New England Focus i122

Feature Story Paula Jenkins

NEW ENGLAND

July 2017//Issue 122

N E W

E N G L A N D

C O N S E R VAT O R I U M

O F

M U S I C

ng demand, Oak New England region tional villages in Gunnedah with e future.

The O make and se catch

new trend is to said.

OAK TREE IS EXPANDING IN NEW ENGLAND

demand, Oak England region nalWvillages in nnedah with ture. ith over a decade of experience in building and operating retirement villages throughout Australia, the Oak Tree Group is committed to providing quality retirement living options to Australian seniors, with a focus on expanding into underserviced regional centres.

Originally from country towns themselves, the Oak Tree founders are passionate about helping seniors to continue living in their local communities.

In response to this growing demand, Oak Tree is expanding in the New England region and now has three operational villages in Armidale, Tamworth and Gunnedah with plans for more sites in the future.

2 new england focus. 155 1300 367

Kate Pigram of Oak Tree Retirement Village - Armidale, Rod Sawtell of Tamworth and Kathryn Blinman of Gunnedah form the successful New England team working closely together to support local seniors to live an easier lifestyle in retirement.

“We employ local people, often born and bred, who have an intrinsic connection to the immediate community. Our people actively support local community groups and build immediate rapport with our residents, their families and the broader community at large” said Mr Bindon.

“Collec Villag to add

provide for them on a broader scale,” said Mr Bindon.

“Our Village Managers are there to back each other up and provide support on the ground across all three villages. Whether assisting each other with events such as Open Days or the Biggest Morning Tea or administrative back-up in the event of illness or holidays, Oak Tree give residents the comfort and surety that there are staff nearby always.

As local businesses, it’s also important for us to give back to the communities that support us. As a hub of villages across three New England centres, we can do bigger things as a united group, and this year we have committed to corporate sponsorship of Tamworth’s White Elephant Winter Ball, a major event for the region which raises awareness of depression in younger people,” he said.

“As a private operator, we insist on a close connection between staff and our residents. That’s our point of difference and the reason that we invest so much in identifying the right staff” he said.

The Oak Tree Group’s hub strategy makes it easier to deliver quality product and service at a local level to a broader catchment of seniors.

“Collectively, the hub of New England Villages and the local staff are equipped to address the needs of our residents and

and serv catchme

“Being close to family, friends, their local and trusted doctors and favourite shops outweighs the urge to chase ‘the ultimate retirement destination’. The new trend is to live local and stay local” he said.

Part of the group’s national expansion strategy is to develop close-knit, serviceable, regional hubs which are managed at a local level by a Regional Manager with the support of hands-on Village Managers who live in the area and know the local people.

“Collecti Villages to addre

“Over the years we have seen a remarkable shift in culture from the ‘sea-change’ once sought after in retirement. These days there is a growing desire amongst retirees to stay more connected to their roots in the home towns they know and love,” said Managing Director of Oak Tree Group Mark Bindon.

Tamworth Village Manager Rod Sawtell, New England Area and Armidale Village Manager Kate Pigram and Gunnedah Village Manager Kathryn Blinman

Oak Tree Retirement Villages offer a new way of life for seniors in a securely gated community with homes that are easy to live in. There are neighbours and friends of a similar age and interests, all enjoying a maintenance free lifestyle where lawns, gardens and village maintenance is managed by the Oak Tree team.

Oak Tree Armidale, Tamworth and Gunnedah have homes which are ready right now. Meet the hub team and take a tour. Display homes are open Monday to Friday from 10am - 2pm.

www.oaktreegroup.com.au

focus team.

Ascent is your NDIS partner in the New England.

We are ready to support you with your first NDIS plan!

Welcome to the July edition of New England FOCUS.

J

uly marks the downhill run of the year; we’ve made it over the “hump”. A month for nationwide weeks such as ... 3 - 9 July, Sleep Awareness Week; 9 15 July, National Diabetes Week; and our personal favourite, 21 July, National Pyjama Day. Keeping with the International July 15th’s World Youth Day, we are dedicating a feature to Education and Training, in which you can find out all the ways to train, learn and teach your way to success!

decades. New Director, Russell Bauer, has

local school teacher and sports co-ordinator

recently moved to the New England from

Susan Kelly for some school auditions, and

Queensland, to take NECOM from strength

discovered more about this event.

to strength. A higher octave, if you will.

Talented Walcha artist Paula Jenkins tells

INSIDE THIS EDITION

us all about her upcoming exhibition at

High Country Theatre are at it again, with

the Walcha Gallery of Art in July. Paula,

the adaptation of the famous classic film,

a passionate “Walcha-ite”, gains her

The Red Balloon. Expect Hanna’s Arcade to

inspiration from the surrounding landscapes

be transformed into a Parisian wonderland.

of the New England, predominantly the

We get up on stage and talk with Barbara

Walcha district. We chat with Paula, to find

Albury about this new take on a classic.

out more.

ON THE COVER This month we feature the New England Conservatorium of Music, passionately known to locals as NECOM. NECOM has played an integral part in the New England community, and over the years has produced many talented musical artists. We toot their horns in homage to the education and training they have provided over the

An evening with Armidale Community of

FINAL SAY

Schools (formerly known as North West

“One kind word can warm three winter

Creative Arts Festival) will be a night to

months.” - Japanese Proverb.

contacts.

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

remember. With this event ticking over 30 years, 2017 will be a dazzling showcase of local talent. With over 500 hundred K - 12

For information on how we can assist, contact our friendly team on 02 6776 8977, email admin@ascentgroup.org.au or visit www.ascentgroup.org.au

students from the Northern New South Wales Districts, this will be a special night for families across the region. FOCUS joined

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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.

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TORI FORSYTH.

8

THE RED BALLOON.

Hanna’s Arcade will be transformed into a Parisian wonderland, as High Country Theatre produces a new adaptation of the classic film, The Red Balloon. We go behind the scenes with Barbara Albury to find out more ...

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4 new england focus.

Tori Forsyth is an Alternate Country singing prodigy.

With her sweet, soulful sounds, Tori has taken the New England by storm. FOCUS finds out more about the girl behind the guitar ...

14

GOSTWYCK MERINO.

FOCUS is “On the Land” with Phillip Attard, owner of Gostwyck Merino. Set just up from Gostwyck Chapel, this beautiful property is producing some of the finest wool in the region. We sit down and talk turkey (well, lamb in this case) with Phillip.

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

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Brand new villas now available at Newling Gardens Newling Gardens is one of Armidale’s most sought-after retirement living communities, and its residents enjoy relaxed, secure, and social lifestyles.

Fully-refurbished and expanded facilities

Brand new independent living villas

The new villas are ready, the refurbished community centre is open, and the kettle’s on the boil, so there’s never been a better time to make a home of your own at Newling Gardens!

Call 02 6772 4440 any time to book a personal tour or visit retireaustralia.com.au/newlinggardens for more information

Relaxed and secure lifestyle

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focusinterview.

LOCAL WALCHA ARTIST PAULA JENKINS TELLS FOCUS READERS ABOUT HER UPCOMING EXHIBITION IN JULY AT THE WALCHA GALLERY OF ART.

T

ell us about your involvement with art in Walcha ...

I moved to Walcha with my husband 10 years ago, though at the time I had no idea just how much of an incredibly creative community Walcha was. I feel very blessed to be surrounded by a wonderful group of talented artists, in addition to the Walcha Gallery of Art, which is a contemporary gallery showcasing artists from the region, interstate and beyond. This is where I launched my professional career as an artist, and where I continue to exhibit.

How would you describe your approach to your art?

I am a landscape artist working in a range of mediums, now predominantly oil paint. My upcoming exhibition at the Walcha Gallery of Art this July will include mostly oil on board works, with some gouache on paper pieces completed during a recent field trip to Fowlers Gap, north of Broken Hill.

Colour is a big form of expression for me in my art practice, and I find myself particularly attracted to the warmer palette and more feminine colours. Perhaps this stems from my love of the central interior and the beautiful shades of pinks and oranges that radiate within those landscapes.

I enjoy the process of layering paint in various tones, scraping back, and re-applying, to create depth in

6 new england focus.

a variety of layers and colours. I was a part of the Group Christmas Colour is a often start out with more detail, Show at the Walcha Gallery of big form of and then begin eliminating until Art in December; and earlier this e in expression for m d I it resembles something I feel year I had artworks included in an my art practice, comfortable with. the Toowoomba Grammar Art ly ar ul ic find myself part er Even though I enjoy working Show and a selection of works m ar w e th attracted to en plein air (a French term for sent to The Moree Gallery. e or m d palette an s.� painting outdoors) due to my During May this year I was a ur lo co e in femin love of the of the environment and part of a fabulous art field trip to being immersed in the elements, I Fowlers Gap, north of Broken Hill, am predominately a studio painter due led by acclaimed artists Ross Laurie to each piece taking a period of time to (from Walcha) and Idris Murphy, which complete. included 20 artists from all over. We painted Where do you seek your inspiration? en plein air all day every day for a week, which With two young children keeping me grounded, resulted in everyone being pushed out of their comfort I source much of my current inspiration from the zones within a remote, rugged and arid environment surrounding landscapes around the New England that provided endless inspiration. mostly around the Walcha district. I consider myself I am now finishing my last pieces for an exhibition to be extremely lucky to live amongst such stunning to be held at the Walcha Gallery, displaying around 30 countryside. I am, however, very attracted to arid and pieces, opening Friday 28th July. The body of work is remote landscapes and the vivid colours of the central a result of inspiration sourced from the Fowlers Gap interior, and I do draw upon inspiration and memories trip; a wonderful gorge flight and time spent in the from previous trips to such parts of Australia. gorges of the New England earlier this year; and the Summarise the last 12 months and what you have undulating country surrounding Walcha. approaching ...

Thanks Paula.

I held a solo exhibition during September last year Paula can be followed on Instagram and Facebook at The Moree Gallery; in November I was involved in under Paula Jenkins Art, or can be found via her a group show, Eclectica, in the Southern Highlands; I website at www.paulajenkinsart.com

“

new england focus. 7

focusinterview.

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TORI FORSYTH IS AN ALTERNATE COUNTRY SINGING PRODIGY. WITH HER SWEET, SOULFUL SOUNDS, TORI HAS TAKEN THE NEW ENGLAND BY STORM. FOCUS FINDS OUT MORE ABOUT THE GIRL BEHIND THE GUITAR ...

T

ell us about yourself, Tori ...

I started singing in the school choir when I was about nine.

I begged my dad to give me singing lessons when I was 13, but he didn't want to - because I was a bit of a quitter (laughs). He eventually saw me sing super nervously at a school concert and thought he'd better get me some lessons. I sang nowhere but inside the room of my lessons 'til I was about 17. I would be way too nervous to sing in public and would find any excuse not to.

It's not until I met Trent Crawford ... He basically told me to get over myself and just do it. We then recorded my debut EP, Black Bird, and the rest is history.

How have you seen your style change over the years?

I think the only way it's changed is the lyrical maturity and the stories. I still love the same sounds like banjo and filthy guitar, so the only way it's changed is with my age I, suppose, and the way I write.

Who is your biggest influence and why?

I grew up listening to a lot of Fleetwood Mac and Melanie Saftka. One of the first live concerts I ever watched is when my mum showed me the 1994 Fleetwood Mac concert, and I fell in love with Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham, all the music, and the way Stevie performed made me want to dance and sing around as a kid. I still call it my favourite album of all time.

Do you have a band that travels with you, or are you a one girl show?

No, it's usually just me. A band is a luxury!

Ha ha!

What instruments do you play, and what genre do you find yourself in?

I consider my sound Alt I consider my Country. The reason for try. sound Alt Coun this is I feel the roots of is is th r fo The reason my my music is Country, but I I feel the roots of but I y, love to incorporate other music is Countr e other at or sounds within it. The term love to incorp e Th it. in ith Alt Country gives me that sounds w s ve gi y tr un Co lt flexibility. term A ” y.

What has been the biggest me that flexi bilit challenge you have faced Is there anyone over this time? you would like to The biggest challenged I've faced is acknowledge who has fear. Like a lot of people who start singing supported your career? or performing, it's pretty scary to put yourself I have a bunch of people who have in front of people; add that to being a young been champions for me. I'm really lucky woman and all the bulls*#t that comes with and I could name them all, but one person image, and it's mortifying. in particular is Aleyce Simmonds ... Leyce How did you overcome this fear? You seem approached me after I released my first single so calm and collected ... Do you still get to be my manager; that was about a year ago, nervous? and we make the greatest team. She has a way Oh thank you! Well, I still get nervous, but of knowing exactly when I'm doubting myself I think when I get into a zone and go into or something silly, then I get an email from her another place, all my nerves go away. and I stop throwing my pity party ... She's the What advice do you give to the younger kind of person who makes me push harder for generation on starting their career in something and makes everything seem within music? reach. I call her my guardian angel ...

The advice I'd give to anyone is to bite You have a new single out, Kings Horses. the bullet; just do it. But if you're in it for Where can we find your music? the money, it's probably not in your best Yes! Kings Horses is available on bandcamp; interest (laughs). Oh, and find people who are I am so proud of this. The band The Spurs and I supportive and keep them super close. will be touring with this year, and I headed north

“

to a little town hall in Springfield and recorded this within a few hours! It's a rad tune; check it out on www.toriforsyth.bandcamp.com So you are in a band as well? Tell us a little more ...

I'm only in a band for this tour. Aleyce and I will be sharing and making a big deal of going to rural Australia and major cities. It's going to be rad.

What's in the future for Tori Forsyth?

This year sees me doing a whole lot of touring Australia-wide in the lead up to to my debut album, which I've just recorded with Aria award and multiple golden guitar winner Shane Nicholson, being released! SO excited to share this little guy with the world.

Thanks Tori.

plug!

See Tori Forsyth play on 6th July.

Two Goats Café & Baa. new england focus. 9

focusinterview.

P E R R Y

H O M E S

PATRIS FIELD IS THE NEW HOME CONSULTANT FOR PERRY HOMES. PATRIS WILL AID CLIENTS IN FINDING THE RIGHT HOME DESIGN THAT SUITS THEIR NEEDS, LIFESTYLE AND BUDGET. FOCUS GRABBED A COFFEE WITH PATRIS TO FIND OUT MORE …

W

hat is your connection to New England?

I moved to Armidale when I was 17 to attend the University of New England. I intended to only stay for the length of my studies; however, like many others I fell in love with the town and stayed.

I find the New England area to be such a beautiful and unique place. I own a home in Armidale and was recently married at the local Peterson’s Winery. The New England area is unlike any other place, and that’s what makes it such an amazing place to live. It is my "forever home", and I am passionate about seeing it grow and develop.

Tell us about your role and area of expertise?

I am a new home consultant. I help people build the home of their dreams! I aid clients in finding the right home design that suits their needs, lifestyle and budget. I can customise one of the many Perry Homes designs to perfectly suit a client and their wish list. I can also help with finding the right block of land and guiding clients through the process of gaining finance. I am here to make the process of building a home a fun, exciting experience.

What services do Perry Homes provide?

There are more than 150 plans in the Perry Homes portfolio; however, we are able to modify plans or design something specifically to suit a client. We are also able to assist people who wish to knock down an old home and rebuild something new. During the process of building a home, Perry Homes provides access to a colour consultant to guide the client through the process of choosing everything to make the home truly theirs.

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Tell us about your new display home?

The display home is located in the Foothills Estate. The design is called the Cosmopolitan 287 and is one of the newest designs to be introduced to our portfolio. It is as perfect for the entertainer, as it is for the family. It is a very versatile design, with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, study, games room and a couple of living areas. The home is displayed fully furnished to showcase what life can be like in a beautiful Perry Homes design. If anyone hasn’t seen it yet, I strongly encourage you to come check it out.

Tell us about some the new, exciting projects you are working on now and in the future.

It is a very exciting time for Armidale, with new land releases ongoing. There are blocks varying in size and cost to suit everyone from the first home buyer to the retiree, and everyone in between. Building a brand new home, rather than purchasing an established house, is quickly becoming the most prudent way to own your own home in Armidale.

With low land prices and the wide array of Perry Homes designs and prices, clients are realising that it is better to build rather than buy. We are seeing our lovely area grow, with many new families calling New England home; our population has recently increased to nearly 30,000 residents.

What are the standout features or the benefits of building with Perry Homes?

There are many benefits to building with Perry Homes: price, design, value, and peace of mind to name a few. We use all local trades and are established as an integral part of the region; however, we are not a franchise. This is important, because it means quality assurance across the board, as well as accountability to a

d Building a bran er th ra e, m new ho an ng si ha than purc e, is established hous the g quickly becomin to ay w t most pruden me in own your own ho Armidale.”

“

central hub. The owner, David Perry, is very much involved in the day to day operations of the business and has owned the company over 25 successful years.

We only use reputable brands and suppliers, not just the cheapest option. This means that you are securing quality when you build with Perry Homes, not just price. We are also a "debt free" builder, meaning our trades are always well looked after.

Subsequently, we have access to the best local trades and the same businesses to provide quality and consistency across all of our builds.

What makes you stand out above your competitors?

Reliability and integrity. When you build with Perry Homes, you know what you are getting and when. We have a fast build time in Armidale, and we offer a fixed price contract. We also have a strong ethic in terms of after sales care; our structural guarantee is 25 years, which is far above that of most other builders. We stand by our product.

What is the process when a new client walks through the door?

Generally when a client approaches me about building a new home, I first like to determine their reasons for building (first home, downsizing, upgrading etc.) and progressing from there. It is good to have an idea of a client’s budget early, to make sure that I am respectful of that limit.

I can put together a quote for a specific design they like, or provide them with some house and land packages from which to choose. We then progress to a soil test,

contour survey of the land, full working drawings and engineering - all from a $2,400 deposit (which is deducted from the contract price). With that information, we are able to secure a fixed price.

What are the top three things that people should consider when looking to build a new house?

Lifestyle, budget, location. It is very important to acknowledge your lifestyle and how you are going to use a space; why have a formal dining room, when you likely wouldn’t use it? Perhaps a games/media room would be more suitable.

Consider how you use your current home; what areas could be improved? What spaces go unused? Establishing a budget early in the process is also key to finding the right block of land and design that is within your reach.

I recommend talking to a financial institution first, to get a gauge of borrowing power.

Location is of paramount importance when considering building; be sure to research school catchments, nearby shops, and distance to local amenities.

Where do we find out more?

You can visit our brand new display home at 1 McArthur Close, Foothills Estate, Armidale, phone Perry Homes on 9045 8802, myself on 0499 431 585, or visit our website: www. perryhomes.com.au/display-homes/armidaledisplay-home Thanks Patris.

Quality homes.

Exceptional value.

Creating your dream home couldn’t be easier when you build with Perry Homes. With 25 years of building experience and multiple awards, we know what it takes to create beautiful living spaces.

You can choose from our portfolio of over 50 home designs and 150 floorplans, or we can custom design your perfect home. Whether it’s a flat or sloping block, traditional or acreage, even knock down rebuilds, we can bring your vision to life.

Visit our stunning display home today 1 McArthur Close, The Foothills Estate, Armidale

MULTI AWARD WINNER

20 YEAR STRUCTURAL GUARANTEE

25

CELEBRATING 25+ YEARS

Or contact our sales consultant Patris Field Phone (02) 9045 8802 or 0499 431 585 patris.field@perryhomes.com.au perryhomes.com.au

QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748. NSW Lic. No. 110970C

new england focus. 11

26344

Open Friday and Monday 10am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday 10am to 3pm

focus_What’s On New England

FIRST SATURDAY CHATS

1

2017

JULY

Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Morgan Quaife (Solicitor) from 10am to 1pm at the Legal Minds office, 157 Beardy Street, The Mall, Armidale, on Saturday 1 July 2017. As this is a popular programme, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

6

BELLO WINTER MUSIC FESTIVAL Bello Winter Music is returning in 2017 with the addition of two new venues and the reappearance of street theatre, workshops, the ever popular magic bus and, of course, another stellar lineup. Date 6th July 2017 - 9th July 2017.

Tickets bellowintermusic.com Contact info@bellowintermusic.com or 6684 6655.

ARMIDALE MARKETS IN THE MALL The next Armidale Markets in the Mall are in the midst of our winter market season. We have some great stalls on offer, such as our soup shops selling pumpkin, and potato and leek soup. One stall holder who is making a difference is First Scents Creations. Michelle Britt runs a fantastic stall, with items such as candles, soap, scrubs and bath bombs. When Sunday 31 July.

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ADFAS ARMIDALE LECTURE BY DR SOPHIE OOSTERWIJK Wine, Women and Song? Dutch Genre Painting. Vermeer and his Contemporaries. On the surface, seventeenth-century society in the Dutch Republic might strike modern viewers as staunchly Calvinistic. Genre paintings are often described simply as scenes of everyday life, but there is usually more to them than that. This lecture aims to show some of the popular types of genre scenes and reveal more about what they may actually try to tell us about art and society in the Dutch Republic. When Thursday 13 July 2017. Where Memorial Hall, The Armidale School. Contact Les Davis (Secretary) ADFAS Armidale - 0488 199 361 or adfasarmidale@bigpond.com Guests are most welcome, and a $25 fee applies per lecture.

This includes the lecture and supper. Tickets can be booked through “Trybooking” at www.trybooking.com/291558

READER’S COMPANION Reader’s Companion has plenty on offer this month for anyone looking to do something a bit out of the box.

If you would like to join a book club, then join one of ours.

We meet on the first and second Thursday of every month at 5:30pm. Poetry Night is the first Tuesday of the month @5:30 and Bookchat (a new and very popular group) meets @5:30pm on the first Friday of the month, 7th July. At Bookchat we share upcoming releases and great books we’ve read but you might have missed when they were first released. Roy will include information about A Man Called Ove, a book which has been made into a movie and will be screened at the Armidale International Film Festival this year.

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BIRDS EXHIBITION. Selling exhibition by local artists, photographers and printmakers. Prints, photographs, artworks, textiles and 3D works.

When Friday 14 July to 27 August. Opening Friday 14 July, 5:30pm - 7pm.

Where The Uralla Print Gallery, 66 Bridge St, Uralla.

NECOM

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New England Conservatorium in association with Sydney International Piano Competition Australia presents NECOM’s 2017 Fundraising Concert. Andrey Gugnin 2016 Winner Bach Schubert, Schostakovich Desyatnikov, Kieryn Harvey Stravinsky When Sunday 6 August at 3pm Where Auditorium, Old Teachers’ College Bookings www.trybooking.com/OKBW

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MOZART & BRAHMS

Presented by The New England Conservatorium.

Where Armidale Town Hall. When Thursday 31 August 2017 at 7pm. Bookings: www.trybooking.com/OKAZ

IN REVIEW

Evening Armidale

by Frank Howard, Oil on Board

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GALLERY 126 ASKED DR ROWEN MATTHEWS TO WRITE A REVIEW OF THE CURRENT EXHIBITION, NEW WORKS.

R

owen, together with his caterer wife Cathy Armstrong, has recently purchased the historic 1830s homestead Little Kickerbell at Pine Ridge (20 minutes drive from Quirindi). Cathy has opened a weekend café, while Rowen will run art workshops and artist residencies. He has a wealth of art experience and practice, having taught in high schools for many years, as well as working in art education at the University of New England, Armidale.

Review of New Works exhibition at Gallery 126, Armidale, 16th June to 29th July.

There is a strong sense of artists sitting with the land as we walk through this group exhibition. The land is observed in refreshing ways, as we witness a back-and-forth dialogue between the land and each artist.

Anna Curtis articulates accurate and close observation of nature. In The Flowering, pods and blossoms are powerfully transformed as a meditative mandala; the image rotates within a square format, focusing our attention by repeating her engagement with this flower. Elouise Roberts also gives us nature in square format. Her focus on the indeterminate and indistinguishable dark

e Her focus on th d an e at indetermin rk da e bl indistinguisha occur masses that can us ve gi e ap sc in land being of ce en ri pe ex the nd .” la ar with unfamili

masses that can occur in landscape give us the experience of being with unfamiliar land. These mysterious dark patches are cleverly juxtaposed with bright colors that flash briefly through the sky in Autumn Twilight.

Robyn Jackson applies a light touch to her surface, as she builds a complex depth of field in each of her paintings. Her subtle shifts of tone and colour demonstrate a developed depth of expression. Her work shows exploration, experiment, and accumulated understanding. It is not possible to achieve such dialogue without time spent on site. Montane Ecosystem 1 shows a particular understanding of direction and movement, and in the evidence before us on the surface we can follow the marks of her process: twisting, joyous hand movements right in front of us.

A similar light touch is shown in the work of Rosalie Rigby. It is particularly noticeable in the four small Thomas Lagoon Paintings, in which there is evidence of bodily response to the lagoon. There is response to sudden shifts in light and mood. These observations are formed on the surface of the paintings, with an economy of marks reminiscent of Turner’s great sketches of changing weather around the Venice Lagoon.

Because she has allowed her process marks to

remain evident, we are able to easily follow the history of Rigby’s dialogue with the Lagoon. The marks become symbols of Rigby’s physical involvement.

Surface textures have also been developed as symbols by Stuart Boggs.

In Sunset with Clouds, his textures articulate the experience that has deepened his understanding of landscape. Slippery whites add areas of smoothness to the field, while scraped back areas expose a darker, dryer, pigmented surface celebrating the texture of the heavyweight paper.

Subtle warm colors acknowledge the sky, while allowing the thinness of air to be grasped as solidly as any experience of land. There is an overall field of experience for us in this work.

Anna Henderson’s paintings are sculptural, encompassing I think, her knowledge of ceramics.

They feel as if they are carved into the surface.

Long Paddock 1 leads us into a glowing world of twilight. There is a balance between radiant warm growth and cool ground. We are granted access to the land through Henderson. We can walk into the painting and onto a path between

Montane Ecosystem

by Robyn Jackson, Acrylic on Paper

sentinel trees. Deftly in charge of her medium, she makes the surface glow with real experienced light.

It is difficult to transfer a sensation without relying on literal depiction of objects, but Frank Howard achieves this. His sophisticated response is achieved through tonal focus. The smallest work of the show, Evening Armidale, holds power through its reduced tonal range and palette of greys. Those familiar with Armidale feel the mood of the town in this painting, as it sits in its valley waiting for dark. It is reminiscent of El Greco’s portrait of a town in his View of Toledo (1599). Howard’s painting is made extraordinary by his restraint.

It is a joy to exhibit in the company of artists who show such a vibrant engagement with nature. My two paintings are notations of gusty wind on a dry creek bed at Fowlers Gap. The urgent marks are grabbing at the wind and the last light of the day. For me, feeling the land is made more intense during moments when such elements speak together, clearly yet briefly.

- Dr. Rowen Matthews is a painter. His PhD is in Creative Practice. He researches painted responses to land.

new england focus. 13

14 new england focus.

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Red B A L L O O N

B A R B A R A

A L B U R Y

HANNA’S ARCADE WILL BE TRANSFORMED INTO A PARISIAN WONDERLAND AS HIGH COUNTRY THEATRE PRODUCES A NEW ADAPTATION OF THE CLASSIC FILM, THE RED BALLOON. WE GO BEHIND THE SCENES WITH BARBARA ALBURY TO FIND OUT MORE ...

T

ell our readers about the history of the play, The Red Balloon.

Our play, The Red Balloon, is based on Albert Lamorisse's famous 1956 film about a young boy who makes friends with a stray balloon. It remains one of the most beloved children’s films of all time. Set in the streets of Paris and using his own two children as the main characters, filmmaker Lamorisse documented both a struggling post-war era, as well as creating a testament to the power of love and courage to overcome evil.

There is much humour as well as some sadness in the film, as there is in our play. Its finale has a touch of mysticism, with all the balloons in Paris helping Pascal fly away to a better world.

When asked in a recent interview about the meaning of the fantasy ending, the now elderly Pascal would not give an answer. We can only wonder.

The film received many accolades, including an Oscar for best original screenplay and the Palme d'Or for short films at the 1956 Cannes Film Festival.

Enlighten us as to what the play is about.

The Red Balloon tells the story of the unusual and touching friendship between a lonely young boy called Pascal and a large red balloon, which he finds tied to a lamp-post.

As Pascal plays with his newfound toy, he realises it has a mind of its own. It begins to follow Pascal everywhere he goes - playing mischievous games with him, but ultimately

becoming his loyal friend.

Hanna’s Arcade will The film received become Paris as we take s, many accolade you on this marvellous r fo ar including an Osc play adventure through its en re sc best original back streets.

Or for and the Palme d’ 56 How will your e 19 short films at th thereby involving adaptation differ? ival .” st Fe lm Fi es Cann the audience more The Red Balloon is a directly in the action. It’s very human story about a challenge, but it will allow friendship and courage in the us to devise a reality which face of bullying and isolation. goes beyond a traditional theatre In adapting it to the stage, we have space. For example, we will have shop kept all these vital elements - which are still vendors up in the balconies calling out to so relevant in our modern world. However, each other as they set up their wares, creating we have added more dialogue, music and the busy working life of a city. characters, and also movement and songs.

What challenges will you have to I hear that it will not be staged in a overcome working in such an area? theatre; can you tell us a little more about The main challenge is to make a cohesive why you chose the location that you did? story that moves along at a good pace and We felt we needed a unique setting for also creates a little bit of magic. Another The Red Balloon - some place which would challenge is to find a way of getting the recreate the look and feel of the streets of balloon to follow Pascal independently - at a Paris. Our quest took us to Hanna’s Arcade, distance? One of our young performers has one of the most elegant spaces in Armidale, the solution. But it’s a secret. with its wooden panelling, balconies with What dynamic will this bring to the carved railings and rows of old-fashioned audiences? lights along the walls. We got permission from The Red Balloon is only about 50 minutes Hanna’s Arcade management, and we are very long, but with lots of fun and action. So, there grateful for their generosity and willingness to should be something for everyone. We would help in every way. We also received assistance like the audience to be totally immersed in the from Armidale Dumaresq Council to create show and to take away a positive memory of Paris in Armidale, a small pre-show teaser for it. the August Markets in the Mall.

Tell us about some of your local actors/ We liked the idea of doing a theatre-in-theactresses. round (or theatre-in the-square) production,

“

As with The Little Prince last year, we will be using performers of all ages. Many of them have worked with us before, and they are terrific. Despite age differences, a show like this brings them together, and they become a unified team. As with the musicians, tech crew and front-of house personnel ... It’s amazing, but it happens.

What can the viewer expect when watching one of your adaptations?

Something different. Something imaginative.

Something unique. I always aim for a professional looking and sounding production, with minimum means.

Final thoughts?

The magic of theatre can be created by invoking the power of the imagination to see things that are not really there.

Thanks Barbara.

plug!

15, 16, 17 and 22, 23, 24 September.

(Fridays at 7pm, Saturdays at 2pm and 7pm, Sundays at 3pm.)

Bookings Carrs Newsagency 6772 3534 and highcountrytheatre.com Information: Barbara 0427 729 529 Photography by Suresh Kumar. new england focus. 15

Icing on the cake with Susie Dunn

thi si

sc ool

focuseditorial

Icing ON

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

T

PAPER

IT ISN’T SPRING … BUT… I FEEL SOMETHING IS STIRRING …

here’s been such misery and foreboding about the Mall, but really, things are starting to happen which will finally reshape the whole situation for us all.

The agents tell me there is definite interest in developing apartments in the East Mall. That will fill a much needed real estate gap in the market and kick off a whole new history for the city.

Tatts is steadily working through its Central Mall redevelopment - not easy in an old building. But, we’re told that the final result is promising a new era.

And our busy State MP, Adam Marshall, is beavering away through Government red tape, aiming for new life for the Old Court House.

This building is of enormous importance to the city’s heart and should provide opportunities to advance Armidale’s status.

Council’s Vibrancy Plan for the Mall is approved, and firstly access is being evaluated.

The all-weather shell to cover a new stage area is a long awaited need about to be satisfied, with performance programmes to be planned.

A range of improvements will bring the area up to scratch and re-instate it as the city’s heart.

It’s been a long wait for some shopkeepers, but we’re promised that matters are well in hand.

Meanwhile, Readers Companion are having jazz, poetry and book nights.

Should any future multi-purpose arts/ conference centre be adjacent to the Mall, do you think?

The Administrator, Dr. Tiley, has instituted Memoranda of Understanding with a range of groups, helping fold in various networks to improve efficiency. The most recent MOU with the Armidale Guyra Business Alliance represents a wide cross-section of local businesses, and “Council will make an annual contribution of $20,000 for a period of three years to fund activities that promote business and economic benefits to the region”. Quite frankly, that to me sounds far more targeted and practical than the rather strange orphan Evocities campaign.

Let’s hope that by the end of this year we have a whole fresh approach to realising the potential here. Few, if any, places have our advantages, and yet we have a recent history 16 new england focus.

cake of fluffing opportunities. There’s such a balance to offer - education, industry, sport, the arts, multi-cultural residents, heritage AND mod cons, all in glorious scenery. Why should we make choices, when we can have them all? As the new slogan says, “unleash” these assets and the opportunities they give. Let the world know our particular positives. Why do many places seem to do it so much better?

Times are confronting for universities, but we need ours, and in return - it needs us. Let’s hope we have a new beginning in which UNE makes a tangible, public presence in the city more obvious, benefiting us both.

On a pretty awful day there was nonetheless a good turnout for ANTaR’s annual Reconciliation Bridgewalk across Stephens Bridge. With a barbecue and performances by the Aboriginal community, there were some good speeches by Callum Clayton-Dixon and Cynthia Briggs. They focused the attention of Adam Marshall, MP, who responded with a supportive speech of his own. This is one of the important community events on our calendar.

The New England Conservatorium of Music has a new Director, after farewelling Susanne James and also waving Office Manager Rachael Edmonds off to go travelling. Now we roll out the red carpet for Russell Bauer, the next Director. He has a serious CV on multiple fronts and as well, is an internationally-published composer. With a passion for music, music education, and understanding regional communities, he sounds just the ticket for us.

Welcome.

At the Armidale Art Gallery, an exhibition of works from Freeman House curated by teacher Kerrie Gulliver was a worthwhile visit.

At the opening of Newling Gardens Retirement Village’s new Community Centre, I was interested to meet the proud and busy residents of this community within a community. Life seems good.

Finally, I’ve been pondering the fact that on a visit to SerVies I was ordered to remove my hat to show respect. I rather thought protocol was men bared their heads, while women covered theirs. Manners obviously change.

Susie Dunn.

VASE COVER The Paper Vase Cover is a skin to cover any empty bottle or glass, to turn it into a vase. Adjustable in size by rolling up the paper; the vase cover will fit any bottle. The triangular structure allows the paper to set around its bottle. The Paper Vase Cover is folded and stitched by hand and comes flat-packed in an envelope.

From Things With A Difference, Centre Mall, Armidale 6771 9668.

with Ross from Daily Ritual Armidale

We are coffee drinkers, café owners and citizens who share a culture of connection and conscious consumption ... Australians love their coffee.

So much so, that OVER 3 BILLION TAKEAWAY CUPS AND LIDS ARE wasted every YEAR. Most are never recycled.

Contrary to popular belief, takeaway coffee cups are rarely recycled and only rarely composted, due to inadequate industrial composting facilities and the difficulty of getting the cups/lids there.

As featured on the ABC’s War on Waste, Responsible Cafés connect Thoughtful Cafés with Conscious Consumers through one simple idea.

Becoming a responsible café saves money and reduces waste, and incentivises customers to do the right thing by bringing their own cups. Our goal is to change the game on single-use waste by nurturing a culture of reuse.

Cafés can reduce or eliminate disposable coffee cups by offering a discount to customers with reusable takeaway cups.

Daily Ritual is a Responsible Café member.

We offer a 50 cent discount when you bring your own barista approved cup.

WHERE

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

TRACY

W R I G H T C R E A T I V E

R A W

D I R E C T O R

F I B R E

TRACY WRIGHT LAUNCHED RAW FIBRE IN 2016. THE ARMIDALE BASED BRAND CONTINUES TO EVOLVE TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ITS DISCERNING CLIENTS.

aw Fibre has taken a huge leap and is now manufacturing many of their garments in Armidale. Tracy said, “I decided to make a couple of linen tops from a designer end piece I had purchased and realised how much I missed sewing.” She had been making sample garments for the brand, but wants to spend more time actually sewing garments for her clients.

This realisation has resulted in huge changes in the way Raw Fibre is approaching business. Over the last few months, Tracy has been making small numbers of garments from beautiful natural fibres to enhance her winter range. These limited edition garments have almost sold out, as customers enjoy the fact that the items are being made in such small quantities.

Moving forward, Raw Fibre will be making a range of styles from fabrics such as wool, linen, cotton and silk. Clients will then be able to either buy off the rack or select a style and their size and have a garment made in a particular fabric that is available in the new look store. This gives clients the opportunity to have a more tailored choice, without the increased cost of having something totally custom made.

Raw Fibre has received a very positve response to this new approach to fashion in the New England. Whilst there may sometimes be a short wait for a garment if it is not available on the rack, people know that they are purchasing a garment with is designed and made locally in the finest natural fibres.

Some items will still be made in Sydney; however, where possible, garments will be made locally.

“It is our way of tackling the Fast Fashion issue and giving people greater choice in what is available in the New England region,” said Tracy.

The business is going from strength to strength. With the changes that are happening at Raw Fibre, Tracy has made the decision to move to larger premises to accommodate the fabrics and increased manufacturing component. This extra space will provide a larger retail and work space to benefit both staff and clients.

“The move, whilst a little daunting, is incredibly exciting,” says Tracy, who is looking forward to being able to spread her wings and have more space for making garments in-house. “I can’t wait to move and launch the new concept of a slightly more bespoke option for women in the New England and beyond.”

There are some other exciting things happening with regards to items that will be available in the new store; however, you will just have to wait and see what these are.

Raw Fibre is also supporting several local artisans, such as Pinot Cat Designs and Leigh & Co Designs. “These businesses create items such as earrings and bracelets which complement my garments. I am excited to have their items in-store,” Tracy said. “We also have an incredible book by local Walcha lady, Jen Kealey about the Destination Outback tours - well worth a read.”

The new store will still be in the Mall Arcade, so be sure to go and check out their great new space and browse the range of garments made from the finest natural fibres. Tracy looks forward to welcoming you in-store soon! new england focus. 17

focusinterview.

Salmonella Dub are joining the line up for the Bello Winter Music festival. Celebrating 25 years of mashing up original Pacifica fusion, beat heavy dub, reggae, funk, hippity hop and drum and bass, the Dub come armed with their heavy hitting horn section. Be prepared for a serious dancefloor experience with this phenomenal live eight piece band.

O

ver the years the lineup has changed. Introduce us to who makes up the band now and what roles you all play ...

I formed the band with Dave (drums, vocals) and Mark (bass) in 1992. We are still the foundation and core of Salmonella Dub. In 1994, Conan and Pete joined as our horn players, adding percussion and keys. In 1995 Pete left, but came back again in 2003. In 1996 we employed a young Tiki Taane as engineer. He left in 1996 to pursue his solo career. Currently we are an eight piece on stage with a three part powerhouse horn section and MC The Mighty Asterix leading the charge and backing Dave’s vocals.

Membership and Contributors (in chronological order of creative involvement) Salmonella Dub started rehearsing as a three piece in 1992.

First show was the Westport Racetrack Tea Rooms, Jan 13th, 1993.

Andrew Penman - guitar samples, vocals.

David Deakins - drums, vocals.

Mark Tyler - bass samples.

Marcus Putener - percussion.

Craig Allen percussionist, vocals.

Pete Wood and Conan Wilcox joined in 1994.

Pete Wood - trumpet, trombone, keys and vocals.

Conan Wilcox - tenor sax, percussion and vocals.

Conrad Frankland keyboards on debut album.

Ian McAllister - original mix meister.

Mike Hodgson - producer for Dub Tomfoolery.

David Wernham - live engineer in the mid ‘90s. Drum engineering on One Drop East.

18 new england focus.

David Harrow - producer THC winter, coproducer for Calming of the Drunken Monkey, Producer of Killervision and Heal Me. Tiki Taane - live engineer in the ‘90s, co engineer and mixer of tracks on Calming of the Drunken Monkey, vocals on the track Drunken Monkey. Stage performer and extra vocals acoustic gat and samples Killervision, Inside the Dubplates and One Drop East, engineer on tracks for Inside the Dubplates. Co-producer for One Drop East.

Paddy Free - Engineer for Killervision producer for Inside the Dubplates, co-producer for One Drop East and Freak Controller, contributing writer and performer on Feel The Seasons Change, performer for Freak Controller.

Ants Smith - co-producer and performer on Freak Controller. Producer and vocals on Same Home Town.

Paul Buchanan - stage guest since 2005.

Vocals on Freak Controller.

Guy Benfeild - live engineer.

You’ve released multiple studio albums and EPs, a live album and a remix album, plus a fistful of singles - what’s the secret to continuing to push out great music, and is there any plan for something new in the pipeline?

We have released seven studio albums, three remix albums, a live album with the New Zealand Symphony orchestra, five long play EPs and another eight 4-track remix singles.

Currently we are working on an album, but with our 25th coming up we are focused on compiling the 24 singles we have released, with the view to launching a 25 track pack with a 25th single later this year. Recently we teased the first track off the ranks from our album recordings, called Searching For The Sun: https://soundcloud.com/salmonella-dub/ salmonella-dub-searching-for-the-sun

Individually we are always creating and writing. I guess the secret for us has been to treat our collective writing process like a canvas.

There is no one “songwriter”. Everyone gets a chance to throw paint at it, but not everything sticks. Another important key element is we tend to build tracks from the riddum bed up.

A few facts: Sold 209,925 albums in NZ and over 400,000 CDs and Vinyl 12"s worldwide.

Fourth biggest selling artist in NZ 2000 2010 Albums = 8 + 3 remix albums Mini Albums = 4 (5-7 track EPs) Catalogue = 161 tunes Platinum Sales Killervision x2 Inside the Dubplates x4 Outside the Dubplates x1 One Drop East x2 Heal Me x1 Gold Sales Calming of the Drunken Monkey Festival appearances (too many to count ... estimates in brackets) Europe/UK 6 tours 78+ shows (approx 20+ festivals) Australia 41 tours over 250 shows (100+ festivals) NZ 50+ tours over 400 shows (150+ festivals ... Nile River, Sweet Waters, Xtreme Air, Entrain, all the Gatherings, multiple big Day Outs, many, many Orientations, Home Grown, Phat Outdoors .... the list goes on.)

We are super excited to have you guys on the bill for the Bello Winter Music Festival.

What are you looking forward to about being back in Oz? We love these smaller community festivals.

It is always so cool to be able hang with the audience in a relaxed environment and also

have the time to check out other artists.

What can we expect from Salmonella Dub’s onstage presence?

As always, we will be bringing an epic bass, heavy, horn led, big dub beat, audio visual journey through our full catalogue. For those who have not seen us with our new horn section, be prepared for the roof to lift and the dancefloor to wobble.

Looking back over the past 25 years, what have been some of the most memorable moments?

Getting asked by Aussies to say “Fush an Chops”.

Almost getting in a bar brawl in Brunswick with a bunch of lads for suggesting Aussie Rules would be far more entertaining if there was a random kangaroo factor - two roos per team.

Getting in an actual bar brawl in Auckland with Paul Kelly and his coloured girls at our gig, ‘cause they were trying to play Aussie rules pool on our pool table!

The Gathering Dance Parties. Seven years of amazing six zone multi genre dance parties!

Killer!

What’s your favourite song to perform and why?

Tomfoolery. It has been in the set since 1994 and apparently was the tune that got Ken West on the dancefloor at the Beach Rd Hotel Bondi in 1998 and is the tune that led us on a merry chase around the OZ BDO circuit.

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

Get off Facebook and ya smart ar#e phones!

Live life! There is a whole world out here!

Thanks guys.

Dont miss Salmonella Dub at the Bello Winter Music Festival - July 6 - 9. www.bellowintermusic.com

focusinterview.

Wade & Kelly W A N G

KELLY AND WADE WANG ARE THE NEW OWNERS OF ONE OF ARMIDALE’S FAVOURITE CAFÉS - BISTRO ON CINDERS. THEY SHARE WITH FOCUS THEIR LOVE OF FAMILY AND FOOD.

ell us about your family.

We are so excited to be the new owners of Bistro On Cinders. We are a family affair, with ourselves - Wade and Kelly - and Kelly's sister, Stefanie, all working in the business. We are originally from China and came to Armidale for university in 2008. We met here, fell in love, and got married in 2013.

Phila (our daughter) was born in 2016.

Wade studied accounting, and Kelly was trained and worked as a Town Planner.

Where did your families’ love of food come from?

Wade: For me, it comes from my family.

My parents have had their own restaurant since 2002 in China. My hometown, Harbin, in north-east China, is strongly influenced by European culture. There are many restaurants which offer multi-cultural cuisine with unique environments. Where I grew up in China has really inspired me, and I have always wanted to start my own small business in the hospitality industry.

I also love meeting new and different people from all cultural backgrounds.

Kelly: I have always loved food and have been a passionate cook for a long time.

My parents are both really good cooks, and my mum lovingly taught me how to cook. I really started cooking when I was 11 years old, and I have to say it took me a

long time to perfect my favourite omelet.

When I was at high school, I often cooked at home for my school friends who were boarders. My mum was a patient teacher and has always encouraged me in my cooking.

Tell us about the team at Bistro On Cinders, and describe the cuisine/ menu.

We run the bistro together with the chef, Lion, and kitchen hand Shila. Lion was a sushi chef in Sydney, and he came to Armidale with his wife for her post graduate study early this year. We are lucky to have someone like him, who is also passionate about food and always interested in creating new dishes using fresh ingredients. Shila is also a very important team member. She supervises all the cleaning, and makes sure we keep a very high standard of cleanliness, which is vital for a restaurant. She also helps with salad making and the garnishing of each dish.

Stefanie - Kelly’s sister, is our lovely waitress, who helps daily servicing our valued customers with her beautiful smile and friendly nature.

We have a range of different dishes, which combines the old Cinders menu - such as the Trout Salad and Thai Salad - with some of our own recipes e.g Beef Borsch and Roasted Lamb Shank. We

always have specials that are authentic to China. For example, Sticky Rice Dumpling with Glass Noodle Salad. It is one of the symbolic foods for the Chinese Dragon Boat Festival. The recipe comes from Kelly’s hometown and is finished with our delicious homemade peanut butter sauce.

What do you love most about being the new owners of Bistro On Cinders?

We love the building and especially the outdoor garden setting, which is a perfect place to enjoy eating outside when the weather is good.

We love being able to serve our food and to meet people. As we are both Christians, we also love to share God’s love for more people, and to contribute to our local community.

It is also very rewarding when people appreciate our food and service, which encourages us to keep working hard.

Plans for the future?

Running a restaurant may be our step one, and we hope to be able to have our own estate one day, where we may be able to brew our own wine, provide accommodation, create a unique environment to cater for various events and functions - a place where we can also enjoy life and nature and enjoy our own family.

Thanks Wade and Kelly. new england focus. 19

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TISH

PAS TURNS 1

PasTish, my beautiful pre-loved designer clothing store is now 12 months old!

Allingham’s Removal & Storage A new service is available at Allingham’s Removals …

What is the new forklift/container service at Allingham’s?

We have just taken delivery of a forklift, that will make our container service even more cost effective for our customers.

Our container service consists of a number of 20 ft and 40 ft containers, a container trailer for transportation, and now a forklift for container movement. We pack everything into the required container; we then hold the items in the container on our premises and deliver the contents when the customer is ready to move into their new home or premises. This saves on removal costs, packing and unpacking time and the cost of extra storage. Most times when you move there can be some lag time between getting out of one house or place and into the next one. Our container service offers a cost effective solution for this problem.

What other removal services do you offer at Allingham’s?

We offer the transportation of furniture and personal belongings from Sydney to Armidale, Tamworth, Moree, Inverell, Gunnedah, Narrabri, Walcha, Guyra, Muswellbrook, Glen Innes, and everywhere in between. We also offer backloads from locations like Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.

Our Facebook page is the best place to find what backload options are available at any given time.

F

rom originally wanting to open a pop up store for three months, word soon got around that Armidale needs a store like mine, and wow!

Here I am, twelve months down the track, and I have recently just expanded the whole way up the Arcade.

range of unusual and colourful coats, dresses and co-ordinates for all occasions!

There is quite a collection now of

from x-small - xx-large and for most of us who are a certain height and shape, I can always find something for you! For There is those who know me quite a of well, know that it's my collection now , winter, summer passion to do just that.

“

winter, summer, vintage dresses and couture evening

vintage dresses and couture evening wear in stock as well.”

Please note that I have changed my trading hours to the following:

I would love for you to come in and have

wear in stock as

a browse through the unique range of

well. It's well worth

winter and summer pre-loved clothing,

taking time out of your

shoes and bags that I have in store now

day to view, try on and

for you.

feel the quality of these unique

There is lots more furniture from Armi-

pieces.

dale Antiques and as usual, a fantastic

I do stock quite a range of sizes,

Hanna’s Arcade Armidale

is $55,000 for solar panels to be hidden in the valley of the main homestead roof and on the available roof areas of the Saumarez Function Centre. Another small array of solar panels will be ground mounted on the western side of the old garage adjacent to the Jackson Centre in the Saumarez Homestead Farm Area.

farm area.

The Saumarez Homestead Sustainable Energy Project is a Solar Power project that is part of a much larger project - (The Saumarez Homestead Sustainable Tourism Project). This project will invest $2.87m for the repurposing and development of the Saumarez Homestead heritage listed

Further tax deductible donations for this innovative project would be welcome.

Wednesday to Fridays, 10am to 4pm and Saturdays 10am to 1:30pm.

Market Sundays from 8am to 1pm.

focuseditorial.

GOES

Solar Les Davis, Saumarez Homestead Property Manager, launched the fundraising campaign for the Saumarez Homestead Sustainable Energy Project on 19th May 2017.

By mid-June, the target of $55,000 had almost been achieved. The project that Les has developed is a unique combination of heritage and environment to enhance the sustainable operation of this important National Trust property.

A key element of the proposed project is the plan to take Saumarez Homestead off the grid, at least in daylight hours, by producing enough electricity using solar power systems to meet the demand of the property and its visitors.

It is hoped that we can finance this part of the project from local donors and the National Trust. The budget for this project 20 new england focus.

This project aims to treble the annual visitor numbers to the Saumarez Homestead and Heritage precinct, from 10,000 to 32,000 per annum over the next three years, and generate an additional 9,600 room night sales per annum for Armidale tourism.

Contact: saumarez@nationaltrust.com.au or phone Les Davis on 0488 199 361 for direct deposit details, or post your contribution to P.O. Box 33, Armidale NSW 2350.

focuseditorial.

NERAM GETS A

FACELIFT

The new cladding for NERAM will rejuvenate the building and add to its appeal.

I

n late June, work started on the installation of a new exterior for the New England Regional Art Museum that will create a new contemporary façade to the building, while also making it more attractive to visitors and locals.

“The ‘shabby chic’ state of the exterior walls of NERAM have long been a bit of an eyesore, which have detracted from our plans to make the art museum more appealing to visitors,” said Robert Heather, Art Museum Director. “While most visitors obviously come to experience the art treasures inside the building, it is important to be able to present an attractive exterior that the community can be proud of.

“For a number of years, the fibre cement sheeting on the exterior walls has been deteriorating and needed urgent replacement. We have been looking

at options to update them, including improving their thermal properties to cope with the New England climate.

“We identified that the cost of recladding the whole building would be $315,000, and in 2016 NERAM received a $240,000 grant from the Armidale Regional Council’s Stronger Community Fund to upgrade and replace our exterior cladding. This was supplemented with a grant of $60,000 from the State Government through Create NSW’s Regional Capital program and $15,000 in donations to our Building Improvement Fund from our local supporters.

“We would like to thank the donors who have supported the Building Improvement Fund in making this facelift happen and those who are contributing to the 2017 Annual Appeal to upgrade one of our exhibition spaces as a new

permanent Howard Hinton Collection display.

“Every donation to NERAM makes a difference, and the donations we receive from the New England community means that we are able to provide a range of high quality exhibitions, visitor experiences and cultural activities.“ The level of support received from the funding bodies and the community has meant that NERAM will be able to install a new Kingspan Benchmark insulated wall cladding product that has improved fire safety ratings, as well as increased thermal properties.

Armidale based construction company JNC Group will be installing the new cladding, and the project is expected to be completed by late July with minimal disruption to NERAM’s program and activities.

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LOCALs 4 Locals GIVEAWAYS

T

he lucky winners in June included Sam Skinner, who shopped at Robert’s Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, Lynn Jarman won by shopping at Armidale Pet Shop, Gerry Widders, who enjoys his meat from Jackson’s Quality Meats, Claire Everett, who also loves shopping at the Armidale Pet Shop, and lastly Amy Vella, who has Armidale Chainsaw and Mower Centre help her with her gardening

Winners every month! It’s plain to see Locals 4 Locals love giving cash and prizes to you and me - June being no exception! Winning cold, hard cash has never been easier; all you need to do is shop and enter at your favourite shops. The more times you enter, the more entries you have to win.

needs. All these winners each won $100 in Locals 4 Locals Gift Cards.

That’s a win-win for everyone.

With July 2017 underway, Locals 4 Locals are ready to continue supporting local businesses and the local community by continuing this amazing service!

dollars, why not spend it where it

With so many Locals 4 Locals members located in town, you’d be hard pressed to shop anywhere else! Not only does it boost our local economy, businesses spend dollars in the community too!

Register your entry at the counter.

When you spend your hard earned matters? Look for the Locals 4 Locals sign in the shopfront of your favourite stores. Simply spend $25 or more.

That’s it! You have one entry in the L4L prize pool. The more times you shop at participating businesses, the higher your chances to win! new england focus. 21

Discover

Paul Harmon I get asked on a regular basis why Inverell is such a wonderful place to live and to visit. The only difficulty in answering that question is where to begin.

Inverell is renowned as the Sapphire City and is truly a gem in the crown of the New England region.

Our community is generous and welcoming, and the local business houses provide outstanding and friendly customer service.

I have the pleasure of speaking with a number of visitors to the district, who delight in telling me what a wonderful community we have and how helpful and friendly the people are.

It makes it very easy for me to sell the benefits of the Shire when the community conduct themselves in such a positive light.

Inverell is the perfect weekend destination and to coin a phrase, it has something for everyone. From visiting our diverse range of 22 new england focus.

attractions, to searching for a beautiful Inverell sapphire, I am certain that you will enjoy a visit to our district from beginning to end.

On arriving in Inverell, the first port of call should be our wonderful Tourism Complex in Campbell Street, arguably one of the best in Australia. Here the friendly staff will provide you with all the information you need and answer any questions you may have. There really is no better way to discover the ins and outs of a community than to speak to local people who are passionate about their community.

When you take a wander or a drive through our main streets, you will notice the beautiful heritage facades on most of our buildings and the array of boutique stores housed within that Inverell has become well known for. You will have an enjoyable day availing yourself of the excellent treats and delicious

Inverell Business Owner and Mayor

coffee on offer at our many cafés, strolling through the art galleries and relaxing with some retail therapy. Inverell’s CBD is unique and inviting. A morning’s shopping will bring you back time and time again. The girls (and guys) can pamper themselves at spots like the newly opened Day Spa at Blair Athol. This magnificent turn of the century homestead has always been popular with visitors, and now the grounds house a spectacular Day Spa reminiscent of the Roman Baths from days of old. My wife, Anna, and I have been several times since it opened, and I can tell you from personal experience that the mineral pool does wonders. It is the perfect location to unwind, offering wellness options to help you relax and rejuvenate.

Not only do we have excellent eateries and fantastic shopping, but we have a multitude of attractions and events for the whole family.

If you love history, then the National Transport Museum and Pioneer Village are a must see.

Copeton Dam is a fisherman’s paradise, being the only inland waterway in NSW where there is no closed season on Murray Cod. The size of some of the fish is incredible. There are still plenty of Inverell Sapphires to be found at the various fossicking locations, or the local jewellery stores stock beautiful specimens.

We have four art galleries, which house a diverse cross-section of art to suit all tastes.

Our waterways, National Parks and wilderness areas all have spectacular scenery. You will find that no matter what you choose to do, you will be made to feel welcome wherever you go.

Inverell is a vibrant community with a proactive council who continues to develop strategies to support and enhance all facets of the Shire.

You will find that a day visit is not enough.

Come and stay; you won’t be disappointed.

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Standing Facade

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Inverell’s Young World Inverell’s Young World is a family owned, independent toy store. We specialise in a range of children’s toy to suit all ages, even the big kids! We have puzzles, games, remote control cars, Schleich figurines, educational toys, school bags and lunch boxes, to name a few! We have a great selection of quality lasting nursery furniture to create your dream nursery for your little one. At Young World we can offer advice on our prams, car seats and lots of other baby equipment to suit your situation. We also have hand-picked unique gifts for babies and children’s birthdays. Come on in for a browse at Inverell’s Young World; you may be surprised at what you find!

28 Otho Street, Inverell 6722 3840 Monday - Friday, 9:30am - 5:30pm; Saturdays, 9am - 12:30pm.

Ellati has been a familiar landmark in Otho St, Inverell for the past 20 odd years.

Owned and operated with a very hands on approach by Marg Brady, this stylish boutique showcases some beautiful labels. including Morrison - Skin and Threads - Primness Pasduchas - Jag for men and women - Nikel & Sole knitwear, Sass for the younger market and Ben Sherman menswear; add to that a collection of shoes, boots and handbags sourced from Spain and Italy.

Marg’s background in manufacturing, before venturing into retail, helps with the understanding of how a garment should fit, and she finds it very satisfying to co-ordinate and accessorise the right look for her customers.

Marg’s love of beautiful clothes and fabrics shines through and is the reason her clients continue to support this local business. She still has the passion and finds it a pleasure to head off to work each morning.

You must stop and check out Ellati next time you are visiting Inverell.

10-12 Otho St, Inverell 6722 4871 Monday - Friday, 9:30am - 5:30pm; Saturdays 9am - 12:30pm.

Inverell Visitor Information Centre 11-31 Campbell Street, Inverell Phone: 1800 067 626 www.inverell.com.au Open every day except Good Friday & Christmas Day Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm Saturday - Sunday 9.00am - 2.00pm (including public holidays)

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Vivier Boutique Vivier Boutique has been part of the boutique shopping landscape in Inverell since 2005.

At Vivier Boutique we offer fashion with a difference, but still very wearable, from lifestyle wear to special occasion fashion, with a focus on affordable fashion. Stocking international labels from Denmark, France, America and New Zealand and a fabulous feminine silk and linen label from Italy, plus our made in Australia label, Vigorella, which is a particular favourite with all ages. Denim is a huge part of Vivier’s business, with jeans and clothing from Mavi and LTB, both made in Turkey. Shoe lovers are well catered for, with European labels from Spain, Portugal and Italy, plus many more. Once again, uniqueness and affordability is our main consideration at Vivier. Handbags and wallets, including cow hide accessories, are very popular, along with jewellery, sunnies and occasional homewares. Make sure Vivier Boutique is on your list of shops to visit when you are in Inverell.

18 Otho St, Inverell 6721 4483 Monday - Friday, 10am - 5:30pm; 9:30am - 1pm on Saturdays.

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Inverell Terrace motor lodge The “Place to Stay” when visiting Inverell.

We capture a commanding view of Inverell, with a hilly backdrop.

A short stroll to the boutique shopping, restaurant and business centre. Rooms are well-appointed, with quality linen - clean, fresh and modern.

Rooms to suit YOUR needs - queen size and king single beds throughout. Standard rooms, access rooms - wheelchair friendly, family rooms and inter-connecting rooms. The “Terrace Cottage” - three bedrooms - sleeps eight.

Big breakfasts, home style dinners served to the rooms, or your choice of chargeback with local eateries.

A weekend adventure can be captured - events such as golf, trail walks, birdwatching, canoeing, fishing, motor museum, olive farm, woodwork, art galleries, to full relaxation at the day spa, after exploring the unique boutique shopping precinct.

Your break in the country - all you need to do is pack. STAY ... RELAX … ENJOY.

28 Warialda Rd, Inverell Book direct - (02) 6722 5200 e. accommodation@inverellterrace.com.au 24 new england focus.

Funki Munki wellard’s artisan bakehouse

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Come explore north western NSW’s greatest little independent healthy general store - bulging with fresh organic fruit, vegetables, meats and grains - much local - and a wide range of nutritionally “safe” grocery and dairy items, beverages and health supplements.

Funki Munki stock personal care products from babies to ladies, and are growing their range of non-toxic cosmetics, garden fertilisers, house and pet care products. They also dabble in gourmet end condiments and eclectic giftware.

Funki Munki outlet Wellard’s Artisan Bakehouse’s genuine long ferment, no-yeast-added sourdough breads and bagels, which even the most sensitive of tummies seem to enjoy. Made with organic locally milled flours and also sold at the Armidale “Markets in the Mall” and Inverell “Sapphire Markets” each month. They recently started stocking Funki Munki with Wellard’s Forage takeaway sourdough panini or baguette sandwiches and wholefood lunchboxes using organic or locally foraged chemical-free produce, available fresh Tuesday - Friday.

21 Otho St, Inverell 6721 1305 www.funkimunki.com.au Monday - Friday, 9am - 6pm; Saturday 9am - 12:30pm.

melissa simmonds

Art

Melissa Simmonds Art is a combination of four concepts. Gallery, Homewares, Studio and Art Supplies.

First and foremost, it is a gallery to Melissa’s artworks, prints and other curated objects from far and wide. It is a modern interpretation of a traditional gallery store.

It is also a contemporary homewares and gift store. Melissa caters for all ages and interests. The range is eclectic, fun and inspiring. Many of the items are found via other artisans’ social media pages. This enables Melissa to offer unique and often one off pieces.

Melissa Simmonds Art also houses her studio. Melissa can often be found painting either in her studio room out the back, or even behind the counter. Visitors enjoy chatting with her about her current works or commissions.

Lastly, Melissa has a range of art supplies that she is happy to add to if you are after something!

Freckles Café Freckles Café is a bustling, relaxed, colourful, modern café, offering plenty of dine-in and outdoor seating.

Jenny Thomas and her team are proud to offer the very best service, beautiful coffee and a wonderful mix of flavours in the meals. The café uses the freshest produce, sourced locally where possible. They serve delicious food, fresh juices, ice creams and cater for all sorts of dietary needs.

Freckles Café is open for all-day breakfast and lunch, seven days a week: Monday to Friday from 7am to 5pm, Saturdays 7am to 2pm, and Sundays 7am to 11:30am.

Whether you are planning a special get-together with friends, a relaxed, casual outing, or looking for an ideal rest-stop while travelling; drop in and visit soon (there's plenty of nearby parking). You will find them on the corner of Byron and Vivian Street, Inverell.

86 Otho St, Inverell.

6721 2848

102 Byron Street, Inverell 6722 1612

Monday - Friday, 10am to 5pm; Saturdays 9: 30am - 1pm.

7 days. Mon - Fri, 7am - 5pm; Sat 7am - 2pm; Sun 7am - 11:30am.

new england focus. 25

focusinterview.

GOSTWYCK - MERINO -

FOCUS is “On the Land” with Philip Attard, owner of Gostwyck Merino.

Set just up from Gostwyck Chapel , this beautiful property is producing some of the finest wool in the region. We sit down and talk turkey (well, lamb in this case) with Philip.

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ell us about the history of in his memory by the family. His wife, Nora, the property. continued the work. After the second world Gostwyck was bought by war, 12,000 acres were taken for soldier Henry and Grace Dangar in resettlement.

1834. We can only imagine In 1963, her daughters, Noreen and the work that went into Patricia, divided the remainder, and Deeargee establishing a grazing property in those and the current Gostwyck were established. days. Suffice it to say that it was Noreen and her husband, Bertram, labour intensive. What continued to further develop the was important to note quality of wool and reduced from those days to the flock average to 18 current day is the micron.

The Chapel was y or determination and built in his mem After Noreen, and is wife effort that was by the family. H e 10 years later, Bertram th Nora continued needed to achieve died, Alison and her cond se e th r fte A k. wor the aims that they husband continued 0 acres world war, 1200 ier had, and the way the tradition of ld were taken for so they went about improvement with new t.” en em resettl them. grazing methods and Henry’s son, Albert developed the wool quality Augustus Dangar, to be totally comfortable next continued the development to skin. This led to the recent and was responsible for the Elm trees establishment of the henry and grace and many of the buildings. His son, (www.henryandgrace.com) maternity and Clive Collingwood Dangar, managed babywear range, using 100% Gostwyck Gostwyck until the outbreak of war in 1914.

Ultrafine Merino. The full range is available Serving in Egypt and Palestine, he was at Highland Living in Uralla. wounded, operated on and returned to the Tell us more about your wool fighting, but later died when he was being production.

The quality of our wool is in line with the returned to Australia in 1918. He made it development of the Australian Merino. Henry as far as Melbourne. The Chapel was built

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26 new england focus.

focusinterview.

We have

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preserved intense now than ever.

Dangar’s acquisition of 26 rams in Saxony With viable grazing this saxon style, d as the crimp an set the direction. We options such as lamb for length are ideal have preserved this and beef, the numbers fabric processing and saxon style, as the have changed, and performance .” crimp and length are graziers are having to ideal for processing and take notice. We are no fabric performance. different. Graziers are grass Every fleece is tested in growers, and we can choose to the shed using a LaserScan, and feed our grass to various types of around 17,000 fleeces are classified sheep, cattle or other grazing animals. into Superfine, Ultrafine and Ultimate At around 1% of apparel fibre, wool is categories. The Ultrafine is around 15 a niche industry, and we are seeing more micron average and has a prickle factor that processors needing to enter into supply is similar to cotton. That is what makes it agreements as production decreases. The so suitable for babywear when processed eight years between 2008 and 2016 were as a batch. We test the garments using the very tough for superfines and ultrafines, and WoolComfort meter. many of us had to find ways to make our Past surveys have said that over 60% of business work. The prices this year are far people will not buy wool because of prickle. better, but competing enterprises continue to We think that overcoming this objection apply pressure on Merino wool in Australia. is essential for the long term viability of The henry and grace brand has shown us superfine and ultrafine merino. that consumers love good quality Merino How have you seen the industry change and will place it next to their babies’ skin. over years?

That is extraordinary. Many consumers also Pressure on Merino is possibly more care about how we look after our animals

and our land.

Do you take on any different grazing methods compared to traditional farming?

Yes, we are almost completely using time controlled grazing. There is a cell, and the rest is an intensive grazing rotation method called Techno grazing. It is based on the principle of short term limited grazing and long rest periods. This has helped us grow more grass. It also made it easier to manage worms and fly strike with our unmulesed sheep. We stopped mulesing in 2005.

We find that cattle are essential to get better balance in a rotation grazing system and as an enterprise, it is doing very well.

What does the future hold for Gostwyck?

We will do more work on our pasture management and development. There is a

great deal of opportunity to grow more grass and manage it better. Implementing new technology is always on the cards. We hope that this will help reduce the effort needed in areas such as pasture assessment and animal performance. Our current infrastructure should help us implement virtual fencing when it is ready and affordable. That would allow us to apply manpower into other areas.

Then there is the focus on henry and grace. We will continue to put a lot of effort into the brand, as the quality of the products seem to be what the discerning consumer wants and we are growing our wool the right way, with the environment and animal welfare at the forefront. The challenges are plenty for this generation and the next!

Thanks Philip. new england focus. 27

Loves winter

Beanie Turn Up (Colour: Sweet Blush/Ivory)

HENRY AND GRACE Top five reasons henry and grace ultrafine Merino baby and maternity clothing stand out from the flock:

3. Rare ultrafine Merino classification

1. Softer than cashmere Our 100% ultrafine Merino wool baby and maternity clothing is scientifically proven not to itch.

4. Happy and healthy sheep

2. Single-source, Australian-grown All the Merino for our range is grown and shorn on our farm, Gostwyck, here in the New England region.

We exclusively use ultrafine Merino in our

Leggings (Colour: Duck Egg/ Gentle Grey)

garments (around 15 micron average).

We employ sustainable pasture management practices, and our sheep are proudly mules-free since 2005.

5. Family-owned Our family are descendants of Henry and Grace

Wrap (Colours From Top to Bottom: Sweet Blush/Ivory, Ebony/Natural, Duck Egg/ivory)

Dangar, who bought Gostwyck Farm in 1834.

Layering Tee (Colour: Natural)

Swing Dress, Leggings (Swing Dress Colour: Ebony/Natural, Leggings Colour: Ebony)

28 new england focus.

focus _tourism focus _tourism

with Katrina Katrina George George from from the the Armidale Armidale Visitor Visitor Information InformationCentre Centre with

Pathfinders FOCUS speaks to Amanda, the new Aboriginal Transition to School Program facilitator …

tourism UPDATE

TOURISM ININ AUGUST TOURISM JULY ONCE AGAIN WE HAVE EXPERIENCED A VERY BUSY WINTER HOLIDAY WINTER IN ARMIDALE IS AN EXHILARATING TIME FOR OUR PERIOD AT THE ARMIDALE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE. WE HAVE VISITORS, WITH OUR BEAUTIFUL FROSTY MORNINGS, CRISP RECEIVED VISITORS CHASING THE SNOW, FROST AND OPEN FIRES ...

WINTRY DAYS AND IF THEY ARE LUCKY, A CHANCE OF SNOW. AND THE SPECTACULAR WATERFALLS WAS AN ADDED BONUS.

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uring the winter months we ourism figures for the year end see an increase in visitors 2015 have been recently released from Southern Queensland

by Destination NSW. These figures and the North Coast, who are show a very healthy growth, here for a real winter experiwith accommodation revenue up ence … Only wimps go to Noosa for winter!

14.9% for Armidale when compared to 2014.

Wondering what to do with the children This is significant when compared to the growth these school holidays? in the New England North West region of just • The Armidale Drama Musical Society 2.8%. With this in mind,and it is therefore exciting will Monty Spamalot. that be thepresenting New England High Python’s Country has recently This is a new musical lovingly signed a partnership with Bauer ripped Media, off whofrom the motion picture Python and the will continue to assistMonty us in the production and Holy Grail. This will be England on during the holidays distribution of our New High Country from June 29 - July 15 at the TAS Hoskins Tourism marketing campaigns.

Centre.

Tickets are available from www.adms.

The next campaign, due to commence in org.au Carrs NewsXpress the mall. spring, isoran Adventure Touringincampaign, targeting a younger/active • Give mountain biking acaravanning go! There isand a woncamping market who are looking forSportUNE, excitement derful new track for beginners at such as mountain bikingtracks and bushwalking, whilst as well as challenging for the more enjoying the wineries, museums and excellent experienced riders. Best of all, there is a café local produce region has to offer.The To capture nearby in theour SportUNE complex. mounthe beautiful autumnal Media tain tracks are locatedcolours, west ofBauer the hockey were inBikes regioncan to be filmhired the videos We fields. from in theautumn.

Armidale hope toCentre share these you Central once weon have a Bicycle and with Bicycles Marsh. finished product. If you would like to be included • The UNE Natural History Museum is open on the Armidale Tourism mailing list to stay from Monday - Friday, 9:30am - 4:30pm. informed, please email kgeorge@armidale.nsw.

Come along and explore the natural world. gov.au There is a wonderful selection currently on We are very excited to have a new event display, including geological specimens, on our tourism calendar this year. The Guyra botanical pieces, horns, invertebrates, aquatic Spring Trout Festival will be held from the 30th animals, reptiles, fossils, a variety of skeletons September to the 2nd October to coincide with and skulls, birds, mammals and more! Did we the opening of the Trout season. There are some mention recently discovered and fiyet-towonderfulthe activities planned, including shing be-officially-named dinosaur? competitions, tours of local fishing enterprises • The Threlfallday Walk Gara Gorge (otherwise and a market withatstallholders from the New known as the Blue Hole) is a pleasant km England region, antique car displays, train5.5 rides, loop that provides magnificent views of the music, entertainment and a Guyra Foodies tasting Macleay Rock hopping, event. ForGorges. more information, pleaseand call explor6775 ing the riverbed, provides for a lovely day out.

5735.

The have freeexcellent gas BBQs, toilets Wepicnic have areas received some feedback recently from visitors who have taken the time to and picnic tables available.

• How about a game of golf? The Armidale write letters, emails and comment on TripAdvisor.

Golf Club has a magnificent golf course, and Congratulations to the staff and volunteers at the they have golf clubs for hire for children and Visitor Information Centre. adults. a fun 9 or holes golf, why “YouAfter have to go on the18 tour.

Ourofguide not for lunch at‘made’ the new “The was stay Jennifer and she thebistro tour. She was Bubbling interesting,Pot”. funny - great sense of humour, •informative Horse riding available at Harlow andispatient.

Great time hadPark, by all.”

TripAdvisor review. located 20 minutes from Armidale. Choose “Last week pleasure from one hourwetohad halfthe day tours. of Contact participating in the Guided Heritage Tour. Our 6778 4631 for bookings. guide and bus driver for the tour was Alan, • Fossicking for gold is a great activity forwho the was both extremely informative and a wonderful whole family to enjoy. Hire the pans from ambassador for Armidale. This is our fifth trip to the Uralla Visitor Information Centre and try the Eastern States, but our first to your area. We your luck at the Wooldridge Recreation and would like to provide our compliments to the Fossicking 6 kmis from city for this Reserve, enjoyablelocated tour, which run byUralla. your •volunteers The Dutton Trout Hatchery, located on Point so professionally.”

Lookout Road,here has were aquarium displays, “The people welcoming andguided pleased to give advice.

It felt like they loved tours and an audio visual show. Learn about what they were doing.

We found them to be the endangered native fish and the breeding very rearing knowledgeable about local region.” and of Brown andtheir Rainbow Trout. review.

•TripAdvisor New England Bike Tours located in Guyra “My husband and I were in Armidale for a provide tours to cater for all abilities. Be guidcouple of days and had read about this tour. The ed through some of the New England’s best volunteer was so knowledgeable and articulate, mountain bike tracks; through some of the patient and obliging, and he is clearly very proud regions native follow Cobb of his city.

It wasbushland; all wonderful, butthe theold highlight & Co. stage coach route or meander around was our visit to the university. Thank you, town and we take the sites. provided Armidale, willincertainly beBike backhire to visit your or bring your Phonereview.

0415 254 614 for beautiful city.”own.

TripAdvisor Visitors to the Armidale Visitor Information bookings. are alwaysCinema on the lookout for local selec•centre The Belgrave has a wonderful products.

We have good range of local Some tion of movies for athe school holidays. products, including Freshly Berried, Sunhill Goats, of the blockbusters planned include DespicaSister Spice, Maydwell, and Mountain Lotus. ble Me 3; Cars 3; Diary of a Wimpy Kid and If you are a producer and you are interested in Spiderman Homecoming. selling your products through the Armidale Visitor Pop on in to the Armidale Visitor Inforinformation Centre, please call Katrina George mation and pick a copy of Out on 6770Centre 3906. These can up be from anywhere and About with Kids.

We are open Monday in the New England High Country region, from -Walcha, Saturday fromGuyra, 9am -Glen 5pmInnes, and 10am 3pm Uralla, Tenterfi-eld and Armidale. on Sundays.

PORT MACQUARIE Beer & CIDER Pathfinders has recently launched the Aboriginal Transition to School (ATTS) toBeer provide Say cheers to the Program Port Macquarie & Aboriginal children between the ages of threethe Cider Festival 2016 ... For the second year, and six years with access and to quality pre-school country’s best boutique craft brewers will and school education.

The program covers be taking over the idyllic coastal town of Port Armidale, Inverell, Ashford, Tingha, Uralla and Macquarie.

At 11am on Saturday 24th September, Walcha, with a Learning Circle available in Westport Park will play host to the Port Macquarie Inverell, Ashford and Tingha.

Beer and Cider Festival, offering unprecedented The ATTS Amandabrews, Doye, tunes supports access tofacilitator, the most exciting andthe food children families on their educational Australiaand hastheir to offer. journeys, to ensure that their education The family friendly event will see the kids’ games experience is a positive one. arena blown out of proportion, with a giant “As an early educator, know that a double slide,childhood mechanical bull for Ikids of all ages child’s brain develops in the first and countless games more and activities to five keepyears the ofsmall life than at any other time,” she said. humans occupied while mum and dad enjoy

all things “My role asbeer theand ATTScider. facilitator is to break down barriers that are stopping these 2016’s festival will showcase at children least 20 from local accessing the best education possible.

I amthe here and national brewers, jostling to take out toinaugural support People’s these children and their families in any Choice Award and the coveted way I can.” notoriety that comes with being crowned Port’s favouritewill brew.

The Stunned VIP capacity Marquee Amanda be available in anMullet ongoing is also new introduction, offering an after thea child has entered preschool orexclusive school, to experience for concerns those withoraissues. taste for the finer respond to any things in life.

The Port Macquarie Beer & Cider The ATTS program also offers the following:

FESTIVAL

Festival has teamed up with Port Macquarie’s finest restaurant, The Stunned Mullet, to offer a trendy pop up restaurant and the ultimate festival upgrade. The first round of brewers have been announced, offering an unprecedented opportunity to engage with some of the country’s best and most passionate brewers, boasting Black Duck Brewey, Murrays Craft Brewing Co, Stone & • Finds preschool and school placements.

Wood Brewing Company, New England Brewery, • Assists with filling in the enrolment paperwork.

MooreBeer, Wayward Brewing, Pagan Cider, • Supports child and family with transition from Dusty Miner Craft Brewery, Hopdog Beerworks, preschool to school.

Four Pines Brewing Company, Frank’s Cider, and • Increases number of days per week the child Hops And Tales Brewery. attends preschool. best ofschool local food vendors will be on hand to •The Improves readiness for Aboriginal ensure bellies are full; and after raging success children emotionally, socially andthe academically. of last year’s inaugural Keg Toss, organisers have • Completes a thorough developmental also introduced a far less physical option: “The assessment.

Roll”, offering prizes individuals and •Keg Assists with referrals andfor linking to other taking registrations for corporate teams.

A great services as needed. These include Pathfinders opportunity to address any friendly rivalry that National Aboriginal Birth Certificate Program and needs levelling.

Armajun Health Service.

Information on tickets,contact buses and VIP tickets For more information, Amanda at available at portmacbeerandciderfestival.com amandad@pathfinders.ngo or 0438 514 223.

WESTPORT PARK • PORT MACQUARIE

FOR A LIST OF BREWERS, TICKETS BUS TIMETABLES VIP & ACCOM INFO VISIT...

new england focus.2927 new england focus.

SHOW SUPPORT FOR YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY BY

supporting your local businesses “LOCALS 4 LOCALS” IS A NOT FOR PROFIT ASSOCIATION THAT CREATES AWARENESS FOR CONSUMERS ABOUT THE ROLES LOCALLY OWNED SMALL BUSINESS PLAYS WITHIN THE COMMUNITY. IN PARTICULAR, THE LOCALS

4 LOCALS SIGNAGE AIMS TO PROVIDE THE CONSUMER WITH AN EASY WAY TO RECOGNISE BUSINESSES THAT ARE LOCALLY OWNED AND SUPPORT THE LOCAL COMMUNITY.

The Armidale City Bowling Club

Armidale Golf Club ”Come and experience food from ‘The Bubbling Pot’ the new caterers at the Armidale Golf Club.

Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am for lunch and Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5pm for dinner.

Golf Links Rd, Armidale.”

Ph. 6772 5837

Jackson’s Quality Meats For the month of July JQM shoppers get 50 thin sausages for $25! What a bargain!

Open 7am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday and 7am to 12.30pm on Saturdays or order online - jqm.com.au for free home delivery within the town boundary.

127 O’Dell St. Ph: 67729400

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“The Armidale City Bowling Club would like to congratulate Head Chef, Carl Hofkamp and chef Angelo Rollo for progressing in to the cook off stage for the Chef Table 2017.

We wish our boys luck when they compete against the best chefs in our industry at the end of June.”

92-96 Dumaresq St Ph: 6772 5666

helloworld Armidale “Call us today to book your winter getaway!”

Armidale Central next to Big W, 225 Beardy St. Ph: 6772 1177

Things With a Difference “New England’s largest gift and homewares store.”

Centre Mall, Armidale.

Ph: 6771 9668

Renee Maree “Exclusive stockists of the cowhide handbags and wallets by Design Edge.” Armidale Plaza, Beardy St. Ph: 6772 1881

Brennan and Smith Optometrists “Do your eyes feel tired? Make JulEYE the month to get your eyes checked.” 180 Beardy St. Ph: 6772 5555

BBQs Galore “For all your wood heating needs this winter.”

157 Rusden St. Ph: 6772 9770

Intersport ”Committed to providing our customers with outstanding service. Sport To The People.”

151 Rusden Street, Armidale.

Ph: (02) 6771 2344

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Allingham’s Removals “For all your speciality moves.”

49 Bundarra Road.

Ph: 6772 1811

Hunts Carpets & Blinds “Vinyl planks is where the market is at the moment.

Hunts Carpets & Blinds have an extensive range of vinyl planks that are on the market. There is a massive range of colours and styles available. Warmer option than tiles, without the echo of a floating floor. Come in and talk to the helpful staff at Hunts Carpets & Blinds. Don’t forget our Certegy option; no interest ever repayment plans. Updating the home has just become so much more affordable.” 217 Mann St. Ph: 6772 6766

Armidale Pet Shop “When only the best will do for your pet, choose the Australian designed and made Snooza Pet Futon.” 113 Beardy St. Ph: 67711040

Computer Support Team Armidale “Now Stocking Jaycar Products.”

Code Black Drone - $179 was $269 3/106 Jessie St. Ph: 6771 4072

nTech & Communications “Seriously simple. Ready to go out of the box.”

Name: Lenovo M700 Bundle RRP: $1,450 inc Special: $1150 inc *Limited Stock Specs: Intel i5 Processor, 4GB RAM, 128GB SSD, 500GB HDD, Windows 10 Pro, Keyboard + Mouse, 21.5” FHD Monitor info@ntech.net.au Ph: 5732 7877 32 new england focus.

Beardy Street Servo ”All Day, Every Day Driveway Service.”

351 Beardy St. Ph: 6772 9355

Johnson & Kennedy ”Prime Mover Hi Vis Bomber Jacket - $44.”

120 Niagara St. Ph: (02) 6771 4070 Option 2

Hubbard Hire ”Log splitting made easy - $142 a day.”

263 Mann St. Ph: 6772 7966

Bones Tyres ”Exclusive stockists of Cooper Tyres in Armidale.”

255 Mann St Ph: 67720048

NE Solar Power Armidale Bicycle Centre

110 Taylor St. Ph: 6772 6233

”If you want the largest range and the best brands in bicycles, accessories, clothing and spare parts, you can always rely on our team of experts.” 2/244 Beardy Street, Armidale. Ph: 6772 3718 new england focus. 33

focus_local recipe

BAKED

GREEN APPLE With mixed dried fruit crumble, Cinnamon Custard & Malt Ice Cream

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4) ¾ cup mixed dried fruit 2 tbsp Demerara sugar, plus extra to sprinkle 1 orange, rind finely grated 1 tbsp fresh orange juice 4 large green apples ¼ tsp mixed spice 1 egg Cinnamon custard and malt ice cream to serve Cinnamon Custard 1 egg 2 egg yolks 115 g sugar 2 tbsp corn flour 400 ml full cream milk 2 tsp vanilla extract ¼ tsp cinnamon

Malt Ice Cream 200 ml heavy cream 200 ml full cream milk 8 egg yolks 100 g malt powder 1 tsp glucose syrup

Chef Lusyianna Setra

Azka Restaurant, Wine & Tapas Bar Quality Hotel Powerhouse 31 Marsh Street, Armidale NSW 2350 Phone (02) 6772 7788

method

34QHP0196_Azka_July new england focus.

Focus 2017 317x125_Final.indd

1

21/6/17 7:44 pm

Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with baking paper. Combine dried fruit, rind, juice and mixed spice in a bowl. Slice 1 cm from the top of each apple and discard. Core the apples and use a melon baller to create a cavity, leaving a 1 cm border. Place on prepared tray and fill apples with fruit mixture. Brush apples with lightly whisked egg and sprinkle with extra sugar. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden and apples are tender.

a pot and stir until thick.

For the cinnamon custard, heat all ingredients in

with malt ice cream.

For the malt ice cream, slowly heat cream, milk and malt powder. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar and glucose. Slowly pour the heated malted milk and cream into the bowl to combine.

After cooling mixture, place it into an ice cream machine for 45 minutes.

Serve baked apple on cinnamon custard, topped

focusinterview.

T O N O M I N AT E AS A F U T U R E L E A D E R I N O U R C O M M U N I T Y

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED BECOMING A COUNCILLOR FOR THE NEW ARMIDALE REGIONAL COUNCIL? IF YOU HAVE, YOU MAY FIND OUR CONVERSATION WITH COUNCIL INTERESTING. YOU WILL FIND USEFUL LINKS AND INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU CONSIDER “PUTTING YOUR HAND UP” TO NOMINATE AS A FUTURE LEADER IN OUR COMMUNITY.

O

n appointment of the new council, how many new councillors will be announced and under what roles?

The Council is made up of eleven (11) Councillors, including the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, who are elected to the positions by the Council. The Mayor holds office for two years, and the Deputy Mayor is elected for two years or annually.

The Local Government Area is undivided, and therefore has no wards.

Local Government Elections are held every four (4) years. However, the new Council term will be for three years, with the next elections to be held in September 2020.

What does it take to be a “nominee”?

What are some of the key criteria areas?

Before deciding whether to nominate, make sure you are on the electoral roll for the Armidale Regional Council area and are eligible to stand for office.

For more information about the local council election, nomination and registration details, voting and key dates, visit the NSW Electoral Commission’s website at www.votensw.info Being ethical, open and honest are key characteristics of successful councillors. In addition, you’ll need: - to be keen to learn; - communication skills to talk to people in your community and consider different views; - time management and organisational skills; - problem solving skills; and

- teamwork skills.

Are both old and new candidates It’s important to talk to your family and welcome to enter? friends about whether you can realistically fit New and experienced candidates are being a councillor into your life, along with being encouraged to consider putting their any other work and personal priorities. hand up to nominate to be a councillor.

You’ll need the time to read council Our community needs capable people with business papers, attend meetings and passion and commitment to nominate as represent the council at some events. candidates in these upcoming local council If you’re elected, you’ll receive support to elections and to provide civic leadership for understand your role and be successful. the next three years.

Both council and the NSW Energy and a “can do” Government will provide desire to get things an annual training and done and make a development program difference will be you’ ll for you. Council will important qualities If you’re elec ted, to receive support also provide an initial for councillors, role and induction program. understand your co uncil who need to th be successful . Bo nment Council will meet be inclusive, er and the NSW G ov al some expenses approachable and annu will provide an t and provide other willing to work en pm lo ve training and de tools to help you across communities ” u. yo program for carry out your role. to create a Expenses can include prosperous future for training, conferences, the Armidale Regional travel, telephone and care for Council area. dependants such as children. Other When will the election be tools will include an iPad to use on council held, when does voting open, business. Councils can also provide support and where can we vote? to help councillors who have a disability or Armidale Regional Council will be holding other special needs. its first election on Saturday 9 September Councillors also receive an annual fee from 2017. The NSW Electoral Commission’s the council based on a fee range set each website www.votensw.info has all the year by the Local Government Remuneration information the community requires about Tribunal. the election process. The first step is to ensure Council also has information on its website that you are enrolled to vote. at www.armidaleregional.nsw.gov.au Under the NSW Local Government Act Search for “Become a Councillor”.

1993, a person entitled to vote includes:

“

• a resident of the council/ward (residential roll) • an owner of rateable land in the council/ ward (non-residential roll) • an occupier or rate paying lessee of rateable land in the council/ward (non-residential roll) A corporation is entitled to nominate a person to appear on the roll on behalf of the corporation.

If a person is on the residential roll in a council/ward, they cannot be on the nonresidential roll for that area. A person/ corporation is not entitled to more than one vote in any council area, even if the person/ corporation is a multiple owner, occupier or lessee. It is not compulsory to vote for those enrolled on the non-residential roll (except in the Council of the City of Sydney).

Are you looking for locals to assist at the voting locations?

If a community member would like to work at the Local Government Elections 2017 to be held on 9 September 2017, you must register your interest on the NSW Electoral Commissions website at www.votensw.info And lastly, where can our readers go for more information?

Nominations for councillors close at noon on 9 August 2017. For information regarding the nomination process to be a councillor, go to www.votensw.info Council also has information on its website at www.armidaleregional.nsw.gov.au Search for “Become a Councillor”.

Elections for Armidale Regional Council are on September 9, 2017. Voting is compulsory.

For information, visit: www.votensw.info new england focus. 35

36 new england focus.

BodySOUL.

MIND

MOVEBETTER. TAKING A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO YOUR HEALTH, SO YOU CAN MOVE BETTER FOR LIFE. Rusden Street Physio has significantly expanded its range of treatment and wellness services.

Our most recent service, dry needling, may assist our patients with pain management and dysfunction such as muscle problems and headaches, and enhance the efficacy of conventional physiotherapy treatment programs. It works by changing the way your body senses pain, and by helping the body heal stubborn muscle spasm associated with trigger points. RSP physiotherapist Liam McAuliffe is trained in dry needling and its various techniques.

There are drug free ways you can reduce pain and improve function. Remedial or relaxation massage is great for those who have had a hard-working week or feel like treating themselves to some TLC. If you have muscle tension or chronic pain, our remedial massage therapist, Sam Lord, will assess you and tailor a treatment to suit. Our occupational therapy service helps our patients regain or enhance the quality of their daily life after a specific event such as hip replacement or stroke. Our Occupational Therapist is available for home visits and needs assessments. If you need help achieving optimum function in your day-to-day life, please make an appointment for an assessment.

new england focus. 37

focusinterview

BodySOUL.

Business Minds with Ingrid Rothe of VIVID Thinking MIND

BUSINESS minds

GRETTA FREE.

T

INTRODUCING GRETTA FREE, OWNER/MANAGER OF EMBODY WELLNESS STUDIO. GRETTA IS THE 2016 ARMIDALE BUSINESS CHAMBER’S NEW ENGLAND ENTERPRISING WOMAN OF THE YEAR.

ell us about your background.

I started in fitness 17 years ago and still love it.

Over time, my focus has changed to holistic wellness, rehabilitation and treatment. I’ve stayed in the fitness and wellbeing industry, because I can see the value of the transformation that occurs in our clients. They’re so grateful to achieve such huge changes in their life.

I’ve lived in Armidale for 12 years, raising my little boy, and now another little one is due very soon.

What brought you to Armidale?

I have a Physical Education degree and came to Armidale as an intern at PLC, and never left!

While my passion for fitness has never waned, I found that adults were more receptive to what I could offer and coincidentally, there was a wellbeing niche here that nobody was looking after.

What led you to start Embody Wellness Studio?

I started out with small classes at the PCYC and TAS. I also ran some Pilates-based classes with some of the private schools and was personal training at various locations around town. I was running around like crazy - getting pregnant made me consider the advantages of being based in one place. Five years ago, I built a custom-designed studio, Embody Wellness Studio.

What does Embody Wellness Studio do?

We offer a range of services, including group classes in Pilates, yoga, foundation training, TRX (suspension training method), anti-gravity yoga, personal training and rehabilitation

38 new england focus.

gretta

programs on our fully equipped studio Pilates journey and support them through that. Our machines. Our services are studio-based and vision is to provide our clients with safe and use specialised programs and equipment. effective exercise and life-long tools to help We offer tailored classes to suit the them achieve health and wellness. differing needs of our clients. Our staff are All our teachers undertake a gold standard trained in assessing your body, your strengths level of training through Polstar International and weaknesses and designing individual Pilates. We also offer Yoga Therapy. All Pilates programs. and yoga teachers have undergone at We can help with things you least two years of comprehensive may not know you can training. Individual clients improve, such as chronic come to us with a specific back pain, reducing health concern, and we tly os m e el nt ie stress, high blood tailor the techniques to Our cl c ifi ec sp ry ve pressure, symptoms meet their needs. We s ha e or iv at lit bi ha re of arthritis or really meet our clients s: need tional nc fu e tiv ec inflammation in the rr where they are, with co care about movement. We joints, incontinence, their journey in mind. journey their individu al hernias, prolapses, Our investment and support them post-natal difficulties, in Pilates machinery through that .” and those recovering is significant. Sydney from surgery or fracture trainers are amazed at and need rehabilitation. the level of investment we At Embody Wellness Studio have made, offering a larger we’re focused on the connection range than most metropolitan between mind, body and soul. We take centres. Using machines such as power a holistic view, not just what muscles plates, whole body vibration machines, we we can build, but how can we help this can provide true clinical rehabilitative Pilates. person function better in life, for life. So, we Recently a Sydney-based trainer conducted also look at their inner health, including dietary three-days in-house training for our 10 staff. requirements and nutrition. In fact, the three Your employment model is also unique. elements of our logo represent this holistic Our employment model provides our connection. practitioners a financial stake in the success of What makes Embody Wellness Studio the studio. I developed the Embody Wellness services different from other yoga and Studio model based on medical professionals Pilates practitioners? like GPs and physios. The treatment Our clientele mostly has very specific practitioner gets 70% of the proceeds in needs: rehabilitative or corrective functional acknowledgement of their training and movement. We care about their individual contribution to the business. This gives our

“

staff an independent sense of ownership and encourages a commitment to our clients.

Who is your typical client?

Some clients suffered from such chronic pain that they could hardly function, and then we have high-level athletes using the facility.

Other clients have been preparing for vacation - one couple was preparing for a six-week trek through Switzerland. We have worked with people with Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Parkinson’s Disease, and Diabetes.

Our clients are often referred by their treating practitioner, such as physios, GPs, chiropractors, and arthritis specialists.

Tell us about your growth.

Since launching, we have achieved a steady yearly 50% growth. In the last five years, we have gone from one to 10 staff.

To what do you attribute your growth?

Embody Wellness Studio itself does not achieve huge profit margins: we are driven more by our purpose. We offer amazing service, which leads to happy customers and word of mouth, so we don’t really advertise.

What would you advise a business just starting out?

Look at your market and the niche. You need a unique and marketable product.

Network as much as you can with other aligned businesses and live, breathe, represent and be passionate and courageous about your business.

What are the biggest challenges that lie ahead?

Maintaining our quality of service while experiencing significant growth, particularly in the area of staff.

Thanks Gretta.

new england focus. 39

focuseditorial.

7 1 0 2 THE TOUR DE ROCKS CHARITY BIKE RIDE WAS HELD 20 - 22 APRIL THIS YEAR, WITH 385 PARTICIPANTS. THE TOTAL FUNDS RAISED WERE JUST OVER $238,000!

THE RIDE GOES FROM ARMIDALE TO SOUTH WEST ROCKS OVER THREE DAYS, COVERING A DISTANCE OF 255 KM.

tour de rocks

he participants came from far and wide and ranged in age, with some in their seventies tackling the mammoth distance, down to youngsters getting the chance to join the ride on day two for their own 26 km event.

Amongst the group were brave people who shared their stories of loved ones who had battled cancer, some of them survivors themselves. The comradery of the teams was overwhelmingly strong and whilst many people found themselves riding alongside perfect strangers, everyone supported each other from the start to the end.

The course has several challenging sections, with participants climbing over 3,500 m whilst descending from the New England High Country to the magnificent NSW coastal village of South West Rocks. The course for day two of the ride this year was slightly different to previous years, with riders crossing the Macleay River and having the opportunity to tackle narrow dirt roads and rocky creek crossings. Most participants would probably agree this was the most challenging and rewarding part of the whole course, as everyone dug deep and got through it.

Each night the Tour de Rocks organisers shared tales from the day on the road, and nominations were made by the participants for stage jerseys to be awarded to those who inspired others or displayed courage and commitment out on the course. To see the group come together at the end of the long hard days and share their stories from the ride, commending each other and also having a good laugh at the funnier moments, is a really special part of the journey.

Of course, organising an event of this size is no minor task. The catering team, led by Paul Marquardt, Paul Malifert and Moose Stephens, 40 new england focus.

undertake an incredible amount of preparation in the months leading up to the event, and the food is five star, this year including roast dinners, gourmet sandwiches and sweets and spaghetti bolognaise of genuine Italian standards!

In addition to the p To see the grou the at er amazing team of catering th ge to e m co ys da rd ha volunteers, the teams end of the long s ie or st r ei are assisted by volunteer and share th mmending support crews, who from the ride , co also having undertake the enormous each other an d the funnier task of setting up the a good laugh at ly special al re a moments , is camps for the first two people diagnosed y.” ne ur jo e part of th nights and hauling all the with cancer. bags and equipment over The team finished the three days. Without this the ride fitter and support, the event simply wouldn’t healthier than ever, with be possible. an extraordinary sense of The major sponsors for the event are The achievement and comradery. Some Armidale School, the Armidale Ex-Services Club of the team are pictured above with the and Bayer, who all contribute a large amount Chairman and Founder of Tour de Rocks, Bill to the overall fundraising and also provide Wheeler. significant support to the running of the event.

Like every team in the event, the group In addition to the major sponsors, there are worked very hard to raise as many funds as many other sponsors whose support is just possible in the lead up to the ride. as important, and these include: SportUNE, In addition to the $14,059 raised by Roberts & Faircloth Reynolds, Superair, Focus Magazine, Morrow, the Count Charitable Foundation (CCF) Crowe Horwath, Giant, Regional Bank Australia, donated a further $7,500 to the team following Armidale City Signs, Grant McCarroll Ford and the event, taking the total up to $21,559.

Roberts & Morrow.

The CCF is an initiative of Count Financial, an Roberts & Morrow entered a team of 28 organisation for which Roberts & Morrow is a riders and seven support crew. The ride provided member and licensee. an opportunity for the staff to work together As part of the relationship Roberts & Morrow training and fundraising, all the while knowing has with Count, the firm has access to generous their contribution would support local cancer dollar matching offered by the CCF for any programs. In addition, it is incredibly promising charitable fundraising they are involved with to know the Tour de Rocks medical research meeting their guidelines throughout the year. projects are making a difference to treatment The team were thrilled to get the news about the regimes and long term survival rates for local CCF funds and really proud of the group effort in

“

raising more than they could have imagined.

Getting into South West Rocks after such a huge three days is an incredible experience for all participants - riders, supporters and organisers.

This is the moment that brings the whole experience together.

This year at the South West Rocks Headland overlooking the ocean, where all the riders disembark after crossing the finish line, the Tour de Rocks group was joined by a young courageous boy called Roan Clarkson. At age four, some 14 years ago, Roan was diagnosed with a catastrophic malignant tumour situated in the brainstem.

Tour de Rocks organisers told Roan’s story and shared with the group where some of the funds would be allocated in support of cancer research, prevention and treatment, so that young people like Roan can receive the support and treatment they desperately need.

To date, Tour de Rocks has raised just over $1.3million in funds since it was founded in 2012.

Anyone can participate in this incredible event.

If you haven’t experienced it yet, you should consider taking part in next year’s ride, which will be held 26 - 28 April 2018.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

JULY 2017

with Terri

DOUBLE CHIN. Getting rid of the dreaded “double chin“ without surgery!

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

You are embarking on a journey of emotional self discovery. By reflecting yourself in others, you will notice your own strengths to be proud of, and your weaknesses needing attention and change. Loving yourself and not judging yourself will assist you enormously.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of self love.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 To satisfy some of your restless energy, try to become a little more physically focused.

Do some rigorous exercise and sweat out the frustration. Fill your mind with empowering compliments at least five times a day for the next few weeks, and see the difference you will make for the better.

Turquoise is the crystal of empowerment.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Time to honour yourself. Your sensitivity is increasing, leaving you more uncomfortable than ever before when you are amongst turmoil. If you are surrounded by conflict, look inward at all your qualities and attributes that you like about yourself. This exercise will leave you feeling at peace, not affected by the turmoil. Citrine shatters negativity.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

A more comfortable ownership of your reality can be anticipated, as you venture towards challenging and releasing previous fears. Arm yourself with the answers to your fears, and enjoy how easy facing them will be.

Ruby helps to shatter fear.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23

Set some fresh goals for 2017, but be aware of your motive. Avoid focusing on fears, imagine having what you’re wanting and thank the universe for it, then forget about it. See how long it takes to materialise, then thank yourself for manifesting it.

Clear Quartz is a powerful amplifier; hold it whilst wishing.

If you are feeling suspended at present, try reflecting on the last twelve months and release any undigested emotions. You are approaching big changes, as you are discovering what your role in the bigger scheme of your life is at present and the more negativity you release from your past, the more rewarding your future will be. Jade is great for self worth and healing.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

June 23 - July 23

You are embarking on a journey of emotional self discovery. Avoid over analysing situations, or this could overwhelm you. Instead, allow others to be a reflection for your strengths and the weaknesses you need to work on.

Rose Quartz is the nurturing crystal of love.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 Listen to your wise words that catch your attention when you are counselling others, as these are the words you are most needing to hear. Be kind to yourself in thought, as you may be vulnerable at entertaining negative self thoughts. As your mind is currently creating the steps you will be walking in a few months, kind thoughts now will ensure a more rewarding future. Clear quartz empowers us.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Time for change is at hand. Set some goals and if fears spring up, don’t be afraid to take hold of them and reshape them so you are in control of them. If you don’t clear your fears, they could present potential sabotage for a rewarding change. Find something to stimulate your mind at the moment to break bad habits of negative self thoughts. Turquoise is great for self esteem.

October 24 - November 22 Love yourself as much as you can in every way, so you know you deserve the best of the best. You are freeing yourself from any patterns that are self depreciating, to ensure you will have wonderful rewards in the near future. Avoid sharing your weaknesses or faults with others, as this only humiliates you. Self love will attract beautiful rewards. Turquoise is great for self esteem.

The latest breakthrough in fat removal in the chin is the injection of “BELKYRA“ Deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body. The double chin (submental fat) is a collection of fat below the Platysma muscle (a pair of muscles on the front and sides of the neck forming a “corset“ for the deeper structures in the neck) which causes significant distress to those affected, as it is a very obvious defect and adds to ageing of the face.

After exhaustive trials in the USA, Belkyra is now available in Australia, strictly for use in reduction of submental fat.

The treatment consists of three or four injections at two monthly intervals. Each injection takes about 30 minutes, and topical anaesthesia is used.

As the removal is permanent, accurate injection of the drug into the submental fat is required. Patient selection is also important, as Belkyra works best for patients with moderate submental fullness and good skin tone.

There is a small risk of side effects, but these are minimal and temporary.

For more details, please contact us or go to our website.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Try not to be challenged by feeling different or not knowing where you fit in. You are a natural born leader of people and in order to guide others, you will need to stand out, or they wouldn’t notice you. Hear your wise words that catch your attention, as these same words will be the answers to your dilemmas.

Danburite is wonderful for channelling.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

You are gifted at manifesting. If you can acknowledge this talent and be grateful to yourself for this special gift, you will enhance your ability and discover even more good luck in life. Try regular goal setting and see what a powerhouse at this you are. Think about what you want and then fill your being with the excitement of having it, and then forget it with gratitude. Citrine attracts an abundance. new england focus. 41

42 new england focus.

new england focus. 43

NEW ENGLAND

conservatorium

I

The New England Conservatorium welcomed their new Director in June, Russell Bauer, who is excited to be a part of NECOM’s bright future. Russ took some time to tell us about himself recently ...

t's a brave Queenslander who takes up a new position in NSW just three days before the second State of Origin match in Sydney ... If it's any consolation, I'm a Test Cricket tragic, not a league fan. I'm very excited to be moving my family to Armidale to begin a new career as Director of NECOM. I'm originally from a rural background, having been born and raised in Kingaroy, the peanut capital of Australia.

Tell us about your musical background.

My earliest musical experiences were as a six year-old playing Country songs (by ear) on my Grandma's old mostly-in-tune German piano. As soon as I had a repertoire of around 10 songs, she would drive me up the hill to the local retirement home and let me play for the elderly, with an empty shoebox tied beneath my right sandal so that I could reach the sustain pedal. Piano would prove to be my closest associate for the next decade of my life, and it was in my early teens that my love and admiration for Beethoven took hold.

How did music become such a big part of your life as you got older?

My tertiary years were spent at USQ in Toowoomba, where I developed a passion for composing and arranging. As an undergraduate, I formed a song-writing partnership with the Head of Drama, Mr Robert Ketton, and together we produced six original children's musicals. Entering university as a piano major, I soon became envious of my friends and colleagues heading off to orchestra rehearsals twice a week, so after pleading with the Professor of Music (the late Peter 44 new england focus.

Rorke OAM) I entered the orchestral fold as a tuba-player, having never touched one before in my life. This kick-started a desire to become, if not fluent, certainly “conversational” in as many different instruments as I could manage.

There was a practical reason for doing this; learning scales and simple pieces on many different instruments teaches you the inherent difficulties of each family (woodwind, brass, percussion and strings) and subsequently makes you a much more versatile composer and arranger.

From my university days until now, I have (at various times) been an instrumental teacher for 12 years back in my home town of Kingaroy, a USQ Lecturer in Music, and Head/Director of Music at several leading schools in South-East Queensland. I have continued my interest in composing for the theatre, with an original musical about Harry Houdini (with lyrics by the acclaimed poet, Bruce Dawe) being selected as part of the Sydney Writer's Festival in 2010.

Can you tell us about some of your ideas for NECOM? As Director of NECOM from June 2017, it is my wish that I might continue the outstanding work of Susanne James and help to keep this incredible regional Conservatorium as one of the jewels in the crown of the beautiful New England region. One of my key areas of interest lies in the early years of music training, introducing young musicians to as many musical experiences as possible, and encouraging them to experiment with sound in the same way that a young artist splashes colour onto a canvas with exuberance. Almost

every adult who still makes music after the therapy program on 6 August; the ACO age of 30 or 40 does so because they had Collective, presented by NECOM and Musica one or more teachers modelling best practice Viva Armidale, will be at the Armidale Town and a sheer love of their art form. My former Hall at the end of August; plus lots of in-house Professor of Music, Peter Rorke, continues to events, including student concerts, and inspire me on a weekly basis, even the upcoming launch of a new 20 years after his passing. website. NECOM is looking The phrase forward to continuing "Conservatorium without their long and happy It is my wish to walls" is a wonderful residency at the help keep this way to approach beautiful CB Newling al incredible region as music education and Building, locally um ri to va conser s in the el w performance, and known as the Old je e th of e on autif ul I'm excited about the Teachers’ College. crown of the be gion .” possibilities of expanding Are your family New England re the social media looking forward to “footprint” at NECOM. This the move to Armidale? will mean working closely with Yes! I bring with me my the excellent marketing team to wife, Janine, and 13 year-old explore avenues for demolishing even son, Toby. He is sometimes known more virtual walls, so that the entire country as the "Oven Kid", but I am happy to can enjoy the fruits of the music-making explain that on another occasion. Our two happening in New England. daughters are adults with their own careers; Finally, I will be very keen to share my work our eldest daughter, Sarah, lives in the heart in memory-training, something that has of Brisbane and works in the finance sector, completely changed how I approach learning while our middle child, Jessica, may be known and study over the past 20 years. to fans of YouTube as one half of the “Jess & What can we look forward to seeing at Gabe” channel.

NECOM in the future?

I thank you all, in advance, for the warm NECOM recently signed a teaching welcome I know we will receive on becoming agreement with UNE to deliver units to residents of beautiful Armidale, and yes, we students studying a Bachelor of Music; have packed our coats, scarves, beanies and there are concerts coming up, including ugg-boots. I look forward to meeting as many the Sydney International Piano Competition of you as I can in my first few months at winner, Andrey Gugnin, who will perform NECOM. in a fundraiser concert for NECOM’s music Thanks Russell.

“

NEW ENGLAND CONSERVATORIUM PRESENTS

& BRAHMS

PHOTO CREDIT KEN LEANFORE

MOZART P E K KA K UUSI STO A RTI STI C D I RE CTO R G U E S T A R T I S T: M AT T H E W H U N T, C L A R I N E T

MOZART|BARTÓK|BRAHMS

ARMIDALE TOWN HALL THURSDAY 31 AUGUST 2017 @ 7:00 PM BOOKINGS: www.trybooking.com/OKAZ

NEW ENGLAND CONSERVATORIUM in association with

SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL PIANO COMPETITION AUSTRALIA presents

NECOM’s 2017 Fundraising Concert

Photo credit: Daniel Boud

ANDREY GUGNIN 2016 WINNER

BACH SCHUBERT SHOSTAKOVICH DESYATNIKOV KIERYN HARVEY STRAVINSKY

SUNDAY 6 AUGUST AT 3:00 PM

AUDITORIUM, OLD TEACHERS’ COLLEGE bookings: www.trybooking.com/OKBW new england focus. 43

AN EVENING WITH ARMIDALE

community OF SCHOOLS

An Evening with Armidale Community of Schools will be the highlight of the year for students, teachers and parents, with dancing, singing and dramatics aplenty. ACPS teacher Sue Kelly sends an invitation to all to attend on Wednesday 2 August.

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hat can FOCUS readers expect to see on the night?

An Evening with ACOS is a celebration of visual arts, choral speaking, dance, music and drama. The evening showcases the outstanding talent of public school students belonging to the Armidale Community of Schools. The audience will be exposed to a dazzling line-up of singing, dancing and musical talent. Five hundred students from Kindergarten to Year 12 will feature in items such as the massed choral group of 200 voices, combined orchestra of 60 musicians, dance groups and a visual art display.

What was the inspiration behind this event?

This event has been going for approximately 30 years. It was previously known as the North West Creative Arts Festival, which was held annually.

It was driven by the NorthWest Creative Arts Consultants based in Armidale and Tamworth and funded by the Department of Education. The festival included performers from as far and wide as Walcha, Guyra, Glen Innes, Inverell, Moree and Narrabri. Over time, Moree and Narrabri received funding to host their own events, and the festival became more localised.

Approximately six years ago, the festival was changed to a biannual event, so it didn’t clash with the other major events in our area, such as New England Sings. After a two year break, 2015 saw the formation of a new committee made up of local teachers and a name change to An Evening with ACOS. It is already known as one of the most significant music and artistic education events in Armidale, celebrating public education 46 new england focus.

A few highlights ith of An Evening w m elco e ACOS are the W the to Country and mance or rf Indigenous pe ch oral e th s, w that follo s from and drama item on nd the AHS and Sa Support units .”

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in a unique and exciting way.

Which schools and students will be involved on the night?

The Armidale Community of Schools, which include: Armidale City Public School, Armidale High School, Ben Venue Public School, Chandler Public School, Duval High School, Drummond Memorial School, Kelly’s Plains School, Martins Gully Public School, Sandon Public School, Newling Public School, Rocky River and Uralla Central School. Students from all cultures are involved in this event.

A few highlights of An Evening with ACOS are the Welcome to Country and the Indigenous performance that follows, the choral and drama items from the AHS and Sandon Support units.

How important for the students is it to be a part of an event like this?

An Evening with ACOS is a fantastic opportunity for students. The whole process promotes student engagement and educational outcomes by boosting motivation, building confidence and self-esteem, cooperation, collaboration, leadership skills, forging friendships and a sense of belonging. It also serves to provide a vehicle for students to experience the thrill of performing in front of a large audience and the joy of involvement in the performing arts.

An Evening with ACOS also provides a unique training opportunity for students who want to work behind the scenes, in audio, photography, lighting and stage management.

What is involved in organising an event like this?

The first step is to form a voluntary working committee with a representative from each school on board. Committee members take on roles to liaise with the community about the venue, ticketing, publicity, programming, sound and lighting etc.

Back at schools, the vital role played by our dedicated and talented teachers begins. Many hours over the past four months have been spent organising and rehearsing items, designing costumes, and making artworks, so students can develop and display their passion, creativity, ability and talents as musicians, dancers and artists.

The day before the performance is set aside for rehearsals. It is the only opportunity the students will get to practise on the stage, with the professional sound and lighting effects before doing a show run the following day for all other performers. The performance night is always hectic, and organisation needs to be tight.

Many teachers give up their night to fill positions in areas such as dressing room management, security, communication, supervision and support wherever needed. The Retired Teachers Association also assists with Front of House.

It is an amazing team effort and gives us the opportunity to promote public education and show just what public schools can achieve with a

whole lot of teamwork.

What would you like to see the community experience from an event like this?

For all who attend the Evening with ACOS concert, to enjoy and be impressed by the musical and artistic efforts and talent of the students and staff in our public schools. Also, for the audience to witness the sense of community that is evident between schools, both on and off stage.

The audience will see how all students involved have committed themselves to learn such a range of extensive repertoires, attend the extra rehearsals and celebrate each other’s talents, which in turn make this spectacular event one to remember. The performance is an evening of entertainment of such merit, that it far exceeds any expectations. We look forward to the audience walking away with a real sense of pride for the students and teachers in the public school system.

How can we get tickets to attend?

Readers Companion will be selling tickets from Monday 26 June. Ticket prices are Adults $15 and Children $10. There will be no tickets sold on the night. The concert will be held on Wednesday 2 August, commencing with the visual art display at 6:30pm and the performance at 7pm.

An Evening with ACOS is made possible through the support from UNE, Reader’s Companion, Macs Sound, Retired Teachers Association and the NSW Department of Education.

Thanks Sue.

new england focus. 45

St.JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

St Joseph’s Primary School Uralla is one on the most historic schools in our region. Principal Judy Elks tells FOCUS readers about the school’s new transition programme, which will be offering a full day each Wednesday for Term 3 AND Term 4 to any child who is due to commence Kindergarten in 2018.

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emind us of the history of St Joseph’s Primary School in Uralla.

St Joseph’s School has been educating the children of Uralla and the surrounding district since 1886. It was established by the Bishop of Armidale, financed by the parishioners of Uralla and run by the Sisters of St Joseph under the direction of Mother Mary MacKillop, now known as St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Australia’s first saint. The Josephite nuns ran the school for 99 years, until their departure in 1985.

The school has since been run by lay principals and is part of the system of 24 schools operating within the Diocese of Armidale.

Tell us about the team at St Joseph’s ...

We are indeed fortunate to have such a wonderful staff which is not only professional, but passionate about teaching and wanting the best for each of their students. We can tick all the boxes - well-qualified, energetic, passionate, experienced and committed.

Our team of teachers work collaboratively with me as Principal to not only deliver the curriculum, but to enable each child to be their very best and to do their very best. I wish to acknowledge the

48 new england focus.

er it be an iPad, chromebook, laptop or PC. wonderful work of our staff: Miss Emma Kelly Lessons are delivered using a variety of methods, (Infants); Mrs Kim Heagney and Mrs Kim Klienwhich engage the students by using smartdienst (Primary); Mrs Mary Hull and boards, Google Chromes, group Mrs Bianca Walters (Teacher’s discussions and activities, indiAides). vidual enquiry and research What can prospective The Transition activities. parents expect their have Programme will Our pastoral care and child to experimeracy a literacy and nu visual discipline are founded ence if choosing e focus and includ on the Gospel values St Joseph’s for skills and arts , fine motor It will of love and respect and their primary s. gross motor skill g each are practically reinforced education? in be aimed at help for by our “Bounce Back” The school is ed ar ep pr be child d an fe sa a programme, which structured around ‘big school’ in t.” en nm ro vi en encourages each child two Learning Studie supportiv to be responsible for their os: an Infants Learning own actions, to communicate Studio, comprising effectively and to be resilient in Kindergarten, Year 1 and times of trial.

Year 2; and a Primary Learning What are the visions and goals for Studio, comprising Years 3, 4, 5 and 6. students?

These large spaces cater for the very latest St Joseph’s students are taught not only an in contemporary teaching and learning, academic curriculum, but to be socially resilient, which focuses on the needs aware and respectful of others in a broad specof EACH child. The light-filled learning studios are furnished in a visually appealing style, condutrum of society.

Each child who completes their primary educacive to a happy learning environment. tion at St Joseph’s can expect to enter secondary EVERY child has access to an IT device, wheth-

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school equipped with the knowledge, skills and self-confidence to achieve to their potential.

Our aim is to enable our students to become independent lifelong learners who have an understanding of the need to contribute meaningfully to their world.

Tell us about this year’s Transition Programme ...

This year we are excited to be offering a full day each Wednesday for Term 3 AND Term 4 to any child who is due to commence Kindergarten in 2018.

The Transition Programme will have a literacy and numeracy focus and include visual arts, fine motor skills and gross motor skills. It will be aimed at helping each child be prepared for “big school” in a safe and supportive environment.

There are NO FEES attached to the Transition Programme, and it is an OBLIGATION-FREE trial for parents who are considering the best school for their child.

Transition will run each Wednesday from 9am to 3pm, commencing 19 July.

Phone the Principal on 6778 4063 to book a place for your child and to give them the “Joey’s” experience.

Thanks Judy.

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BNI IS ALL ABOUT CHANGING THE WAY THE WORLD DOES BUSINESS. ARMIDALE ESTABLISHED A CHAPTER IN 2013, FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE LOCAL BUSINESS COMMUNITY.

Farrer memorial Agriculture High School FARRER Memorial Agricultural High School has established an enviable reputation as a centre of excellence in academics, agriculture, welfare, sports and academic programs. Catering to the education of both day and boarding students, Farrer is the sole government provider of boys’ education in a regional setting, and the only boys’ agricultural school in Australia.

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NI is all about members deliver to our business associates. When we helping each other to grow learn about a need and we know we have their business, using BNI's someone who can supply the product or unique systems, education service that our contact is seeking to acquire, and structure, which have we pick that up as a business opportunity. been developed and refined This is why our referrals are very different from since BNI commenced in 1985. a lead. A referral is a real opportunity to do Business education and training play a business with someone who is ready to buy major role for the members of BNI. Each week that product or service! members educate and provide information The BNI philosophy of "Givers Gain" is our about their individual businesses to the fundamental way of generating new business BNI chapter. One member does a longer for our members. It's all for one and one for presentation each week regarding all! and ... Givers Gain! their business, which provides We want to grow our the membership with membership! If you believe information particularly you could benefit from Imagine pertaining to that more business, then having the business. Each week, we would love to ently ability to confid ers each member has hear from you. At BNI refer your cu stom es an opportunity we encourage and ss to other busine e th e id to showcase their appreciate having ov who will pr e ic rv se of l business in some ve visitors come along to same le way, either by way our breakfast meetings! as you do.” of a small 60 second This is a great way to get spiel, or a longer, more acquainted with BNI and formal presentation. The with other local businesses in membership are encourage to the area. The core purpose of these educate themselves with books provided meetings is to train one another and to to increase the success and growth of formally pass business referrals to the other their business. Our New England Chapter members. of BNI is a supportive environment where If you would like to find out more about BNI members encourage the personal and business and how we can help you build your business, development of each member of the chapter. please feel free to visit the Chapter; please Networking with other members in the contact any of the members pictured in the BNI chapter is a very important aspect of the photo or turn up at The Armidale ex services business referral process system. Imagine club at 6:45am on any Wednesday morning to having the ability to confidently refer your learn more. We would love to have you come customers to other businesses who will provide along to a meeting and experience what New the same level of service as you do. Referrals England BNI has to offer you and your business come from business contacts we “members” - it may be just what you are looking for to make during the course of the week and grow your business in the New England.

The school is set on 191 hectares of prime agricultural land, 10 kilometres from Tamworth and has 600 students enrolled: 350 boarders and 250 day boys. Farrer is committed to a holistic, integrated approach to develop a culture of academic success, providing a broad curriculum with an emphasis on whole school programs to encourage continuous enjoyment in life-long learning.

Agriculture is a central focus, providing opportunities for problem solving and practical education

that flow on to all aspects of the school. By creating a safe and supportive environment within both the boarding and day sections of the school, Farrer have developed an atmosphere of harmonious cooperation that is the best environment for student productivity and progress.

This allows students to achieve their educational objectives, while forming lasting relationships and memories.

Farrer’s aim of “producing thinking, well education, skilled, flexible and caring young men” depends upon the continued support and communication between all members of our community - students, staff, parents and caregivers.

Enrolling at Farrer provides an outstanding education, memorable experiences and mateship that lasts a lifetime.

Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School The only All-Boys’ Day & Boarding Agricultural school in Australia

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Discover what Farrer has to offer at: Mudgee Field Days 14th & 15th July

 Agquip 22nd, 23rd & 24th August  Now Accepting 2018 Enrolment Applications 585 Calala Lane TAMWORTH NSW 2340

Ph: 6764 8600 farrer.nsw.edu.au new england focus. 49

COLIN BU C H AN AN

Never short of a song/story or two, and a name synonymous with children’s entertainment in Australia in a stellar and diverse career spanning over 30 years, Colin is coming to PLC Armidale next month.

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songs? had to pursue. It has collided me with Some people keep journals, some countless memorable experiences ... In paint, some love to sit around a fire fact, this question is best answered by and have a yarn. We all have ways of coming along to the concerts! I'll sing capturing, processing and sharing our my answers! experiences. Songs are my way. From What would you most like to be the moment my wife, Robyn, and I remembered for? stepped onto the red dirt of Bourke in The privilege of creating little musical 1988, the place started brewing monuments, inspired by what might itself into songs. I'm seem at first glance to be quite inspired by powerful unremarkable - is a great images, the scale of privilege. I love that my Colin’s the land and the kids’ Christian music charismatic tenderness of a has brought light and personality and n true story. life and truth into tio engaging reputa My Christian lots of lives, young e precedes him . H songs for kids and old. So, to be res certainly has hi are actually no membered for songs ll.” own ‘story to te different - most that have brought of them flow from goodness and richness things I've learnt mybe they about the bush or self, insights from reading a musical memory verse - seems the Bible, hearing sermons, chewlike a precious legacy. ing over my faith.

Do you have any advice for our What has been your most younger generation? rewarding or memorable experience Love God, love people, listen, help, be to date? kind, treasure the treasure you already My kids say I've mentioned Bourke have ... Don't always trust what's on more as I get older. One year in the the screen, favour people over devices, outback during my mid-20s introduced think, read books, enjoy doing things my to the bush and changed the course that haven't changed for a thousand of my life and career. I'd trained and years (like singing alone, praying, sitting worked as a primary teacher - which I around a fire, gazing at stars, laughing really did love - but I knew the possi‘til your tummy hurts ...) bility of a creative life was something I Thanks Colin.

he much-adored entertainer, Colin Buchanan, may be remembered by one generation for his colourful antics on iconic ABC TV Show Play School.

However, many may not know he is the winner of nine Golden Guitars, is an APRA and ARIA award winner, is one of Australia’s most successful picture book authors, and is an internationally recognised Christian children’s artist. Colin’s charismatic personality and engaging reputation precedes him. He certainly has his own “story to tell”.

What brings you to PLC Armidale?

I'm here with two hats on! My Christian songs for kids have been chapel regulars at PLC Armidale, and I'm really looking forward to the fun and furore of putting on a concert (with my puppet pal, Nudge!) for the families of PLC and the wider community, full of songs like 10, 9, 8 ... God Is Great and God Rock.

I'll also slip on my songwriter's hat and perform an evening of my "grownups" songs. With 25 years of Country material to draw on, as well as songs from my new album, Calvary Road, I really enjoy taking an audience on a journey inspired by the landscape, the stories, the people - as well as the faith I've encountered in my travels.

What inspired your passion to write

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ho E L A D I M P LC A R

COLIN TICKETS $8 EACH

CER N O C E V I AL DREN

CHIL R O F N A N A H C U B

7 1 0 2 t s u g u A 1 1 y a d i r 2pm F

BOOK AT: HTTPS://WWW.TRYBOOKING.COM/QFQK ENQUIRIES: development@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au • 02 6770 1700

PLC ASTRA ARTS CENTRE / GYMNASIUM PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY time Type

TICKETS: [price]

here, Type date here 1st line venue, 2nd line venue, 3rd line venue

COLIN BUCHANAN

Calvary Road Singer/Songwriter Show 7pm Saturday 12 August 2017

www.colinbuchanan.com.au

A ticketed concert for the New England community

Join Colin Buchanan in concert for the Calvary Road Singer/Songwriter Show sharing stories in song of ordinary people, living ordinary lives. Colin’s rustic sensibility collides with his faith as never before in a way that’s fresh and arresting and will be entertaining. This songwriter concert has limited seating so book now!

TICKETS $20 PER PERSON (light refreshments available)

PLC ASTRA ARTS CENTRE 50 new england focus.

TICKET S: [price ] Type tim e here, T ype date 1 st line ve here nd nue, 2

3 line ve line venue, BOOK AT: HTTPS://WWW.TRYBOOKING.COM/QFQR nue rd

ENQUIRIES: development@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au • 02 6770 1700

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#CULTURE17: Save the date #Culture17; Company Culture and Disruptive Leadership Summit NENW Coping with change in the workplace is one of the biggest problems organisations face - not surprising when 70% of change initiatives fail.

“We need a culture where people recognise change as the norm.”

- Director of HR. “The biggest problem is that the bosses say one thing, then do another.” - Team Leader.

“Our people don’t want to change, but our viability needs it - our toxic culture and working in silos is hurting our bottom line.”

- CEO. Success or failure - the ability to embrace change, is undeniably influenced by Company Culture and Leadership.

SAVE THE DATE - 8th November 2017, Tamworth #Culture17 - a one-day Summit bringing together thought leaders and change agents who make a difference.

The speakers - leaders who have created and maintained sustainable, high performing company cultures by embracing change, and positively impacting bottom line results.

Their talks - insights from their leadership journeys: the mistakes they have made, their successes as disruptive leaders, and the strategies they use every day to develop and maintain their company culture.

Your experience - designed as an experience in itself; be prepared to be immersed, challenged and inspired.

For more information: contact Diane Gray 0459 988 833 or Julie Alexander 0449 858 596 or go to cultureincorporated.com.au/culture-summits

TOM

B OWER #Squadgoals

Tom Bower of SportUNE has nominated UNE as a candidate for the Lions Elite Women’s Rugby Squad. We talk with Tom and find out more about this national team and learn about his #squadgoals!

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Hi Tom. Tell us a bit about yourself and your involvement with the UNE Lions Elite Women’s Rugby Squad.

I am the Head Coach of the University of New England (UNE) Lions Elite Rugby Squad. I am also the Centre Manager at SportUNE at the University of New England.

I have been back living in Armidale since early 2015, after growing up in the region.

Prior to working at SportUNE, I spent five years working with the Queensland Reds and Leinster Rugby Union in Ireland as a development coach. I focused on youth academy players, particularly women’s rugby sevens players, before moving to Armidale with my wife, Jessica, and expanding my sports management responsibilities to all university sporting areas.

This year, with the UNE Lions being introduced, it feels like history is repeating itself, as I find myself heavily involved in an elite women’s sevens program.

Tell us about the competition and how UNE Lions became part of the selection process.

In late 2016, the Australian Rugby Union made contact with Australian universities, proposing a new domestic competition for our elite women’s sevens players. They would later name it the Aon University Sevens Series.

UNE was one of 25 universities interested to get involved and give local players and students the opportunity to participate in a high performance pathway. After the 25 tenders were submitted, only eight were selected, one of which was UNE. It was a great achievement, especially consider-

ing UNE was the only regional university selected in the competition, with all others having metropolitan campuses.

of local players with experienced repre-

People ask how we beat tenders from much larger university squads, and I truly believe we were successful because of our region’s rich history in rugby. We have countless Wallabies who studied at UNE through the years, and even now we have multiple representatives from the region playing for the Australian squad, with Tamworth’s John Porch and Glen Innes’ Michael Adams currently in the Australian Sevens set up. Gemma Etheridge, whose younger years were spent in Coolah, was part of the Australian Pearls side to win in Rio, and the Warialda and Moree High School Women’s Sevens teams finished first and second in the Combined High Schools Championships last year. We breed rugby talent out here.

as Maddie Fryer, Tenayah Woodward, Ellie

How will the tournaments play out?

There will be four tournament weekends across five weeks that our girls will play.

The girls will have the opportunity to travel to Launceston, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast to compete. They really get to experience what it is like to be an elite athlete, with the team having to back up their performance game after game, week after week for the full five weeks. The UNE Lions will have a professional coaching and performance set up, with the use of the UNE Exercise Science staff and New England Sports Physiotherapist Nick Glob heavily involved in the program, to make sure the girls are at their best.

We hear that you have many local women playing; can you give us a run down on your squad?

We believe we have selected a good mix

sentatives, to really give this competition a shake up. Local university students such Fordyce, Lauren Nott, Clare Akuma and Ashley Van den Boogard will team up with Australian representatives Alicia Quirk, Hannah Southwell, Grace Hamilton and Brydie Parker, along with other regional players in the UNE Lions quest to win the inaugural Aon University Sevens Series. It will be an exciting journey for the girls.

Tell us about who will be competing and what teams/contenders the UNE Lions will be up against?

Two of the early favourite teams to look out for will be Macquarie University and University of Queensland. Both of those sides have the whole of Sydney and Brisbane to select their team from and are able to train up to three times a week together.

Our squad will do it the NSW Country way, where we come into camp once every few weeks to train for a whole weekend, before heading back home. That is the benefit of having such great accommodation options here at UNE; the players can stay in dorms only 300 metres away from our training facility and get the most out of a big weekend camp.

Any final words?

The UNE Lions program would not be possible without the support of our local sponsors: UNELife, Armidale Regional Council, Invest Blue, Armidale Ex-Services Club, Armidale Sportspower; and New England Spinal and Sports Physiotherapy Centre.

Thanks Tom. new england focus. 51

DRIVER T R A IN IN G

Jobs Australia Enterprises are thrilled to be involved in running the Armidale L2P Driver Mentor Program. The program aims to help Armidale’s disadvantaged youth in obtaining their provisional car licence through mentor supported driving.

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Learn program, which is provided by a local unding has been obtained to run this pilot program for a registered driving school. Once this has been 12 month period, to end in completed, they can begin logging hours in October 2017. So far great the mentor car. This program also provides the success has occurred, with a learners with an opportunity to complete the number of people now with PCYC Safe Drivers Course. a provisional licence, and many others well on Our mentors are a critical part of the their way to obtaining their provisional licence. program and contribute tremendously to the Jobs Australia Enterprises are coordinating success of course. If you are interested in this program in conjunction with training to become a mentor for Armidale Regional Counthis program, please contact cil, UNE, NSW Sport & Jobs Australia Enterprises Recreation and Adam on 6776 0104. All costs Marshall. We are incurred are covered Currently this thankful for the grant program is by the program for at risk monies received, the designed to help ages both the mentors the contribution of the youth between ld and learners. All ou car from UNE and of 16 - 24 who w to mentors must hold le normally strugg hours the commitment by 0 a current Working 12 r ei th build up our valuable mentors ce .” en ri pe ex with Children check, g in iv of dr of their time and exand also have a police perience. Without these check completed, costs valuable contributions, this of which are covered by this program would not exist. program.

Currently this program is At Jobs Australia Enterprises, designed to help at risk youth between we feel that this is such an incredible the ages of 16 - 24 who would normalopportunity to help our youth in conquering ly struggle to build up their 120 hours one of the greatest battles to securing work, of driving experience. Youth from Juvenile and personal independence - gaining a drivers Justice, Pathfinders, Backtrack and other local licence!

With the success of the pilot program organisations are all welcome to join this in Armidale, we hope to expand the services program. Although not designed to teach provided to the wider region, and to expand someone to drive, it has been a great platform

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for youth to gain more skills and build on their experience to make them great drivers.

To participate in the program, learners must hold a learner’s licence, and have a clean driving record with no past speeding infringements etc. The driver mentoring can begin once the participant has completed at least one of up to ten sessions through the Keys 2 52 new england focus.

the program to assist a wider demographic of people who are disadvantaged through not holding a drivers licence.

For further information on the L2P Driver Mentoring program, please email L2Parmidale@jobsaustralia.com.au or refer to our Facebook page (Armidale Learner Driver Mentor Program) for further information.

UNI V E RSI T Y O F

Newcastle Now, more than ever, the world needs new.

New thinking, new ideas, new ways to solve the world’s greatest problems. New needs you. New needs your passion, your energy and your optimism.

Why choose the University of Newcastle?

REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCES New happens when you’re outside your comfort zone, away from the classroom and beyond the text books. That’s why real-world, practical experience is embedded into all of our degrees. We see this as the best way to learn your craft and test out the things you learn.

Our Work Integrated Learning programs have forged strong partnerships with leading local and global organisations and challenge and inspire students to acquire practical workplace skills. This could mean participating in a clinical or professional work placement, practicum, internship or project-based learning.

ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITIES Entrepreneurship means different things

to different people. Some imagine techstart-ups, while others see a small business growing at full-speed. Whatever it means to you, we believe new can’t happen without it. It’s what innovates and solves some of the world’s biggest challenges. That’s why many of our degree programs are entrepreneurial and innovative in approach, helping you to bring your big ideas into reality. You may also choose to participate in our Innovation, Start-ups and Entrepreneurship course, or learn how to get your ideas off the ground with our Innovation Hubs or Student Enterprise Club.

EXPERIENCES ACROSS THE GLOBE New can’t be narrow in its approach. It’s got to be embedded in a global context. That’s why we feel so strongly about growing and

nurturing globally experienced students, rich in cultural and social awareness. It’s one step towards giving you the power to understand and take on some of the world’s biggest challenges. Whether it is overseas learning, study tours or international work placements, there are options across every area of study.

INNOVATIVE WAYS OF TEACHING New requires staff and students to join in a dialogue together. That’s why we embrace novel approaches to learning and teaching in the classroom. Our “flipped classrooms” enable a dynamic and collaborative way of teaching and more interactive learning. We do this, because it enables our students to collaboratively engage in their learning, which prepares them for the workplace they’ll be joining.

The University of Newcastle (UON) is your perfect partner to help find your new.

Whether you’re in your final year of study at school, changing career direction or furthering your education, UON can prepare you for your chosen career in new and exciting ways.

Applications to study at UON in 2018 open on Wednesday 2 August. For more information on our 100+ undergraduate degrees, postgraduate and research opportunities, visit newcastle.edu.au/study.

Or, come along to one of our three Open Days in August, including our Port Macquarie Info Session on Thursday 3 August, to speak with staff and students. To register to attend, visit newcastle.edu.au/2017opendays.

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tore owners Gavin Louis and Rega, Thorens and Music Hall; Hi Fi equipment Jarrod Louis have worked in the and speakers form specialist companies NAD, Audio/Video industry for more Rotel, Yamaha, Naim, Prima Luna and Musical than 20 years, with the latter part Fidelity; along with Bowers & Wilkins, Orpheus of that as part owner and installer Audio, Focal, Sonus Faber and Richter. at Park Beach Music & Hi Fi at Park Complementing our quality audio brands Beach Plaza in Coffs Harbour. After closing Park are premium visual brands Panasonic, Sony Beach Music last year, they knew that there was and Oppo Digital - the latest in OLED and LED still a high demand for quality equipment backed technologies, along with Blu Ray and UHD Disc by honest product knowledge from people you players. can trust and are now looking to not only Coffs Coast Audio work closely with continue, but build on that high level builders, architects and interior of service. designers. We integrate the Featuring a dedicated home latest in entertainment systems Coffs Co ast theatre room with the latest into clients' homes and Audio will 4K UHD projection, a purpose businesses, installing and custom design t built Hi Fi room to compare commissioning integrated an entertainmen the latest in audio equipment solutions that are reliable, system that suits le ty your home, lifes and speakers, a headphone aesthetically appealing and and budget .� bar with the biggest names in very simple to operate. headphones and a showroom Coffs Coast Audio will floor full of the latest wireless custom design an entertainment Hi Fi systems and Smart Home system that suits your home, lifestyle Technologies, Coffs Coast Audio support the and budget. Our services extend not only world's best Hi Fi and visual brands. to AV solutions, but also wireless and wired Coffs Coast Audio offer a comfortable networks, structured cabling, lighting and AC interactive environment, where you are able to control, motorised shades, blinds and curtains, see, use and listen to the latest in wireless Hi Fi CCTV and Security, all brought together under technologies ... Big brand systems from Bose the one single, simple to operate system using Soundtouch, Sonos, Yamaha Musicast and Heos your tablet or smart phone.

by Denon, all fully integrated and ready to show We have projects extending from Forster in the you, the end user, how this technology can work South, Yamba in the north and Armidale in the in your home, with systems built around your west. listening habits and lifestyle.

If you are looking to build or renovate, For those of us who like to play vinyl, we have upgrade or replace your entertainment system, a complete range of turntables and accessories Coffs Coast Audio has a solution to suit you. from industry leaders Project Audio Systems, Integration - installation - lifestyle.

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uniplan - on a mission -

UNIPLAN HAVE ONE SIMPLE MISSION: MAKE YOUR HOME BUILDING EXPERIENCE EASY. FOCUS TALKS WITH BEN SCOTT, TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ONE OF ARMIDALE'S LARGEST EMPLOYERS ...

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ell us some history and also something that our readers may not know about Uniplan.

Originally known as Timberline, Uniplan Group is a local Armidale business owned by the Scott family. A genuine passion for good old fashioned, predictable service has helped our business grow from a small three man team to a company that now supports over 110 local staff. We have put no end of effort into finding ways to make the home building process as efficient as we possibly can. This allows us to bring you a customised home with a broad selection of options and inclusions to choose from.

We love making the building process easy and hassle-free for you. Our expertise lets us handle the whole council approval process. Our architect can help design your perfect home. Our interior designer can give you expert guidance on colours and finishes. Our project managers can make sure your site is suited to your home design choices.

Yep - every step of the way, we make the building process EASY. Tell our readers about the Natural Building Cycle ...

There is a natural progression that everyone goes through when you embark on building a new home. You may not even realise it, but it’s true.

Firstly, there is the reason why you want to build.

Your circumstances are way different to anyone else’s needs. Once you’ve decided you want to build

Our project

“

a new home, then the discussions can clearly decide if you managers can about location, needs, style, costs want to rule us in or is site make sure your and builders start flooding your e out for your new home m suited to your ho p head. At this stage, Uniplan project.

Ye s. design choice , ay w e th can work with you to give you Why would you build of every step g in ild bu e some indicative guidelines, to a factory built home? th e we mak .”

SY EA help you to choose your options. s The major difference es proc We understand that when you’re with Uniplan is, of at your early planning stages, you course, that we build all just want some quick information, so our homes in our factory in you can evaluate your options. Once you’ve Armidale. When your home is 99% decided you definitely want to build a new home, complete, we then use a specialised you’re going to want to work with a builder you truck to bring your factory built home to feel comfortable with. your site. So, what’s so good about that? Well, Building can be a tricky business. What besides the fact that seeing a house drive up your qualities should you look for in a builder driveway is kind of cool ... The biggest advantage before building? is predictability. You’ve heard those building horror Choosing a builder is like making a jigsaw puzzle. stories - the home was meant to be finished by The first step is always to find the four corners.

Christmas, but you ended up only moving in over When choosing a builder, the four corners are: Easter? The biggest single advantage is that by TRUST. Your builder needs to fill you with building your home in the controlled environment confidence. of our large factory, we’re able to give you a BUDGET. They have to able to fit your budget. definite timeline that we stick to.

STYLE. It needs to be the type and style of home Any final words? you really want.

Want to check us out?

TIMELINE. Can they build it when you need it?

Visit www.uniplangroup.co When you have found your ideal builder, you will Have some early planning questions? Give us a be certain that you have found these four corners. call on 1800 864 752, or visit our display homes at For Uniplan, it is our job to ensure that you are 22 Myrtle Drive, Armidale. confident you have found these four corners. That’s We look forward to helping you. why we give you upfront information, so that you Thanks Ben.

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focusinterview.

Laser Plumbing +Laser Electrical A R M I D A L E F O C U S TA L K S W I T H T O N Y H O S K I N F RO M L A S E R P LU M B I N G A R M I DA L E A N D B R E T T C A M P B E L L F RO M L A S E R E L E C T R I C A L A R M I DA L E A B O U T B E I N G PA RT O F T H E L A S E R G RO U P N E T WO R K A N D T H E F U N D R A I S I N G F O R " B E YO N D B LU E ".

T

ony, tell us about the Laser Group and how you became involved.

Laser Group is a proud family of quality focused trade service professionals in the electrical and plumbing industry. It is the largest electrical and plumbing contract network across Australia and New Zealand.

Laser Plumbing Armidale, along with Brett Campbell from Laser Electrical Armidale, joined the network last year. We are proud to be part of a “totally dependable” nationally recognised brand with attention to providing the highest quality service. Laser has developed business systems and procedures for the management of plumbing and electrical contracting companies.

Our businesses receive access to the Laser business systems, to assist us in streamlining our quotations, job management and administration.

As members, we network with other plumbers and electricians across Australia and New Zealand, helping us to keep abreast of industry

56 new england focus.

changes, operational compliances, policies, and procedures. Through the network we have not only made valuable work connections, but also friendships.

Brett, tell us about the support of Laser group members for "beyondblue".

It’s predicted that over 45% of Australians will suffer depression, anxiety or some other debilitating mental health issue in their lifetime.

The stats also highlight that construction workers were more than twice as likely to commit suicide as other people in Australia. That’s our workplace, and we’re not happy about the numbers, so we’re doing what we can to raise funds and awareness for "beyondblue".

Tony, tell us about the fundraising Monkey Off Your Back Ride and our local and celebrity riders.

A group of Laser Plumbing and Electrical tradies banded together for the seven day motorbike ride from Melbourne to Cairns.

Neville Stannard, the husband of Mariea - who

works at Laser Plumbing Armidale - offered to be our representative. He rode all the way to Melbourne to join the motorbike group for the 3,274 km ride to Cairns. Along the way, the riders made a stop-over in Armidale. The aim was to raise funds and awareness for the work of "beyondblue" and the impact of mental health in the workplace.

Riding along with the group to show his support was the multiple Bathurst champion and Laser Ambassador Steve Richards, and Steve Keil, Laser Group Managing Director.

Brett, tell us why Cairns was the destination for the ride and also about the Laser Taskforce Project.

The conclusion of the ride was to coincide with the four day Annual Laser Plumbing & Electrical Conference, with an expected attendance of over 500 plumbers, electricians and their families from Australia and New Zealand.

Every year as part of the annual conference, they incorporate a Laser Taskforce Project. This

year the Laser plumbers and electricians offered their skills to fix an old building in much need of some love, that in turn provides care and assistance to some of Cairns' most vulnerable.

The Centennial Lodge, run by the Salvation Army, provides crisis accommodation for women, mothers with children and also for single men.

The Lodge receives funding for the day to day running of the facility, but not for maintenance or upgrades. I enjoyed participating in this worthy cause. There is a fantastic video showcasing the taskforce and its work on the Laser Plumbing and Electrical Australia Facebook page.

Tony, tell us about the funds raised by the Laser Group for "beyondblue".

Since 2014, Laser Group has donated over $200,000. The Monkey Off Your Back Ride will be donating an added $128,000 for the mental health cause. This has been a terrific effort by all concerned. This funding will go towards fighting the issues and stigma that often go hand-in-hand with poor mental health.

Big & Beautiful Old bottlebutt Just a short drive from Wauchope or Port Macquarie is a wonderful visitor attraction known as Old Bottlebutt, a grand and ancient Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) tree located in Burrawan State Forest.

Old Bottlebutt is unique in shape, its large flared “butt” having a massive girth of over 16 metres. This giant of the forest is the largest recorded Red Bloodwood in the world.

Old Bottlebutt is the main feature on a beautiful 600m loop walking track, beginning and ending at the Burrawan picnic area (shelter, tables, carpark, toilets). The walk features remnant rainforest, an oasis under a canopy of overhanging Bangalay Palms, and winds its way over foot-bridges along an easy-grade track.

Old Bottlebutt is a special place, somewhere to linger and enjoy the sounds of nature. A viewing deck enables visitors to rest and gently experience the forest environment.

Getting there: From Wauchope travel 10km south on the Bago Rd and turn left onto Internal Break Road then follow the signs. From the Pacific Highway, take the Bago Rd exit (south of the Port Macquarie turn off) and drive until you see the Old Bottlebutt sign. Open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week including public holidays and is free.

Find out more: www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit Facebook: VisitNSWForests Twitter: @visitnswforests Instagram: #visitnswforests

elders travel insurance Why choose QBE Travel insurance?

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Services include: • Assessing and monitoring your condition after an accident or illness • Getting you home in a medical emergency • Paying hospital and medical bills

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What’s the plan for your next holiday? An overseas adventure? An Aussie escape? Or perhaps a cruise? Whatever you’re doing on your well-earned break, you need the right cover. Call us for a quote today 6775 4577. * Conditions apply.

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Thinking Local Court Process with Elizabeth Stahlut, Solicitor

THINKING

CRIMINAL LAW

Hopefully, no one reading this would ever choose to break the law. However, ordinary people can still make the kind of mistakes that can result in being arrested and charged with a criminal offence, with the potential consequences of having to appear in court and possibly incur a penalty.

S

o, what do you do, if you’ve been arrested??

bail.

What to do, if you’re arrested

When you go to court for the first time, you’ll get to say if you want to plead not guilty or guilty.

It’s a criminal offence to resist arrest or assault police, so go quietly with the arresting officer to the police station. The police can arrest you if they have reason to think you have committed an offence or are about to.

The police can hold you in custody, while they do their investigations. This can be up to six hours (unless the police make an application for an extension of time), however some things – for example, waiting for the lawyer to turn up – won’t be counted as part of the time they can hold you for. You will usually be allowed to contact a lawyer and be invited to take part in an interview. It‘s best to say as little as possible, until you’ve had legal advice.

When the police have finished with you, they can let you go, give you police bail, or charge you. If you get charged and don’t get police bail, you may have to stay in custody until you can be brought to a court, so you can apply for bail. Your lawyer can apply for bail on your behalf and explain the conditions to you. If you’re granted bail, it’s very important that you do everything the court tells you to do, or you might stay in custody until your next court date.

Plus, if you breach the conditions of your bail, it will be more difficult to get a further grant of

What happens next?

A not guilty plea means you’re not admitting to the offence. The police will present their case through a prosecutor or a public prosecutions solicitor, if the matter is being dealt with in a higher court. This is where a lawyer can help, by defending you in court. The prosecution must always prove any case against you beyond a reasonable doubt. If they can’t, the court will find you not guilty.

A guilty plea means you’ve admitted to doing the offence, but you might have good reasons for it. These would not be excuses for bad behaviour but they might show you don’t deserve to have ‘the book thrown at you.’

If you have pled guilty or are found guilty, the court has to make a decision about an appropriate penalty, depending on all circumstances. In either event, a lawyer can still help get the most favourable outcome possible, under the circumstances.

It’s clearly not possible here, to fully explain how the criminal law works. If you‘ve been arrested and are facing charges, it’s best to see a lawyer as soon as possible, so you can get the knowledge and help you need. Talk to us, you’ll be inspired! new england focus. 59

Expert Online Education There are now many ‘johnny-come-lately’ universities in online education. UNE has been delivering distance education since 1955 – that’s longer than any other Australian university. Perhaps that’s why our students continue to rate us so highly for student satisfaction and teaching quality.

Study across three study periods with 24/7 online tutor support.

If you don’t have entry qualifications, our free Pathways Enabling

Course gives you entry and credit to most of UNE’s undergraduate degrees. If you prefer to study on-campus, UNE has a campus in Armidale.

If you’re not ready to commit to a whole degree right now, we also have our revolutionary new Bespoke Courses where you can design a short course of just 2, 3 or 4 units. Because they’re real degree units you may get credit towards a full degree later.

Courses available for online study from October ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE Bachelor of Accounting Majors Available: Advanced Accounting, Agribusiness, Finance.

Master of Professional Accounting

ARCHAEOLOGY AND INDIGENOUS STUDIES Bachelor of Arts~ (Archaeology, Indigenous Studies) Bachelor of Science (Archaeology, Palaeobiology)

AGRICULTURE, RURAL SCIENCE BIOLOGY, BIOMEDICAL AND PLANT SCIENCE SCIENCE AND PHARMACY Bachelor of Agribusiness

Bachelor of Agricultural and Resource Economics Bachelor of Agriculture Majors Available: Animal Production, Plant Production, General Agricultural Production.

Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Agrifood Systems* Majors Available: Crop Production, Feedlot Management, Livestock Production, Production Horticulture.

Bachelor of Plant Science Majors Available: Evolutionary Biology, Physiological and Molecular Biology, Plants in the Environment.

Bachelor of Rural Science

ANIMAL SCIENCE AND ZOOLOGY Bachelor of Animal Science Majors Available: Canine and Equine Science, Livestock Production, Wildlife Management.

Bachelor of Science~ (Animal Science and Veterinary Studies, Zoology) Bachelor of Zoology

ARTS Diploma in Arts Advanced Diploma in Arts Bachelor of Arts~ Majors available: Ancient History, Archaeology, Australian History, Chinese, Classical Languages, Criminology, English, French, German, History, Human Geography, Indigenous Studies, Indonesian, International History, Islamic Studies, Italian, Japanese, Linguistics, Music, Peace Studies, Philosophy, Physical Geography, Political and International Studies, Psychology, Screen and Media Studies, Stage and Screen Acting+, Sociology, Spanish, Studies in Religion, Theatre and Performance, Writing.

Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science Graduate Certificate in Arts Majors available: Ancient History, Chinese Studies, Classical Languages, Geography, History, Italian Studies, Peace Studies, Theatre and Performance.

Master of Arts Majors available#: Ancient History, Applied Sociology, Archaeology, Australian History, Chinese, Classical Languages, Criminology, English, French, German, History, Human Geography, Indigenous Studies, Indonesian, International History, Islamic Studies, Italian, Japanese, Linguistics, Music, Peace Studies, Philosophy, Physical Geography, Political and International Studies, Psychology, Sociology, Spanish, Studies in Religion, Theatre and Performance, Writing.

Apply now

Bachelor of Biomedical Science

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING Bachelor of Business Majors available: Accounting, Agribusiness, Business Analytics, Economics, Finance, Human Resource Management, International Business, Management, Marketing.

Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Organisational Leadership Bachelor of Training and Development Graduate Certificate in Business Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management Graduate Certificate in Management Master of Business Administration Majors available: General Program, Human Resource Management.

Master of Strategic Organisational Development and Human Resource Management

CLASSICS, HISTORY, PHILOSOPHY AND STUDIES IN RELIGION Bachelor of Arts~ (Ancient History, Australian History, Classical Languages, History, International History, Philosophy, Islamic Studies, Studies in Religion) Bachelor of Historical Inquiry and Practice Graduate Diploma in Local, Family and Applied History Graduate Certificate in Arts Master of Arts

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Bachelor of Computer Science~ Majors Available: Data Science, Software Development.

Bachelor of Computer Science/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Science (Computational Science)

ECONOMICS AND AGRIBUSINESS Bachelor of Agribusiness~ Majors Available: Economics, Finance, Marketing and Management, Rural Science.

Bachelor of Agricultural and Resource Economics Bachelor of Economics Majors Available: Applied Econometrics, Economics, Economic Development, Environmental Analysis and Policy.

Bachelor of Economics/Bachelor of Laws Graduate Certificate in Agribusiness

EDUCATION AND TEACHING

LAW AND CRIMINOLOGY

SCIENCE

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) Bachelor of Education (K-12 Teaching) Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Special Education (Primary)/ Bachelor of Disability Studies Bachelor of Training and Development Graduate Certificate in Education Studies Specialisations available: Careers and Transition Education, Gifted and Talented: Teaching for High Potential, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).

Graduate Certificate in eLearning Master of Applied Leadership in Positive Education Master of Education Majors available: Comparative Education, eLearning, Gifted and Talented Education, Indigenous Australian Education, Literature and New Literacies, Special Education, Teaching English to Speakers of other Languages (TESOL).

Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary)

Diploma in Prosecution and Advocacy Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Computer Science/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Criminology/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Economics/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Criminology~ Bachelor of Laws (3 years) Bachelor of Laws (4 years) Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws Master of Laws Majors available: Commercial, Crime and Criminal Justice, Health and Science, International, Natural Resource Governance

Diploma in Science Programs Available: General Studies in Science, Medical Sciences, Science Pathways.

Bachelor of Science~ Majors available: Animal Science and Veterinary Studies, Applied Physics, Archaeology, Biochemistry/Biotechnology, Biodiversity, Botany, Chemistry, Computational Science, Forensic Science, Genetics, Geography, Geoscience, Mathematics, Medicinal Chemistry, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Palaeobiology, Physiology, Psychology, Zoology.

Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Scientific Studies

ENGLISH, WRITING, MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

NURSING, SOCIAL WORK AND HEALTH

Diploma in Professional Communication Bachelor of Arts~ (English, Writing, Screen & Media Studies) Bachelor of Media and Communications Majors available: Media and Culture, Writing and Publishing.

Bachelor of Audiometry Bachelor of Nursing with Honours Master of Health Management Master of Nursing Practice**

ENVIRONMENTAL AND EARTH SCIENCES Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of GeoScience Bachelor of Science~ (Geography) Graduate Certificate of Planning and Management of Natural Hazards Graduate Diploma of Planning and Management of Natural Hazards Master of Planning and Management of Natural Hazards

GEOGRAPHY AND PLANNING Diploma in Arts Bachelor of Arts~ (Geography) Bachelor of Science~ (Geography) Graduate Certificate in Arts (Geography) Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning Master of Arts (Geography)

LANGUAGES AND CULTURAL STUDIES Bachelor of Arts (Chinese, French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese and Spanish) Bachelor of International and Language Studies Bachelor of International and Language Studies Bachelor of Languages Majors available: Chinese, French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese and Spanish.

Bachelor of Languages and International Business

LINGUISTICS AND APPLIED LINGUISTICS Master of Applied Linguistics Majors available: TESOL, General Program.

Master of Arts (Linguistics)

PEACE POLITICAL AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES Diploma in Arts Advanced Diploma in Arts Bachelor of Arts~ (Peace Studies, Political and International Studies) Bachelor of International Studies Bachelor of International and Language Studies Graduate Certificate in Arts Master of Arts

PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIAL SCIENCE Bachelor of Arts~ (Psychology, Sociology) Bachelor of Psychological Science Bachelor of Psychology with Honours Bachelor of Social Science Majors available: Aboriginal Perspectives, Criminology, Health Management, Linguistics, Organisational Management, Peace and Developmental Studies, Political and International Studies, Psychology, Social Philosophy, Sociology, Urban and Regional Studies.

Graduate Diploma in Psychology

SUSTAINABILITY Bachelor of Sustainability Majors available: Community Engagement and Development, Cultural Heritage Management, Environmental Governance, Environmental Resilience, Governance and Regulation.

THEATRE, PERFORMANCE AND MUSIC Diploma in Music Skills^ Diploma in Music Technology Bachelor of Arts (Music, Theatre and Performance, Stage and Screen Acting+) Bachelor of Music^ Bachelor of Theatre and Performance

ENTRY PATHWAYS Pathways Enabling Course Science Pathways * This course will be renamed in 2018 to Bachelor of Agricultural Production and Management. ~ Honours year also available. # Not all majors are available to all candidates. ** First 2 units offered on-campus only in Trimester 3. ^ Early Application closing date. + Restricted to candidates admitted under the Stage and Screen Acting Articulation Program.

Please note some degrees have mandatory intensive schools which require attendance on campus.

See website for individual course rules and admissions criteria.

All courses available to start 23 October une.edu.au/expert • 1800 818 865

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