New England Focus i114

NEW ENGLAND

November 2016 // Issue 114

40 years strong

Feature Story Joe Camilleri

2 new england focus.

focus team.

Welcome to the November edition of New England FOCUS.

W

ith the clocks wound forward, we are all still settling into a new rhythm. The warmer air and sunny weather brings those white legs out for the first time in six months. The ample jackets are left on the hook more often. The obligatory Friday afternoon bevvy in the beer garden seems more enticing. While all things seem to change throughout the year, you can count on one thing ... New England FOCUS bringing the best in lifestyle publications directly to your doorstep, November being no exception.

ON THE COVER As a New Englander, there’s a high chance you know the Ducat family, whether it be Peter, Colleen or their sons Tom, Sam or Jack. Failing that, it’s quite likely you have seen a cement mixer, truck or dozer on the road carrying the Ducats logo. This month we honour this wonderful and generous local family, as they reach the milestone of 40 years in business. At this point, we would also like to thank Sue and

contacts.

Looking to advertise in FOCUS? Contact us for more information.

Trish from Two Birds Photography Studio in the Hanna’s Arcade for letting us use their wonderful space for our front cover.

INSIDE THIS EDITION The 31st Packsaddle Fundraising Exhibition has recently opened at New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM). Internationally renowned artist and Archibald winner Euan Macleod will open the 31st Packsaddle.

Read on for all the details.

A cheeky market? What’s that? Tara Toomey tells all about this gathering of carefully selected enterprises that are producing great things in the New England.

Screenwave is an organisation from Coffs Harbour. If you are thinking open air outdoor cinema, you’re on the right track! $5 will guarantee you a double feature (short films), followed by a special screening of Grease. Get in the mood; it’s a dress up! Don’t forget to bring your picnic blanket along too!

Street art in Armidale. Yes folks, that’s right. Culture in the form of a shopfront repainted. The artist and Walcha born 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

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Di Johnston di@focusmag.com.au

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

Charlie Nivison A.K.A. Silly Pear has refaced the 126 Gallery. This is worth a look! It even has a hidden secret message …

Being a rural doctor has its challenges; however, for Dr. Ricardo in Uralla, his passion speaks volumes.

FOCUS finds out what it’s like for a doctor working in a small town.

FINAL SAY William Aloysius Keane, better known as Bil Keane, was an American cartoonist most notable for his work on the long-running newspaper comic The Family Circus. We leave you with this final say from Bil… “Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present.”

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: James Brooks james@focusmag.com.au

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

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

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

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

COPY EDITING: Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services 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

issue I S S U E

1 1 4

-

N O V E M B E R

2 0 1 6

JOE CAMILLERI. It’s safe to say that musical virtuoso Joe Camilleri is an Australian icon. Don’t miss your chance to see the Black Sorrows at the Armidale SerVies this month.

EUAN MACLEOD. Discover the work of one of Australia’s leading artists in new exhibitions at NERAM.

10 31 MY SISTER AUDREY.

Emma Schaeffer shares her talents, passion and creative journey with FOCUS …

R EGU L A R S 12.

32.

50.

WHAT’S ON FOR NOVEMBER ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE

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 4 new england focus.

38

new england focus. 5

focusinterview.

Camilleri T H E

B L A C K

S O R R O W S

IT’S SAFE TO SAY THAT MUSICAL VIRTUOSO JOE CAMILLERI IS AN AUSTRALIAN ICON. HAVING PRODUCED OVER 48 ALBUMS COLLECTIVELY, AND TOURING ENDLESSLY BOTH NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY FOR NEARLY HALF A CENTURY, JOE HAS RECEIVED A MULTITUDE OF ACCOLADES AND IS A MENTOR AND INSPIRATION TO MANY. JOE CAUGHT UP WITH FOCUS AND CHATTED ABOUT HIS BAND, THE BLACK SORROWS’, 20TH ALBUM, FAITHFUL SATELLITE, AND LIFE IN GENERAL …

Y

ou've just released your 20th album, which is a massive milestone. Tell us a bit about the production and how it all came together?

We start writing songs and gather up as many as we can, then if I feel we've got the right kind of songs, I go into the studio and record them - which I love doing. I love the whole process of nothing on a page, and then something is happening and you invest in it.

We didn't have too much difficulty in writing songs; it's about the process of eventually finding an eclectic bunch of songs that have some value and trying to make it as organic as I possibly can in the light of recording. I am not really interested in working something to within an inch of its life, so it doesn't have any air or oxygen ... I like the mistakes; I like the bad hair day. I can't critique a record for 20 years, and that is how I go about it. You have to believe you've got somewhere to go and have something of worth.

In terms of music over the last few decades, you've lived through a lot of changes throughout the music industry. What have been some of the biggest changes for you personally?

I call it the modern shift. Everything got corroded; everything is available. There was a time you would hear a song on the radio, and you would have your ear to it to hear it again if it was something you found attractive. You would be waiting for music that was coming out, and there was this feeling of anticipation.

That all changed; as soon as you were able to record at home, the recording world crumbed 6 new england focus.

with it. The recordable CD killed music; it all of a sudden meant music was for free. It was one of the first industries e We all believe w where you buy a CD and e, os have a purp make a cassette, or you have got to fe el u yo so make a mixed tape and urself happy within yo e give it to your friends. It ak m to - it’s easy ppy if was always something other people ha ” best artist I can be, and you heard on the radio; you are happy. that relates to making it didn't cost you anynew music too. I am not thing, and then that accelerthe same guy I was when I ated to where we are now. wrote Chained to the Wheel - I The interesting thing is they got am nearly 70 years old, and now I rid of vinyl, but that has had a comehave different thought processes. When back, because people still like the tactileness it comes to playing, it's all about the night; it's and it sort of feels like an art piece. not about the Harley and Rose album - it's about Things have changed a lot, especially the curating your own repertoire from that evening. way radio and television programme. In the old Some nights I don't play any new things, and days, any decent Rock and Roller would not be some nights I feel the audience will cut me some caught dead on a breakfast show; that was all slack and they will listen. Then there is an audifor cabaret, and the shows they would go on ence that dictates to not go back further than a have all disappeared - the midday show, the couple of albums. tonight shows, the album shows. It has almost When it comes to your tour schedules and come back to the 45 inch thing, where you can recording, you really haven't taken a break be famous for one song, for that five minutes of from music. How do you balance your work that song. life with family and normal life?

You have recently kicked off a 50 show You’ve just got to be what you want to be. tour, hitting what seems like nearly every Your station in life is really important to YOU, so town in this great land - how has it been if you get that balance right ... everything else so far? will balance in a good way. We all believe we It's been really great. My whole thing has have a purpose, so you have got to feel happy always been don't look back - always go in the within yourself - it's easy to make other people future - and that has always been part of my happy if you are happy. That's not a big stretch performances as well. I appreciate the past; I for me. embrace it and I love the audience loving the I have five beautiful children, and everybody past, and I am glad that I have a fist full of gets a piece of everybody. Sometimes they don't songs that represent that. I also want to be the

“

get to see me for a little while. I am more than a weekend warrior and if I'm not playing music, I am with my family. It's a beautiful thing to be able to have both, to be able to say I love my job and as soon as I finish, I can close the door on it; I don't bring it home. It's a nice balance.

I have just worked it out in my life. There are times when I am playing music, there are times when I am writing music, and there are times you are with the people you love, and you make sacrifices for each part.

Do you have any words of wisdom you would like to share with our readers?

From a musical point of view, don't take the elevator. If you are a musician and you are looking for somewhere to go, try to avoid The Voice and X Factor; walk up the stairs and enjoy every part of what you want to go through. You will have a much better experience. It might take you longer, but it will be well worth it.

Thanks Joe.

the plug!

Don’t miss the Black Sorrows at Armidale SerVies on Saturday 5th November. www.armidaleservies.com.au

focusinterview.

It all began a few months ago on a cold and dreary winter' s day... I had been following the work of Silly Pear, a street artist, on social media.

I

n addition, one of our paint suppliers released an artist quality acrylic spray paint.

It seemed a perfect solution to partner the two, with the result of some artwork on the outside of our building.

The artist Silly Pear, better known as Walcha boy Charlie Nivison, is Sydney based.

After completing a Graphic Design degree at the University of Canberra, Charlie began his own business designing and screen printing T-shirts under the name TEE CEE, which collaborates with Australian based street artists including Bafcat, JRB, LK, Dizzy Hizzy, Pigeon Boy and Skulk to produce their art on a range of shirts.

In 2014 he painted his first wall for a bar called the Black Penny in Surry Hills, Sydney. After completing the large wall, he was soon asked to paint more murals, one of which was for the iconic Australian glue manufacturer "Selleys", for their 75th anniversary. Since then he has had a lot more experience with spray cans and the

challenge of large scale painting - both of which came in handy for the large wall at Gallery126!

The work is titled it’s a sweet old life, which is also hidden throughout the artwork through different styles of typography, yet not too obvious to allow the audience to search and find new and exciting parts of the work over time.

Charlie describes the artwork: “I’ve kept the colours bright and upbeat to try to give a sense of optimism, which I’ve reinforced with the young couple looking out over Armidale and what is to be a bright future.

"The rest of the artwork I’d like to leave to the viewers' own interpretation, as this is what I believe to be the essence of art - that anyone can believe the work to be what they desire.

"I’ve tried to keep interesting and odd components to give the area something new and different, without any rural or country references.

I’ve also used ‘Tears’ to place the work within, to give the idea that there is a whole world hidden

The rest of the artwork I’d like ewers' to leave to the vi n, as tio own interpreta ve to lie be I t this is wha tar of e nc se be the es ve lie be that anyone can t ha w the work to be they desire .”

“

within Armidale Framing & Art Supplies through art and creativity.”

The product used to create the artwork was provided by Jasco, the Australian distributor for the Liquitex range. Liquitex was the first water-based acrylic paint created in 1955, and since then they have partnered with artists to ensure that they continually evolve and innovate - resulting in a long history of acrylic innovation. Liquitex Professional Spray Paint is a stunning innovation developed for professional artists. Combining artist grade pigments with revolutionary water-based technology, Liquitex Professional Spray Paint offers a Professional Level Paint with 100 colours which is highly pigmented, water-based, has no odour, is lightfast, with a matte finish. The Liquitex Acrylic System offers the largest array of vibrant acrylic

paints, mediums and tools to enable acrylic artists to continually evolve their art and to take it to new and unprecedented levels.

Liquitex is and will continue to be a strong partner to help artists explore their art for decades to come, and we thank them for coming on board with our project.

As well as trying to paint large scale walls, Charlie has also been trying to focus on his illustrations and art. Charlie’s street art samples from modern pop culture and examples of his artwork are currently on display at Gallery 126.

We would also like to hear your response to our street art project, so please call in and let us know; or, you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Thanks Charlie and Anne.

new england focus. 7

Taylor Taylormade made

forforArmidale ArmidaleSeniors Seniors

Leading Leading provider provider of Retirement of Retirement Living Living Communities, Communities, OakOak Tree Tree Retirement Retirement Villages Villages willwill commence commence development development of aofsecond a second boutique boutique Village Village in in Armidale Armidale on Taylor on Taylor Street Street opening opening in June in June 2017.

2017.

Achieving Achieving the highest the highest industry industry customer customer satisfaction satisfaction ratings,* ratings,* retirement retirement village village popularity popularity is onisthe onrise the rise and fast and fast becoming becoming the the preferred preferred livingliving choice choice for seniors for seniors withwith locallocal demand demand noticeably noticeably on the on incline. the incline.

“With “With this this growing growing momentum momentum we are we leveraging are leveraging the strength the strength and and success success of our of first our first Village Village in Martin in Martin Street Street and and promising promising another another opportunity opportunity for Armidale for Armidale seniors seniors to experience to experience the many the many benefits benefits of of retirement retirement living,” living,” said said Oak Oak Tree’s Tree’s NewNew England England AreaArea Manager Manager and and Armidale Armidale local, local, KateKate Pigram.

Pigram.

The The Village, Village, which which will operate will operate under under the Retirement the Retirement Village Village Act of Act of NSW, NSW, will offer will offer residents residents a lowa maintenance low maintenance lifestyle, lifestyle, in a gated in a gated community, community, withwith the practical the practical convenience convenience of city of living. city living.

“Positioned “Positioned close close to galleries, to galleries, shops shops and and parks parks this this exclusive exclusive opportunity opportunity places places you in you a desirable in a desirable location, location, within within closeclose proximity proximity to the toArmidale the Armidale CBDCBD and local and local to alltoamenities all amenities you need you need to retire to retire withwith comfort,” comfort,” saidsaid Kate.Kate.

8 1300 new england focus.

1300 367367 155155

> Full brick construction; > Choice of two or three bedroom homes with one

or two full bathrooms; > Ducted air conditioning; > Stylish kitchen with dishwasher and stone benchtops; > Smart Glass glazing to windows to ensure warmth

is retained in winter;

We are more than just a residential address, Oak Tree offers a complete lifestyle experience.

Oak Tree Retirement Village Taylor Street will be an addition to Oak Tree’s expanding portfolio of regional Retirement Villages.

For more information about the Village or to go on the waiting list phone Kate on 1300 367 155 or visit www.oaktreegroup.com.au NIAG RA S TRE ET

> Seamless open plan living from the indoors to

the outdoors; > Single or double lock up garages;

ARMIDALE PRIVATE HOSPITAL

> Landscaped gardens throughout the exclusive

“As a former Armidale local, our organisation is committed to delivering quality retirement living accommodation and opportunities for as many people as possible to enjoy our care-free way of life, whilst remaining in their home town that they know and love,” said Mark.

“With over a decade’s experience within the Retirement living industry, we are confident Oak Tree Taylor Street will be a stylish new address for retiring seniors.” *Source – Retirement Living Property Council Census

MILL ER S TRE ET

gated community.

Managing Director of The Oak Tree Group Mark Bindon welcomes the opportunity to expand in Armidale.

CENTRO SHOPPING CENTRE CBD

BAR NEY STR EET

ARMIDALE TRAIN STATION

NECOM

KEN TUC KY S TRE ET NERAM

DAN GAR SLE IGH S RO AD

The residences will feature

MAR SH S TRE ET

Once complete the Village community will consist of 44 residences selling from an affordable $345,000.

The Village promises many benefits to seniors including companionship, social activities, security, onsite Village Management, low maintenance living where all external maintenance including lawns and gardens are taken care of with extensive recreation facilities for the exclusive use of residents and their guests.

TAYL OR S TRE ET

“Oak Tree residents enjoy a rich sense of community, whilst maintaining privacy and independence in our custom designed and contemporary residences,” she said.

new england focus. 9 www.oaktreegroup.com.au

focusinterview.

Photo by Andrew Merry

D I S C OV E R T H E WO R K O F O N E O F AU S T R A L I A’ S L E A D I N G A RT I S T S I N N E W E X H I B I T I O N S AT N E R A M .

nternationally renowned artist Euan Macleod recently opened the 31st Packsaddle Fundraising Exhibition at NERAM. Euan has been painting since the early 1980s. He has held over 100 exhibitions around Australia and New Zealand, and his works are featured in prominent public and private collections around the world, including the National Gallery of Australia, Te Papa Museum in New Zealand and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The winner of several Australian art awards, including the Archibald, Euan was born and raised in New Zealand, moved to Australia in 1981 and since then has been living, painting and teaching in Sydney.

Why did you and your wife, Susan, move from New Zealand in 1981?

In the early 1980s I found that artistically and mentally New Zealand was a hard place to live. Moving to Sydney felt very liberating and helped me to really appreciate New Zealand and its landscapes for the first time. Having said that, I also love and appreciate the Australian landscape, and the relationship between NZ and Australia is very important to me - it fuels my work and who I am.

The lone, anonymous figure is a common feature in your works - is that you?

Probably - but not sure. Putting a figure in the painting and moving it around until it feels comfortable gives me a feeling of place, but I don’t consciously think of the figure as being me.

Another common feature in your work is 10 new england focus.

Of all the work I’ve done , ld the Gallipoli wou e th e m n have give - it re su ea pl st greate k ar is such a landm so e or ef and was ther g to very challengin t.” en repres

“

water - why is this?

Again, this goes back to NZ. My father was a very keen sailor (I was not) and NZers relate to the coast. I guess it also refers to my relationship with both NZ and Australia - maybe my place is in the middle of the Tasman! So water is a feature in my work, except in my Australian desert paintings, but even then I put a boat in a lot of them - that’s also got a historical connection with early Australian explorers. As well, the use of water makes a strong environmental statement and of course, also relates to the liquid nature of paint.

You’ve won many awards, including the Archibald in 1999. Which award has given you the most pleasure?

Probably the Archibald, because it has such a huge tradition and it’s a thrill to be part of that, but also winning the Blake (Prize for Religious Painting in 2006) and then the Gallipoli (Art Prize in 2009) was fantastic. Of all the work I’ve done, the Gallipoli would have given me the greatest pleasure - it is such a landmark, and was therefore so very challenging to represent.

The downside with awards is suddenly being public property, a bit like Hollywood movie stars, when people feel free to criticise. I didn’t like that so much, but still felt very honoured to be part of such a group.

You’ve been an Artist in Residence in many places in Australia and around the world, and you have just returned from China. How does this affect your work?

Consciously, I look for a place that resonates. Some places, although very beautiful, don’t do anything for me; for example, France. I have to connect but having said that, I don’t consciously place my paintings in any specific country; I don’t want to capture a particular landscape.

I found Yellow Mountain in China really inspiring - that’s where all the Chinese brush painters did their precipice paintings. Next year I will be having an exhibition in Hong Kong based on that trip - lots of mists and mountains - maybe it goes back to my NZ influences again! I also loved the En Plein Air painting group experience at Moonee Beach near Coffs Harbour earlier this year with fourteen other artists, including your locals, Angus Nivison and Ross Laurie, both of whom I admire tremendously. The workshop had a great holiday atmosphere to it and culminated in an exhibition at the Coffs Harbour Gallery.

You’ve had a lot of successes in your career. What do you regard as your challenges for the future?

Keeping the pleasure of being an artist fresh - I’m not comfortable with the promotion side of it all - I like to stay focused on the artwork.

I keep looking at what I have done and always feel I could be doing more. I keep on questioning constantly, which keeps me engaged, because I think if you are inspired and engaged by what you are doing then you hope to inspire the viewer, but it means Susan has to live with a grouch!

Thanks Euan.

The 31st Packsaddle fundraising exhibition runs until Sunday 6th November.

The works in this exhibition are available for purchase, and the funds raised will assist with acquisition of artworks for the NERAM collection.

Concurrently NERAM is staging an exhibition of Euan’s works from the NERAM collections entitled I Do Love Paint until 5 February 2017, in the Mazda Foundation Gallery.

Further information: www.neram.com.au PACKSADDLE PROGRAMME OF EVENTS 10:30am Saturday 22 October Euan MacLeod artist talk 6pm Friday 28 October Getting started - collecting art for beginners. Get tips and advice from a panel of gallerists, artists and collectors to learn more about putting together your own art collection.

4pm Saturday 29 October Master-printmaker Basil Hall artist talk & exhibition tour 10:30am Sunday 30 October Artist talk and tour by Angus Nivison Noon - 5pm Sunday 6 November Closing drinks and last purchases

focusinterview.

SAMA s t u d i o

LAURA COLLESS LAURA COLLESS HAS OPENED A BEAUTIFUL YOGA STUDIO IN THE ARMIDALE MALL. WITH A GRAND OPENING ABOUT TO COMMENCE, LAURA TELLS FOCUS READERS ABOUT THIS UNIQUE STYLE OF YOGA AND HEALING …

T

ell us what brought you to Armidale?

I grew up here. Actually, coming back has been quite nostalgic. The decision to move home after nearly 15 years came down to family and schooling. I have family locally and some wonderful friends and with my son starting Kindergarten next year, the quality in education that is available here was a real drawcard.

Describe your new studio.

The space is really beautiful and private. The building we are in has charm all of its own and when you walk in, up the little garden path to the studio, you can just leave the busy mind at the door, so that inside you can focus and relax into your practice. The yoga studio is fully equipped, so all you need to do is bring yourself. There is a treatment room out the back too for massage and other therapies.

What type of yoga do you specialise in?

I'm Hatha trained - basically what that means in plain English is: I teach physical yoga (poses). I teach from what I've embodied, a combination of many styles and interests from over the years, although I have probably been most influenced by the Iyengar method, that comes through for sure in my teaching. We are

offering a few different types of classes - Traditional Hatha, Acrobatic/Partner Yoga, Power and Restorative across Beginner, General and Intermediate/Advanced levels.

Are you offering anything else?

Alongside the timetable of classes, we will be running some pretty cool workshops and events - Kirtans, Sound Healings, Ayurvedic Cooking, there's a Feldenkris Workshop, and we even have a Feng Shui Master on their way next year. We are currently fine-tuning the details of our Yoga Teacher Training course too, which is really exciting.

What demographic are you looking for?

Ages 10 and up are welcome. It would be lovely to see some mums and bubs and kiddos classes running next year too. Yoga really is for every-BODY, regardless of age, flexibility, shape or fitness level. It's especially potent when applied therapeutically. I've had a few injuries (none caused by yoga!) and had a bit of health stuff going on a while back, where my practice definitely helped me to heal and get through those times - I always encourage those with aches or pains to come along; there are lots of ways to vary poses to make them more suitable. Students with medical/confidential stuff can feel free to give me a buzz too prior to coming along to class. Yoga works!

Yoga really is for everyBODY, regardless y, of age, flexi bilit ss ne shape or fit ally level. It’s especi plied ap n he w nt pote .” ly therapeutical

“

Tell us a little about your training and your experience up to now.

I was opened to yoga early on, around the age of 10 by a woman who actually now lives only 40 minutes from town.

We would visit her in school holidays, and I used to be quite fascinated by the series of movements she would gracefully work through of a morning. In 2007 my own practice became pretty regular and soon after in 2009, I began my first teacher training.

I'm qualified to teach pregnancy, postnatal, kids and partner yoga and spent a lot of time observing and assisting my teachers in medical class a few years back when I was living in India. That was an eye opener and an experience I am so grateful for.

Do you have any other teachers/staff working for you?

Yep. There's the lovely Bec, who will be taking the "Fusion" and "Yin Yoga" classes on the timetable. Bec will also be available for massage on Thursdays. Emily, another beautiful soul, will be available on Monday/Tuesday for Swedish Massage and Jeanette, an incredibly

intuitive healer, will be available for Body Alignment balancing and Astrology on Fridays treatment bookings can be made online through the website. Classes can be booked on the website too, or feel free just to drop in.

What is your teaching style, and what can people expect to gain from studying with you?

I tend to break down posture and simplify it before building it back up again, so students develop a strong foundation and sense of why they are actually practicing certain poses. I like to keep things light-hearted and fun, but there's always the opportunity to take home something extra to ponder a little more deeply too. I like helping students develop a greater awareness of their own movement and to take this into their life off the mat. While students can definitely gain strength and flexibility, the biggest gain of practice for me is the invitation that arises to keep coming back to the present moment, to live and operate from the heart space, to know, accept and be happy with one’s own self.

Thanks Laura.

new england focus. 11

focus_What’s On New England

2016

November

PACKSADDLE EXHIBITION The 31st Packsaddle selling exhibition continues to offer a wide range of art works from around Australia from dozens of artists, from the famous to the unknown. Something to suit every taste and pocket. When Opening on Friday 21st October at 6pm and running until Sunday 6th November - 10am until 4pm each day except Mondays. Where New England Regional Art Museum, Kentucky St, Armidale. Cost Free.

FIRST SATURDAY CHATS

5

Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Morgan Quaife (Solicitor) from 10am to 1pm at the Legal Minds office, 157 Beardy Street, Armidale, on Saturday 5 November. As this is a popular programme, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

GARDEN TOURS

5

St Peters Town and Country Garden Tours have been an annual event in Armidale for twenty six years. Through all the vagaries of New England weather - drought, hailstorms, rainstorms, late frosts, wild winters, mild winters - the gardens have brought pleasure to a great many visitors, year in year out.

When 5th and 6th November. Open 10am - 5pm.

Cost $5 per garden, $40 for a weekend ticket or $40 for a daily coach ticket. Lunch costs $8 and morning/afternoon tea costs $4. Contact Gillian Traise 0414 674 519.

12 new england focus.

8

THE ARMIDALE WALDORF SCHOOL EXPERIENCE DAY

19

THE WALCHA FARMERS’ MARKET

The Armidale Waldorf School invites children from Kindergarten to Class 8 to attend our Experience Day. Come and discover this unique education, where the focus is on educating the whole child - head, heart and hands in a beautiful natural setting.

When Tuesday 8th November. Where 278 Rockvale Road, Armidale. Bookings Essential 6772 8876.

The Walcha Farmers’ Market is a monthly market which includes gourmet and organic fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, meat, bread and baked goods, dairy, poultry, condiments, wine, coffee, teas, spices, honey, olive oil, edible by-products, plants and flowers.

Where McHatten Park, Fitzroy Street, Walcha. When Market days and opening hours: 3rd Saturday 8:30am - 12:30pm.

Contact (02) 6777 2448 E info@walchafarmersmarket.org.au W www.walchafarmersmarket.org.au

THE LITTLE PRINCE

SPRING FAIR.

Presented by The High Country Theatre Co. Antoine De Saint Exupery’s classic fable. A stranded pilot meets a mysterious child from another planet and learns the meaning of life.

When 11 - 13 November. Where TAS Hoskins Centre, Armidale.Tickets www.highcountrytheatre.com

There’ll be cool music and fabulous food and great fun.

When Saturday 19th November. Where The Armidale Waldorf School’s beautiful campus, 278 Rockvale Road. Plants, gift stalls, white elephant, children’s activities, plus delicious morning tea and lunch from 10am to 3pm.

19

the gems o r e v o c f dis •WA LC H A•

DISCOVER THE LOCAL BUSINESS OF WALCHA

P

aperdolls House is bursting at the seams with magnificent Christmas gifts from French Country, Villa Maison, Ivory House, Didgerdoona, Mediterranean Markets, Courtyard Living and so many more ... from delightful Liberty handkerchiefs to stunning silver centrepieces and majestic garden gazebos. So excited to have, and back due to your demand, is a limited supply of Adirondack chairs made in Italy and available in white, aqua or lime green.

We have jewellery to please all tastes from MOKO, Noosa Living, Florence Broadhurst Signature range and spectacular gem earrings from Preyas. Our exceptional clothing collection includes bright, fresh, relaxed apparel from Hatley and Elliman to smart and class from Foil, Chalice and Matisse. Vigorella focus on superb bamboo and soy fabrics, which are luxurious and cool to wear. To top off our fabulous fashion, you can also choose from Jump, Brave and True, Goondiwindi Cotton, Weekends, Givoni and Jendi. We can dress you to go to the beach or a ball and everything in between!

The ever popular Glasshouse Christmas range is in and selling quickly and all your favourites, including the sensual new Paris and all-time best sellers Kyoto, Amalfi, and Montego Bay, are always on hand. Paperdolls House stocks over 15 glorious Glasshouse scents, something for everyone!

A “Diamond in the Hills”, treat yourself and someone else at Paperdolls House!!

Walcha Gallery of Art is situated in the heart of Walcha next door to Cafe Graze and has been operating for over 7 years.

The Gallery compliments Walcha’s public open air Gallery that houses 51 sculptures from notable & recognised artists.

The Gallery is a place for artists to exhibit in a contemporary setting at a commercial gallery in a regional town, it has an extensive exhibition

program of local, National & International artist & works closely with other Commercial Galleries in Sydney. Gallery Director Carley McLaren can help advise with setting up an art collection or extend your art collection and a professional hanging service is also available through the Gallery.

Upstairs from the Gallery is the Walcha Guesthouse, that offers 4 bedrooms & breakfast next door at Cafe Graze. The Guesthouse is available for overnight or long term stays.

Further enquiries for the Gallery or the Guesthouse please call Carley on 0488775891.

Visit the historic town of Walcha on the crossroads to the scenic Thunderbolts Way and Oxley Highway.

Café Graze: Quality Coffee; Friendly Service.

Jewellery, antique furniture, homewares, delicious gourmet food.

Open Monday to Saturday.

The most popular eatery in the quaint town of Walcha It isn’t hard to spot Café Graze as you drive up the main street of the tiny New England town of Walcha; it’s the place with all the people spilling out, enjoying breakfast on the front patio and catching up on the town’s latest scuttlebutt.

Serving quality coffee and tasty café food like sandwiches, salads, quiches and a range of cakes and slices, Café Graze is the best place for visitors to Walcha to enjoy breakfast or lunch, and is well situated on Thunderbolt’s Way, so is also ideal as a break spot for travellers passing through.

Doubling as a homewares and antique furniture store, Café Graze will lure you in using more than just the aroma of freshly ground coffee. Shopping and delicious food; what more could you want? new england focus. 13

focusinterview.

Armidale once again plays host to the Black Gully Music Festival. This year sees a vast array of interactive activities and workshops, along with the great vibe and of the festival itself. FOCUS spoke to the team behind the event, for an inside look at what's on offer … ntroduce us to the team behind the Black Gully Music festival…

The festival is presented by a number of local groups; mainly Armidale Tree Group, Sustainable Living Armidale and NERAM. David Carr is the festival organiser coordinator, backed up by a very active committee including Sarita DuToit, Patsy Asch, Andrew Parker, Mahalath Halperin, Joc Coventry, Sarah Schmude, Jo Leoni, Mark Cooper, Cherene Spendelove, Iain Mackay and Matt Mackenzie. The music programme features local musicians and bands who donate their time. There will be stalls and activities run by local artisans and community group members.

This year sees the launch of ESCAPE what does this stand for?

E. Environment. There is a focus on the natural environment and the people and groups who work to protect it.

S. Science. The New England and North West Regional Science Hub presents a science film festival and activities demonstrating the science behind understanding our woodland environments.

C. Community. The whole programme is presented and coordinated by a network of community groups and volunteers. It shows the strong community focus in Armidale.

A. Arts. Art features strongly in the whole programme, with drama, visual arts, music and spoken word. NERAM and EcoArts Australis are key partners, and there is a fantastic programme of eco-artists participating in the Black Gully Music Festival.

P. People. It's all about people. We want people to come to the events and have fun.

14 new england focus.

Without people, the whole programme would fall over.

E. Entertainment. While there is a lot of educational activities and working bees, the main emphasis is on entertaining people. All the events will be fun.

How is the festival funded, and how can people get on board and assist?

The festival mostly runs on the efforts of volunteers, including the organisers, musicians and helpers. But we do have some costs for things like the stage marquees, toilets, PA and the artists who are spending two weeks in the lead up to the music festival. We have some very generous sponsors for this. Armidale City Bowling Club covers the music festival costs; Inspiring Australia has supported the Woodland Week activities; and Festivals Australia have sponsored the eco arts programme, Ephemera.

Once again, Simon Mellor from Magic Electricity Box has designed our poster and T-shirt for the music festival.

There are so many events being held in celebration of this festival. What can locals and visitors enjoy being a part of?

Wow - where do we start? There is such a rich programme of events for locals and visitors, that the best thing to do is have a look at the events calendar on the website at http:// armidaletreegroup.org.au/escape-to-new-england/ You can see what's on, when and where.

Highlights of the programme include the Black Gully Music Festival (12th November), the Woodland Week events focusing on the local environment, the Packsaddle exhibition at NERAM and the Far Out Science festival at

UNE. Visitors to town could plan a few days And the Woodlands Week programme… and take in several activities, or come for Woodlands Week (thanks to Inspiring Austhe whole programme and be busy for three tralia) features five main activities focusing on weeks! woodlands, the main bushland type around Tell us about Ephemera projNew England. There is a Breakfast ect. with the Birds, a spotlighting Ephemera - Art of the night, a guided wildlflower Impermanent brings walk in Imbota Nature together artists in resiReserve, an Ant Blitz ill Art works w d an dency on and around searching for ants and d be create k ac Bl Black Gully in the a kids' workshop to e placed in th e tim in weeks leading up to learn to draw insects. te Gully si on al iv st Fe the Black Gully Music Plus, woodland working e for th r.” be em ov Festival. The project bees and a walk in the N 12 explores the site and Dumaresq Dam woodengages the community lands. All these events are - extending our experience fun, free and family-friendly. and understanding of the conThey are presented by some of cept of ephemeral art as a response the region's leading ecologists. to the environment.

With a serious line up of festival Art works will be created and placed in entertainment at the Black Gully Music the Black Gully site in time for the Festival Festival, what can we look forward to? on 12 November. Then, over time, the works First: great local bands and acts headlined by will decompose into the landscape.

The Jug Addicts. There's everything from TurkThe project will include artist talks, workish dance music (complete with belly dancers) shops and community collaborations. to classic Aussie rock to a DJ playing trance to The Ephemera project includes a residency finish the night. Then there is the Ephemera by five artists who will utilise the Packsaddle artists and their works throughout the site.

Studio, New England Regional Art Museum A makers' market featuring local artists and and the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keepcraftspeople. Activities from seed ball making ing Place as they create work to be situated to tree planting to garden workshops. The in and around Black Gully.The community has Community Garden, NERAM and the Aborigan opportunity to meet with the artists, watch inal Keeping Place will be open all day. Plus, them at work and work alongside them during great local food and drink stalls to cater for all the residency. tastes. The site itself provides many opportuniThis project has been assisted by the Austraties for kids to make their own fun. lian Government through the Ministry for the Thanks everyone.

Arts’ Festivals Australia programme. www.fb.com/theblackgullymusicfestival

“

WHEN the overseas stars of the FIA World Rally Championship arrive for Kennards Hire Rally Australia with their million-dollar cars and mega-teams, they’ll find a few locals waiting to show who’s boss of the Coffs Coast roads.

T

he 23 competition stages are the backyards for home-town aces Nathan Quinn, Mark Beard and Mal Keough, who have contested countless local events over the years.

Their mounts for Rally Australia will be modest compared to the high-tech gravel monsters of the WRC regulars, and give them no chance of winning.

But, that’s not the point for these enthusiasts, who will revel in the opportunity to be part of a genuine world championship event and enjoy the support of local followers.

Each has past experience with Rally Australia and will be hoping to finish higher this year.

Quinn’s ambitions will be highest. Even now he’s motivated by the memory of an outstanding run in 2013, when he finished eighth outright in an Italian team’s Mini World Rally Car.

Now he’s motivated by an the memory of in n ru g in nd ta outs ished fin 2013, when he an in ht ig tr eighth ou i in M ’s am te Italian r.”

Ca lly Ra ld Wor

“

Quinn has had plenty of international experience, and this result showed he had learnt self-control, as well as speed. He impressed the rally world with not only his performance, but also his larrikin comments quite unlike those of the more serious European contenders - to the TV cameras from the wheel of what became known as Quinny’s Mini.

After a break in 2014, Quinn returned in 2015 with his own Coffs Coast Rally Team Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX, finishing 14th and first Australian - an impressive drive against a field of countrymen that included two national champions.

Plans this year to step back up to a proper

WRC car failed to come off, so Quinn will be back in the faithful Lancer, hoping for another giant-slaying result.

Woolgoolga’s Mark Beard has the least potent machine in his Subaru Impreza RS, but it’s tough and reliable and if the driver’s enthusiasm counts for anything, he’ll be celebrating at the end.

A businessman, Mark is a staunch supporter of Rally Australia and will be a proud ambassador for the region.

But when Mal Keough goes out to play in his Audi Quattro S1 replica, even the WRC

regulars will stop to watch.

His car, remarkably built at home with the help of friends, is a close copy of one of the fastest, most powerful and infamous rally cars of the 1980s. Recently described as the most popular rally car in Australia, Keough estimates it’s valued at around $150,000 - although it’s definitely not for sale.

This spectacular entry will be a highlight of the Classic section of the Kumho Tyre Australian Rally Championship.

Be sure to cheer the locals at 2016 Kennards Hire Rally Australia!

NSW COFFS COAST, 17-20 NOV 2016

FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS

LIA.CO RALLYAUSTRA

M.AU

TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM new england focus. 15

focusinterview.

REAP IS A REGIONAL FOOD RESCUE SERVICE WHICH EQUIPS WILLING VOLUNTEERS WITH THE TOOLS TO ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS OF PROVIDING PEOPLE IN NEED WITH GOOD NUTRITIOUS FOOD, FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH DAVE COURI, COORDINATOR OF REAP’S NEW ENGLAND CHAPTER …

DAVE COURI

D

ave, as spokesperson and coordinator for REAP

by OzHarvest’s New England chapter, you harbour a very special role within our community. Tell us more about REAP by OzHarvest ...

OzHarvest is the first perishable food rescue organisation in Australia that collects quality excess food from commercial outlets and delivers it, direct and free of charge, to local charities.

We are on a mission to eliminate hunger and food waste through the redistribution of quality surplus food. We currently donate 2,500 meals per month on average, which goes directly back to our community via our charity partners.

What does your role with REAP by OzHarvest entail?

Our REAP chapter has been set up and run entirely by passionate volunteers.

My role is really fun, hands-on, and varied.

It involves everything from driving about to pick up/deliver food; coordinating volunteers; speaking with business and community about what we do; pitching in to help other charity/ agency partners; to running cooking courses that focus on nutrition and reducing waste there’s never a dull moment!

What is the most rewarding part about your role?

Knowing that we are making a direct impact to both our community and our environment is great. The best part by far is working with the wonderful community of Armidale, and our friends across the wider New England region.

Tell us a little about your background and what brought you to call Armidale home...

My wife, Jody, is a Clinical Neuropsychologist 16 new england focus.

also a huge environmental who took a role in the The Think.Eat. n ig benefit (if food waste area health service, Save campa at th were a country - it would which brought us to ow sh to s aim can be the third highest Armidale from Sydney every individual e carbon emitter, behind 2½ years ago. My make a differenc through simple China and the USA). story is a little mixed, ce measures to redu e.”

We have been with a background m food waste at ho fortunate to enjoy in management wonderful support from local consulting having seen business and community. We me work in everything have a business like ALDI who are from international finance, to donating enormous amounts of excess museums and music festivals. I’m also food on a weekly basis. The team at Meals lucky enough to be able to play a little on Wheels Armidale have been so gracious in music around the traps, which keeps me allowing us to share their space and resources moving! for the benefit of our community.

What are some of the biggest challenges We are very pleased with what we’ve you have faced within your time with done so far, but we know there is a huge REAP? opportunity to do more. We’d encourage any Initially - convincing people there was even a local business who thinks they can help to get need, even though the idea of minimising food in touch. waste is something most people agree with.

Earlier in the year REAP by Regional cities and towns don’t always have OzHarvest hosted an event called Think. the visible things like homelessness that you Eat. Save where you served members of might see in major cities - but we know that the community a free lunch, which was there are always people doing it tough. prepared using rescued food. Tell us a The ongoing challenge is to make things as little bit about this event and what it was easy as possible for business to engage with aiming to do ... us, and for agencies and community to access We teamed up with the United Nations us.

Environment Programme (UNEP) to tackle the I imagine it has taken a lot of hard work global issue of food waste, where a third of and persistence to get local organisations the world’s produce is lost or wasted; this was on board to donate their excess food. the first year that a regional city has hosted Can you tell us about this process and an event. The Think.Eat.Save campaign aims how you have managed to garner such to show that every individual can make a amazing support from these businesses? difference through simple measures to reduce We’re lucky to have a message that is easy food waste at home, which could save every for people to get on board with. Nobody Australian household up to $1,000 each year. wants to see food wasted, especially while What words of wisdom can you share people are going hungry. Food waste costs with others who may have their own Australia around $8billion annually. There’s

“

aspirations to make a difference in their community and launch a non-profit mission?

Don’t wait for the “perfect” time to start; it probably doesn’t exist. Just do it. It’s the same as starting any new venture or project. Don’t be deterred when you don’t succeed right away. Don’t expect others to be as passionate as you, or work as hard as you on your project right away. Have a clear and simple message and be prepared to repeat it again and again!

How can members of the community get involved and support REAP by OzHarvest on a local level?

Embracing community support for OzHarvest lies at the heart of our purpose. We offer a range of opportunities for the community to engage with our family.

We do have some specific needs - and we’re always open to hearing from local businesses who might be looking to offer us some support!

We’re also in need of donations, particularly in the lead up to Christmas. For every $1 donated, we can provide two meals to people who need it most.

And finally, if you could invite three business people to lunch, who would they be and why would you invite them?

Senator the Hon Mitch Fifield - Minister for the Arts. I’ve got some thoughts to share.

Clementine Ford - a wonderful Australian author and activist focused largely on issues facing women.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau - there’s a really great blueprint for what a progressive Australia could look like. It’s called Canada!

Thanks Dave. www.ozharvest.org/reap/chapters/armidale/

Armidale’s new Christmas Tree will be unveiled and illuminated

First of its kind in Australia

Thursday 1 December 2016 5pm – 10pm Christmas in the Mall • • • • • •

Sparkling new Christmas Tree will dazzle in the mall Market Stalls Santa and his elves Locals4Locals Chocolate Wheel Live Music Shops Open

Thursday 22 December

Saturday 17 December 9am – 12pm

Christmas Movies in the Mall

Kids Day in the Mall

• Back to Back Christmas movies from 7:45pm

in the mall

• Kids Activities • Community Performances • Live Music and Entertainment

Thursday 1 December 5pm - 10pm

Save the date Thursday 1 Dec

Christmas in the Mall - Central Mall

Friday 16 Dec

Schools Out Pool Party - Monckton Pool

Saturday 17 Dec

Kids Day in the Mall - Central Mall

Thursday 22 Dec

Christmas Movies in the Mall - Central Mall

keep up to date on Christmas activities facebook.com/arc2350 www.armidaleregional.nsw.gov.au

Friday 16 December 3pm to close

Schools Out Pool Party

• Schools out for the Year – Celebrate the end of year with your school mates • Free sausage sizzle • All Inflatables out

Monckto n Aquatic Centre

Armidale Regional Council new england focus. 17

focuseditorial

Christmas in the Mall

ARMIDALE’S CHRISTMAS IN THE MALL ACTIVITIES TO FEATURE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE - AND A NEW TREE!

A

rmidale Regional Council’s programme of free, community activities to celebrate the 2016 Christmas season will include a diverse programme of fun, festive events throughout December. A special feature this

18 new england focus.

year will be the unveiling of an impressive new Christmas tree.

According to Council Administrator Dr Ian Tiley, the month of events and activities offer something for everyone, but a highlight this year will be Armidale’s new Christmas Tree.

“The 7 metre tall tree is the first of its kind in Australia,” Dr Tiley said. “It promises to light up the City Centre and add some extra sparkle to the community’s celebrations this year.”

The tree will be unveiled on 1st December, when Armidale leaps into Christmas festivities at “Christmas in the Mall”. The event will be held between 5pm and 10pm in Armidale’s Central Mall.

“The Christmas tree will be a dazzling centrepiece when Christmas lights are turned on throughout the city centre to mark the start of the season,” said Dr Tiley. “The whole community is invited to be a part of the celebration and enjoy the evening of activities.”

Armidale shops will be open late - trading alongside Market Stalls by local and visiting stallholders and offering the community a chance to sneak in some Christmas shopping while enjoying the activities and entertainment on offer.

“Locals 4 Locals will run a chocolate wheel, and there will be live music throughout the evening thanks to a great programme of popular well-known local acts,” said Dr Tiley.

“Of course, the special guests at the event will be Santa and his elves!”

“Christmas in the Mall” launches a programme of activities that runs right through to Christmas.

The “Schools Out Pool Party” will be held at Monckton Aquatic Centre on Friday 16th December from 3pm to close.

“This is a chance for children and young

people to celebrate the end of the school year with friends,” Dr Tiley said. “All of the Centre’s inflatables will be out and available for those who are keen to make a big splash. Then when it is time for a break, everyone can take advantage of the free sausage sizzle.”

On Saturday 17 December, between 9am and 12pm, Council is hosting “Kids Day in the Mall”. The day will include creative, fun and entertaining activities for children and young people, as well as community performances, live music and entertainment.

“Children might take the opportunity to work with local artists and craftspeople to create some unique Christmas gifts,” Dr Tiley said.

“And the whole community will have a chance to experience a showcase of performances that will be provided by some of Armidale’s talented local young people.”

To ensure that everyone has felt the spirit of the season, “Christmas Movies in the Mall” will be held on Thursday 22nd December - offering back to back Christmas movies from 7:45pm.

“Each of these free community events promises to add some seasonal cheer and fun, while bringing the community together in the Mall over the holiday season,” Dr Tiley said.

If you would like to hold a stall or are a community group interested in performing at “Kids Day in the Mall”, please contact council for more information.

More information and event updates can be found by following Armidale Regional Council’s facebook www.facebook.com/arc2350

new england focus. 19

focuseditorial.

welcome to

ARMIDALE

petals florist network One of the great things about Petals Network is that we make it really easy for you to connect with loved ones at any time of the year. With only a few weeks until Christmas, it’s a good idea to start thinking about gifts for family and friends.

Our sister company, Grumleys Gifts, has everything you need to send your loved ones a beautiful food hamper anywhere within Australia. Our wide range of hampers include gourmet food items, delicious chocolates and puddings, along with boutique wines and spirits.

Sending a stunning floral arrangement is also a good way to let people know you are thinking of them during the holidays, and Petals has a number of festive table centrepieces to turn your dinner table from ordinary to the extraordinary!

If you are wanting to send a hamper overseas, Petals Network has partner agreements with the USA, Canada and the UK. Take a look at our Ultimate Christmas basket, as it’s full of a gorgeous array of treats to make everyone feel special.

It’s a good idea to get your orders in nice and early for Christmas but if you are shopping last minute, we do need 48 hours’ notice to get hampers delivered overseas.

FOCUS WOULD LIKE TO INTRODUCE A NEW FAMILY AND A WONDERFUL NEW BUSINESS TO ARMIDALE.

R

source wonderful and eclectic furniture pieces to bring back to the store, much to the delight of a growing customer base.

obert, Deirdre, Emily and baby Olive decided on a tree change from Sydney and moved here last Christmas.

The decision was easy, as it meant they could be closer to family and to enjoy the fantastic lifestyle Armidale has to offer.

The business - Blackbird Old Wares - had early success operating from Knights Store, on Mann Street.

With a fantastic reception from the locals, Rob and Dee decided on a permanent and larger location on Jessie Street.

Items ranging from tables to rugs to rustic ladders are all to be found at Blackbird ...

On his expeditions, he also keeps an eye out for any specialty or collectable curios. His ever-growing “Wishlist book” gets longer by the day.

He mentions that it is very satisfying finding that special requested item and fulfilling a customer’s request.

Rob and Dee thank the Armidale public for their support, love and well wishes for the new store in town.

Rob travels the countryside and to the major cities to

with Ross from Daily Ritual Armidale

TEA IS ONE OF THE LARGEST SOURCES OF ANTIOXIDANTS IN OUR DIET. IT IS PARTICULARLY RICH IN A TYPE OF ANTIOXIDANT KNOWN AS PHENOLS.

O

ne particular phenol, epigallocatechin gallate, is a whopping 30 times more potent than vitamin E. There are a variety of other phenols in tea, including: catechins, theaflavins, and gallic acid. Each

compound has been studied extensively, with varying roles in health maintenance and disease prevention. Overall, the benefits of these antioxidants are helpful for heart disease, diabetes, eye disease, cancer and the signs

WHERE

20 new england focus.

and effects of ageing, including wrinkles. Comparisons between tea and red wine (another antioxidant rich beverage), show that tea has more antioxidant activity. And you can still drive home!

Find out more about other quality blends at www.dailyritual.com.au

focuseditorial.

NERAM your

needs

help!

Are you looking for a way to meet people, learn new skills, discover art and culture, enjoy social events and make a difference within our local community?

W

e are inviting people from across the wider region to join our team of volunteers and get involved in the region’s premiere cultural and tourism facility,” said Robert Heather, NERAM Director. “Without our volunteers, NERAM wouldn’t be able to function effectively, and they put a lot of time and effort into helping to showcase our collections, display exhibitions and help provide a great visitor experience for everyone who comes to the art museum.

“We have a fantastic group who

monfiaconnect

come from all walks of life and across all ages,” he said. “Young people also gain experience working here, which will be helpful in their later careers.

“We are offering a range of volunteer activities, including working in our front of house and museum shop; assisting with installing exhibitions and displays; supporting our community and public programmes; helping behind the scenes with library, archiving and research; or helping with students and children in our schools and educational programmes.

“You don’t need to know a lot

about art to become a volunteer at NERAM, but everyone learns more about art when volunteering here, in a fun way.”

Come along to the Volunteer Information Session at 12:30pm on Monday 31 October 2016, where you can learn about the volunteer programme and application process, hear from some current NERAM volunteers and have a look behind the scenes at the Museum.

Application forms are available online at the NERAM website at www.neram.com.au/support/ volunteering/

focuseditorial.

LOCALs 4 Locals GIVEAWAYS

A

my Howell bought goodies from Baker’s Delight. Lisa Robinson and Melissa Marshall both shopped at Forty Winks, and Elizabeth Ellis scored a big voucher too! It’s really easy to win … Just by doing your normal

THIS COULD BE YOU! Our November winners are here sporting Locals 4 Locals gift vouchers. $500 in $100 vouchers to five lucky shoppers! Want to win some cash? All you need to do is look for the Locals 4 Locals stamp, shop at the participating stores and go in the chance to win your own $100 gift voucher - it’s that easy. For a detailed list of participating stores, visit www.l4l.com.au

everyday shopping at Locals 4 Locals retailers! Every one pictured here won $100 in vouchers to spend. Would you like to win some dollars too?

Winning is so easy! After purchasing items at participating Locals 4 Locals outlets, fill out the entry form and

MonfiaConnect is a new locally owned and operated business that specialises in digital marketing. That is, helping business owners improve their web presence, so that they can grow their business and reach their customers more effectively. MonfiaConnect was only founded at the beginning of 2015, when David Levingston realised that systems needed to be designed to allow small and medium businesses to effectively use digital marketing like their larger competitors do.

If you are a small business owner and have absolutely no web presence, David and the team at MonfiaConnect can build a website for your business and show you how to use and integrate several social media platforms. They can also build this presence in a way that will help your customers find you more effectively. If you already have a web presence, David and his team can add to it in order to provide more functionality for your customers.

David Levingston, the owner of MonfiaConnect, is an incredibly talented local young man who has expertise in videography (making videos), photography, computer code and even graphic design! David also has a group of local people who help him with the more specialised aspects of web design.

If you are a business owner and want help with your digital marketing strategy, be sure to contact David at MonfiaConnect!

put it in the box. The more times you shop, the more chance you have of winning. As you can see, these lucky people are grinning from ear to ear, just by doing their everyday normal shopping, or dining at local businesses. new england focus. 21

F O C U S

22 new england focus.

O N

U R A L L A

F O C U S

O N

U R A L L A

I T S O N AG A I N, S E A S O N S O F N E W E N G L A N D, S AT U R DAY 1 9 T H N OV E M B E R .

O R G A N I S E R TA R A T O O M E Y T E L L S U S A B O U T T H I S Y E A R' S E V E N T.

OF NEW ENGLAND

t’s so exciting to have a New England based enterprise running an Open Air Cinema, and bringing it to the beautiful township of Uralla. How did this come about?

Seasons of New England is a company based in Uralla, and we have been asked for a couple of years now to operate a November event, something to provide a space for Christmas shopping and relaxed gatherings with friends. We have also been very keen to put together a unique cinema event that was accessible for people in terms of the location and the ticket price, and also combined with great New England food.

As we worked through the details and finally found a really good quality and experienced cinema team to work with, we have found that pulling together a first quality line up of stalls for the market component fell in to place. The open air cinema is the perfect way to wind down after a great market too.

Tell us about the Cheeky Market?

There really is an enormous amount of creative and productive talent here in the New England, and it can be hard to find many of the small - medium businesses that don’t have a shopfront or who are off the more commonly navigated paths. Our Cheeky Market is a gathering of a carefully selected group of the tiny, the mid sized and the larger enterprises that are producing great things

in the New England. So, Eastview Estate & Dobson’s Our Cheeky it’s a great opportunity Distillery, Dale’s DownMarket is a lly fu re for people to stock town Meats, Aurelia’s ca gathering of a e th of p the pantry, fill the Farm B&B and Conou selected gr d an d ze si id cellar and load up fectionery, Why Worry m e tiny, th s se ri rp te en er the Christmas tree Wines, The Top Pub and rg the la ing uc od pr e ar with plenty of locally Merilba Estate and New at th e New made gifts, treasures England Cider Co. There great things in th England.” and delights. It’s cheeky, are a few key things we because we are sure there are working on to repay will be plenty of quirky, cratheir support and the most zy and seriously delicious gear exciting is the prospect of a short for people to discover. ad being created by the clever team at This is a very unique market event in a Screenwave, the guys we are engaging to number of ways, but not least because it provide the cinema experience. is the first time all of the Uralla Shire alcohol Will you have any entertainment during producers - numbering an impressive five in the Cheeky Market? total - will be involved with a stall, as well as There are lots of really talented musicians with product on the Seasons Bar. A superb coming along to participate in New England quality line up of craft beer, wines, cider and Unearthed, where we set up a great quality spirits that reflects an abundance of talent sound desk and give a variety of artists the right on our doorstep. It’s really exciting to opportunity to entertain us. We will also have have it all in one place, the perfect opportuni- some fun and frolics for kids and plenty of ty to sample and then stock up for Christspace to spread a blanket, relax and enjoy the mas! afternoon.

You have some amazing sponsors too; Tell us about the cinema?

Uralla has really turned out to support Screenwave is an organisation based in this new event.

Coffs Harbour that is experienced in putting There are seven Uralla Shire based busitogether outdoor cinema events, and we are nesses who have helped make this a reality really pleased that they are coming to deliver by becoming sponsors, and we are so very the first Open Air Cinema for Seasons of New grateful to each of them. They are, in no England in Uralla. People coming along to particular order, New England Brewing Co., the cinema are welcome to bring their own

“

chair or a blanket, and for just $5 they will be treated to two short films by young and emerging film makers, followed by a special screening of Grease. I’ve been assured there will be plenty of people dressing up to get in the mood for the movie too, which will be great fun. There will be some chairs available for people to use if they don’t bring their own and with Hampden Park providing a spacious area for the screening, we will be able to accommodate plenty of people.

What sort of options will you have for evening meals?

There will be four stalls staying on until 10pm, to make sure that everyone has some great options for evening meals. More like street food, the stalls will be serving food you can take away to your seat and enjoy.

The meals include mushroom moussaka and ratatouille from Glenore Cottage, kransky hot dogs with slaw and smoked pumpkin from Dale’s Downtown Meats, a range of delicious Thai options from Little Thai Kitchen and something for dessert from Aurelia’s Farm; alongside some delicious desserts, they will also have the perfect cinema candy bar, including popcorn, plenty of their homemade nougat, salted caramel and more!

Sounds like a great event, Tara; thanks for sharing the details.

For more information, please head to www.seasonsofnewengland.com.au and to seasonsofnewengland on Facebook. new england focus. 23

F O C U S

O N

U R A L L A

dr. ricardo D R . R I C A R D O, U R A L L A’ S L O C A L D O C T O R , S P E A K S T O F O C U S A B O U T H I S PA S S I O N F O R T H E C O M M U N I T Y… here are you originally from, and why did you decide to become a doctor?

I am from Homs in Syria. My mother was born in Argentina, from a Syrian Family. My family originates from a village near Homs named Kafarram. I have always had a very scientific mind, which made me obsessed with science, even though there was very poor access to scientific information in the ‘70s and ‘80s in Syria.

I finished my Year 12 exams in June 1985, when the economic situation in Syria was at its worst in history. At that time, I concentrated on getting an education, which meant I could leave Syria; I never wanted to live under such corrupted dictatorship. It was an extremely frustrating time for me. I tried to apply for Nuclear Science Engineering in Germany, but my application was rejected; however, an application for studying medicine in Syria was underway.

Choosing medicine was due to the pressure of my family and the economic climate at the time.

Escaping the military service in Syria was a priority for me. I believed the Syrian Army protected the dictatorship, rather than defending the country or its people. I succeeded studying medicine in Tishreen University in Latakia, getting a high score to allow me to leave Syria, before being subscripted into military service to Abu Dhabi in UAE. The law at the time allowed any Syrian national working in any Gulf Country to pay $5000 USD after five years of working to have the mandatory military service waived. Which I did very happily.

What brought you to Uralla, and tell us about your family?

I married my wife, Rand Alkhouri, in 2000.

We have two children, Maria 14 and Andrew 7. I always wanted to have my own doctor’s surgery. Uralla suited me the most due to the fact the surgery was already for sale and a town like Armidale was nearby. It was essential to have the support from the local community in Uralla 24 new england focus.

Elbows, inflamed tendons in the wrist or Achilles in obtaining permanent residency in Australia. I Tendon, etc. We do all sorts of GP services. The love this town and love its people. That keeps me upcoming plan is to have casts put in the surgery going on, despite the demands of the job. Rural medicine is grass roots medicine, as it is very for joint injury. diverse. Working in a metropolitan area would be How important is it to you to be more than a very boring for me. physician in regional NSW, and tell us about What do you specialise in? your involvement with the local community?

I am registered in Australia as a Specialist in I always look forward to participating in the General Practice. I achieved the fellowship of the Uralla community. We introduced the Ugarit Australian College of General Practitioners in Award for Uralla Central school as a reward 2011. I do Prolotherapy and Ultrasound Guided for “Personal Endeavour” last year. The award Steroid injection for pain management, antiwas named after the ancient Syrian (Aramean) wrinkles (therapeutic and cosmetic) town of Ugarit, where it was believed and fillers injections, are my the first alphabet was born. The fields of interest. award is given yearly for the Describe some of the winning student in Uralla y jo I also en of special services you ity rs Central School. We are in ve the di in s nt ai pl provide? m co discussion at the moment medical wn, to y tr un co I have practiced l al with Uralla Central School a sm rvices Prolotherapy; this plus the extra se to organise educational ch we provide, whi in is an alternative lectures for the students ble were not availa medicine treatment about important subjects .” ly the area previous that uses injection of like smoking, drugs and sugar intravenous fluid sexually transmitted diseases.

(Dextrose) into the insertions Also, Uralla Medical Centre ligaments or tendons on bones is sponsoring sport players in town, (www.Prolotherapy.com.au) in an effort along with being one of the sponsors to relieve pain) since 2010 and treated more supporting the McCrossin’s Mill Museum. than 300 cases.

What do you love most about what you do?

Since obtaining my ultrasound machine, Serving the lovely people of Uralla and working I have done approximately 1,300 ultrasound with the team in the medical centre, who are guided injections since 2010. With both like my second family. I also enjoy the diversity of treatments, I can guarantee approximately a medical complaints in a small country town, plus 90% success rate in neck pain treatment with the extra services we provide, which were not Prolotherapy alone, and up to 95% if shared available in the area previously. I have patients with Dysport (Anti-Wrinkles) in the case of travel from Sydney, Cowra, Central-Mid and concomitant headaches. Prolotherapy treats up North coast of NSW, and even from SA and QLD to 75% of shoulder pains and up to 95% when for Prolotherapy. the treatment starts with ultrasound guided Tell us about your team?

Steroid Injections. Back pain responds up to I have had a GP registrar since Feb 2016.

60-65% and knee pain up to 50%. Prolotherapy This has improved the waiting time significantly is not suitable for acute injury pain and arthritis and made sure that every patient can be seen pain per se. Ultrasound guided injections are in the same day if needed. Currently, I have Dr done in Uralla Medical Centre for shoulder and Sid Kamble, who will finish up with us in early hip Bursitis, hand contracture, Tennis and Golfers’ February next year. The goal is to have a new GP

“

registrar join the medical centre every February.

I also have two nurses having full-time jobs together in the surgery; Julie Harris, who is also a diabetic educator, and Lauren Moss. Both are trained for almost all aspects of nursing, including women’s health (Pap Smear, breast examination, etc.).

Sarah Byrne is my acting practice manager, a local girl, who joined the surgery at the end of 2014. Recently Renie Dasey from Armidale has joined the medial centre as a receptionist.

When not being a busy physician, what would we find you doing?

My mind therapy is gardening and my escape is cycling. I exercise approximately 3 - 4 hours weekly. I wake up before 5am every day to exercise for 50 minutes before work. I enjoy the rest of my free time with my family in a few activities like horse riding, cycling, dog walking, swimming, gardening, movie watching, etc. I enjoy watching history, biography and science programmes online, while exercising every day on my cross trainer. I love watching soccer and my favourite international teams are Australia and Argentina, otherwise I highly respect any good team who provides clean and civilised play, like Germany.

Plans for the future?

There is lots and lots to do. My next dream is to build a more spacious medical centre in Uralla.

The way the government is funding general practice is favouring the bigger businesses where the practice has at least three full-time GPs. Uralla Medical Centre is providing a wide range of services not available in many larger practices around in New England; for example, our full-time nurse and a diabetic educator.

Not all practices in Armidale have a full-time nurse. However, we will keep looking forward to improving our business. We provide many services which contribute no financial benefit to the practice, just to make it more enjoyable for us and to service the Uralla community as a whole.

Thanks Dr. Ricardo.

new england focus. 25

F O C U S

C O BW E B S A N T I Q U E S Step back in time at Cobwebs Antiques & Collectibles.

Russell and Trisha, the Blue Team from the BBC’s Bargain Hunt Downunder, would love to welcome you into their little shop in the beautiful New England tablelands village of Uralla, nestled between Tamworth and Armidale.

Stop and relax; walk in the footsteps of Thunderbolt - the highway man of legend; climb his “rock” and see with his eyes the vast countryside he kept watch over, then visit his grave in the local cemetery. The creeks may even give up some of the gold kept hidden from rushes of days gone by.

Select one of the many fine eateries which beckon you, have a cuppa on the sidewalk, or marvel at the talents of the local crafts people on market day ... or just savour the ambience … then come and travel back in time at Cobwebs Antiques; you just never know when you might find that certain piece you have been searching high and low for - it might just be here.

Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, silverware, crystal, china, kitchenalia, garagenalia, jewellery, dolls, model cars, militaria, stamps, coins, glassware, cast iron, depression, flatware, books, bric-a-brac.

The time to buy an antique is when you see it ... It may be gone when you come back!

26 new england focus.

O N

U R A L L A

M I C H A E L’S C A F E Michael’s Café is located in the old bank of New South Wales building in Uralla at the south end of town next door to the Foodworks Supermarket.

We have a paved courtyard and a tranquil garden setting, with seating throughout. There are meandering pathways past the resident black chooks, Sokie and Slate. Our Monet Style Bridge lays over our pond, with fish and frogs enjoying the water.

We have a range of meals to suit everyone. Our menu is seasonal and homemade, with the spring menu now available. Breakfast is served all day, with old favourites bacon and eggs or something upmarket like pan fried Portobello mushrooms with garlic, baby tomatoes, baby spinach, poached egg served on thick panna de casa toast drizzled with pesto oil.

We have an excellent coffee blend which has been put together for the café by Rob Manvel from Antilles coffee in Tamworth. We also have a range of quality leaf teas, also provided by Antilles; all products are for sale.

We have for sale a range of quality relishes, chutneys, olives, oils and chilli products, so come on in and have a look (great for presents) Our garden is available for functions, weddings and parties; menus can be made to suit any budget.

F O C U S

O N

U R A L L A

G I V E S B AC K T O T H E U R A L L A C O M M U N I T Y

H

ow long has the Uralla Thunderbolt Rodeo Association been operating, and tell us about your events and committee?

This is the fifth year we have run a rodeo at the back of the “Top Pub” in Uralla. The tight arena allows spectators to get up close to the action. Part of the event’s charm is the atmosphere, something competitors and spectators appreciate.

The Uralla Thunderbolt Rodeo committee was founded in February 2012 with a meeting of just nine people; the first year was very much a wing and a prayer. Rodeo is about the spectators and not knowing whether the community would support another event in the town, the decision was made a lot easier when we met with Uralla Thunderbolt Festival’s Committee, who encouraged joining the events of the last weekend of October 2012.

It seems strange now when we look back at how nervous we were, and given the ongoing community support for the rodeo. The first year we did not tell Friends of McMaugh Gardens what we had planned, just in case it was all for nought. The committee was very nervous on the eve of the Bull Ride; we were still well short of covering costs, despite some great local sponsors, most of whom are still with us five years on. As it turned out, holding our nerve has paid off.

Can members of the community become involved with the association?

This event was always intended to be a community event and while a few of us are passionate about rodeo, the committee is an eclectic mix of people and welcomes anyone who wants to get involved. It is the old adage but true, that “many hands make light work”.

Like most voluntary community organisations, it takes all sorts of people with all sorts of skills to make an event happen. There are jobs for everyone, for what amounts to a year of planning for four hours of entertainment and fundraising each year.

What support does the association get from the local business community?

The Rodeo Association is grateful to local businesses, Uralla Council and individuals who are generous in services and donations. While Matt and Leigh Campbell host the Rodeo event, it would not happen without the generosity

and cooperation of especially The New England Brewery and the Adams family allowing access and setting up out the back, an example of what happens in small communities with big hearts.

You are connected to Friends of McMaugh Gardens; tell us more about this?

Uralla Thunderbolt Rodeo committee agreed that the work that Friends of McMaugh Gardens was important, as one lark on the committee commented it might be that we will all end up beneficiaries of our hard work in the future. From there, we set about building an event worthy of our chosen beneficiary, starting with a Regional Australia Bank Community Partnership Account; at the first rodeo we passed a hat around and auctioned off top six short goes on the Bull Ride, raising in total $2,100 - a massive response, exceeding our wildest dreams.

Since the first rodeo, the event has grown to include additional rough stock events and now has Friends of McMaugh Gardens assisting with running a barbecue during the evening, adding significantly to the family atmosphere.

In the five years, the Uralla Thunderbolt Rodeo Committee have passed on over $10,000 to the Friends of McMaugh Gardens.

How has your donation helped McMaughs?

The 2015 committee donation of another $2,100 has gone part way in to the building the new pergola area, which hopefully will add significant amenity experience to the Uralla McMaugh Gardens Aged Care Centre residents.

Plans for the future?

Each year the event is growing and well supported by local business and community.

The committee has tried to add new dimensions to the event. This year we worked with Camp Quality to provide a unique experience to families, and especially children.

Given the focus of the committee is to provide good family entertainment, while ever the community comes along and the success of the rodeo can be measured through the generosity of the community and sponsors, the Uralla Thunderbolt Rodeo will remain. The committee has some younger members and now that there is a rough template for future committees to work with and is in good hands.

Thanks everyone. new england focus. 27

F O C U S

O N

U R A L L A

AU R E L I A’S FA R M Tell us a little about Aurelia’s Farm ...

W E A R A B L E WO O L F O R A L L S E A S O N S

N E W E N G L A N D B R E W I N G C O. It’s been another busy year for New England Brewing Co. We’ve installed new fermentation and brite beer tanks, which have allowed us to brew an amber lager year round. The amber lager has been a huge hit and is making its way to taps around the New England and further afield. Kegs being sent to Port Douglas just broke our distance record! Thanks to our brewery team, we’ve launched a seasonal release nearly every five weeks this year. From our Priscilla Desert Lime Gose to a low alcohol English Bitter, we’ve kept them coming.

In July, we opened an in-house pizza kitchen. It’s got to be the best addition to our brewery door to date, and our determination to use local ingredients from flour to olives and everything in between has been a huge hit. The kitchen is open Saturdays 11:30 to 3:30 and Sundays 11:30 to 3:30 (Sundays December only). Bookings are preferred for groups.

In November, we’ll be releasing our annual India Pale Ale and an Amber Honey Wheat Beer. December releases will include a fruit Saison and, not to be missed, our summer holiday ale “Big Holiday”. Big Holiday is in its third year and has a strong following, so get in early!

28 new england focus.

Superfine Merino wool and other more traditional summer fabrics like cotton and linen are available in new season fashions from The Uralla Wool Room. Quality Merino is one of the most versatile all-season fashion fibres available, renowned for its wonderful light-weight drape and wearability.

The Uralla Wool Room stocks Australian labels that feature these fibres. Smitten Merino garments, made from Tasmanian superfine Merino wool, offer classic and contemporary styles dresses, wide leg crop pants with tee-shirts tops are perfect for warm days. When the nights cool off, layer-up with a quality fine, woollen drape cardigan or wrap that can be hand-washed or on a gentle wool cycle in your machine.

Uimi, made in Melbourne, offer Merino wool, cotton, silk and cashmere blends in their spring and summer range. Easy-wear tees, tunics and kaftan tops are available in soft colours of this season.

Walnut Hill, Harp & Dublin and several other labels offer styles in cotton and linens in an extensive range of styles and colours are all in stock.

Yarns for knitting and crochet in wool, cotton and other natural fibres are all also available from the Wool Room, the range available to view and purchase online from mollydale.com.au The Uralla Wool Room is open seven days from 9am to 5pm.

You can shop online at urallawoolroom.com.au

When you’re looking for something decadent, some confectionery made by hand with the best quality ingredients, I hope people will always remember to look for Aurelia’s Farm. Based in the picturesque township of Uralla, I specialise in handmade gourmet treats like nougat, salted caramel, peanut brittle, fudge, real marshmallow and so much more. If I come across something I would like to make, then I take the time to research, experiment and bring it to my next event or to my small shop-front at New England Brewing Co. in Uralla. I am also bringing my spin on the classic Candy Bar to the inaugural Seasons of New England Open Air Cinema and Cheeky Market, being held in Uralla at Hampden Park on Saturday 19th November. Think popcorn, warm desserts, chilled treats and more confectionery! To get a taste of the full Aurelia’s Farm experience in a beautiful retail space - just in time for Christmas - be sure to head along to the Pop Up Store in Armidale in early December. My range expands again for the Pop Up Store and always includes two or more types of fruit cake, including my Guinness Fruit Cakes, alongside any number of gift packaged delights. Follow Aurelia’s Farm on Facebook, to learn more about when and where to find us next.

Aurelia’s Farm also operates a successful, cosy and welcoming bed and breakfast, offering of a fully self contained two bedroom cottage and an ensuite private room. Visit www.aureliasfarm.com.au, email info@aureliasfarm.com.au, or call 0434 408 163.

I look forward to meeting you in person at an upcoming event!

Tara Toomey.

new england focus. 29

F O C U S

O N

U R A L L A

Artist Cat MacGregor

T H E U R A L L A P R I N T GA L L E RY The Uralla Print Gallery has been open since July. Can you tell us why you decided to open such a unique gallery?

I’ve always liked the idea of running my own gallery, to print on my own print table and be surrounded by beautiful prints and fabrics!

I belong to the Blackgully Printmakers, who form a cohesive group and include a number of printmakers who specialise in fabric prints.

These printers, along with Jan Clark, a locally and internationally known textiler, were willing to support the gallery with artisan fabrics, papers and prints.The town and district is rich in artistic practice, with printmakers, artists and the studio at Go Create running workshops.

L I T T L E L A DY B I R D P L A N T N U R S E RY Julie and Nevyl have built a boutique nursery for the Tablelands climate ...

Tell us about what we can expect to find at the gallery?

We are coming into our fifth year of operating in the retail nursery trade for our valued customers of Walcha, Moonbi, Armidale and Uralla surrounds. Nevyl and I are most pleased that we are able to meet the needs of those looking for appropriate plants for this climate, and of the supply of organic fertilisers and mulches for a healthy garden - be it for landscaping your patch of Australia, or for happy vegetables.

Nearly every four weeks we have a new selling exhibition (check our Instagram and Facebook page - The Uralla Print Gallery). As well, we stock our popular screen printed and block printed fabrics sold by the metre, and hand printed cushions and teatowels. You can buy affordable prints from the folios, as well find the perfect card from the selection of hand printed and artists’ cards.

The nursery is supported by Life-Force Seeds by supplying a wide range of organically-grown, open pollinated (no hybrids) vegetable seeds and seedlings. The new spring stock of tomato, capsicum, aubergine, basil, zucchini and cucumber seedlings are well on their way in our hot house - just waiting for the earth to warm up!

What plans are in place for the future?

This year I’ve started working with creating microgreens and baby greens for local restaurants and for the home cook. Microgreens are small seedlings showing their first “leaves” and they are sown thickly in a mini punnet that can quite happily sit on the kitchen window sill. The idea is to just cut off with scissors and add into your salad, sandwich or to top off your soup or evening meal - adding more nutrients and flavours.

Blossom will open early November, showcasing the works of twenty-five artists. It will be an exciting exhibition offering exclusive paper and textile works, and jewellery. We’ll then follow with The Christmas Show in early December. Uralla is the perfect Christmas shopping destination, so come shop at The Uralla Print Gallery! The gallery is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 9:30am - 4pm.

30 new england focus.

F O C U S

O N

U R A L L A

MY EMMA SCHAEFFER

E M M A S C H A E F F E R S H A R E S H E R TA L E N T S , PA S S I O N A N D C R E AT I V E J O U R N E Y W I T H F O C U S …

ake us back to the beginning. When did you first discover your creative streak?

As a little girl from about the age of four, my father worked at Taronga Zoo. The zoo became my home away from home on a daily basis - a playground that I embraced, where I was often seen armed with a sketch pad and pencils, drawing whatever was in front of me. I continued my love of art all the way through school and into university, with a Bachelor degree in Fine Arts, Education and Graphic Design.

How did you come to call Uralla home?

I first discovered the New England when I was doing my teaching practicum in Walcha. Little did I know at the time that I would fall in love, get married, start a family and call Uralla home. Growing up I moved around quiet a lot, mostly city and coastal areas, so Uralla has been a welcomed tree change. Uralla is a diverse little town with an active art community; so far it has been a wonderful place to raise our family and connect with like minded people.

Where and how did the cleverly named venture “My Sister Audrey” begin; how was it born, and what is its vision?

At the time My Sister Audrey was becoming a reality almost three years ago now - our family was comprised of my husband, Chris, our little girl Audrey, and myself. Both knowing that we would have more children, Audrey would always be a sister - hence My Sister Audrey was born. I am lucky to have my own studio in our garden, which is where the creativity happens. The direction I intend for my art-making is to keep doing more of it. Maybe one day

an exhibition in the studio and the possibility of running held a fundraising ball, where My Sister Audrey had artwork personalised workshops are in the pipeline. I am currently auctioned. I am humbled and thankful for the opportunity working on extending my works onto wearable pieces and and support I have received with my venture so far. homewares.

Tell us about the processes and techniques you like to Being a mum is a full-time job in itself, but you also use. conquer being a teacher. How do you balance work I enjoy working with many different mediums and not and life? limiting myself to one area or style. Printmaking It most certainly is, and I would not I am particularly fond of; I have my own be telling the truth if I said it was etching press, and the possibilities ng all plain sailing. Being a mum of are endless. Chine-collé is a special ki or w y jo I en rent three children under five years technique in printmaking which I enjoy with many diffe limiting t no d old is certainly busy. Establishing experimenting with. I have used this an s m iu med ea or My Sister Audrey has allowed technique with a popular series I did myself to one ar I am ing me the opportunity to spend on famous faces. I also like working style. Printmak of; I have time at home with Audrey, with charcoal and watercolour. particularly fond ess, pr my own etching s are Elliott and Freda, which I am Where do you draw inspiration tie and the possibili truly grateful for. I have started from? endless.” teaching again this year at some of My inspiration can be drawn the local schools in the area, which I anywhere - from a conversation I may thoroughly enjoy. It keeps me in the loop have had, a quote, a dream. Also books, and provides the perfect balance, allowing typography and the environment around me play me to explore my creativity and spend time with our an important role in my art-making. Some of my past kids. drawings, which have been well received, are of a bovine What are some of the collaborations and and equine nature inspired by visits to friends’ farms and features you’ve been involved with? community events.

I have recently been involved with The Pop Up Store in Lastly, where can we purchase your goods and follow Armidale, which is run by a group of local women with your journey online? a passion for creating quality and unique products. Also, Currently some of my work can be found at The Readers Seasons of New England, consisting of a collection of local Companion of Armidale, Vintage and Interesting Things of producers and artisans coming together and providing a Uralla, and the Pop Up store of Armidale. You can also find forum for visitors from near and far to enjoy what they have My Sister Audrey on Facebook and Instagram. to offer. The Westpac Rescue Helicopter in Armidale recently Thanks Emma.

“

new england focus. 31

focuseditorial

Icing on the cake with Susie Dunn

Icing

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

ON

cake

Chaucer on Bridge St Gallery FOCUS chats to Helen Evans about the renovations that have finally finished at the Chaucer On Bridge St Gallery …

Chaucer On Bridge Street Gallery is newly painted and open again. Come in for a cup of coffee, look for a perfect gift, or simply enjoy browsing.

The 1886 building, once a billiard hall, is owned and run by the Evans family. Michael Evans, now teaching in Guyra, makes stunning crystalline pottery and gives classes on Saturday mornings. His wife, Farzana, makes colourful bead necklaces and bracelets. Helen, Michael’s mother, sews intricate pictures and makes books for children.

An exhibition of works by Carl Hooper is currently in the gallery. Carl’s works have been

32 new england focus.

widely exhibited, and he has been a finalist in the Blake Prize twice. He now lives in Armidale. These works show his amazing skill with graphite. Some of his acrylic paintings are also included.

The gallery was opened in 2000 by David Evans after retiring from UNE, where he was a senior lecturer in English. His amazing book about the Old English poem of Beowulf is a permanent feature of the calligraphy room.

This room also has hand crafted Celtic Jewellery made by Stephen Payne. These unusual pieces were chosen by Jenny Evans when she visited England.

The gallery is open Thursday 10 - 3:30, Friday 10 - 4, Saturday 10 - 3:30 and Sunday 1 - 4.

LATELY I’VE HEARD THE PHRASE “DOING A DATA DROP” - WHEN PEOPLE HAVE TO CLEAR THEIR MINDS BECAUSE SO MUCH IS GOING ON. I FEEL RATHER LIKE THAT.

I

was wound up by an SMH letter, after some damaged beach houses made the writer feel threatened that “Australia’s cosmopolitan cities (were) perched precariously …” on the ocean’s edge. I HAD to advise looking over her shoulder at the “vast continent” behind her - and felt fractionally better. It irritates me how we fail to explain ourselves to those large nervous cities!

Meanwhile, the press reported that UNE’s Dr June Ross, archaeologist, led a team proving some Kimberley rock art dated from “before the height of the last ice age glaciation”. With signs of humans there 56,000 years ago, June believes it’s inevitable the dating of Kimberley art will “eventually knock Spain off its perch as the world’s oldest rock art”.

UNE has released research into that tragic, painful blight on our society - suicide. The “R U OK” campaign underlines we are all gathered in in facing this problem. Someone suggested that perhaps a better question to ask is “Will you be OK?” Whatever happens, it’s a problem for us all.

Some people say any publicity is good publicity - have to think about that one. Regional UNE can suffer some casually infuriating slants. It’s consistently one of the top performers in student satisfaction in the 2017 Good Universities Guide; however, city articles can imply some doubt - I believe most unfairly. Oh dear - better analysis is needed. Who’d want to be the Minister to sort education out?

I did get to NERAM to see James White’s watercolours “walking out the door” and the Run with It exhibition organised by the dedicated Ned McDowell. Shows included the new gift collection from benefactor the late John Gale OBE. The much-loved Packsaddle opens October 21 - November 6. Do try to get there.

Made it briefly to the Harmony Group’s International Day of Peace Town Hall celebration, to a couple of rewarding Gallery 126 openings, another at the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and another at the Armidale Art Gallery. All always worth a visit - there’s a buzz at openings.

Winter sports have been winding up with

grand finals for the year. Only one side can win, so congratulations to those who made it - and those out there trying. Now, on with summer sports! A new date for the fisherpeople is the October Guyra Trout Festival.

Wright College’s 60th Anniversary acknowledged the contribution Judith and the Wright family have made “developing an understanding and appreciation of this place where we live”. We celebrate Judith in Armidale’s Judith Wright Grove.

Music here keeps giving. I’d like to write more, but NECOM’s amazing New England Sings concerts are an organisational miracle and a continuing thrill.

Theatre-wise, there’s something to suit every taste - watch out for The Little Prince. Loving the book, the show has a particular resonance for me. Years ago I met someone who’d lunched with the author, St. Exupery, just before he took off on the fatal flight he went missing - an interesting sidelight, as he virtually confirmed the author was a spy for the Free French.

Did you read about the zebra finch who sings different songs to its eggs, influencing their behaviour? I love that. And now we hear that trees communicate with each other, making forests healthier!

Hellos and good-byes include the announcement of the new Regional Bank - born from the 1969 NE Staff Credit Union. And a sad farewell to the Armidale Club, where special nights were ended by fire.

And on a very sad note, while enjoying so many of the fruits of living here, we are shadowed both by the thought that there are 65 million refugees in the world and increasing evidence of climate change. We must work for a better future.

Susie Dunn.

new england focus. 33

Armidale Masonic Retirement Village celebrates 20 years.

C

an you tell us the history associated with the RFBI Armidale Masonic Retirement Village?

In 1992, Masonic Lodges in Armidale approached the Royal Freemasons Benevolent Institution (RFBI) to establish a retirement village with new Lodge Rooms and a community hall after a fire destroyed the original Masonic Lodge. The Cookes Road site was selected, and a Management Committee consisting of members of all District Lodges, Masonic Widows, Masonic Ladies Auxiliary and community representatives was formed in 1993 to oversee the build of the retirement village and fundraising projects.

In 1996, the first 12 units were completed, with a Community Hall and Masonic Lodge. RFBI Armidale Masonic Retirement Village, formerly known as New England Masonic Village, continued to grow and now has 34, two and

34 new england focus.

three bedroom independent living units.

Today, this thriving community consists of 38 residents, who enjoy the expansive views over the Armidale landscape. The village Community Hall is used frequently for social activities, functions and meetings throughout the year. A newly built residents lounge area and refurbished activities room is available to all self care residents to use.

Additional land next door to the retirement village was purchased a few years ago for future expansion.

What is going to be happening on your Open Day on Tuesday 8 November?

On Tuesday 8 November, from 10am, we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of our RFBI Armidale Masonic Retirement Village.

We will be starting the day off with a brief welcome by our recently appointed CEO, Frank Price and, Secretary, Rt. Wor. Bro Kevin

Mortimer. There will be yoga demonstrations

by U3A and Tai Chi by Barbara Wilson, Quilters and Patchwork New England will have displays of their work, and history tours of the Masonic Lodge will be available.

From noon we will be serving a delicious free BBQ lunch with salads and refreshments, followed by the awarding of our Village Spring Garden Festival prizes.

We are delighted to announce that Marilyn Pidgeon, acclaimed gardener of the New England region, and Dr Ian Tiley, Administrator, Armidale Regional Council, will be with us on the day to present the awards.

We would also like to thank the local business sponsorship this year, Richardson’s Hardware, CafÊ Studio 52 and Armidale Discount Drug Store.

Throughout the day visitors will be able to find out more about the benefits of retirement

living and what we have to offer. We will also be running guided tours of our village, with some of our units open for people to view.

We often get asked if you have to have connections to Freemasonry or be a Mason to live at RFBI Armidale Masonic Retirement Village, and the answer is no. All are welcome, so come along and discover the benefits of retirement living with us.

Who can come along on your Open Day? We invite everyone to come along and join us for our 20th anniversary festivities, especially those who are thinking of downsizing and moving into a more secure environment with an easier living lifestyle.

As well as having a lovely day out, it is a wonderful opportunity to speak with our residents and find out what they love most about retirement living at RFBI Armidale Masonic Retirement Village.

spring

Market - A T

N E R A M -

ARTISTS, ARTISANS, CRAFTSPEOPLE, DESIGNERS, JEWELLERS, CREATORS AND MAKERS FROM ACROSS THE REGION ARE SHOWCASING THEIR WORK IN THE FIRST SPRING MAKERS’ MARKET AT THE NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL ART MUSEUM (NERAM) AS PART OF THE 2016 BLACK GULLY FESTIVAL ON SATURDAY 12 NOVEMBER 2016.

T

his will be a great opportunity for of food local food and beverage stalls will be the New England community to available on the day as well. buy a diverse range of quality art, The New England Regional Art Museum is craft, fashion and design objects one of the main focal points for the activities and gifts by our talented artists and of the Black Gully Festival and will creators,” said Robert Heather, also have new art exhibitions Director of NERAM. “We (Warrakurna and Kangaroos want this inaugural Spring in my Blood), artistic Makers’ Market to activities, demonstrabecome a regular event of r tions, workshops and A numbe and present the work presentations in the people will also lk s and of some of the best gallery and the Packbe presenting ta out ab quality creative producdemonstrations saddle Studio, as well ers around the wider their work. ” as dining at Studio 52 region. café and a drinks bar by “There will be a wide the Friends of NERAM. of products to choose from, The Museum of Printing including fashion, homewares, will be open, with Luminous books, pottery, drawings, prints Land on show, a special one-day and even skateboards on sale all day exhibition by members of the Black Gully as part of the Black Gully Festival proPrintmakers Group who are raising funds gramme,” he said. “A number of people towards buying a new press and will be providwill also be presenting talks and demonstraing printing demonstrations for visitors. tions about their work.”

The Black Gully Festival is an annual celeArtists involved in the inaugural Spring Makbration of arts, music and the environment ers’ Market include: Hollipot Prints; Weemala held at the Black Gully site at the Moran Pottery; Corner of the Garden; Lizzie Horne Reserve in Armidale, that includes activities in Creative; Paddock Pantry; Baby Cakes and the New England Regional Art Museum and Sweet Dreams; Maddison Jayne and CSart98.

“

There will also be stalls by the Ascent Group; Armidale City Public School; Kentucky Tree Nursery and the Armidale and District Bonsai Society, as well as books from the mobile Reader’s Companion bookstore van. A range

the Armidale and Region Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place - both of which are on the site.

An ESCAPE TO ARMIDALE event.

Further information: www.neram.com.au new england focus. 35

36 new england focus.

House with No Steps

white leaf dental

House with No Steps is excited to announce they are expanding in the New England North West region. The NDIS is creating a fast-growing and competitive market for disability services, which is great, as this means more choice and control for people with a disability and their families, as well as new opportunities and challenges for House with No Steps.

Anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, and braces.

At White Leaf Dental, we believe that a beautiful smile goes beyond the teeth. A traditional smile makeover, using modern aesthetic dental techniques, can achieve extraordinary results - a stronger, whiter, brighter, straighter smile - but this is really just a “tooth make over”. Every day the muscles and soft tissues of our whole face are moving, and everyday exposure to the elements and pollution add to the wear and tear.

In due course we discover that life’s battle scars are permanently etched across our skin.

We offer a full range of anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers, to soften lines and rejuvenate the face. Our approach is to use personally tailored conservative treatments that provide just enough to restore natural beauty. We don’t believe in faces that don’t move, duck lips, or in any type of witchcraft that promises to make you look 30 years younger. We also use antiwrinkle injections to treat headache, jaw pain, migraine, gummy smile, and asymmetries.

We also offer a full range of orthodontic treatments, including braces, ceramic braces,

and Invisalign for adults and children. We look at orthodontics as being far more than just moving teeth. We like to consider the full face, and understand the link between growth and development, early feeding habits, airway obstruction, and other myofunctional patterns or habits such as thumb sucking, that can affect the teeth and the face.

A combination of treatments can help to achieve all of this and address common health issues that people would not even consider are linked to the position of the teeth, such as developmental problems, fatigue, bed wetting and irritability.

Increasing their geographic coverage in the New England North West area is important, as it means that this growth can help more people - which is what House with No Steps is all about.

House with No Steps already has an established administration office in Armidale and a vibrant community hub as well as an administration office in Tamworth. They have also recently opened a community hub in Gunnedah and are very excited to announce the opening of another community hub in Glen Innes.

Building social and community connections is vital to helping people with a disability develop

skills to build confidence and independence at all stages of life. With the establishment of the new community hubs in Glen Innes and Gunnedah, their dedicated local staff will bring a wide array of skills, competencies, personalities and experience. This will then help to create pathways for local people with a disability to connect with their community, so they can then be as independent as possible.

For more information about House with No Step services, or to receive updates about the Community Hubs, please contact (02) 5795 1887 or email gmihell@ hwns.com.au.

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

focusinterview.

Armidale

TOY LIBRARY Kellie from the Armidale Toy Library talks to FOCUS about its toy lending service ...

H

ow long has the Toy Library been operating in Armidale?

The Armidale Toy Library began operating in 1979, but was officially opened in October 1980. It’s the only facility of its kind within a 100 km radius. The Toy Library was originally a part of the Armidale District Learning Difficulties Association (ADLDA). The Toy Library is now a separate incorporated association. We are a not-for-profit organisation run by a volunteer committee.

The Toy Library is funded by the Department of Education, with major support received from local businesses, Jobs Australia, Roberts and Morrow and the Armidale Ex-Services Club. The Toy Library relies on fundraising initiatives throughout the year, such as the toy catalogues and Christmas raffles. Our motto is: “Why buy when you can borrow?”

Who can access the Toy Library in Armidale?

The Toy Library is available for the Armidale community and surrounding areas. Families, grandparents, family day carers, preschools, long day care centres, early intervention classes and schools can access the wonderful service the Toy Library provides.

How does the lending from the Toy Library work?

You need to become a member of the Toy

38 new england focus.

Library before you are able to borrow any toys What happens if my child damages a Toy or resources. A six month membership is $35, Library toy? or 12 months is $60. We also have a casual two If a piece goes missing, members can reweek membership for $20, perfect borrow, replace with their own similar toy, for grandparents during school or pay $5, which is refundable when holidays. The borrowing period the piece is returned. is for two weeks if in town If a toy or game can no A six month and three weeks if out of longer be used, it is the is p hi members town. Our opening hours 0. $6 is s member’s responsibility th on $35, or 12 m are Monday 9:30am al su ca a ve to replace with a new ha We also hip rs - 3:30pm, Thursday be em m k ee toy or pay the cost of two w for 9:30am - 4:30pm and for $20, perfect ng replacement. As a condition ri Saturday 9:30am - 12pm. grandparents du of membership, the toys Toys can be swapped over school holidays.” have to be returned clean. any day that we are open.

There is a $5 fine if toys are Toys can also be renewed over returned dirty. the phone on 6772 8838 or by Can people donate old toys to the email: armidaletoylibrary@gmail.com Toy Library?

What sort of toy range do you have?

We are happy to accept donations of good We cater for all children between the quality pre-loved toys. ages of 0 - 8 years old, but some of our ride Can you advise carers on what toys might be on toys are only suitable for toddlers. We have good for their child's particular needs? an extensive range of puzzles and board games As Coordinator, I (Kellie) have a Diploma in suitable for the whole family, musical instruments, Community Services (Children’s Services). I am blocks, doll houses, children and adult reference

“

books, toddler swings, play gyms, scooters, cars and so much more. We also have an educational section focusing on literacy and numeracy suitable for home schooling and children in Kindergarten - Year 2.

able to advise you on age appropriate toys for your children. I am happy to offer you assistance or answer any questions you may have.

Come and visit the Toy Library soon.

Thanks Kellie.

focusfeature.

Hobbit Preschool & Child Care Centre Hobbit has just received an "Exceeding" rating with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). What does this mean?

in order to prevent the centre from closure. In

For Hobbit, the recognition of “exceeding” under the national quality system is acknowledgement of exceeding educational programming and practice, including our consistent reflective practice. Communication and collaboration are key aspects for how we achieve this consistency. Without the dedication from management, our wonderful team of educators and our amazing children and families, an “exceeding” rating would not have been possible.

remains a viable, high quality, community based

How is the Armidale Ex-Services Club associated with Hobbit Preschool? Fortunately, in 2008/2009 the SerVies were able to provide support to Hobbit

individual child’s learning and development

40 new england focus.

2013, change of ownership officially occurred, and SerVies became the Approved Provider of Hobbit Preschool & Child Care Centre. Hobbit centre thanks to the affiliation with Armidale Ex-Services Memorial Club.

What features make Hobbit a unique Early Childhood Education Centre? Hobbit genuinely is a “home away from home” created with heartfelt family connections. The highly qualified and experienced team have created a loving and nurturing environment motivated by the importance of enhancing each through play. Hobbit’s vast natural outdoor play area is a favourite amongst our children and families.

focusfeature.

kurrawatha avenue elc Sensory play is important at Kurrawatha; can you tell us about what this is? Sensory play allows children the opportunity to connect with and explore their world using their whole body and all five of their senses. We know that by engaging in a range of messy play and sensory opportunities, children are also learning key skills such as language, maths, science and physical movement and social skills from a very early age.

We believe there’s no such thing as too much mess, and encourage children and families to engage with the natural environment, both inside and out.

We hear you have been hatching chickens; that must have been exciting? As part of our commitment to sustainable practices and learning to care for the world around us, we

have undertaken a project to hatch and raise chickens. The children have been a very big part of this process, waiting patiently for the eggs to hatch, before watching the entire process and learning about how we care for and raise them each day. It’s been a massive hit with all of our children and families.

What makes Kurrawatha preschool room so special? Our preschool room plays a very important role in combining the joys of play and just being a child, with the very important task of preparing them for school. We do this by incorporating important skills such as reading, writing, maths and social experiences into our play, as well as a tailored programme, aimed at improving every child’s strengths to ensure they are reaching their full potential.

armidale montessori preschool Armidale Montessori Preschool provides an experience for your child that is unique in the Armidale area. Our motto is “help me to do it myself”, and it underpins all our programing for the children. Our friendly and caring educators develop quality educational programmes that are centred around your child’s interests, which are designed to develop the capabilities in your child that are needed to master the variety of skills for use throughout their lifetime. The programmes are characterised by an emphasis on independence, freedom within limits, and respect for a child’s natural psychological, physical, and social development.

Centrally located near the hospital, Armidale Montessori Preschool is a community-based notfor-profit preschool and long day care centre that offers early childhood education and care

for children aged two years to school age. Our centre has been running for over 30 years, and we expanded our services to include vacation care in September of this year. Our unique mixed mode of care offers parents flexibility for the care of their children, at some of the lowest prices available in Armidale. Interested?

We are currently accepting enrolments for 2017, with limited places available. For further information, give our friendly staff a call on 6772 3628 or visit our website at: www.armidalemontessori.nsw.edu.au We welcome visitors to our preschool, so feel free to contact us to arrange a suitable time to come and see the preschool in action.

Mention this article, to receive a $20 discount off new enrolment fees. We look forward to hearing from you.

new england focus. 41

focusinterview.

Children’s Mobile SERVICE Inc. For 37 years, Gubi Gabun Children’s Mobile Service Inc. (Gubi) has provided Mobile Play Sessions in rural and socially isolated communities. Manager Susan Pancaldi tells us more about this very important service to our community.

W

hat is Gubi Gabun Children’s Mobile Service Inc.?

Gubi is a not-forprofit organisation, with its primary aim being to provide accessible structured early childhood sessions for birth to school age children at community venues throughout the townships and villages of New England.

We currently have 350 children attending our service, from 199 families. Gubi operates via an interdisciplinary team providing holistic services to promote children’s and their families’ health, wellbeing, education and development.

Where, when and how does Gubi hold their service?

Gubi’s team of qualified Early Childhood educators provide educational play sessions at 15 venues, on a fortnightly basis across the New England, including: Bald Blair, Ebor, Ben Lomond, Wongwibinda, Kingstown, Kentucky, Uralla, Bundarra, Chandler, Tingha, Armidale, Goorialla, Guyra, Walcha and Bendemeer.

The programme follows the National Quality Framework and the National Quality Standards, putting into practice an Emergent Curriculum, which means that our educational programmes are based on children’s interests.

Gubi extends its service by offering a Toy and Parent Resource Library and provides support to other community programmes, such as the multicultural women’s out-reach service (via

42 new england focus.

One of a Kind in Armidale), where we supply equipment and resources for educational programmes.

Is there an increasing need for Gubi Gabun’s unique educational service in New England?

As a mobile service, our success is attributed to providing quality Early Childhood Education, which has the flexibility to adjust service delivery in response to changes in community needs.

Our community strongly believes that educationally based play sessions provide a vital role in the early childhood education needs of children and families in rural, remote and isolated areas.

Service requirements have increased due to increased number of children in isolated and remote NSW communities, and we need increased support, not less support. Most recently Gubi have added to their supplemented playgroup community, Yarrowitch, with the hope to fit this community into a facilitated educational group in the New Year. There are many waiting on our unique service to deliver early education into their community.

How is Gubi funded?

Gubi is predominately funded by the Commonwealth Department of Education through their Budget Based Funding Programme (BBF).

The original BBF programme was initiated to reflect the diversity, population densities, remoteness etc. and need of childcare,

education and development across Australia and to ensure that the isolated children did not miss out.

Is there an increased need for more funding?

We have been advised that as a result of The Jobs for Families Childcare Package, Budget Based Funded (BBF) services will no longer be funded after June 2018 and instead, transition to Child Care Subsidy (CCS).

We have strong support from our families, who deeply value the educational opportunities that our service provides through play sessions.

Play sessions will not be funded under the Child Care Subsidy and to stay within the Department of Education, we will need to provide long day care instead. Play sessions provide strong socialisation opportunities for geographically isolated children, where parents stay with their children and learn how to support educational and developmental progress when they return home. In long day care settings, parents do not stay, and instead return to work or other activities.

Gubi has been informed they will be supported to transition to Child Care Subsidy, where we would be required to change our service delivery to long day care, or unknown alternative funding arrangements outside of the Department of Education, so we can continue to provide play sessions.

Under the Child Care Subsidy, funding will be linked to the number of children who

attend. In areas where populations are low, there will not be enough children to maintain a financially viable service, resulting in these rural and remote children potentially missing out on early education. A way to overcome this is for the Government to provide a form of subsidy to bridge the financial gap, so we can afford to continue servicing the educational needs of children in low population areas.

Communities serviced by Gubi across the New England area are diverse, and it is vital that Gubi has the ability to be responsive to changes in community and family needs. In some cases, long day care may be a good fit and in other cases, play sessions better meet the needs of families. Our families should have the ability to choose, based on need, rather than numbers.

Where to from here?

Gubi Gabun Children’s Mobile Service has been operating for 37 years. Gubi is concerned that the uniqueness of our service delivery methods will be lost under the new arrangements. Whilst not objecting to the need for changes to the child care system, it should not occur at the expense of established, trusted services who have provided innovative child care, early education and development for many years.

We need guarantees that the new proposals will not diminish current services, to the detriment of the children and their families that we support.

Thanks Susan.

focusfeature.

armidale waldorf SCHOOL

The Armidale Waldorf School is an independent school offering programmes to children from birth until 14 years of age.

O

ur curriculum provides children with a high standard of academic education in a beautiful natural setting. It balances their intellectual, moral and artistic development, and is based on the teachings of Rudolf Steiner.

PlayTime - Ages 0 - 3 PlayTime is a play group for parents and carers to attend with their children. It emphasises the importance of play in a child’s development and accustoms children to structured daily routines.

Play leads to higher self-esteem, better interpersonal competence, higher aspirations, and a heightened motivation for learning and selfefficiency.

Sessions are two and a half hours long, and involve crafts, stories, songs, free play, games and morning tea, which the children help prepare.

Boongaiai Preschool - Ages 3 - 5 Boongaigai Preschool is a community preschool that cares for up to 20 children each day. The environment is warm and nurturing. A typical day includes a balance of self-directed play and adultdirected activities like singing, movement, puppet stories, cooking, gardening and crafts.

Teachers provide clear boundaries and guidance to help children develop skills like empathy, cooperation and listening.

Preschool is open from 8:30 am to 3:30pm, five days a week.

Kindergarten - Ages 5 - 6 The transition from Preschool to Kindergarten is gentle, and creative play remains a priority.

Cooperation and sharing skills are also emphasised to nurture social and emotional well-being.

The class day is structured around a predictable schedule called a “rhythm”, with preliteracy and numeracy skills combined with other activities that develop cognitive learning and fine motor skills.

A typical daily rhythm includes: • Group circle time with songs, poems and movement • Indoor and outdoor self-directed play • Morning tea preparation, tidying up • Craft time • Story time • Bush-walk or games • Artwork • Hand gesture games

Classes 1 to 8 - Ages 7 - 14 At age seven, children enter Class 1, beginning a wonderful educational journey towards high school.

Children are taught in multi-age classes which create the sense of a small country school. Class 1 and 2, Class 3 and 4, Class 5 and 6, and Class 7 and 8 are each combined.

As children move throught the different stages of schooling, teachers remain with their chosen age group, thereby specialising in this educational stage.

As they do in PlayTime, Preschool and Kindergarten, children follow a structured schedule or rhythm each day. This allows for periods of deep concentration, artistic expression and physical activity. The balance of these components results in a more productive, less taxing day for students.

The school day is divided into three parts: Main

Lesson, Middle Lesson and Afternoon Lesson.

The Main Lesson has an academic focus and is taught during the first two hours of each day. It encompasses maths, English, history, geography, science and humanities. Each area is studied indepth over a three or four-week period.

The Middle Lesson focuses on music, language, art and craft, and drama. Art is integral to the curriculum, enhancing the Main Lesson and nurturing imagination, cognitive development and practical skill building.

The Afternoon Lesson is for handiwork like sewing, knitting, weaving and woodwork, as well as bush-walking or games.

We welcome you and your child to discover this creative environment and see the opportunities for yourself. Please join us on the 8th November for our Experience Day. Bookings are essential; phone 6772 8876.

new england focus. 43

40 years strong

44 new england focus.

D U C AT S - S E R V I C I N G T H E C O M M U N I T Y F O R 4 0 Y E A R S

40 years strong

DUCATS HAVE A PROUD HISTORY OF SERVICING THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY OVER THE LAST 40 YEARS.

F

rom humble beginnings, Peter and Colleen Ducat founded the company from a single concrete truck and built the business up to what it is today. Peter and Colleen raised six children, and passed the business onto the three boys, Sam, Tom and Jack in 2012. The boys now run the business and continue to follow in the traditions and values set by their parents.

When and why did you start in business?

Peter and I met in 1971. We were married in 1975, and so began the partnership of PJ & CM DUCAT, which in the 1990s became PJ & CM DUCAT PTY LTD. By the mid 1970s, Peter already had several trucks, and I was expeditiously given the bookwork to do. This was a job I didn’t relish, as maths was my worst subject at school.

new england focus. 45

40 years strong

What did you start with?

A few old trucks on Hire Purchase Plans.

We were subcontracting for Pioneer Concrete, which was located on the corner of Mann and Miller Streets, with a couple of agitators.

We also started carting aggregate from their quarry, as well as supplying sand and gravel.

By the late 1970s we had several trucks with agitators, tipper trucks and an old front end loader.

As Peter has a trade background in mechanics, he could fix anything, improvise and make up parts to fix any machinery that broke down. He could also operate a wide range of earthmoving equipment.

Tell us about how the business has grown over the years.

The early years were long hours and hard work, and we trod the path that most owners of small businesses do. We had good years and somehow managed to survive some very tough years.

By the early 1980s, Pioneer Concrete decided to close their gates. We purchased the land where the business is today and built a small office. We acquired a secondhand mobile concrete batching plant in 1982, and so began the arduous task of busting cement bags to produce ready mixed concrete. During

46 new england focus.

freezing winter mornings were The early years rd we had a fire going in ha d long hours an an old fuel tank to od the path k, wor and we tr heat the water going rs of small ne that most ow into the mix. This e had businesses do. W mehow was later replaced so d an s ar good ye by a diesel burner. All ive so me managed to surv this changed, when s.” ar very tough ye we stood our first bulk cement silo on the same day that Australia won the our sons formed, took over the America’s Cup in September management of the business in July 1983. There were celebrations all around.

2012.

Around this time, we won the job Tell us about your services ... to demolish the buildings on the block As well as our ready mixed concrete where the present K Mart Plaza stands. We supplies, concrete pump hire, earthmoving moved a building on the corner of Jessie plant and truck hire for large and small and Dumaresq Streets, which was McLeods jobs including dams etc., we provide a Tyre Service, to our site in Miller Street. We range of garden and construction materials, reconstructed this building as our workshop. including bitumen.

We also supply firewood Gradually over the ensuing years we built and drinking water.

We have a registered up our fleet of trucks and earthmoving weighbridge for certifi cation certificates etc. equipment, employed more staff, built up Some of the major jobs we have done a loyal customer and supplier base and include the synthetic hockey field at UNE, had a very good relationship with our bank which was innovative at the time; the managers at the time. earthworks for the terminal building at the In 2011 we bought Tibbs Concrete plant in airport, along with the extension of the Guyra and employed their staff. runway and apron for aircraft and the carpark; Ducats Earthmoving Pty Ltd, the company

“

the carpark for the K Mart plaza when it was built in the early 1980s; and the upgrade at the Sewerage Treatment Works. The company has done numerous roadworks, carparks and subdivisions in Armidale and surrounding area; earthworks and gravel pads for many commercial and domestic projects; dam building and cleaning.

Tell us about your team ...

Our business is our staff and the input that they have. We are very appreciative of the contribution of each one. We have had many very long term employees over the years.

Some of these employees from the 1980s and 1990s who are still working with us today are Dave Rocks, Steve Cundy, Allen Frost, Robert Crapp, Michael O’Brien, Mick McFadyen, Phil Frizell, Phil Church and Wayne Tassell. The

D U C AT S - S E R V I C I N G T H E C O M M U N I T Y F O R 4 0 Y E A R S

expertise of these people past and present has grown our business to where it is today, and we are indebted to them. Our workshop foremen over the years and the mechanics and apprentices we trained had a big job in maintaining our plant and equipment.

We have had some wonderful times with our staff and their families, social club events and our huge Christmas parties and barbecues and drinks after work.

Peter has always had a passion for trucks.

Tell us about his obsession/passion and the fleet now.

In the late1960s, Peter left Armidale, after working as Foreman of the workshop of

to I have travelled ith w es ac pl many ol d Peter, collecting ing go is he at th trucks y. I have da e on up do to w many lost count of ho he has.�

“

Amidale Motor Service, to pursue work in the Northern Territory. He drove road trains for Kittle Bros., delivering fuel and other materials between Tennant Creek and Darwin. I guess this is where his love of trucks began, alongside his passion for old cars. On returning to Armidale in 1971, he formed a partnership with a mate, purchased an old truck and performed many jobs like cleaning out septic tanks and carting away waste cardboard from the back

of shops etc. I have travelled to many places with Peter, collecting old trucks that he is going to do up one day. I have lost count of how many he has. He also has a vintage car that he plans to restore.

I guess, and I am hoping, that these projects will keep him busy in his retirement.

Working with your partner and family can be trying at times. How have you made working as a family such a success?

I suppose it was a case of "have to" that Peter and I worked together, particularly during the early years, when we did not have any other office staff.

Our six children were reared at our workplace. We had a small yard behind the office with a sandpit, where they played with their Tonka trucks etc. As they got older and while still at school, the girls helped in the office until they left to get another job that paid more. They all learnt to drive, along with many of their friends, in our old Subaru utes around the yard. There were many 18th and 21st parties in the shed.

new england focus. 47

D U C AT S - S E R V I C I N G T H E C O M M U N I T Y F O R 4 0 Y E A R S

40 years strong

Sam joined the company as an employee when he finished school, and Tom and Jack pursued their own careers before coming back.

I suppose it works as we all have a different role in the business, and we are a close family unit outside of work.

We are always mindful of the fact that every gamble taken and decision made not only affects our business and family, but also that of each employee and their families, subcontractors and suppliers etc.

48 new england focus.

Ducats are extremely community involved. Tell the readers about some of the community projects that you have been involved in and how Ducats have contributed to the community over the 40 years ...

Our philosophy is that you must give back to the community in which you live and work.

Over the years, as many other local businesses also do, we have contributed to and made donations to schools, pre-schools,

the skatepark, fundraising charities, sponsored and supported many sporting teams and clubs and many individuals. Some of our major contributions were donated earthworks for Autumn Lodge and the second stage of NERAM. We were recognised by Premier Bob Carr for our contribution to the community during the 1997 hailstorm, with manpower and donation of sandbags Peter has been very generous with his time personally, with his involvement in many

community organisations, service clubs and Council.

Ducats continue to offer support to the community which supports us. We feel this is a big part of being involved in the local community. For any of your readers who may be seeking support for a community event, we now have a platform for people to apply for funding through our website. This can be accessed at http://www.ducats.net.au/ community/.

D U C AT S - S E R V I C I N G T H E C O M M U N I T Y F O R 4 0 Y E A R S

When did Sam, Tom and Jack incorporate into the business?

The boys have been involved virtually from the day they were born. They spent every week day there before they started school and then after school in following years. I must admit that they did not enjoy going there after school; however, they were involved in many sports, so it wasn’t so bad. They played with toys in the sandpit and then graduated to building go carts and bikes to roar around the yard on. They did all have other jobs while they were at school. After completing school, Sam joined the company as a plant operator

Installing a Weighbridge age in was a big advant every at making sure th was ed gh product wei .� nt ou am t ec the corr

“

and then as an Estimator and Project Manager. Tom did an apprenticeship as a Boilermaker and worked in that field in Brisbane for several years, before returning to Armidale.

He joined the company working as a welder in the workshop and then as Plant Manager. Jack worked for Boeing as an Aeronautical Engineer for some years.

He then completed an MBA at Melbourne Business School and has been working on his

own project for several years. He joined Sam and Tom in the business, after they decided to take over in 2012, as the Financial and Business Manager. They all have different personalities, but blend in well together.

Business has changed lots over the years. How has the earthmoving industry changed and adapted?

It certainly has. Life seemed to be so much more basic and easygoing 40 years ago, even though it was not always an easy ride. The

technological changes that made my life easier were computers - no more manually typing up accounts, recording wages and everything else by hand. Two-way radios - no more driving around job sites with instructions and messages.

Installing a Weighbridge was a big advantage in making sure that every product weighed was the correct amount.

Modernisation of plant and machinery to keep up with the requirements of customers has always been a major priority, and this is becoming a major focus of the business now.

new england focus. 49

D U C AT S - S E R V I C I N G T H E C O M M U N I TY F O R 4 0 Y E A R S

40 years strong

All the evolving and changing rules, regulations, business and strategic plans, OH & S, environmental impact issues, policies and quality assurance that have come into play over the years have certainly changed how businesses have had to operate, adapt, perform and keep abreast of all requirements.

Tell us about your valued customers and suppliers.

Our customers are many and varied, and we are fortunate to have their custom. Their loyalty is much valued by us and our staff. We strive to provide the best service we can for them.

50 new england focus.

Our customers are many and e varied , and we ar eir th ve ha to e at fortun lty is ya lo r ei Th . om cust and us by much valued to e riv st e W our staff. se rvice provide the best .� we can for them

“

Our suppliers are also many and varied and have been good to us, particularly when times have been tough, and we thank them for this.

Now that Sam, Tom and Jack have taken the reins, how has this impacted on Peter's and your lifestyle?

It has impacted greatly on our lifestyle.

We now have the freedom to do want we want to do. It was a big decision they made and a huge responsibility to undertake

when they decided they would take over the business.

We have been doing a lot of travel and will continue to do so as long as we are able to. We can spend quality time with our grandchildren and elderly parents.

Peter has also been able to help out our daughter and son-in-law, who have a property in western New South Wales with their harvests and droving their cattle during

drought conditions. Life is good.

What's in the works for the future of Ducats earthmoving?

Business as usual, in the most part, but watch this space. I know the boys have taken on some of their father’s entrepreneurial spirit and they have plans to continually improve the service they are offering to customers.

Of course, we would love to see them make every success of the company and potentially even pass it onto the next generation of family, staff and community.

Thanks Colleen.

AVOIDING UNDERINSURANCE A common problem that many business owners in Australia face is underinsurance.

Review your business insurance policy regularly.

Once a year is a good idea, or more frequently if you're taking on new employees or looking to sell a new product or service.

We can help you with this. In fact, one of the benefits of arranging your policy through Elders Insurance is that we can visit your business in-person and discuss your insurance options with you.

Keep up-to-date with how much construction and repair work generally costs.

When people are organising business

property insurance and deciding how much to insure their premises for, they often neglect to factor in how much it will cost to repair or reconstruct if and when disaster strikes.

Elders Insurance agents have a rough idea of the cost of construction and repair work in your region, but it pays to get a qualified builder to come out and give you an estimate.

Remember that lower premiums are not always better.

It can be tempting to save money by only covering the bare necessities in your business, but this could leave you with significant out-of-pocket expenses if your company is affected by a loss-causing event.

new england focus. 51

focusinterview.

NEWLING

EVERY CHILD CAN ACHIEVE THEIR DREAM AT NEWLING PUBLIC SCHOOL. WITH A PROFESSIONAL STAFF USING THE LATEST INNOVATIONS IN MODERN CLASSROOMS, EACH CHILD IS GIVEN A BOOST INTO THEIR FUTURE.

N

ewling Public School prides itself on delivering outstanding educational programmes in our exceptionally well resourced classrooms," says Newling Principal Mr Murray Cox. “The staff are committed to the idea of lifelong learning, using the most current learning programmes to develop students’ skills and self-confidence."

Leading the way in technology innovation, Newling Public School was selected for the Microsoft Partners in Learning programme. Every student is provided the latest tablet computers and netbooks, with every child able to access the wireless network from their individual computer. Kindergarten teacher Mrs Liz Peazley commented that, "It is simply amazing to watch our Kindergarten children coding and creating animations on tablet computers.”

Every classroom and learning space has been fitted with equipment to display students’ digital creations and achievements; mobile computer laboratories were established, so that every class had access to appropriate technology at all times. The traditional desktop computer lab was dismantled to make way for modern furnishings to accommodate collaborative learning. The school has embraced the notion of anywhere, anytime learning.

“Our students have unprecedented access to learning opportunities. Newling prides itself on delivering outstanding educational programmes that cater for every child’s learning needs,” says Mr Cox.

52 new england focus.

Newling Public School is committed to the individual and an all-weather court for netball and basketball. child, with family and community participation fostered This year Newling has been successful in gaining and nurtured. The school hosts a weekly playgroup for representation in state and regional sporting teams. families every Thursday in the school’s spacious The most popular student area in hall. Newling's "Little Stars" Transition the school is the Star Room, a is a shining success in giving the wellbeing initiative started through children the best possible start to ve ha ts en consultation with students ud st ur O school, with the children engaging representatives. “S unprecedented ng in activities that prepare them ni ar le to ss tudents who achieved class ce ac ewling for future academic and social opportunities . N Star Awards are given the deliver ing success. prides itself on privilege of using the ‘Star ational Quality literacy and numeracy outstanding educ ter Room’ during the lunch break. ca at th programmes programmes for all students are ng ni ar le We have board games, video ’s ild ch for every delivered by highly skilled teaching games, air hockey, craft activities needs.” and support staff at Newling and even a pool table to use as a Public School, to ensure academic reward for all the students who give success for students. Partnerships with their best each and every day. It is very NECOM and partner secondary schools ensure big privilege and a great motivator to do your students develop their academic knowledge, with a best,” says Mr Cox. current focus of science and technology. Gifted and "Newling Public School aims at nurturing every talented students are provided with opportunities child with the opportunity and skill to prepare them to participate in enrichment programmes within the for the future through extensive academic, cultural and school. sporting programmes," states Mr Cox. "The cheerful, Students are provided with many opportunities caring family school environment ensures all students to develop their cultural, sporting and social needs. are individually catered for, to ensure a lifelong passion Students are encouraged to think "green", with for learning." vegetable gardens placed in the picturesque playground The smiling faces of the children as they walk into and a composting and recycling scheme facilitated by their school attest that the school indeed aims for every the student Environmental Impact Squad. The school boasts wonderful sporting facilities, with cricket nets child to achieve their dream at Newling Public School.

“

VIL L $42 AS FRO M 9

,00 0*

Last remaining villas selling now at Newling Gardens Don’t miss your last chance to secure one of our final luxury villas!

The brand new villas at Newling Gardens are spacious, bright and thoughtfully designed for casual, modern living.

Each one offers either two or three bedrooms and exudes style and sophistication with a light, open plan layout and quality fittings and fixtures throughout.

For residents’ comfort and ease, our villas are also single level with no stairs and incorporate a range of senior-friendly features, such as wide hallways and doorways, high power points, mixer taps, non-slip flooring and large shower recesses.

Each villa also comes equipped with a 24 hour emergency call system for added security and peace of mind.

With limited villas remaining, now is the time to act! Call 6772 4440 or join us at our upcoming open house - see below for details.

Our community centre is under renovation and will soon be doubling in size! Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/newlinggardens for regular updates and photos.

OPEN HOUSE 12.30 - 2.30pm, Thursday 3rd November & 10.30am - 12.30pm, Saturday 5th November Come along and inspect our stylish display villa, tour our beautifully maintained grounds and chat with our residents over a complimentary morning tea!

*Price correct at time of printing

Phone us today for more information on 6772 4440 173 Taylor Street, Armidale | www.retireaustralia.com.au 46 new england focus.

focusinterview

Business Minds with Ingrid Rothe of VIVID Thinking

BUSINESS minds

BIRD TOURS ARMIDALE ABOUNDS WITH SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSES THAT FLY UNDER THE RADAR. THIS MONTH I’D LIKE TO INTRODUCE DAVID BISHOP, OF DAVID BISHOP BIRD TOURS.

D

avid is a world renowned ornithologist/explorer - a type of zoologist who focuses on birds. David has successfully turned a lifelong personal passion into a thriving international career. David is an accomplished explorer, researcher and author, and has chosen to headquarter his international bird tour/research business in Armidale.

David Bishop Bird Tours (DBBT) is an excellent example of a business where the owner IS the brand. If I had to describe David, I would suggest he exudes British style, American energy and Australian charisma.

What does DBBT do?

I offer the highest quality, bespoke, bird and natural history tours. I only conduct individual or small group tours, so that I can offer a high degree of customisation around destination, timing, itinerary and size. Most bird tour organisations operate larger groups and focus on being cost efficient, with less ability to offer personal attention.

Can you tell us about your professional experience?

While I have spent 39 years in the birding industry, my first career was as a police officer in London’s West End. One day a small boy came to me with an injured bird that he entrusted into my care. I contacted the local

54 new england focus.

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds to find out what to do, and the end result of this experience was an invitation to join them on a bird watching trip, sowing the seed that led me to become an ornithologist.

I ended up working as a researcher in the remote forests of New Guinea but frankly, I missed the human contact, so when approached by Victor Emmanuel Nature Tours (VENT) I ultimately led tours for them for 28 years. I’ve also undertaken 22 major expeditions with Pulitzer prize-winner Prof Jared Diamond.

What led you to starting an international business?

I had a near-death experience in Ghana at the end of 2013 that led me to re-evaluate my priorities. I’d been wanting to go out on my own for quite a long time, but hadn’t quite been prepared to take that first leap into the unknown. … and headquartering it in Armidale?

I moved to Armidale while still working for VENT. My wife, Linda, and our daughter had attended an exhibition in Sydney where they had seen a school brochure showing students horse riding. They came home, and pretty much told me we were moving to Armidale.

At that time, my only professional requirement was easy access to an airport, and on visiting Armidale we fell in love with the community,

ost One of David’s m s ie er exciting discov a of y er was the rediscov dise , ra pa of bizarre bird rdwing Wallace’s Standa cii) in la (S emioptera wal en be d ha ch hi w , 1983 r 50 fo ct thought extin years.”

“

the environment, and all that Armidale offers. When I went to move out on my own as a solopreneur in 2014, Armidale ticked all the boxes; in fact, with its high quality internet access, it could not have been more ideal. We wouldn’t live anywhere else. God bless Qantas!

Your tour schedule sold out in your first year in business. What is the secret of your success?

I had an established reputation in the industry, was experienced in delivering highquality tours, and have made sure that my tours meet the highest customer service standards.

The degree of customisation I offer means I can, under most circumstances, exactly match a tour - although I like to call them adventures to an individual client’s wants.

I also made sure I took professional advice before launching my business. I have a great accountant and financial advisor and an incredible travel agent. I also engaged a marketing advisor to guide me through the launch of my business, and with whom I still partner today. Currently I’m booked through to 2019, so while my business is very niche-

oriented, I believe I have targeted it effectively.

What do you enjoy most about your business?

I travel the world three quarters of the year and cannot imagine anything better than exploring the world’s wild and beautiful places with friends and clients.

What is the most challenging thing you have found in running your own business?

I’d have to say dealing with myself. I am still quite apprehensive about approaching clients and still slightly surprised when they accept a quote. I also don’t spend enough time working on my business - to date this year I have only been home 17 days - but this is something I am trying to improve upon.

What is your advice for businesses who are just starting out?

Professionally, the last three-and-a-half years have been the best of my life; however, don’t do it unless you absolutely love what you do, and unless you really know your business.

Most importantly though, be married to Linda Bishop!

Thanks David.

Thinking Notary – with Chris Serow

THINKING

NOTARY

N

otarial practice is a profession of great antiquity, probably having its origin in the civil institutions of ancient Rome.

The office of Notary Public developed from the activities of scribes, until Notaries became independent officers. A Notary’s certificate and seal are awarded recognition internationally as a public act in the same way as a document under the seal of a Court. Since January 1986, the appointment of Notaries in New South Wales has been made by the Supreme Court in accordance with provisions contained in the Public Notaries Act 1997 (No. 98). The suitability for appointment, however, is determined by the Legal Profession Admission Board, which has made rules for the appointment of Notaries.

In some ways, the office of a Notary has many similar roles to that of a Justice of the Peace (JP).

So what do each of these appointments do, and how are they different?

What is a Justice of the Peace?

A JP plays an essential part in the legal system and in the community of NSW. Unlike the office of a Notary Public, it is not necessary for JPs to be legally qualified, and they are not entitled to charge fees for service. Two of the main functions of JPs are to witness the signing and execution of documents such as statutory declarations and affidavits and to certify copies of documents. The conduct of a JP is subject to the Code of Conduct for Justices of the Peace in NSW. Failure of a JP to comply with the Code of Conduct can result in loss of office or review.

Dishonesty or failure to fulfil statutory obligations can result in legal proceedings being brought against a JP in negligence. In Graham v Hall & 1 [2006] NSWCA 208 for example, a JP was sued for damages for alleging to have witnessed the signature of another when not in that person’s presence.

The Australian Federal Government does not appoint JPs, which is regulated by the states.

The duties and appointment of JPs in NSW are regulated through the Justices of the Peace Act 2002 and the Justices of the Peace Regulation 2003. More information on JPs can be found on NSW Attorney General’s Department website at: www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/lawlink/cru/ll_cru.nsf/ pages/jp_index JPs within the region can also obtain information and support by joining the NSW Justices

Association Northern Tablelands Support Group.

What is the difference between a JP and a Notary Public?

A Notary Public in NSW must be admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW and have not less than 5 years’ experience as a legal practitioner.

Additional notarial practice training is required and, once appointed, Notaries are entitled to charge fees for their services.

As a guide, the NSW Society of Notaries publishes a recommended scale of fees each year. The current recommended scale is applied at Legal Minds and can be viewed at http://notary.zfweb. net/fees_scale In addition to all of the functions of a JP, a Notary is required to have the combined legal experience to draw up formal certificates and to notarise, verify, certify and authenticate documents that can be recogised throughout the world, such as debentures, affidavits for use in Court proceedings in other countries, powers of attorney, estate matters, confirming identity of individuals and even ships protests. A Notary is identified by their registered signature and their Notarial seal. When documents are notarised, a certificate drafted and executed by the Notary is sewn onto the copy of the document with a ribbon. A wafer is placed over the ends of the ribbon and sealed with an embosser. The certificate can then not be removed unless either the paper is torn, the ribbon is cut, or, the seal is broken. This process ensures that a document is secure. A stapled certificate is not accepted by DFAT or for other notarial purposes.

To ensure recognition of the Notary’s signature and seal, registration is made with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

This is an important process, as some countries, like Australia, are contracting States to the Hague Convention of 5 October 1961 and instead of having to have public documents legalised by individual countries, documents can be sealed with an Apostille by DFAT. In those countries that are not a Convention country, individual Consulates are required to be consulted on specific arrangements for those countries, which can in some cases be more complex and expensive. Within our social and business community the role and responsibility of JPs and Notaries are an important function to ensure the authenticity and certification of documents, to keep our day to day local and international business transactions moving.

Christopher K C Serow Principal, Solicitor Director, Notary Public, Migration Agent MARN 0854319 new england focus. 55

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.

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 from February ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE Graduate Certificate in Bachelor of Accounting Graduate Diploma in Accounting* Master of Professional Accounting

AGRICULTURE, RURAL SCIENCE AND PLANT SCIENCE

Diploma of Agriculture Bachelor of Agriculture 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 Bachelor of Animal Science Bachelor of Zoology (Also see Science)

ARTS

Diploma in Arts Advanced Diploma in Arts Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science Master of Arts*

BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE AND PHARMACY

Bachelor of Biomedical Science Bachelor of Pharmacy with Honours

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING

Diploma in Business Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Arts /Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Economics Bachelor of Organisational Leadership Bachelor of Training and Development Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management

Bachelor of Educational Studies Bachelor of Special Education (Primary)/Bachelor of Disability Studies Bachelor of Training and Development Graduate Certificate in Education Studies Graduate Certificate in eLearning Master of Education CLASSICS, HISTORY, Master of Applied Leadership in PHILOSOPHY AND STUDIES Positive Education Master of Teaching (Primary) IN RELIGION Advanced Diploma in Local, Family Master of Teaching (Secondary) and Applied History ENVIRONMENTAL AND Bachelor of Historical Inquiry and EARTH SCIENCES Practice Bachelor of Environmental Science Graduate Diploma in Local, Family Bachelor of Environmental Science/ and Applied History Bachelor of Laws Master of Arts Bachelor of GeoScience Master of History Graduate Certificate in COMPUTER SCIENCE Environmental Science AND INFORMATION Master of Natural Resource Governance TECHNOLOGY Master of Planning and Bachelor of Computer Science Management of Natural Bachelor of Computer Science/ Hazards*# Bachelor of Laws Master of Environmental Science Master of Computer Science and Management Master of Information Technology*# ENGLISH, WRITING, MEDIA Master of Information Technology AND COMMUNICATIONS (Business) Diploma in Professional Communication ECONOMICS AND Bachelor of Media and AGRIBUSINESS Communications Bachelor of Agribusiness EXERCISE AND SPORTS Bachelor of Agricultural and Resource Economics SCIENCE Bachelor of Economics Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Bachelor of Economics/Bachelor Physiology of Laws Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Master of Economic and Regional Science Development GEOGRAPHY AND Master of Economics# Management Master of Business Administration Master of Information Technology (Business) Master of International Business Master of Strategic Organisational Development and Human Resource Management

EDUCATION AND TEACHING PLANNING Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) Bachelor of Education (In-service Conversion) Bachelor of Education (K-6 Teaching) Bachelor of Education (K-12 Teaching) Bachelor of Education (Secondary in Arts; Mathematics; Music or Science)

Diploma in Town Planning Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning Master of Urban and Regional Planning#

LANGUAGES AND CULTURAL STUDIES

Diploma in Modern Languages Bachelor of International Studies Bachelor of International and Language Studies

Bachelor of Languages Bachelor of Languages and International Business

LAW AND CRIMINOLOGY

Diploma in Prosecution and Advocacy Bachelor of Criminology Bachelor of Laws (3 years) Bachelor of Laws (4 years) Double degrees in Law available in Agriculture; Arts; Business; Computer Science; Criminology; Economics; Environmental Science and Science Graduate Certificate in NDIS Business Development Master of Laws Master of Natural Resource Governance

LINGUISTICS

Master of Applied Linguistics

MEDICINE

Bachelor of Medicine - Joint Medical Program**

NURSING, SOCIAL WORK AND HEALTH

Bachelor of Psychological Science Bachelor of Psychology with Honours^^ Bachelor of Social Science Graduate Diploma in Psychology Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced)^^ Master of Professional Psychology^^ Master of Psychology (Clinical)**

SCIENCE

Diploma in Science Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws Graduate Certificate in Science Graduate Diploma in Science Master of Scientific Studies

SUSTAINABILITY

Bachelor of Sustainability

THEATRE, PERFORMANCE AND MUSIC

Diploma in Music Skills ^^ Diploma in Music Technology Bachelor of Audiometry Bachelor of Music^^ Bachelor of Nursing Bachelor of Theatre and Bachelor of Social Work Performance Graduate Certificate in Acute Care Master of Applied Theatre Studies Nursing ENTRY PATHWAYS Graduate Certificate in Clinical Pathways Enabling Course Education and Teaching Graduate Certificate in Disability TRACKS Tertiary Preparation Management Program (Aboriginal and Torres Graduate Certificate in Health Strait Islander) Management * Graduate Certificate also Graduate Diploma in Disability available Management # Graduate Diploma also available Master of Counselling# ** On Campus Only Master of Health Management# Master of Mental Health ^^ Early Application closing date Practice*# Please see website for individual Master of Nursing course rules and admissions Master of Social Work criteria.

(Professional Qualifying) Information correct at time of printing.

PEACE, POLITICAL AND

INTERNATIONAL STUDIES Diploma in Arts Advanced Diploma in Arts Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of International Studies Bachelor of International and Language Studies Master of Arts*

Apply now to begin 20 February une.edu.au/together 1800 818 865 56 new england focus.

PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY