L Y

H

S I M S O N

ow long have you lived in this light to the sundrenched contrast of midday, or area? rolling clouds making dark backdrops for the I have lived in Armidale for nine white trunked trees. months. I am enjoying this friendly Other than your artworks, what are your town with so many creative opportunities. other interests? Describe the type of artwork you I like to catch new and retrospective specialise in. art exhibitions wherever I am, I use a lot of different supporting my children’s mediums to create artworks. sporting interests, and I had a sketch Over the last three years getting out to enjoy of book full I have used painting e rg la a the many natural areas d drawings an and relief printmaking os ot ph of around the country. number ng gi an ch to play with colour e th g in What can people captur om and bold shapes in the expect to see at your light , shadows fr and the subjects of birds, dogs moving clouds exhibition at Gallery s ee of tr and trees. Experimenting unique colours 126? there. ” with collage and texture to A collection of landscape make printmaking plates and paintings, acrylic on board. monotypes, painting with acrylic After spending a weekend in Hill paint on canvas and board are my End with two artist friends touring preferred methods for landscape, making the surrounding bushland, I had a sketch the most of colour. book full of drawings and a large number of Where do you get your inspiration from? photos capturing the changing light, shadows Walking and driving through the landscape from moving clouds and the unique colours of and bushland is a constant inspiration for me. trees there. So this exhibition follows some of I’m always looking at the changing colours of those first impressions of the Hill End landscape, the day and seasons and the play of shadows on with an emphasis on light through the trees and the tree trunks - observing the changes to the shadows in the landscape. landscape throughout the day, from soft early Thanks Emily.

“

26 new england focus.

H

K E R R Y

G U L L I V E R

ow long have you lived in the area? I grew up in the New England area (Armidale and Tamworth) but have spent a good part of my life in Sydney, moving there to attend art school. The choice to move back to Armidale was prompted by the desire to be in a more natural setting closer to nature, and away from the stresses of city life. I live on a bush block on the outskirts of Armidale, where I have been for 17 years. Describe the type of artwork you specialise in? The Australian bush is so evocative, with its many moods and rhythms, and changing light. I am principally a landscape painter, with some of my work bordering on the sculptural. I am at present working on a series of landscapes which depict natural features in a highly stylised manner, where plant forms, mountains etc. are suggested rather than realistic. I work on canvas and board, but prefer board, as it is easier to scrape back and gouge into the various paint layers. Where do you get your inspiration from? One can’t help but be inspired by living in a natural setting, as the land is constantly changing and evolving. I would hope my work reflects something of this geological and biological history, or at least gives some inkling

of the existence of those forces that are at work shaping our continent. I aim to re-create the sensation of being in the landscape, being a part of it, rather than a separate observer. I feel many people have a strong desire to reconnect to the landscape, perhaps to fulfil some sort of spiritual need. Some of the artists who have influenced me are John Glover, Fred Williams, Ginger Riley, Idris Murphy, William Turner, Joan Miro, Paul Klee, Henri Rousseau and Kasimir Malevich. Other than your artworks, what are your other interests? I teach art to various groups and get a lot of satisfaction from that. And of course, I visit as many galleries as I can and will travel to a city to see an exhibition of an artist that I especially like, such as the Fred Williams Retrospective Infinite Horizons in Canberra in 2011, which was sensational. I find gardening very therapeutic and have planted a lot of trees on my block. When is your exhibition at Gallery 126, and what can people expect to see? The opening night is Friday 3rd June, 5pm to 7pm, and the exhibition goes to Saturday 2nd July 2016. I am exhibiting with Emily Simson, who is also a landscape painter. I am showing several large works on canvas which are semi representational with a lot of strong colour and texture; and several semi relief works on board. Thanks Kerry.

focuseditorial

with Dan Emery and Tom Croft

dan & TOM - the welder’s dog

SOUR & SWEET OVER THE NEXT COUPLE OF CHAPTERS WE THOUGHT WE WOULD SHOWCASE SOME CONTRASTING BEER STYLES AND SOME OF OUR FAVOURITES IN THOSE STYLES.

W

hen one thinks beer, (around 360,000 kegs). One of their most sour is not usually a famous beers is the Rodenbach Grand Cru, word that springs to considered the best gateway beer into the mind; that is, unless world of sours and with a finish worthy of a sanitising is not a strong great wine. point when cleaning brewing gear. However, By way of contrast to a sour, the beer style sour beers, when done right, are some of stout is often characterised by a dark and the most exciting and complex brews to thick texture and dates back to the 1700s in experience. Intentionally acidic and tartness England. Stout is made using a roasted malt that makes Miley Cyrus seem like (barley), hops, water and yeast, and an upstanding citizen, these there are a number of variations beers are challenging at to a stout such as Baltic first but hang in there; Porter, Milk Stout and n be let the sourness dance Making sours ca Imperial Stout, to name only around your mouth risky business; a few. e ther th and by the time time will tell whe to bed in Perhaps the best put you have had a liquid that was s ha known stout is er rli ea s few sips, you’ll be oak barrels year golden Guinness, but as a to transformed in hooked. an or , ce with other market ie rp te tangy mas Unlike the ged va ra , op sl dominated beers, there e bl undrinka majority of modern t.” as ye ve si es is much more to explore gr by ag brewing, which in the stout style. is done in a sterile Keep an eye out for environment to ensure no when we will be tapping a wild yeast infections, sours few specialty kegs of Barrel Aged are made by intentionally allowing Imperial Stout, Turkish Delight Stout and wild yeast strains or bacteria into the Nuts & Malts Nutella Beer, all by innovative brew. They are often then left in barrels Australian craft breweries. These are sure to for years to mature, then blended with be extravagant but delicious. younger beers to balance. A personal favourite of ours is from the Making sours can be risky business; only ever consistent Nail Brewery from Western time will tell whether the liquid that was Australia. Their oatmeal stout displays a put to bed in oak barrels years earlier has coffee, chocolate sweetness, balanced with transformed into a golden tangy masterpiece, a good dose of bitterness and arrives at a or an undrinkable slop, ravaged by aggressive manageable 6% ABV. No doubt there are yeast. Thankfully though, there are breweries better stouts out there, but time and time out there that have the art down pat. again this old favourite hits the spot. Probably the most famous is Belgian’s So the next time you have beer on the Rodenbach Brewery. brain, take a rewarding challenge and seek Founded in 1836 by Pedro Rodenbach, out something outside your comfort zone. this brewery is as old as it is impressive, with an annual output of 180,000 HL Until next time drink less; taste more!

“

new england focus. 27

A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

C H R I S

BRAZEL INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANT AND THERAPIST CHRIS BRAZEL IS BACK HOME IN ARMIDALE FOR SOME AMAZING LIFE CHANGING WORKSHOPS. SHE CHATS TO FOCUS ABOUT HER TECHNIQUES AND HOW WE CAN CHANGE OUR WHOLE LIFE JUST BY LOOKING AT A FEW SIMPLE FACETS OF OURSELVES …

H

i Chris. You’re often spotted in our wonderful town of Armidale; what is it you love most about coming back home? Armidale I love, because it gets you back being grounded and the country lets you be in the present, be aware of what’s around you; it really helps you connect to who you are, the true value of life and your heart and soul. When you’re in the city, everyone is flat-out - it’s like you’re competing with life all the time. But when in the country, you become very much at peace and being a country girl at heart, this is where I was born and bred so, for me it’s coming back to grass roots. I still work in Sydney and I work in three other countries, but it’s Armidale where I would like in the future to build an amazing wellness area, because it’s the highest place in Australia and I believe we have such amazing energy in and around Armidale - as well as people that we can get people back on track fast using the environment, using colours, using my techniques, but also combining it with the energy of the horse. You have just started to touch on your techniques there; tell us more about what you can offer and help people with … What I do is I get people to step sideways. I remind them that they’ve got choice and when people realise that they’ve got choices in life and they know from the easiest, most simplest choice they make, this starts a domino effect to where they can be at the end of the day. We get tied up in emotions, we get tied 28 new england focus.

up in the problem, and it’s getting people to step out. I’ll start with something as simple as changing the colour of your undies, looking at your environment - particularly your bedroom reflects exactly what’s happening or what’s not happening in your life. So the colours, the decor, the bedspread, the cushions, the artwork on the wall. Everything about your home reflects exactly what’s going on in your headspace, what you’re attracting into your life, or what you’re not attracting into your life. Getting people to look at their home, the way it’s set up, the way the design is, the colours, ornaments, what the pictures are on the wall - you can say what you do want or what you don’t want in your life. A lot of single people will have cactus plants ... dead sticks that seem to be the latest in fashion. They’ll have single items around, which is simply reminding them that they’re single. Life’s about having choices, so the power for you to attract what you want is when you can say, “Right! That’s my relationship corner; it’s all got single items. I want to have a partner” ... So you go about and you take single items away, and you have things that represent the energy of two or the energy of love. So, you have consciously taken a body action and created something in your environment you see, which would then start a whole new way of flow. I work with colours, I work with Feng Shui - and Feng Shui is not airy fairy; it’s not about going and putting a whole heap of red ribbons and lanterns around. What I teach is soul energy Feng Shui, which has developed over

the last 19 years. It’s very working with. The horse’s e much you consciously movements reflect what is I would like in th being aware of your happening in the person’s future to build an s area , environment and what life. Ninety nine per cent amazing wellnes highest you’re creating - the of the time, they’ll say because it’s the and ia power to read your that’s exactly what’s place in Austral such I believe we have and environment, read happening in their life. in amazing energy your mind and do Most people will say, ...” e al id rm A around something about it. “That was quite freaky; I also work with the how did that horse know energy of numbers. People all that?” The horse knows don’t realise the power of everything that you’re thinking knowing your personal profile and feeling; they’re the most amazing through your numbers. We can’t do a animal to work with. When I work with recipe for a cake or anything unless we animals, you can either work with me in get the numbers right, we can’t build a person, or I’ve done a lot of work with people house unless we get the measurements right, over the phone where they may not work with we look at the clock and it’s all by numbers; horse - they may work with a turtle, or an we do numbers in every day in every part of elephant. Every animal has a symbolisation that our lives, except we don’t actually look at relates to that animal. And again, it gives you it as how it is within ourself. What I teach power of choice. people from the number of their house, their Lastly Chris, you offer a range books, car registration to their phone number, all of podcasts, videos and other inspirational, that has an energy which you subconsciously life changing material … Where can we go attract to you. So when you look at that, you to find out more information or attend a can step sideways and you’ve got choice. workshop with you? You can do a lot with me that’s free. There You also work with horses, amongst other are podcasts on iTunes every week, a YouTube animals ... Tell us about that. channel that has numerous videos, Facebook, Animals are amazing. Animals get you in Twitter, Instagram, and on my website you’ll the present moment; they allow you to actively have vision plus touch and feeling. I particularly find all my books which you can purchase, success stories, and also all information about work with horses, because the horses can upcoming workshops, consultancy information totally read exactly what’s happening in your and much more… head space and when I communicate with the www.chrisbrazel.com.au horse, the horse will do body movement to Thanks Chris. allow me to ask questions to the person I’m

“

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

JUNE 2016

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Don’t allow delays to deter you from a long set goal. Instead, try visualising yourself walking the walk and feel the potential excitement this offers. It will restore your faith in the bigger picture, lessoning any likeliness of sabotage. Appophyllite helps us visualise.

Relationships will be offering opportunities to learn about yourself. Mirroring yourself in your partner will enlighten you and increase your tolerance and ease disappointments. Citrine shatters negativity.

PISCES.

CANCER.

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 learn something new. Your thoughts are centering around the bigger picture in life and helping you to achieve the excitement of connecting to something that you were born to do. Clear Quartz helps us to reach our true potential.

TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21

Now is a great time to recognise your fears, take hold of them and reshape them, so you are in control of them. Once you have become aware of your challenge or fear, try laughing at it. Selenite shatters fears and encourages positive energy.

June 23 - July 23

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.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 Avoid concerning yourself with morbid thoughts of what you believe others are thinking of you. You are extremely charismatic; you just need to occupy your thoughts with self-esteem and compliments. Who cares what others think? Rose Quartz restores self-worth.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Making simple choices may seem like a huge challenge at present. Make things easier for yourself by knowing nothing needs to be forever. If you’re unhappy with the change, make new ones. Avoid feeling like life is a one-way street, or your fears could leave you totally trapped. Ruby shatters fears and helps us to feel secure.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Now is a great time to pursue a dream from a long time ago, or a dream you have carried for a long time. Write a list of the things you require and take action; getting something on the list will have you poised and ready for the opportunity as soon as it presents. Citrine shatters negative and attracts abundance of positive energy.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Time to set some new goals, but be aware of your motive to ensure attracting the best of the best. If you are at a loss when it comes to knowing what to look for, don’t despair. Emotions that you would like to experience will be fulfilled. Clear Quartz helps us to reach our true potential.

S A G I T TA R I U S . November 23 - December 21

Your mind is vulnerable at becoming bored at present. Also, there is a growing need to pursue your life’s purpose or destiny. If you set some goals centering on accessing a gift or talent that provides learning opportunities, you should be content.

Congratulations to all our students and staff on their recent Eisteddfod performances.

Rose Quartz is a powerful self-loving crystal.

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.

Educating successful women of tomorrow in a Christian environment

02 6770 1700

www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au

In alliance with PLC SYDNEY

Rose Quartz is the crystal for self-love.

new england focus. 29

WELLBEING W I T H L I S A M I C H E L E ’ S E V E RY DAY N U T R I T I O N

Pathfinders Pathfinders are committed to the wellbeing and health of children in their community. Their Family Referral Service is an early intervention child protection programme located in the New England and North West Tablelands and the Mid North coast of New South Wales. This early intervention service aims to reduce the number of children and young people who require the state to step in to keep them safe. Recently, Pathfinders had the privilege of welcoming their Patron, the Hon. James Wood to Armidale. Mr Wood is well known for his commission of Inquiry into Child Protection Services in NSW. Mr Wood was commissioned to conduct the inquiry to determine what changes within the child protection system are required to cope with future levels of demand. In November 2008, he released the Report of the Special Commission of Inquiry into Child Protection Services in NSW. Our Family Referral Service team from the Mid North Coast and New England were excited to sit down with him to discuss issues around child protection and related issues. Mr Wood also had a tour of Pathfinders Tilbuster Station working farm for young people, where he aenjoyed lunch with many of Pathfinders staff.

ALTHOUGH GENETICS, GENDER AND OESTROGEN LEVELS CONTRIBUTE TO BONE DENSITY, INCLUDING MORE CALCIUM, VITAMIN D AND REGULAR EXERCISE IN YOUR LIFESTYLE CAN HELP TO IMPROVE BONE DENSITY LEVELS AND HELP PREVENT OSTEOPOROSIS.

M

any older adults are consuming inadequate calcium in their diet. Bone density is important in reducing the risk of fracture as we age. Salmon, Halibut and egg yolk are good sources of vitamin D, while low-fat milk, cheese, yoghurt and greens are good sources of calcium. Some calcium-rich snacks to improve

bone density: • Oats cooked with light milk topped with blended almonds, coconut, goji berries and flax seeds. • Home-made strawberry milk. • Greek or natural yoghurt served with fruit. • Cottage cheese with cooked cinnamon spiced apple/pear. • Fortified cereals such as raisin bran and cornflakes (tip - be sure to check sugar

content of packaged cereal). • Canned Salmon or Sardines. • Greens e.g. broccoli, bok choy, silverbeet, celery and cucumber. Stirfries and salads are great options to incorporate a large variety of these. Note: if you’re concerned about your bone density, ensure you seek advice from your regular general practitioner.

W H I T E L E A F D E N TA L

STRAIGHT teeth YO U ’ R E N E V E R T O O O L D F O R

EVERYONE LIKES A GOOD JOKE, BUT WE HAVE ONE PATIENT IN PARTICULAR WHO ALWAYS HAS A DOOZY FOR US OR SOME PURPOSEFULLY LAME “DAD JOKE” TO MAKE US CRINGE.

T

he latest: “What did the zero, say to the eight?”… ”nice belt”. The point of the story, is that Marie is one of our older patients. But she didn’t think she was too old for braces. She isn’t. Orthodontics is not exclusively for teenagers. Adult orthodontic treatment is becoming very common. But gone are the days when we wait for all adult teeth to erupt before we think about moving them.

30 new england focus.

That would be like waiting for a car accident before we get insurance! Between the ages of 7 - 9 years, kids are rapidly growing and their jaws are at the peak of their development. By this age, major skeletal and dental problems can be identified and treated while some baby teeth are still present. It is also important to make sure there is no airway obstruction through things such as bad habits, enlarged tonsils, or poor positioning of the tongue, to

give kids the best start in life. Most orthodontic problems can be much more easily and efficiently corrected if treated early, while the bones are still growing. Quite often this simply involves creating enough space for the teeth to move into position naturally, all whilst maintaining the health and position of the jaw. White Leaf Dental is offering free initial orthodontic consultations for all patients.

new england focus. 31

Images by James Cunningham Photography

focusinterview.

SARA

FOCUS WELCOMES SARA STOCKHAM TO ARMIDALE, AS SHE JOINS SCOTT WILLIAMS AT WHITE LEAF DENTAL, FORMERLY COLIN PATEMAN’S DENTAL SURGERY.

W

here are you originally from, and why Armidale? Like Scott, I grew up in Sydney. However, I have been living in Adelaide for the last eight years. I have always had an interest in health and medicine, especially supporting the health of rural communities. I have travelled to Queanbeyan, regional South Australia, as well as overseas with Scott to volunteer our services to those in need. To me, it’s about providing access to the best care without having to travel long distances,iIn an emergency situation, or for specialties that require frequent visits, such as for braces or root canal treatments on teeth. Tell us about your background in dentistry? I definitely went full circle getting into dentistry! I began as a dental assistant and realised that I really enjoyed teeth! I really get a kick out of building a rapport with patients and breaking down the barriers and relieving the anxiety that often comes with visiting the dentist, and not just rushing patients in and out like I’m sure we have all experienced before. I continued working as a dental assistant while studying a Bachelor of Oral Health, and graduated as an Oral Health Therapist (dental hygiene and kids’ dentistry), however, was still aspiring for more! So then I studied dentistry and love it. I am now working towards a specialty in Orthodontics in general practice. I found that I really missed the approach to treating kids and absolutely value the relationship between growth and development, early feeding habits, airway obstruction, and other myofunctional 32 new england focus.

patterns that can affect the teeth and the face. kids’ dentistry, but have expertise in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, root canals, gingival It really is amazing and something that I want plastic surgery, and orthodontics. However, our to bring to Armidale, to impart this knowledge real difference is the approach we take towards to the community. This also eliminates the need them. to make the tough decision between forfeiting We don’t believe in mission statements, but valuable treatment or travelling long distances there are three things that really matter to us: frequently. • Providing every patient with the best dental What brings you to Armidale to work with care in a timely and affordable manner, and to Scott Williams at White leaf Dental? reduce the need to travel to the big cities for For as long as I can remember, Scott and I treatment. have wanted to work together towards • Create a fabulous working something bigger than just environment for our staff, that treating patients. We have inspires them to learn, and shared a vision to support encourages mutual respect the health of rural and loyalty. We want our I do love eating communities for a healthy and staff to be skilled, but long time. I’m so ve most of all, enjoy coming keeping fit . I ha excited that we are rious competed in va ns to work. finally able to make io fitness competit • Most importantly, this dream a reality. y interstate . Health d!” we want to be here Scott stumbled across in m body, healthy long term and aim to Colin’s Dental Practice be looking after the New by sheer luck; I like to England community for call it fate. Whatever it is, decades to come, following in we are looking forward to the footsteps that Colin has already the next several decades working created. together. We both believe in preventative and Tell us about the services along with minimally invasive dentistry. With my hygienist Scott that you will be providing? background, I know from experience the value At White Leaf “we see dentistry differently”, of thoroughly cleaning the teeth and imparting and as part of the body as a whole. We feel knowledge towards improving oral health and it is important to have a close relationship keeping teeth for life. My own special interests with other health allies, you definitely cannot are in Orthodontics, growth and development, separate the two, and this is becoming more and cosmetic dentistry, including injectable and more apparent with the proven links dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections. between oral and general health. What do you love most about what you We practice all aspects of general and family do? dentistry, including fillings, dentures, and

“

Meeting new people every day and changing people’s lives. I know that sounds like a cliché, but it is hard to express in words, the feeling that you experience when kids can breathe properly again, which helps them sleep, grow and thrive; the fact that I can intervene and change the way a patient’s face and teeth can grow for the better, or when patients gain the confidence to smile again, or have their chronic jaw pain eliminated, or can eat certain foods again. It’s humbling and very rewarding. Outside of work, what are your interests? I have a passion for health and fitness and have always been into sports. Through school, I was on the national swim team, and was involved in local tennis competition in Adelaide. I would love to get involved with the community sports or gym in Armidale! Some might say that I am a “gym junkie”! But I don’t see it that way. I do love eating healthy and keeping fit. I have competed in various fitness competitions interstate. Healthy body, healthy mind! I also love all animals and have a very spoilt cat at home. I wind down watching reality TV cooking shows, although I must admit that Scott is definitely the Master Chef out of the two of us! Plans for the future? This comes back to our practice philosophy. We want to introduce new services and technologies to the practice to give our patients access to the very best of care and to minimise the need to travel to the cities for treatment all whilst providing a great environment for our amazing team! Thanks Sara.

new england focus. 33

34 new england focus.

HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

Dr. CHANDRAN

ARIANAYAGAM

W

hat is the best business advice you have received? "The team is only as strong as the weakest

member/link". Team building is a must for an organisation to prosper. This takes time and effort, but it is well worth it, as the members of a good team have a sense of belonging and loyalty, giving them satisfaction and recognition. Time is also spent on regular team meetings. This is a very important part of team building, and nothing else is done at this time, i.e. the organisation is "shut down", to give full attention to the meeting. At the meeting, everyone gets to share their concerns, express their views and make suggestions for improvement. A list of mistakes made since the last meeting is brought out and discussed. The discussion is objective and the purpose is to see why it happened and how to avoid it in the future. The catch cry is that "everyone makes mistakes, but no one should make the same mistake twice". Teaching is empowerment and helps the members of the team know their jobs better and perform better too. Time is always spent teaching, especially with questions raised by users of the service. Areas of expertise Skin care and treatment of skin cancers. Laser surgery. Oculoplastic surgery. Facial cosmetic surgery. Body contour surgery. Details are available in our website (www.pclscoffsharbour.com.au) or by contacting us on (02) 6651 5611 or at info@pclscoffsharbour.com.au Expert advice to readers Skin care and protection is a twice daily ritual and required for men and women. The skin is the largest organ in the body and needs regular care with moisturisers and shower gels and protection with sunblocks, hats, clothes and sensible exposure limits. What makes your practice stand out? The patient comes first!

We consider it a privilege to be healthcare providers and always give of our best, to match our motto which is "Only the best!" What makes your practice standout above your competitors? The comprehensive nature of our expertise is our major advantage. We will use the management of "Facial Rejuvenation" as an example. After listening to the concerns of the patient, a detailed assessment of the quality and tone of the skin is made, and the most appropriate treatment is then recommended. This will range from the use of dermal fillers, subcutaneous fillers, antiwrinkle injections, noninvasive intense pulsed light treatment, increase of carbon dioxide and NdYAG laser treatments, high-frequency ultrasound skin-tightening and surgery. This comprehensive range of treatment options gives us the ability to give the patient the best possible outcome with the recommended treatment. All treatment is carried out by myself and during the post treatment period; patients have direct access to me for any concerns. Plans for 2016/17 We have had a website (www.pclscoffsharbour.com.au) for about eight years, but have recently upgraded it, with help from Miss Stephanie Hunt of "movers andshapers.com.au". The plan is to continue improving the website with weekly additions and to enlarge the teaching components to help in educating patients, as well as nurses and doctors. We have also added a state-of-the-art, high-frequency ultrasound machine (the ULTRAFORMER 111) which has the ability to achieve nonsurgical skin-tightening of the face and neck, abdomen, limbs and trunk. This gives patients a nonsurgical skin-tightening option. What is the best thing about your job? The ability to give patients the care they need, to give them good function and form to lead as normal a life as possible is a great privilege. Further, to treat a patient externally to give an internal confidence boost and a sense of well-being is a most satisfying experience. new england focus. 35

Superior lenses inside and out

Experience the magic today Transitions.com

Available from:

180 Beardy Street, The Mall Armidale, NSW. 2350 Ph: 02 6772 5555 36 new england focus.

HEALTHP RO F E S S I O N A L S

Lisa

IF YOU CAN BELIEVE IT YOU CAN ACHIEVE IT

ROBINSON

LISA ROBINSON’S LIFE HAS BEEN A ROLLER-COASTER RIDE OF HIGHS AND LOWS. SHE WAS BORN IN JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA AND MOVED TO AUSTRALIA WHEN SHE WAS SEVEN YEARS OLD WITH HER PARENTS AND OLDER SISTER. AT A YOUNG AGE, HER PARENTS NOTICED THAT SHE WAS A BIT “CLUMSY”, AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A MALFORMED CEREBELLUM AT EIGHT YEARS OF AGE, THE CAUSE OF DELAYED GROSS AND FINE MOTOR CO-ORDINATION.

L

isa commenced year three in a many people who did not believe in my abilities. private school in Sydney, where she Once I graduated, the barriers associated with my was placed in a remedial class. Lisa’s disability and classroom teaching became visible, mother enrolled her in some addiuntil meeting Ian Lloyd, the Head of Junior School tional tutoring, and her academic at The Armidale School. He believed in my abilities results improved exponentially. She was then and assisted me to develop my talents in teaching placed in the advanced mainstream class for year students with additional needs,” said Lisa. four, which resulted in her excelling academicalLisa’s success is a combination of her positive ly for the remainder of primary and secondary outlook on life, her ability to resist negative social schooling. attitudes, her “can do” approach to work Lisa was not expected to attend and life, and her enthusiasm and university and complete tertiary drive to succeed. education. However, a love “There have been many of national parks and the times that I resented environment motivated her having a disability and They suggested to apply and be awarded wanted to be ‘just like that I shouldn’ t cause a Bachelor of Applied everyone else’, but with do the degree be and Science (Parks, Recreation the support of some of my balance, able that I wouldn’ t be .” amazing friends and orand Heritage) Degree at er to work as a rang ganisations, such as The Charles Sturt University, Armidale School, CRS despite doubt from family Australia, BEST Employand careers counsellors. ment, St Vincent de Paul and “They suggested that I House with No Steps, I am now shouldn’t do the degree because able to accept my unique identity as of my balance, and that I wouldn’t be Lisa, a person who lives with a disability.” able to work as a ranger,” said Lisa. But she In Lisa’s new and exciting role as Practice wanted to prove everyone wrong and did just Excellence Advisor for House with No Steps that, graduating with Honours. in Armidale, she is an excellent advocate for Throughout her career, Lisa has encountered all people who live with disabilities. She will negative attitudes when applying for jobs and work to motivate and mentor others who have making decisions about her career direction. experienced obstacles to their inclusion in the Turning this negativity into motivation she said, “I community, and help them to achieve success wanted to have a go at learning about my physiin reaching personal and employment goals and cal capabilities for myself, instead of being told by dreams. other people”. Lisa is committed to advocating for the Lisa has since studied a Masters of Teaching National Disability Insurance Scheme and the (Primary) through the University of New England, adjustment of social attitudes towards the word and is studying a Graduate Diploma (Inclusive “disability”. Lisa asks members of the Armidale Education) through CSU, is enrolled in Certificate community to: “Take notice of what is inside, IV (disabilities) and Certificate IV (Training and to respect, value and appreciate people with Assessment). disabilities for their strengths, talents and unique “My journey to becoming a qualified primary qualities”. school teacher was not easy, as there were so

“

N D I S I S A ROU N D T H E CO R N E R The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is nearly here! House with No Steps (HWNS) has been working in the NSW trial sites since the very beginning and has supported hundreds of people to transition into the scheme so far. Our staff are well connected to their local communities and if you’re starting your NDIS journey in the New England and North West region, they want to work with you and the people close to you to make your transition as easy as possible. HWNS has provided supports to people with a disability for over 50 years. As a human rights based organisation, we believe that everyone has a right to be a valued community member,

achieve their best possible quality of life and choose how they want to be supported. We will listen to you and explore possibilities to develop flexible supports that work for you. HWNS can open up a world of opportunities for you, including getting out and about more in your community, making new friends, improving your health and wellbeing, learning new skills, developing skills to live independently, and more. We can help you understand how the NDIS works, find out if you are eligible, and guide you through the application process. So make sure you’re well prepared and come and chat to us about how HWNS can support you as an NDIS provider.

I’m excited about the NDIS because it will provide opportunities for my son to live a more independent life Gaye, James’ mum EVERY DAY House with No Steps support people like you on their NDIS journey. Let’s work together on making your plan a reality. visit hwns.com.au email enquiries@hwns.com.au freecall 1300 LETS GO (538 746)

new england focus. 37

BING LEE. W E L C O M E S

S H A U N

Bing Lee Would like to welcome their new manager, Shaun, to the Armidale store. The ten staff members are waiting to serve you with exceptional advice, product knowledge and customer service. Bing Lee showcases one of the largest white goods selections in Armidale.

T

ell us about your team ... Bing Lee Armidale is under new management, and the staff pride themselves on providing honest advice and exceptional customer service. All of our ten staff members grew up in or around Armidale. Tell us about any extra services you provide? Our showroom has one of the largest selections of white goods, audio visual, floorcare and small appliances in the region. We have nearly all of Australia’s leading brands on show, such as LG, Samsung, Electrolux, Westinghouse, Dyson, Sony, Bosch, Panasonic and Asko. Do you deliver? I’m glad you mentioned that, because Bing Lee offers an affordable “6 days a week” delivery service that can be utilised by neighbouring towns such as Inverell, Glen Innes, Guyra, Tingha, Uralla and Walcha. Any smaller communities that fall within this area can also take advantage of our fast and friendly delivery service. What are some hot products at the moment? Currently in store there is a large range of winter necessities, such as heaters and electric blankets. Coffee machines are always popular;

these machines make a great morning cuppa, and are extremely easy to use. We feature a large range of TVs and sizes to suit any part of the house, but our hottest item at the moment is our OLED models; the picture from them is amazing! How long has Bing Lee been in Armidale? Bing Lee became a part of the Armidale community in 2009, with the intention of creating stable jobs for local people and remaining a part of Armidale’s CBD for many years to come. Tell the readers about some of the history of Bing Lee ... Bing Lee is an Australian owned and operated retail business that began its operations in Sydney’s Western suburb, Fairfield, in 1957 by Bing Lee himself and his son, Ken Lee. Next year Bing Lee will be celebrating its 60th consecutive year in business. Throughout the years, the company’s sales and store expansions continue to grow, with the majority of the stores being company-owned. Bing Lee stores are spread throughout NSW, from Canberra in the south to Armidale in the north and now in Albury and Wodonga. Today Bing Lee has 38 stores in total, where many of Bing Lee’s employees have been with

the company for their majority of their working lives - with the longest being 51 years. The company and its franchised operators employ over 700 full-and-part-time staff. Over the years Bing Lee has provided vast and various marketing activities to provide our customers with the latest technologies. We use a variety of marketing activities, such as television, radio, press, online networks, printed and online catalogues. We attempt to give our customers a positive value for money experience with all transactions by including monthly promotions that are placed every month across the calendar year. Our company culture underpins loyalty, where we are loyal to our suppliers, staff and to our customers.

ARMIDALE

QUEEN SLEEP PERFECT QUILTED ELECTRIC BLANKET • Automatic temperature adjustment • 5 heat settings • Waterproof elements • 5 minute fast heat-up

189

$

KING

199

$

CONVECTION HEATER 15MJ GAS HEATER • 2 heat settings • Electronic ignition • Flame failure shut off • Safety tip over switch

ARMIDALE 203 Beardy Street

Phone: 6771 4255

$

599

• 6.1kW power output • Low emission technology • One touch electronic ignition • Automatic economy function

TRADING HOURS Monday: 9.00am - 5.30pm Tuesday: 9.00am - 5.30pm Wednesday: 9.00am - 5.30pm Thursday: 9.00am - 6.00pm Friday: 9.00am - 5.30pm Saturday: 9.00am - 4.00pm Sunday: 10.00am - 2.00pm

Offer available at Bing Lee Armidale from 1/6/16 to 30/6/16 or while stocks last. These offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Images may be illustrative only. BIN14201-05

38 new england focus.

999

$

focus_travel

with Vicki Kembery from Travel 195

VISITING CAPETOWN THIS WEEK I’M WRITING MY COLUMN FROM A LOVELY HOTEL JUST OUTSIDE PRETORIA IN SOUTH AFRICA, AFTER HAVING JUST COMPLETED A TWO NIGHT JOURNEY ON BOARD THE ROVOS RAIL [BUT I’LL SAVE THAT PART OF THE STORY FOR MY COLUMN NEXT MONTH!]

B

efore the train trip I spent two nights in Cape Town - an experience which I did want to share with you in this column. It’s been 16 years since I was last in Cape Town and in all that time, whenever I’ve been asked which were my favourite cities in the world, Cape Town was always high on the list. I’ve always remembered it as being not only beautiful, but also an intriguing city. When I was here last, the country was still undergoing massive changes and perceptions from people who hadn’t been here, were that it was an unsafe country to visit. But back then I had friends working and living in Cape Town, so it was a great opportunity to visit. This visit 16 years later has brought back all those wonderful memories from my past visits. Initially I was afraid that my memories were a bit rose-coloured and that coming back this time I might be disappointed. In 16 years a lot can happen, and cities can change dramatically - especially a city that is in a country that was still growing and evolving. And since my visit all those years ago, I’ve been lucky enough to visit many other unforgettable and memorable cities, like New York, Buenos Aires and San Francisco - so would Cape Town pale in comparison? Happily, the answer is no - this trip really has been like stepping back down memory lane into happy times. Right from the start with the drive in from the airport, I was taken back in time. Sixteen years ago I found that drive from the airport quite confronting - I was taken aback by the shanty towns of tin shacks lining the road. Now, those same shanty towns are still there, but they are improving, with new housing being built in place of the tin shacks.

Then the ride up to the top of Table Mountain in the cable car and looking down and across at Lions Head, suddenly I was wandering once more down memory lane and recalling the day, 16 years ago, when Neal and a mate went off for the day to climb Lions Head while my other friends and I slept in, had a late breakfast then parked ourselves in a local Cape Town pub, watched some rugby on the TV there and waited for the boys to join us. Yep, it could have been yesterday. The next day on this trip was spent doing a tour down the coast to the Cape - once again passing my old familiar names, like Camps Bay and Hout Bay where my friends used to live; seeing the baboons scavenging on the side of the road and remembering 16 years ago finding this amazing and unwinding the window to take a picture and nearly ending up with a baboon in my lap! Visiting Stellenbosch brought back memories of sipping wine with two girlfriends at one of the vineyards - I even remembered “the lovely lake with the house at one end” and when I mentioned it to the tour guide, he drove us to the very same place so I could get a photo. Driving around Cape Town later, I wondered if the Green Square Markets would still be operating, if the Mall would look the same and the place my friends worked, would it still be there? Yes, yes, yes - all still there, just as I remember. And what made me really chuckle was seeing the unfinished road still hanging suspended in mid-air, coming from somewhere but going nowhere, hanging high above the other roads. Still there, still not finished 16 years later! Now that’s what makes Cape Town unique. To be continued … new england focus. 39

focusinterview.

CLOUD BREAKER films What is Cloud Breaker? Cloud Breaker Film are rural Australia’s experts when it comes to high definition video production for commercial marketing and individual film content, including: corporate video, real estate, community events, stud livestock videos, tourism, sporting events, and wedding covering all industries from education to construction and much more. What makes your service valuable to businesses in New England region? The New England is a thriving region jam packed full of community events, cool and interesting businesses, and so for us there’s a large client base. For our clients, online video is the new radio for small to medium business. Online video reaches people 24/7, on their lunch break, on the couch, mustering sheep, or at a family BBQ. If you think about it, the facts speak for themselves: YouTube is the second biggest search engine in the world, second only to its parent

Google itself. 1.09 billion people logged on to Facebook daily for March 2016 and there are 2.31 billion daily social media users, delivering 31% global penetration. (Source: GlobalWebIndex). Chances are your business has an online presence and if it doesn’t, then perhaps it should. So why does video complement an online presence? Video is great for your site’s SEO (Search Engine Optimisation). The reason is credibility. Google weighs video approximately 50 times greater than text and images. Therefore, if your website or Facebook page has video content, it will more than likely move further up the listings on a Google search. People want their information quicker and quicker. Currently, video accounts for over 50% of web traffic, increases the length of time people stay on your site, and the chance of a sale increase 64%. So get creative and get video.

C lo U d

BREAKER F

I

L

M

Dave Healey from Cloud Breaker Films, an expert in cinematography, tells FOCUS about what’s involved in the industry and most importantly, what’s in his shotkit …

T

ell us about what you do ... with a 4.6 K sensor with 15 stops of dynamic Cloud Breaker Film started life as range, this lets you capture epic cinematic an expert in drone aerial cineshots at up to 60 fps. matography, and we still pride Our cameraman uses a Canon 70D. I prefer ourselves on delivering high end it to my Canon 5D MK II, which I accompany film from above; however, we recognised the with a 600 D - a very affordable camera for opportunity to extend our capabilities, so with the quality of image it produces. We also have the introduction of ground filming and directa DJI Osmo, a stabilised gimbal ground system ing, we can now offer a full production serwhich shoots 4 K at 30 fps and super vice. We can conceptualise, script, slow-mo HD at 120 fps. For audio direct, film, edit and publish we are standardised with Rode your creative piece, or Microphones and typically We can we can simply take raw e, use wireless RODELink iz conceptual footage; no matter , m Lavaliere mics and Rode fil script , direct , what the level of ur yo h is bl NTG2/3 shotgun mics. edit and pu e w engagement is, we or e, ec pi What’s the best part e creativ w ra ke want to ensure the ta y pl m of your job? si can ter what at m content produced is no e, ag ot There are a lot of fo gement professional. the level of enga awesome parts of

“

t to insure the

is we wan Our model is based the job. I’ve met and ed is content produc on utilising new techgotten to know more professional . ” nologies to produce New Englanders in the quality marketing content last six months than I have at lower costs. Hopefully in the past four years we have this will allow organisations been in town. I like when people that historically haven’t used video to come up to me at events or about promote and educate to jump on board town and say, “You’re the guy that filmed and produce video as they see a return the tour de rocks” or “Inverell toughen up; I on investment. was there”, or, “You did the Bike Central ad; my son was one of the riders in that”. I also So you must need pretty specific gear; enjoy coming up with design concepts, scripts what’s in your shotkit? and seeing the final product come together. For the skies we typically use a Phantom 3 Working with our camera operator and editor, professional, offering live streaming and qualiLucas Cafarella, is also a pleasure. ty 4 K RAW video, insuring we can maximise our editing capabilities. On top of this we have access to a dual operator Inspire 1 with a Zenmuse X5R camera; this Micro Four Thirds aerial camera is capable of recording lossless 4 K videos in RAW. The framerate of up to 30 fps and 1.7 Gbps average bitrate (2.4 Gbps maximum bitrate). In 1080 p (HD) it can shoot up to framerate of 60 fps. For our ground based cinematography, we use a bunch of 4 K action cameras accompanied by DSLRs, when required. We hire high end cameras like the new Blackmagic URSA; 40 new england focus.

They say the sky’s the limit (pun intended); what’s the future for Cloud Breaker? Cloud Breaker has emerged organically due to video marketing really coming of age. I think this is because of a moving cost structure in film production coupled with the growth in social media. I hope we can continue to grow and establish a viable business model and of course, focus on quality. At this stage we are going to take baby steps and ensure we are getting the stuff we are doing right. Thanks Dave.

D E C A D E S

I N

T H E

T R A D E

21 years in business.

BARNIERS. OFFICE FURNITURE Barniers opened for trade 21 years ago. Since that time Barniers has been making office spaces in and around the New England more efficient, ergonomic and stylish. Barniers stock a large range of height adjustable desks (sit or stand) which are certainly becoming more popular, as ergonomics are paramount for all day usage. Stocking multi or single monitor arms, CPU holders and accessories for all your office needs. Accessories like filing cabinets and general storage, lockers, floor mats, whiteboards, pinboards and boardroom tables. Massive range of office chairs, from the student to executive and everything in between. Stocking leading brands is only the start. Our method of “get it right the first time”, combined with our passion and product knowledge, drives us to create an inviting and efficient workspace, to help you work more comfortably and ergonomically. We service Northern NSW; why not give us a call today for a obligation free quote on all your office furniture requirements? From home office though to large corporate fit-outs, with our years of experience, we can tailor a solution to fit your space, budget, time and style requirements. Drop in to our showroom at 171 Rusden Street and let our friendly staff tailor a solution for you. Call us on (02) 6772 9449, email barniers@bigpond.net.au or go to www.barniersofficefurniture.com.au

144 years in business.

PHOENIX FOUNDRY. Phoenix Foundry, based in Uralla, was originally established in 1872 (AKA The Uralla Foundry). Originally the foundry was a supplier of Iron Lace and other ornamental work and went through a number of transformations due to World War I, World War II and the Great Depression. In 1983, the current owners decided to reopen the foundry and reuse the name Phoenix Foundry to preserve the historical context of the original foundry. They established a foundry to predominately manufacture cast bronze plaques and started selling to local funeral directors, cemeteries and councils. In 1988 the business moved premises to its current location on Duke St and now employs approximately 40 staff from the local region. In recent years, Phoenix’s expansion has taken them into the international market, and they now supply cast bronze memorials to the UK, Canada and the USA. The business has grown considerably, with approx 25,000 cast bronze plaques made annually. To help with this continued growth, a 50% share of a foundry in the USA was purchased in 2015 to help grow the USA market further.

new england focus. 41

D E C A D E S

I N

T H E

T R A D E

L O C A L A R M I D A L E B U S I N E S S , J O H N S O N & K E N N E D Y, C E L E B R AT E 7 6 Y E A R S I N B U S I N E S S . F O C U S C AT C H E S U P W I T H T H E K E N N E D Y B O Y S A B O U T T H I S J O U R N E Y. emind us when the company first began and the journey ‘til now? Paul and his mum, Pat, were Directors of the company until she passed away in 2013, and then Grant and Adam became part Directors with their father, Paul. This has seen Grant and Adam get more involved and play a bigger part in the running of the business. How has the company changed over this time? The company has changed in a few different ways. Starting out when Paul’s father, Merv, owned the business and was working, it was mostly furniture removals, and general freight used to come on the rail. We now mainly only do freight, of which most comes via road and a little through air freight. We also supply drivers for other contract work for gas deliveries and also Cleanaway garbage runs every now and then, so our business is not just about going out and delivering freight. We supply drivers to do very important jobs where you can’t just throw anyone into the driver’s seat and send them off; they have to have the right qualifications to deal with dangerous goods and be well trained and able to do the job. At our Niagara St site, it started off in just welding goods and Castrol oils, but we have ventured out over the last 10 years or so and gone in to the workwear, work boots and safety goods retail department. This move has been beneficial to us over the years. There has been a little decrease in the welding and oil sales, but we have seen an increase in the safety and workwear over the last few years. We supply a lot of local businesses and people on the land with boots and clothing, and most of them keep coming back, which is good, because we pride our busi42 new england focus.

ness on good customer service; we always look the next working day via air freight. We also after the regulars and new customers, to make have an extensive delivery service throughout the sure they return. New England area; we service Uralla, Walcha and Tell us about the team at J&K? Guyra twice daily and Glen Innes, Inverell and The team at J&K are a great bunch of people. Bundarra once a day. We also have a few fork We have 28 employees who have all lifts that we use to do jobs for people within the different personalities, but at the Armidale area. end of the day everyone gets At Niagara St, as said previously, on well and has a beer we have all of the workwear together at the day’s end. and boots people need to a s ha If someone e We try to make it a fun start a job or to update their w e, ag ck pa small in place to work as much work clothing. We also have ty ci y an to can get it h uc m as we can, because I hearing, eye and respiratoty et pr ia al Austr day ng am sure they wouldn’t ki ry safety goods. We have or w xt ne the like to be a part of the bamboo socks, underwear via air freight.” team if it wasn’t a fun and singlets available. We still place to be each day. They sell all the welding goods and all have a big job to do each Castrol oils, with the most experiday and they do it well; we are ence and knowledge in town. lucky that each employee knows All our staff at the Mann St freight their job, and most of the time there are depot and the Niagara St shop are well no problems. A lot of jobs need specialty experienced and give customers good advice and training and qualifications, and a few of the service. guys execute those types of jobs. Outside of work, what would we find the Over the last few years we have had three long Kennedy boys up to? term employees retire. Hendo was with us for 35 All three of us love our motorsport - rallying in years, Reon for 25 years and Matt for 20 years. particular. We try to get out and watch and drive Trevor at our Niagara St office has been with J&K as much as we can. Grant and I sold our rally car for 40 years, which is a little more than half the a couple of years ago and haven’t competed in time J&K has been operating. We also have Dave any events since then; hopefully in a couple of and Block who are getting close to the 20 years. years’ time, once the kids are a bit older, we can So, we have had a good record with employees, get another car and get back into rallying before which is great; we must be doing the right thing we get too old. by them. We play soccer with East Armidale Football Describe the services you offer? Club; J&K are a major sponsor of the club, and We offer a range of services. We offer freight the club have been a part of our lives since we services around Australia, and we can use a coustarted playing at five years old. The club has ple of different freight companies and options to been a part of the Kennedy family since the club send freight out. If someone has a small package, started with our grandmother. we can get it to any city in Australia pretty much Grant is also a Life Member of East Armidale

“

Football Club. Dad is a Life Member of Easts and enjoys sitting on the sidelines with his old team mates and watching the game with a beer these days. Paul’s other love is the Local New England sporting car club that he is also a Life Member of; he spends a lot of weekends going to the events held in Armidale and does a lot of the organising, and every now and then jumps in a car and has a drive. What other spare time Grant and I have is spent with our young families. We enjoy getting home after work of a day and spending the time with them. On the weekends we love taking the kids to their swimming and things that kids like doing and keep them active and happy. Plans for the future? We hope that we can retain what work we already have and keep the amount of staff on. With the freight business it is so up and down; we have to rely on other businesses to spend money and buy the goods for us to deliver, and that is our number one priority. If new work came along, that would be great, as we always look for that extra work to keep the ball rolling. There are always changes in the transport game with technology and more efficiency, so in the future we will be using more technology with tracking and driver scanners - more than what we already use at the moment. We have just upgraded the office and made it more workable, with two new offices at the Mann St depot. At the Niagara St office we will at some stage upgrade the office and the shop with more room and more of a display area. Maybe Dad might take a few more holidays and let us run the business a bit more; it wouldn’t hurt him to enjoy life outside of work a bit more! But as long as he doesn’t go away for too long. Thanks guys.

new england focus. 43

D E C A D E S

I N

T H E

T R A D E

21 years in business. 11 years in business.

JONATHAN ROBERTS. OFFICE EXPRESS How long have you been in the industry? Eleven years. I opened the shop in 2005 in Moore Street and operated there for seven years, before moving the shop to the current location at 149 Beardy Street. What changes have you seen in the industry over the years? Despite supposedly becoming a paperless society, people are using more paper than ever before. Recycling is getting bigger too. Also, with OH&S requirements, we now stock a range of St John First Aid Supplies and other OH&S products. We also stock a huge range of ink and toners for printing at home or your office. If we don’t have the one you want, we can usually get it in for you overnight. Tell us about your team. I’m fortunate enough to have a great team, with Louise Lashlie, Veronica Werts in the shop and our newest member, Brian Ernst, who will be out and about calling into businesses in Armidale to make sure we can provide the best customer service possible.

ROD AND DENISE RAMAGE. RAMAGE ENGINEERING Ramage Engineering celebrates 21 years in business, proudly employing sixteen locals. Ramage Engineering Guyra is well situated, being right in the heart of the New England region, famous for its beef cattle, fat lambs and fine wool industries. Ramage Engineering is run by Rod and Denise Ramage, and the company has been in business since 1995. In that time Ramage Engineering has built up a reputation for high quality manufacture of products designed for livestock handling and weighing. The whole team at Ramage Engineering define who we are and all deliver the best work possible, which is one reason why we are still here today. Ramage Engineering specialises in livestock handling equipment such as cattle crushes renowned for their durability, V cattle race, weigh crates, loading ramps (for both sheep and cattle), portable and permanent cattle and sheep yards. Ramage Engineering only manufacture using first grade Australian steel. Over the years, Ramage Engineering has

Louise and Veronica are a very important part of our business; they have excellent customer service skills.

developed and fine tuned their products, offering the best

What are your plans for the future? To keep an up to date product range, and I am always trying to source new and interesting products.

Ramage Engineering has been through and survived drought

44 new england focus.

quality in the New England North West Region. and would like to thank their loyal customers for their patronage.

22 years in business.

LINDSAY SNELL. PLUMBING Lindsay Snell Plumbing has been operating since 1994. Lindsay looked for something as a point of difference to the regular plumbing business and bought a Brivis heating business from John Montgomery in 1999, which has now built up to over 300 units in the area. Brivis systems are the most efficient for the harsh New England climate. Depending on the age of your system, now is the time to update or have your system serviced to get maximum efficiency. Tom McMaster and Lindsay Snell joined forces in 2014. Green Plumb Energy and Gas is the name of our business, which combines the skill sets of two plumbing businesses under one banner. Specialising in tap repairs, sewer camera inspections, clearing of blocked sewer and storm water pipes, replacement of sewer and storm water services, down pipe replacement, gutter replacement, repair of burst water services, pre-sale plumbing inspections, replacement of water supply services, new house plumbing, new unit plumbing, solar, heat pump and gas hot water installations, water saving devices, filtered water, TMV valves, back flow prevention valves, poly welding, roof leaks, gas heater services, gas heater installations, gas appliance installations, waste water treatment, Brivis ducted heating (six star - the most efficient heater on the market), Brivis servicing, water tank supply and installations, advice on energy and water conservation practices and appliances, bathroom renovations and kitchen renovations.

D E C A D E S

I N

T H E

T R A D E

focus_tourism

with Katrina George from the Armidale Visitor Information Centre

tourism UPDATE

20 years in business.

ROSS & MARIETA BURGESS. ROSSBUILD How long has Rossbuild been in business? We have been in business for 20 years this year How has this industry changed over this time? The industry has become higher paced; builders need to be building a certain level of volume to survive these days. We don’t compromise quality with this, but still try to finish the project on time and on budget. Our focus is on the client and the high standard of service they expect, along with a quality finish. If you are building a home, it is usually with your life-long savings, so we take great pride in building your future so you are able to put trust in us. What do you love most about what you do? With construction it is very easy to love

what you do, as you start with a blank canvas and finish with something you created. Every home is different, every job is different, and every client is different, so you never become bored or complacent. I feel it is very important for both parties involved in the construction process, the client and the builder, to walk away from the completed job happy and knowing they have a quality product. Plans for the future? We plan to keep evolving our business, as we are about to move to a larger office and showroom and continue building a quality product. We are local through and through, as we employ all local tradesmen and focus on a quality build that customers come to expect.

AUTUMN EVENTS AUTUMN HAS ONCE AGAIN NOT DISAPPOINTED, WITH ITS BEAUTIFUL COLOURS, TEMPERATURE AND MYRIAD OF EVENTS. OUR VISITOR NUMBERS FOR THE PAST TWO MONTHS HAVE BEEN EXCELLENT, WITH PEOPLE VISITING FOR MANY DIFFERENT REASONS; SPORTING EVENTS, GRADUATIONS, THE BACH FESTIVAL, AUTUMN COLOURS AND OUR SPECTACULAR NATURAL WONDERS.

A

fter a recent visit to New Zealand, it was inspiring to experience a country that has built an extensive tourism infrastructure based around their main drawcard of natural beauty. It re-enforces that we are on the right track with the New England High Country marketing campaign. We have World Heritage national parks on our doorstep that are bringing in visitors from all around the globe. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we had tour operators for bush walking, mountain biking, bird watching, photography, abseiling, fishing, canyoning! One of the most popular tours in Queenstown commences with a steamboat ride across to a farm to watch sheep shearing and cattle dogs at work (followed by a Devonshire Tea). The New England region has some of the best wool and lamb in the world, and tourism would be another great source of income for any of our wool producers. Additionally, there was the opportunity to experience New Zealand’s Autumn Festival in Arrowtown. This Autumn Festival brought in people from all over New Zealand to witness the autumn colour and the parade. They had a wonderful street parade (although not as large as Armidale’s) as well as Autumn Tree Walking Tours operated by volunteer guides who also spoke of the history of Arrowtown. The New England region has started to see the emergence of some very successful tour operators, including Sunhill Goats, Wayward Jerseys, Fleet Helicopters and Riding the Highs motorcycle tours. Recently launched is the New England Foodie Trail. They are a beer, wine, cheese and local produce tour showcasing the best New England has to offer. Tours can be tailor-made; however, the standard tour seems to tick all the boxes: • Pick up at Armidale Visitor Information Centre • Wine tasting at Petersons • Sunhill Dairy cheese tasting at Dangars Gorge • Beer Tasting at New England Brewing Company • New England Foodie Trail luncheon • Wine tasting at Why Worry wines

• Confectionary tasting at Aurelia’s Farm • Beer and Cider tasting at Welder’s Dog For further details, please pop into the Armidale or Uralla Visitor Information Centre or contact (02) 6778 4889. East Kunderang Homestead is a historic cedar slab homestead, built in the 1890s, set spectacularly among the mountains and valleys of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. Once part of an extensive grazing property, its existence tells a fascinating story of European occupation of the North Coast and pioneer life of an isolated pastoral station. The historic homestead has been carefully restored to provide comfortable heritage accommodation for up to 14 people. There are five bedrooms, a lounge and dining room, a modern kitchen and two bathrooms, so there is plenty of room for a couple of families or a group of friends. With some great winter specials available, why not get a group of friends together and head down there for Christmas in July? For further information, please contact the Armidale National Parks office on 6738 9100. Armidale Tourist Park is hosting a Winter Festival on Saturday 25th June from noon 7:30pm, with all profits going to Backtrack. Entertainment planned on the day includes Blues with a guest appearance by Melanie Gray; Shakespeare’s A Winters Tale by Alex Robson; Opera in the Tourist Park; KompliKate and fire twirlers. Some wonderful kids’ activities are also planned, with an ice slide, jumping pillow, kids’ playground and faux snow. This promises to be a wonderful new addition to the Armidale calendar. For more information, please contact the Armidale Tourist Park 6772 6470. Please continue to keep us informed of your events, so we can promote these to visitors and the Armidale community. There are no fees involved to be listed on the Armidale Tourism Events Calendar and additionally to have your listing on the weekly “What’s On”, which is distributed to all the accommodation providers in the New England region. new england focus. 45

Tamworth & Walcha

PKF Chartered Accountants “New Name, Same Client Focus” PKF Tamworth & Walcha (formerly Lawler Warburtons) is one of the oldest and largest, locally owned chartered accounting firms in the Tamworth region. Through the purchase of Halloran Wilson Walcha in 2012, PKF Tamworth extended its services into the New England district. Lawler Warburtons recently joined PKF International, a global network of independent accountancy firms. There are over 300 member firms operating under the PKF brand in 440 locations throughout

150 countries. We are actively involved in the PKF network both at a national level (PKF Australia) and in our region (PKF Asia Pacific). We are regularly consulted by other PKF offices due to strong primary production expertise and in the rare case that a client requires services that our firm cannot provide in-house, help is just a phone call away. While we are part of an international group, we remain independently owned, with a focus on delivering value through the provi-

sion of a comprehensive range of specialist business services to organisations that are committed to success across a broad range of industries. PKF Tamworth & Walcha is already a proactive partner of many local businesses and can provide accounting, auditing, advisory and SMSF services tailored to your needs. Please feel free to call in to discuss your needs. Our friendly staff in both our Tamworth and Walcha offices are always available to assist you as required.

Brian Wall, Marg van Aanholt, Mark O’Connor

PKF’s Walcha office has

a long history dating to its founding in 1985 as Halloran Wilson. Many of the staff in the office have been in the business since its early days, Belinda Creighton, Jenny Laurie and Donna Martin are all well known for their long service to the business and the local community. At the other end of the time scale, Mikhaila Daniel has made herself very popular as the bright face of the business at reception. Kim Lisle works in both audit and business services from the Walcha office on a part

Belinda Creighton, Jenny Laurie, Donna Martin and Kim Lisle.

cha doesn’t change the local experience for clients, behind the scenes there have been a number of developments in the business.

PKF Tamworth launched its financial advice business, Lawler Financial Services, in 2012. Since then the business has grown rapidly and now consists of a team of three, Greig Meyer, Michelle Higgerson and Debbie Denniss. While the recent name change from Lawler Financial Services to PKF Wealth Tamworth & Wal-

Greig was recently appointed as the chair of the PKF Wealth Australia Committee. This committee overviews the common PKF Wealth brand that is being built in PKF offices around the country. At present the group manages close to $500 million for clients and this is expected to continue to grow rapidly in the years ahead. The recent addition of Michelle,

Tamworth  02 6768 4500

46 new england focus.

time basis. The combination of the Tamworth and Walcha businesses has allowed the provision of additional expertise for clients when needed. In addition to the PKF directors, Sarah Reay, Megan Mann and Evan Brownsmith provide further depth and who are available in Walcha when needed to provide on the ground answers and service. Sarah Reay has a strong background in business services, while Megan Mann is the self-managed fund specialist for the firm. Evan is a tax specialist.

as both a director and shareholder in the business, has been a significant development. Michelle has been with the business since shortly after it began and has been a key part of its development in recent years. PKF Wealth Tamworth & Walcha is a Financial Planning Association Professional Practice. This is only possible for practices with Certified Financial Planners making up the majority of the advisers in the business. For all investment or insurance advice, please contact our office.

Walcha  02 6777 2377

PKF Wealth team: Debbie Denniss, Michelle Higgerson, Greig Meyer

 tamworth@pkf.com.au

Thinking Neighbours and Dividing Fences – with Jane C. Pfister (Solicitor)

THINKING

NEIGHBOURS AND DIVIDING FENCES

M

ost neighbours who own homes and share a common boundary require fences. Sharing a fence can sometimes lead to disputes between adjoining home and land owners over the replacement or maintenance of the dividing boundary fence. The obligations and responsibilities of land owners who are having trouble coming to an agreement are outlined in the Dividing Fences Act 1991 (“the Act”). When there is no dispute, any adjoining land owners are able to come to their own amicable arrangement for the provision of a dividing fence. Neighbouring owners may come up with a labour, trade or a financial split for any percentage variation that can be agreed upon. The Act is in place to assist neighbours who are unable to come to an arrangement independently. Before anybody engages a fencing contractor, it is really important to find out first if the title of your (or your neighbour’s property) is subject to any restrictive covenants. It is also a good idea to give the local Council a call to check if there is heritage protection applicable to your or your neighbour’s property or any other council requirements that need to be considered. Where one property owner requires the construction, replacement or repair of a fence but the adjoining owner disputes the requirement, the steps to be taken are usually as follows: • Try to negotiate amicably with the neighbour and explain the details. • Issue a written notice under Dividing Fences Act 1991 Section 11 to the adjoining owner with your address, your neighbours address and which explains the type of fencing required, the line of the proposed fence, details of cost or quotes obtained and the cost share proposal. Allow the adjoining owner one month to consider the proposal; • Get a survey report where applicable; • Contact a community justice centre for assistance in order to mediate the issue. Any resolution that can be achieved by sensible negotiation between the parties will eliminate the risk of any long term hostility between close neighbours. Where all efforts have been exhausted

between the property owners, and one month has passed since the notice was provided to the adjoining land owner, then it may become necessary to apply to the Local Court or the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for an order to decide the matter under The Dividing Fences Act. NCAT or the Local Court will interpret The Dividing Fence Act to make a determination that allows each neighbour to make a financial or labour contribution to the construction or repair of a fence of creating a dividing fence of “sufficient standard” to alleviate the boundary problem. Sometimes damage to an existing fence that requires repair or replacement is clearly caused by one of the adjoining land owners. In this case NCAT or the Local Court will most likely find that the neighbour that is responsible for the damage is liable for all of the replacement or repair cost under Section 8 of the Act. In order to best decide how to resolve your fencing dispute, NCAT or the Local Court they take into consideration things such as: • Restrictions on the title or heritage listing; • Local Government policies and planning instruments; • What type of fence you had before or that the other neighbours have; and, • What you need the fence for and its existing use, and who is able to contribute labour or materials. When a decision is made under Section 14 of the Act by NCAT or the Local Court, the order may determine whether there needs to be a fence, what it will be made from and who will be paying which amount. NCAT or the Local Court can also help to determine who is responsible for which aspects of the labour where tradespeople are not to be used and when the work is to be done and may also award compensation to a party who may have suffered a loss. The court may simply find that costs should be shared equally. If you have a fencing dispute that may need to go to NCAT or the Local Court or need more information you should seek assistance from your local solicitor. Talk to us. You’ll be inspired! Jane C. Pfister Solicitor new england focus. 47

Together, we can do this. Choosing a university is like choosing a partner: you want someone who shares your goals, understands your challenges and works by your side. UNE has been the leading innovator of flexible study for over 60 years because we’re committed to helping busy adults study from home. UNE offers a new generation of mobility and flexibility in online education that makes a tertiary education more achievable than ever. And it is now more affordable than ever, as UNE is one of the few universities to waive the student amenities fee for online students, meaning you aren’t paying for services you’ll never use, saving you up to $290 per year. If you don’t have entry qualifications, completion of our Pathways Enabling Course will give you entry to most UNE degrees and it has no tuition fees and can be studied online from home.

All courses available for online study mid year 2016 ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE Bachelor of Accounting Graduate Diploma in Accounting* Master of Professional Accounting

AGRICULTURE, RURAL SCIENCE AND PLANT SCIENCE Diploma in Agriculture Bachelor of Agriculture Bachelor of Agribusiness Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Agrifood Systems Bachelor of Plant Science Bachelor of Rural Science Graduate Certificate in Agriculture Master of Science in Agriculture

ANIMAL SCIENCE AND ZOOLOGY

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING

EDUCATION AND TEACHING

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) Bachelor of Business~ Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Majors: Accounting, Agribusiness, and Primary) Business Analytics, Economics, Bachelor of Education (In-service Finance, Financial Management, Conversion) Financial Planning, Human Resource Bachelor of Education (K-12 Teaching) Management, International Business, Bachelor of Education (Primary) Management, Marketing Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Education (Secondary Arts, Mathematics, Music or Science) Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Bachelor of Educational Studies Economics Bachelor of Organisational Leadership Bachelor of Training and Development Bachelor of Training and Development Graduate Certificate in Education Studies Graduate Certificate in Human Graduate Certificate in eLearning Resource Management Master of Education Graduate Certificate in Management Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Business Master of Teaching (Secondary) Master of Business Administration Master of Health Management ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY, Master of Strategic Organisational Development and Human Resource ENVIRONMENTAL AND Management EARTH SCIENCES

CLASSICS, HISTORY, PHILOSOPHY AND STUDIES IN RELIGION

LANGUAGES AND CULTURAL SCIENCE Diploma in Science STUDIES

Bachelor of Science Diploma in Modern Languages Majors: Animal Science and Veterinary Majors: Chinese, French, German, Studies, Applied Physics, Archaeology, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Spanish. Bachelor of International and Language Biochemistry/Biotechnology, Biodiversity, Botany, Chemistry, Studies Computational Science, Forensic Bachelor of Languages Science, Genetics, Geography, Bachelor of Languages and Geoscience, Mathematics, Medicinal International Business Chemistry, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Palaeobiology, Physiology, Psychology, LAW AND CRIMINOLOGY Zoology Bachelor of Criminology Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Criminology/Bachelor of Graduate Diploma in Science* Laws Master of Scientific Studies Bachelor of Laws (3 years) SUSTAINABILITY Bachelor of Laws (4 years) Double degrees in Law available in Bachelor of Sustainability Agriculture, Arts, Computer Science, Criminology, Economics, Environmental THEATRE, PERFORMANCE Science and Science AND MUSIC Master of Natural Resource Diploma in Music Skills Governance Diploma in Music Technology Master of Laws Bachelor of Music^^ LINGUISTICS Bachelor of Theatre and Performance Master of Applied Theatre Studies Master of Applied Linguistics

Bachelor of Engineering Technology Bachelor of Environmental Science Bachelor of Environmental Science/ Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of GeoScience Bachelor of Historical Inquiry and NURSING, SOCIAL WORK ARTS Graduate Certificate in Environmental Practice AND HEALTH Bachelor of Arts^ Science Graduate Diploma in Local, Family and Majors: Ancient History, Archaeology, Master of Planning and Management of Bachelor of Audiometry Applied History^ Asian Studies, Australian History, Natural Hazards*# Bachelor of Social Work Master of History Chinese, Classical Languages, English, Master of Arts* Master of Environmental Science and Graduate Certificate in Acute Care French, German, History, Human Management Nursing Geography, Indigenous Studies, COMPUTER SCIENCE AND Graduate Certificate in Clinical Indonesian, International History, ENGLISH, WRITING, MEDIA Education and Teaching International Studies, Islamic Studies, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Master of Counselling# AND COMMUNICATIONS Italian, Japanese, Linguistics, Music, Bachelor of Computer Science Master of Health Management Peace Studies, Philosophy, Physical Bachelor of Computer Science/Bachelor Diploma in Professional Communication Master of Mental Health Practice*# Geography, Political Studies, Bachelor of Media and Communications of Laws Master of Nursing Psychology, Screen and Media Master of Computer Science Studies, Sociology, Spanish, Studies EXERCISE AND SPORT *# of Information Technology PEACE, POLITICAL AND in Religion, Theatre and Performance, Master Master of Information Technology SCIENCE AND CLINICAL Writing. INTERNATIONAL STUDIES (Business) EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Business Bachelor of International Studies Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology Bachelor of Social Science ECONOMICS AND Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Majors include International and AGRIBUSINESS Master of Arts* Science Regional Studies, Political Studies Bachelor of Agribusiness (Also see Arts) BIOLOGY, BIOMEDICAL Bachelor of Agricultural and Resource GEOGRAPHY AND PLANNING Economics PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIAL SCIENCE AND PHARMACY Diploma in Town Planning Bachelor of Economics Bachelor of Urban and Regional Bachelor of Biomedical Science SCIENCE Graduate Diploma in Agricultural and Planning Bachelor of Pharmacy with Honours Resource Economics Bachelor of Psychological Science Master of Urban and Regional Master of Economics# Bachelor of Psychology with Honours Planning# Master of Economic and Regional Bachelor of Social Science Development Graduate Diploma in Psychology Bachelor of Animal Science Bachelor of Zoology (Also see Science)

Apply now to begin 27 June une.edu.au/together 1800 818 865 48 new england focus.

ENTRY Pathways Pathways Enabling Course TRACKS Tertiary Preparation Program (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) * Graduate Certificate also available # Graduate Diploma also available ^ Advanced Diploma also available ~ Diploma also available ^^ Early Application closing date Specialisations, honours and research degrees are available in many disciplines. See website for these and information about individual course rules and admission criteria. Information correct at the time of printing.