new england
February 2018. issue 129
David & Mandy
COURTNEY New England WEDDING Guide
Feature Story Jess Ribeiro
consideration in our planning and of just 44 fully self-contained of ourof secondour Retirement second Retirement villas provide you with the security design of every home. VillageVillage on Taylor Street. on Taylor Street. and comfort you deserve in your During winter, large north-facing retirement years. windows will catch all available plan! SellingSelling now off the plan! now off the sunlight supported by ducted air To learn more about Armidale’s Ideally our Taylor Ideally positioned, our Taylorpositioned, Street conditioning to ensure comfort newest RetirementStreet Village call Kate VISION FOR Village is conveniently in 367 close Village A is conveniently locatedA in close Pigram today on 1300 155 or F all yearVISION round. Maintenance will located A A BRIGHT to and only proximityproximity to theBRIGHTER City Centre and only becomethe a thing ofCity the past withCentre visit www.oaktreegroup.com.au
RETIREMENT RETIREME IN ARMIDALE IN ARMIDA Artist impression of future build
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a short walkare to Galleries, Cafés and our professional team taking care e are delighted e delighted of everything for you. the local Conservatorium of Music. to announce the to announce the Our gated, boutique community Energy efficiency has been a key commencement commencement of just 44 fully self-contained consideration in our planning and of ourof secondour Retirement second Retirement villas provide you with the security design of every home. Village Village on Taylor Street. on Taylor Street. and comfort you deserve in your
During winter, large north-facing retirement years. windows will catch all available Selling Selling now off the plan! now off the plan! To learn more about Armidale’s sunlight supported by ducted air Ideally positioned, Ideally our Taylorpositioned, Street our T aylor Street newest Retirement Village call Kate conditioning to ensure comfort Village Village is conveniently locatedis in close conveniently in 367 close Pigram today on 1300 155 or all year round. Maintenance will located proximity proximity to the City Centre and only to the and only become a thing ofCity the past withCentre visit www.oaktreegroup.com.au
A VISIOA N FORVISION F A BRIGHTER A BRIGHT RETIREMENT RETIREME
Artist impression of future build Artist impression of future build
Artist impression Artist of future build impression of future build
217 Street, Armidale 217 Taylor Street,Taylor Armidale 1300 367 155 www.oaktreegroup.com.au
217 Taylor 217 Street,T Armidale aylor 1300 Street, 367 155 Armidale www.oaktreegroup.com.au 2 New England focus.
focus_ team.
team From the
F
Welcome to the February edition of New England FOCUS.
ebruary already! With the holiday season at an end, some adults would have been counting down the days for the kids to go back to school. Some are just getting back from holidays; others have been at work all month. Whatever your circumstances, New England FOCUS has been working extra hard to create another month of exciting reading for you. In our staff picture above, you’ll notice a new face. Introducing Matthew Korodi! Matthew has come into the team for 2018 and is excited about getting out and about and meeting the community. Some of you may already know Matthew from a local telecommunications retailer in Armidale. We’d like to wish him all the success in his new role. ON THE COVER Wedding professionals and master jewellers David and Mandy Courtney of Courtneys Jewellery grace our wedding edition this month. However, they are not in their usual shop? Why? Inside
contacts. Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.
you’ll find out what this lovely pair are doing; it’s exciting, life changing, and a new challenge. These two have met so many brides and grooms over nearly 50 years of business, supplying engagement and wedding rings and all kinds of jewellery to the New England. INSIDE THIS EDITION February is our wedding edition, so for your comprehensive guide to all things weddings, read on to find out about what our region has to offer. With the Armidale and New England Show on in early March, we thought we’d catch up with Briony Looker. Briony told us what’s planned for this year’s event. What’s it like to be a pro-golfer? We got on the green with Andrew Walkley from the Armidale Golf Club’s Pro-Shop to find out what his day involves.
Laurence Nussbaumer, business owner, nTech and Communications - a local success story which celebrated its third birthday in December 2017. Laurence is Vice-President of Locals 4 Locals and a founding member of the New England Futures Group, a business minded social lobby group. FOCUS finds out more about this entrepreneur. FINAL SAY In keeping with our wedding theme this month, we leave you with this quote from a happily married man. “No! Please don’t eat me! I have a wife and kids - eat them!” - Homer Simpson.
joey@focusmag.com.au
Tracy Le Messurier
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jeff Cowan
SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont
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MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont
COPY EDITING Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services
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Ascent can provide support with daily life and activities designed around your NDIS plan. Support can be provided on an outreach basis, where staff can assist you in your own home. Higher intensity accommodation support can be provided for up to 24 hours per day within small group home residences.
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Ascent provides general assistance with daily life and activities to enable you to live inclusively within your local community. Our support is designed to meet your individual needs and to maximise your independence.
EDITION CO-ORDINATOR ADVERTISING CONSULTANT tracy@focusmag.com.au
Housing and Supported Living
Jess Ribeiro was part of the local music scene for many years, before venturing out into the world and is now making milestones by being asked to come and play at South X Southwest Festival
louise@focusmag.com.au
ADDRESS 5/164 Beardy Street, Armidale PHONE 02 6771 5551 FAX: 02 6772 5551 WEB www.focusmag.com.au FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ne.focus TV www.focustv.com.au
in Texas in March. Find out how she’s getting there, or how you could help.
rnrmedia@bigpond.com
PHOTOGRAPHER James Brooks james@focusmag.com.au
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Want to learn more?
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New England focus. 3
issue
Jess Ribeiro.
inside this
Jess Ribeiro was part of the local music scene for many years before venturing out into the world and is now making milestones by being asked to come and play at South X Southwest Festival in Texas in March. Let’s help this local make her dreams come true …
Issue 129 - February 2018
6
Andrew Walkley.
Regulars
FOCUS talks with Pro Golfer Andrew Walkley, who runs the pro shop at the Armidale Golf Course. We find out what it’s like to work, live and breathe golf ...
8. WHAT’S ON FEBRUARY 11. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE 15. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN
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2442 new england
16 16 Armidale Show.
The 2017 Armidale show set a precedent as one of the most fantastic shows. In 2018, the Armidale Show is gearing up to top it, with many family fun events, great prizes and entertainment for everyone. FOCUS caught up with Briony, who tells us all about the 2018 instalment.
Feature Story Paul Kelly
November 2017. issue 126
Mr & Mrs
Wild. RAPIDCLEAN NEW ENGLAND
Celebrating 20 years
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4 New England focus.
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Jess Ribeiro focusinterview.
Jess Ribeiro was part of the local music scene for many years before venturing out into the world and is now making milestones by being
asked to come and play at South X Southwest Festival in Texas in March. Let’s help this local make her dreams come true …
T
ell us about yourself Jess... I was born and raised in Armidale, NSW, where I come from a large extended family. My mum, grandmother, aunties, uncles and many cousins all still live there. My grandfather and his brother established the family business over 60 years ago, which is Kelly’s Transport. It is still owned and operated by my four uncles. Since leaving Armidale I've studied anthroposophy, music and teaching. I've lived in a few different places around Australia, including Brisbane, Darwin and Melbourne. Musically I've been fortunate enough to travel the country playing shows and festivals, as well as having attended music residencies overseas. I've supported and worked with some amazing artists, including Nick Cave, Tim Rogers and Steve Earle. My songs have also aired on television shows in Australia and overseas. What sort of genre do you play? I play original music, from folk to rock ‘n’ roll, acoustic to electric. Have you seen your style change over the years? In the Northern Territory it was acoustic singer-songwriter based. I was working with
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Indigenous people on Elcho Island, meeting many Yolngu artists from Arnhem land and Utopia, Central Australia - musicians and painters. They loved country music, so it rubbed off on me and eventually I won a country music award in 2012 for my first release, My Little River. In Melbourne, I lived in the inner city. I collaborated with an old famous rock dog (Mick Harvey from Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds/PJ Harvey). This changed the sound again. In 2015 we made a record called Kill it Yourself. Most recently, I recorded in the south of New Zealand with friends Dave Mudie (Courtney Barnett) and Jade Mcinally (Jade Imagine). They’re more pop rock artists. The new record will be out later in the year. I also play in an ocker pub rock band with some friends. It’s very bad. Sometimes rude. People love it. Do you have a band that travels with you, or are you a one girl show? I love travelling and playing with the band more than anything. Maria plays drums, Marc lead guitar, Thommy on bass and Tiffany on Synth. I love that I get to play with both women and men. When I was younger I mostly played with guys. I'm so excited to travel with them overseas this year - America, Canada and the U.K. I
hope we do Europe bought my music. Also, my I was working with too, but we'll see. grandma and mum. Indigenous people on I do play solo too. Tell us about your quest Elcho Island, meeting It’s a very naked to play at the SXSW many Yolngu artists feeling performing festival ... from Arnhem land and solo. I admire I've wanted to perform Utopia in Central Australia people who do it at this festival for ten years musicians and painters. well. now. What has been It’s one of the biggest the biggest music industry festivals in challenge you the world. have faced over We have interest from this time, and how have you overcome American, Canadian and U.K labels and it? booking agents. I've got a new record, a Coming to terms with the fact that I’m an great management team and a band I love. artist is hard. Hopefully at least one of them sign us. That It’s not always socially accepted or taken would be a dream come true. seriously unless you are a major commercial How can the community help? artist that everyone knows. People want We are running a fundraiser campaign to know what you do for a job, without to assist with band flights for this trip. The realising this takes a lot of work and energy. community can donate via Pozible or email I’ve overcome it by persisting. You keep info@ourgoldenfriend.com or pozible.com/ playing and working with and for other project/help-jess-ribeiro-get-to-sxsw artists when you're not doing you're own In exchange, we have rewards for you thing publicly. There’s a cycle you go through including postcards and Polaroids, CDs and with the making and releasing of each new solo concerts available. record and the more I do it, the more I What’s next for Jess Ribeiro? understand the process and trust it. I'll be releasing my new record later in the Is there anyone you would like to year then touring it nationally and regionally acknowledge who has been in support through Australia, so hopefully some of you of your career? blokes get to see and hear it. Everyone who has ever supported and Thanks Jess.
H
The
Armidale School’s
SEONIAWARK. Following the successful implementation of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme into its Junior School, The Armidale School is delighted to announce it is now a candidate school for the IB Middle Years Programme. We speak to Director of Studies Seonia Wark about this and other academic initiatives at TAS for 2018.
i Seonia. First of all, remind us about the success of the PYP in Junior School? The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a non-profit educational foundation offering four highly respected programmes of international education that develop the intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills needed to live, learn and work in a rapidly globalising world. In 2016, after a 12 month candidacy, TAS Junior School was accredited to offer the Primary Years Programme. Its focus on globally-engaged, inquirybased learning has been popular with students, families and staff, and we believe its success is one of the reasons behind enrolment growth that will see us offering an additional Year 4 class in 2018. So, it is logical to extend the IB philosophy to our Year 6 - 8 students. So how will the Middle Years Programme work? The MYP provides a framework for learning that encourages students to become creative, critical and reflective thinkers, encouraging them to make connections between their studies in traditional subjects and the real world. Interdisciplinary teaching uses concepts and contexts as starting points for meaningful integration and transfer of knowledge across, rather than just within, eight subject groups: language acquisition, language and literature, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, arts, physical and health education, and design. So why is it right for TAS? TAS is a globally engaged school, particularly as one of more than 160 worldwide members of Round Square. It’s no coincidence that Round Square and IB were both co-founded by famed educationist Dr
Kurt Hahn, whose emphasis on service in action, international understanding and experiential discovery through adventure is a hallmark of both organisations. IB aside, what else is new at TAS academically in 2018? Due to the growth in enrolments, this year TAS will have a fourth stream in Year 7 and a fifth stream in Year 10. New classes mean greater subject choice on more lines and also increases the ability to appropriately grade classes and differentiate work. Our Stage 5 elective program is proving incredibly popular, and this year we will be offering more than 80 semester-long courses. Academically, growth in enrolments also means the employment of more teachers - always a good thing at a school - who will bring fresh energy and depth both to our academic departments and also beyond the classroom in the wider life of the school. There are also big changes to the TAS library? Yes - a simple request from students for the library to be open for longer has been taken up, and from the start of Term 1 it will be open from 7:30am and will remain open for Middle School students until 5:30pm, and for Senior School students until 9pm. It will also be open on weekend afternoons, which will be especially beneficial for senior student study sessions. Through the course of the year it will also be refurbished into a more dynamic learning and study hub. Boarders will be able to take advantage of this new private or group study space as they like. In a further innovation, day students will be able to sign up to a longer day option that enables them to have breakfast or dinner at school, complete their prep here with supervision support and be able to use the tutoring available. Thanks Seonia.
Give your child The Edge. The Armidale School is pleased to announce it is now a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme. For more information and enrolment enquiries, please contact Director of Enrolments, Mrs Pip Warrick by telephone (02) 6776 5823 or info@as.edu.au
www.as.edu.au New England focus. 7
focusinterview.
Lucy Culliton
Y
L U C Y’ S L OV E O F AU STR A L I A N L A N D S CA P E I S A P PA R E N T TH R O U G H H E R V I B R A N T A RT ...
our upcoming exhibition (16th Feb - 29th April) at NERAM is titled Caution Wet Paint. What does this title say about how you make art? Lucy Culliton: The marks I make with paint on the canvas are fast and fresh. The paint dries with lumps and troughs and can still look wet long after the paint has dried. RP: The subjects in this exhibition include landscapes and garden scenes, birds and farm yard animals, collections of repetitious objects, including knitted dolls. What draws you to your subjects, and how do you choose what to paint next? LC: I am a collector and rescuer of objects, animals and plants. The subjects I have painted are all related to my own personal collections. I like to show the viewer how important, individual or great looking my animals are, or how proud I am of my gardening antics. I have collections of seashells from one grandmother, tea cups from the other, toys (plastic horses) 8 New England focus.
from my childhood, lead farm animals from when my paintings are lit with spotlights, the my parents .. paintings seem a lot brighter and stronger in I have gone in a few circles painting certain colour. subjects, coming up with new ways to show Negative space is very important in a them in compositions. composition, looking at Currently I am painting how objects relate to my garden. It seems each other in space. timely, as the garden has An aspect of your changed a lot from the practice has involved paintings I made nearly painting the landscape Greyhounds are good, 10 years ago. en plein air. How is the because they spend a lot Key elements of your experience of working of time lying around. I do paintings include outside immersed in quick drawings, all vivacious colour, bold, the landscape different my animals are very confident, gestural from working in the tame and friendly, take brushstrokes, and context of the studio? photos and work from them. repetition. How Painting outside has all do you approach the hazards of weather composition when light changing, too hot, making your work? too cold, wind ... the Mixing the right color is very important. challenge is to paint quickly, unlike the luxury I want the viewer to know if I am painting of a still life in the studio. Painting outside sauce on hot chips, whether it is tomato keeps you on your toes. or barbecue. I paint with natural light and I, of course, love your portraits of animals.
They are charming and full of personality and varied expression, and they never fail to make me smile. How do you approach painting quite formal portraits of animals; I imagine they would make troublesome sitters? I love the portrait paintings of Rupert Bunny, John Singer Sargent and am influenced by their work when I paint people portraits. The same ideas are carried forward into my animal paintings. I want the viewer to see the animal as an equal. Animals don’t make good sitters. Greyhounds are good, because they spend a lot of time lying around. I do quick drawings, all my animals are very tame and friendly, take photos and work from them. You mentioned that Rupert Bunny and John Singer Sargent have influenced your portraits. What other artists inspire you? I am inspired by my painter friends. When I see an exhibition of work by Euan Mcloud, Elizabeth Cummings, Mclean Edwards, Ben Quilty, I want to get back to my studio and get
focusinterview.
Now I have so many ideas based around my own little world, I find it hard to drive out the front gate. I am looking forward to seeing New England again.
painting. Talking, or on the rare occasion actually painting with other artists is so important to inspire me. Other artists I look at are Margaret Preston still lifes, Fred Williams everything, Maynard Dixen big skys, French impressionist American expressionism and German Expressionists ... I look at lots of stuff. You live and work in Bibbenluke, and your life there seems imbedded in your artwork. How do the immediate surroundings of your home inform your process for making art? My day at Bibbenluke starts early. I feed everyone, then do a turn about my everexpanding garden with the dogs. I am in the studio by nine and busy painting. My surroundings influence my painting, and the animals and garden are a healthy break from painting. I go all day and crash at night exhausted by my day, but excited by ideas carried forward for the next. You are the first woman to be hung in the Archibald, Wynn and Sulman Prizes. What role do such art prizes play in the careers of Australian artists, and do they impact how you approach your work? To be hung in art prizes is so important for a practising artist. People who would not usually go to a commercial gallery see your
I am in the studio by nine and busy painting.
My surroundings around the New work. Paintings are hung influence my painting, England region. along with other artists’ and the animals and On your road work, which changes how garden are a healthy trip you must paintings look compared break from painting. have noticed the to a solo show. truly exceptional Have you ever been landscape here in to the New England New England, which region before? has inspired many A while back I used to go to country music. I had work for a couple artists. Are there other areas in Australia of years in Reg Lynch’s Guiar Shaped Word. beyond your own local landscape that I listen, sing along to country music while I you have or would like to paint? I moved to Bibbenluke ten years ago. paint. I went on a road trip many years ago
Before Bibbenluke, I was hungry to travel and paint in many different places - desert, rural, bush. Now I have so many ideas based around my own little world, I find it hard to drive out the front gate. I am looking forward to seeing New England again. We have a very similar climate. I want to see what people are up to in their gardens. I will pack my paint box and hopefully be inspired to make some work visiting the beautiful country of New England. Thanks Lucy. Interview contributed by Rachael Parsons, NERAM. New England focus. 9
focus_What’s On New England
F E B R U A R Y
What’s
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WANT TO BE A MODEL? Model for Fleece to Fashion Awards 2018 Model Auditions. When 9am Saturday 3rd February. Where Hanna’s (126 Beardy St, Armidale). Bookings essential Email modelfleecetofashion@gmail.com
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Our next First Saturday Chats will be hosted by Morgan Quaife (Solicitor) from 10am to 1pm at the Legal Minds offices at 157 Beardy Street, The Mall, Armidale on Saturday 3 February. As this is a popular program, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100. 10 New England focus.
SUMI-E - JAPANESE BRUSHWORK PAINTING WORKSHOP
Presented by New England Art Society; come along if you are interested in learning to paint or if you are an experienced artist who would like to broaden your horizons. When 25th and 26th of February - 9:30am - 4pm each day. Cost $250. Limited spaces available.
TOGETHER FOR TOM
Come along and support the Blues as they support one of their own, Tom Hawthorne, in his recovery from a serious accident. When Friday, February 16; 6pm start, with auction commencing at 8pm. Cost $20pp, including finger food and entertainment. Tickets available at the door. More info details or to donate to the auction, please contact Anthony McMillan 0417 677 810.
25 FIRST SATURDAY CHATS
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MARKETS IN THE MALL In February the Markets in the Mall will be having some fantastic fresh produce, locally made products and some great local music. Being the last month of summer and moving into autumn, come to Serendipity Plants and see if you can find some great new plants for your garden. We have lots on for locals and tourists alike, so come to the Markets! When Sunday 25th February.
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MOUNTAIN BIKE
Mountain Bike Australia in conjunction with New England Mountain Bikers invite you to join us for three days of awesome mountain bike racing. When 23 25 February at Sport UNE. Races starting from 12pm Friday 23 February; 8:30am Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th at UNE Sport. More info on practice times and course map: www.mtba.asn.au/xcchamps
Anne and Stuart Boggs from Gallery 126 Armidale invite all to embrace ART in 2018.
D
o you want to indulge your artistic side? Then why not begin an art course? February is the best time to begin, as many courses are starting now. The New England Regional Art Museum runs weekly art classes, local artist Alana Mason runs weekly drawing and pastel classes at the Men’s Shed, the New England Art Society conducts various workshops throughout the year, there is a weekly life drawing club run by Cliff Axelsen at his purpose built studio, printmaking workshops and weekly classes are run by Lizzie Horne in her home studio, to name just a few. If you’re not after classes but a venue with groups of people meeting to create art together, then there are several groups in Armidale. A small group of painters meet at Gallery 126 on a Wednesday morning (contact the gallery for more information); Marg Duncan is the contact person for a Friday afternoon group which meets at Kent House.
It may be that you are looking for art competitions to exhibit your work … There are several in Armidale and the New England area throughout the year. Too many to list here; however, call into Gallery 126 for information and entry forms. We are also the depot point for many of the New England competitions, which saves transporting your artwork around the countryside. Or, you may just want to look at and appreciate art. We have artworks by local artists adorning our walls at Gallery 126. Most months we feature a single or a group of artists in our rear gallery space, which is unveiled with an opening function where the public is invited to view the works and chat with the art makers. February sees the first exhibition for 2018, which is Recent Work by Rosalie Rigby, opening on Friday 2nd February at 5pm - 7pm. Rosalie describes her art making … I am a landscape painter drawing on the patterns, history and marks of the Australian
countryside. In my art I evolving itself as it should am trying to convey the through my hand. The first exhibition beauty of our landscape. I was born in Canberra for 2018 is Recent I have always been and have since lived in Works by Rosalie inspired by the natural Melbourne, Hobart and Rigby opening on 2nd world. It is there that my now the New England February. heart is at peace. area. From living in Hobart I mainly work in oil with its blue skies and on canvas, sometimes lush green hills I moved to incorporating mixed Armidale with the subtle media. I draw directly greys and browns of the in the field, as I find that I discover and better granite and eucalypt. understand form by drawing a line through and My artwork began with working in fibre around it. This demands a closer examination of from a studio at Salamanca Place in Hobart. the landscape than would occur for me just by There I sold and exhibited hand-woven articles looking and quickly photographing. The time and tapestries. and stillness required for this enables a deeper In Armidale, painting and drawing seemed perception. My larger paintings are done in the to be the way to respond to the landscape. I studio, not directly from these drawn studies. was living in a town where there is a constant Rather, the details and discoveries made in the consciousness of the climate and of the land. plein air drawing process inform the painting. The colours and shapes of the land reflect the When the painting starts to direct its own underlying geography; the farming use of the progress and resolution, I know that the work is land the effects of the climate on vegetation.
New England focus. 11
focus_editorial.
Markets in the Mall Allingham’s Removals & Storage. The world doesn’t feel so big when you’re dealing with Allingham’s … Everyone knows Allingham’s as their local removalist, but I think most people would be shocked to know just how far they’ll go to get you settled into your new home.
One of the great things about the Armidale Markets in the Mall is that there are many stallholders who come with unique and quality designed homemade products. Chameleon Bags and baskets is a stall that has been coming to the markets for a number of years and are very popular amongst our regulars.
So where in Australia can Allingham’s actually help me move to?
Helen and Paul Taylor are passionate
Our reach is as far as your imagination allows; we can deliver and pick up from anywhere you need. Soon we will be heading to Perth to do a job, and we have space available on the way back. Not to mention overseas transport, which we can also provide.
baskets and jewellery and are creative
I can have my things shipped internationally through you?
woven from the bark of the Raffia
Of course. We cater for all needs and have a large range of partners that we work with in order to get your possessions where they need to go, even internationally. We receive regular shipments from our overseas partners for delivery in the New England. Next month we have a Canada pack, wrap and move. Whether you’re just moving down the road or to the other side of the globe, no move is too big or too small for Allingham’s Removals & Storage.
about hand crafted boutique bags, designers who have an eye for detail. The crowd favourite bags and baskets that are sold each month are hand
palm in Madagascar. This fabric is of the highest quality, and the weaving is a technical and precise process. The leather handle attached to the bags are also made of a unique material, coming from the Zebu cow in Africa. These unique traits make the bags and baskets all the more appealing
for potential buyers. The jewellery that is sold through Chameleon Bags also comes from African designs, and is sure to spark interest and add flair to your outfits. Be sure to come down to the Markets in the Mall and check out Chameleon Bags and Baskets near the old Court House!
focus_editorial.
fleece to
FASHION AWA R D S
Armidale - 7th July
Fleece to Fashion (F2F) has as its aim to be Australia’s premier fashion awards event. F2F celebrates Australian merino wool production and its role in contemporary fashion design. We bridge the divide between the Australian wool and fashion industries in a wonderful three day event.
O
ur entrants range from established designers to high school students, with an emphasis on providing a forum for young, and young at heart, designers to convert their wool design ideas to fashion. Together we celebrate the endless possibilities of wool from fleece to fashion. We are able to support participants with a range of generous prizes and experiences, donated by our partners and sponsors. We encourage young creatives and budding designers to get involved! To learn more about the sections and section prizes, please refer to our website www.fleecetofashion.com We invite local models to showcase their skills at our Gala night. We encourage all aspiring models to participate in the auditions on February 3, as this is a unique opportunity to further skills and gain vital industry experience and exposure. The auditions will take place at Hanna’s Arcade, Armidale, February 3rd. Bookings are essential. Please include your name, date of birth, address and contact number. For more information, please email modelfleecetofashion@gmail.com We look forward to seeing you there! Tickets for awards night will be available via www.fleecetofashion.com from 1st April.
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focus_editorial. 1934_21 Fred Leist The Art Students 1934 Oil on canvas Gift of Howard Hinton 1934
1935_18 Margaret Preston Australian Flowers, 1932 Oil on canvas Gift of Howard Hinton, 1935
Visitors to the New England Regional Art Museum will be able to discover one of the great art collections in the country when over 100 works from The Howard Hinton Collection are put on permanent display.
T
The
Howard Hinton Collection
he new permanent exhibition HINTON: Treasures of Australian art includes iconic works by well known Australian artists such as Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton, Margaret Preston, Elioth Gruner, Julian Ashton and Norman Lindsay presented in a large-scale salon hang that illustrates the work and lives of the artists and that of the donor, Howard Hinton OBE (1867-1948). “The story of the Howard Hinton Collection is one of the greatest acts of philanthropy in Australian art history,” said Robert Heather, Art Museum Director. “Between 1929 and his death in 1948, the retired shipping company director Howard Hinton bought and donated over 1,000 artworks to the newly built Armidale Teachers’ College while he lived in a rooming house in the North Sydney suburb of Cremorne.
“While the Armidale Teachers’ College was in operation, these great artworks were hung on the walls of lecture theatres, offices, libraries and hallways throughout the building, often providing the first ever experience of the visuals arts to generations of young students from throughout rural and regional New South Wales. “Hinton’s great legacy is one of the most significant art collections in the country, which is now housed at the New England Regional Art Museum, and it is our aim to tell the story of his great generosity as well put these magnificent artworks on permanent display for our visitors. “Over the past thirty years NERAM has curated large and small exhibitions from The Howard Hinton Collection as a core element in its program; however, there is always a demand to see more of these works on display. The planned permanent
display of a dense salon-style hang of over 100 key works as well as an audio-visual about Howard Hinton, his life and times will help us to meet this demand and provide a memorable artistic experience for our visitors. “Our aim is to create an iconic destination exhibition here that will attract visitors from around Australia interested in the arts, history and culture and provide them with an opportunity to discover the leafy university city of Armidale and its other attractions.” HINTON: Treasures of Australian art will open to the public with a weekend of artistic activities at NERAM on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 February 2018 and will then be on permanent display at the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) in Armidale. Further information www.neram.com.au
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LOCALS 4 LOCALS
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he lucky winners include Brittany Onions, who makes sure her pets are well cared for by shopping at the Armidale Pet
Shop & Aquarium; Bronte Bourke, who shops at Inner Path Natural Therapies; Hunter Clarke, who collected some cool gear from SuperMoto New England; Jane Curtis, expanding her garden with Cedar Nursery & Design; Paul Lisle, who hires Rapid Clean to get the job done; Anne Robinson, brightening up her life at The
Winners every month! It’s easy to see Locals 4 Locals love giving cash and prizes to you and me - January 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.
Big Lightbulb; and Chris Sozou, who gets his supplies from Westend Sound. All these winners each won $150 in Locals 4 Locals Gift Cards in the Xmas Draw. With Christmas done and dusted, Locals 4 Locals are ready to continue supporting local businesses and the local community by continuing this amazing service of finding five lucky winners. With so many Locals 4 Local 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! That’s a winner for everyone. When you spend your hard earned dollars, why not spend them where it matters? Look for the Locals 4 Locals sign in the shopfront of your favourite stores. Simply spend $25 or more. Register your entry at the counter. 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. 13
Business Minds with Ingrid Rothe of VIVID Thinking
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BUSINESS MINDS
LAURENCE NUSSBAUMER OWNER - nTECH Introducing Laurence Nussbaumer, Business Owner, nTech and Communications, a local success story which celebrated its third birthday in December 2017. Laurence is Vice-President of Locals 4 Locals and a founding member of the New England Futures Group, a business minded social lobby group.
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ell us a little about yourself. I’m married with one child and another on the way. I love family life, and I’ll be celebrating my fifth anniversary in March. Unsurprisingly, I like computers and playing video games, particularly World of Tanks. My other hobbies include RC cars and archery for both target and hunting. Although, not that much hunting because … small family. What does nTech do? We focus on NBN telecommunications and IT. The key offering that sets us apart is next generation phone systems. Our clientele is predominantly business. We don’t really focus on the consumer market, although we are likely to expand into retail sales and service in the next two to five years. As a business owner myself, I understand the real value of not only dollars and cents, but time - particularly downtime. We work with our clients to not only resolve their dayto-day problem with IT, and sometimes their IT problems with more IT (laughs) but also to build solutions to solve problems that haven’t surfaced yet, and to identify opportunities where you can minimise staff downtime, improve productivity and really support business growth. nTech focuses on how IT can serve business to meet their business objectives, 14 New England focus.
80% off people’s phone rather than just selling nTECH FOCUSES ON bills made our initial individual products, and HOW IT CAN SERVE sales task really quite I think that is the secret BUSINESS TO MEET easy. to our success. THEIR BUSINESS Biggest challenges What led you to start OBJECTIVES, RATHER starting out? nTech? THAN JUST SELLING Lack of systems and I wanted to build INDIVIDUAL PRODUCTS, lack of knowledge about a future for my AND I THINK THAT IS how to run a business. family. I saw a gap THE SECRET TO OUR I didn’t know how to in the market for SUCCESS. do tax - it all took lots telephone systems that of practice and I had would not only save to work pretty hard on business money, but that; finding new clients; enable more effective and buying all the equipment we needed communication and was more reliable setting up an offi ce was time consuming and than what the big guys were offering. So, I expensive. jumped right in and prayed. What is your favourite part of running How was entering a new market? your own business? We got great results from the very start. When something goes wrong I have to Our approach to IT is quite different to the be there for my clients, and often work long stereotype of an IT nerd hunkered down in hours, but I can at times be flexible for family the basement. We are very business minded and I can take time out to care for my son. and work hard on being approachable and There are massive benefits in allowing for accessible. time and family life, which I really value. Obviously, I’m good with computers, Where to from here? but I like to think my business is better I’ve just dropped a scary amount of money with people than it is with technology. For into management tools that will not only example, IT businesses are notoriously slow help me do business better, but will help to respond to enquiries, so I ensure I call my clients through offering a better service, people back when I say we will. I’ve found timelier and more efficient. our clients appreciate our relationship-based Along with Monfia Connect we are approach, and are confident they are going setting up a business centre called The to get answers when they need them. Space, a casual office space suitable for Being able to demonstrate savings of 70 -
micro businesses, consultants and travelling business people who don’t want or need a permanent space or the hassle of setting one up. And of course, we are able to provide a fully digital enabled environment. Any regrets? I always think I can improve on the work I do. I know it sounds sappy, but any regrets are around work I could have done better. I have no regrets around having started my own business; it’s great! What inspires you? My family. What are the biggest challenges that lie ahead? Securing new business is an ongoing feature of the business. To stay ahead of the market we also must constantly retrain, and this takes time, and needs to be supported by cashflow. Staffing is another big one. What a scary thing, to try and find staff that can successfully represent you, your values and work ethic. And of course, employment regulations that you have to stay on top of. What would you advise a business just starting out? Do your research. Make sure you write down who you are, what sets you apart as a business. It’s stuff you are not necessarily going to remember when you get really busy. It’s important to remember what makes your business different, so if you go off track you can quickly refocus. Thanks Laurence.
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WITH SUSIE DUNN
Icing
eye CAKE glass ON
Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh
magnetic
holder
With an OCCASIONAL SQUEEZE of LEMON
In many places it seems citizens are “flexing their muscles” and disagreeing with some plans being made for them. Things are no different here.
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e have a Participatory Democracy, but commonsense also says we need a strong Public Service to carry through the delivery of agreed plans. The technical and complex nature of many problems today - and the means of solving them - require a competent team for implementation. That is what we’ve hired our specialist Council staff to handle and achieve for us. Construction of the newly opened airport was complicated, and future management even more so if the Federal Government imposes expensive extra security measures. The airport is Council’s financial responsibility and - under the direction of our elected Mayor and Councillors - it’s Council staff who have the challenging task of wrangling such situations. But even they can’t easily fix the apparent overnight pilot shortage that can currently leave us stranded with virtually no notice from Qantas. It seems ridiculous this under/over supply cycles so quickly from one to the other bad forward planning by our major airlines. In current free-ranging discussions about the future of the Armidale Central Mall, I’ve found Peter Denniss, CEO of the Armidale Regional Council, both sensible and sensitive, and he’s made it clear that plans for the Mall were always to reflect the views of the community. Everybody rarely gets everything they want, but there seems a very clear preference to keep the Central Mall car-free while instituting every possible measure to aid businesses and use the area to its full potential. Peter Denniss states, “Council is working to transform Armidale into a vibrant and nationally significant economic hub which is a great place to live … We have an incredibly exciting future”. According to Frank Bongiorno, Professor of History at the ANU, we also have a “vigorous local and regional historical culture”. In reviewing Ian Johnstone’s recently published Armidale and the Great War, he is very complimentary to Ian and to the Armidale and District Historical Society. We value those stories, buildings and monuments that make the past so immediate to us. But many of us have to learn to be open to good new ideas more readily. In today’s world
people needn’t serve long apprenticeships in civic service before they can offer important contributions. And the “gig” economy is with us, it seems, ready or not. Marketing is vital across the board. Tyler McDonald, new Executive Officer of the Armidale Business Chamber, could have new generational approaches to offer. Domain Real Estate recently headlined “Why it’s tempting for Sydneysiders to move to Armidale”. And indeed it is. Regional areas like ours offer professional services - educational, medical, cultural etc. - as well as more affordable housing, natural surroundings and sport. These are increasingly attractive to young city families in expensive, choking Sydney. We should spend to differentiate ourselves. I congratulate Albury on their large Sydney Airport signs: Expanding our Thinking: think Albury - think strategic location competitive land prices - red carpet not red tape. That’s a direct appeal, and we should match and surpass it. Hopefully the Armidale Regional Council is moving in just that direction. And a “different” new small bar in the West Mall is promising to “reinvigorate Armidale’s nightlife”. Interesting to see that at Australian universities only UNE “actively supports free speech on campus and is among a handful of institutions with a policy upholding intellectual freedom. The University of Sydney has been named as the most hostile”. (The Australian10-12-17). UNE is also proud it’s had the maximum stars for overall student satisfaction for each of 12 years. The Conversation’s 8-12-17 article was “Looking beyond the sandstone: universities reinvent campuses to bring together town and gown”, offering more inclusive engaging experiences. UNE’s presence in the old Courthouse would provide multiple opportunities for more fruitful engagement with the community. In a challenging world where political, environmental, national and international issues dominate, we still have a chance here to stand back a little from the relentless noise and consider our options. Susie Dunn
Two piece stainless steel magnetic glasses holder accessory that fits all clothing. Perfect for: • Reading glasses • Sunglasses • Safety glasses • Earbud wires control • Badge holder From Things With A Difference, Centre Mall, Armidale 6771 9668.
focustea WITH ROSS FROM D A I LY R I T U A L A R M I D A L E
Blend
month of the
CAFFEINE FREE TEA ALTERNATIVE Vanilla Rooibos is a tasty caffeine-free herbal alternative to your black tea. Rooibos means “Red Bush”. Rooibos tea is often called “Red Tea” as well. Relaxing, great with milk or chamomile, this vanilla version of plain rooibos is a big hit with the kids! It is lovely before sleep, to wind down and relax. As Rooibos goes well with sugar/honey and milk, many black tea drinkers like this as a caffeine free option to continue their “morning tea with milk and sugar ritual”. Rooibos can also be served with a slice of lemon or a couple of mint leaves. Also called Red Bush Tea / Rooibosh / Rooibush Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) is the traditional drink from South Africa. Rooibos is known to be a good relaxing cuppa that may soothe some skin allergies. Research by Japanese scientists has
Where
shown Rooibos tea to have beneficial effects relating to constipation, liver function, blood sugar levels, skin diseases, depression, and anxiety. It may help to soothe an upset stomach in all ages. Rooibos is a good caffeinefree tonic for general wellbeing. In South Africa, toddlers are fed rooibos. Rooibos has a low level of tannin, which is known to slow down the absorption of iron in consumed foods. Vanilla Rooibos is perfect for any time of the day or night, kids, mums or elderly. BREWING: 1 teaspoon / 3 g per cup. Pour in boiling water and let it sit for 2 - 3 minutes. Sweeten and add milk if desired. ORIGIN: Rooibos from South Africa, Mixed in Australia with imported ingredients. INGREDIENTS: Organic Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), carob, natural flavour (vanilla).
Find out more about other quality blends at www.dailyritual.com.au New England focus. 15
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FOCUS TALKS WITH PRO GOLFER ANDREW WALKLEY, WHO RUNS THE PRO SHOP AT THE ARMIDALE GOLF COURSE. WE FIND OUT WHAT IT’S LIKE TO WORK, LIVE AND BREATHE GOLF ...
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ell us a little bit about yourself. timesheets and till floats ready. I’m originally from Sydney; I moved We start to see golfers arrive from about 7:30am to Armidale around five and a half and onwards. I would have already done my newsletter years ago with my family. with last week‘s results, programs, weekly specials and What brought you up here? information about upcoming events. Mainly the opportunity to run my Then it’s time to catch up on some paperwork, own business in the golfing do some ordering and general industry. I’ve been playing golf catching up on the day. After for the last 35 years, and I’ve the competition fields have been pro for the last 20. finished around 1pm, I’ll start What makes you a pro level coaching. I do a video analysis of golfer? Tell us a little bit about your the lessons with voice Well, you start by doing an coaching structure. overs, and upload apprenticeship. I did my three Well, to start off the day I will to what I call their year apprenticeship that involves have a few individual lessons, training space. They academic, playing, assessments around about 4:30 I’ll have the can then log into the training and exams as well. It’s pretty full Special Olympics group come space via app or computer on; it’s about 60 to 70 hours in, then finish off with another and review the lesson. per week, because you have to individual coaching lesson after play golf, do assessments and that. People are always wanting assignments and hold down a to learn different skills, including full-time job, which is a requirement. chipping, putting, bunkers, driving or general swing coaching. Take us through a day in the life of a pro golfer. I do a video analysis of the lessons with voice My day starts early. I get to the shop around overs, and upload to what I call their training space. 6:30am to get all the carts, pull buggies, any sale They can then log into the training space via app or items I want on display. To get the shop ready for computer and review the lesson. the day, I’m getting all the competition scorecards,
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When are your busiest times? Weekends will generally be quite busy; during school holidays I do lots of courses for juniors. After Christmas and New Year I generally take a small little break with my family. Golfing wise, over the Christmas and New Year’s break is probably one of the busiest times of the year. Every Saturday is our busiest day of the week; we generally have over 100 golfers on the course. What’s your weekly schedule look like? At the moment I’m working here six days a week; obviously running a business you have to be heavily involved. I generally have Sundays off and I wouldn’t want to count the hours I do a week (laughs). Today alone is a 12 hour day, and I’ve had three of them since last week, so the hours add up quickly. When it comes to playing golf yourself, how often do you get out on the course? I try to get out at least once a week, if not twice; although sometimes it can be once every three weeks! I get to hit a few balls during lessons just to keep my game up. Any big plans for 2018? I’d like to change the format of the shop, possibly removing a few walls, changing the look and feel. I’m thinking of creating an indoor putting studio, for putting training and fitting. Thanks Andrew.
focus coffee.
Armidale Coffee House Here at Armidale Coffee House we take
catering can also be arranged.
Great Food, Great Coffee and Great Service
Brew REVIEW. Green Bean Coffee
Twenty Four on Moore, 24 Moore Street
very seriously! That is why we are constantly working hard to make sure your experience is thoroughly enjoyable! Our chef has been working hard the last few weeks designing a brand new menu which will roll out soon! How exciting! As always we will be serving only the Best Di Bella Coffee, along with
Here at TwentyFour on Moore we roast our own coffee daily using our in-house roaster. Sourcing our beans from Green Bean Coffee, we use a special blend that is tailored to our needs. If you would like to make your own at home, we sell both ground and whole beans.
In addition to our coffee, we also offer a wide variety of local organic loose leaf teas from Uralla, warming hot chocolates and chai, popular cold drinks and freshly squeezed juices.
a range of sweets, Grab n Go items, and
ARMIDALE PLAZA (02) 6771 9725 MON, TUES, WED & FRI - 8AM - 5:30PM THURS - 8AM - 6:30PM SAT - 8AM - 4:30PM SUN - 8AM - 2:30PM
Come in and enjoy a beverage with us today.
TwentyFour on Moore - Tasmanian Salmon Bistro on Cinders We would like to invite you and your significant other this Valentine's Day to indulge in our delightful blend of Australian with a touch of Asia inspired food, made from the freshest ingredients and always beautifully presented. We will be showcasing an exclusive menu to celebrate this special day, so be sure to book your table now
to secure your spot. We look forward to welcoming you very soon at Bistro on Cinders (behind the Post Office in Cinders Lane) for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. 1/14 CINDERS LANE (BEHIND THE POST OFFICE) (02) 6772 2828 TUESDAY TO SATURDAY 8AM - 2PM THURS, FRI, & SAT 5:30PM - 9PM
All of the main meals offered at TwentyFour on Moore are gluten free and full of flavour. Our Tasmanian Salmon Fillet is no exception. Served in an orange paprika glaze, with garlic butter potatoes and oven roasted cherry tomatoes, it is perfect to enjoy for lunch. If seafood isn’t for you, we also have a delicious lamb curry, and our popular panseared polenta served with grilled haloumi and goats cheese. We also provide event catering to small or
large gatherings and can tailor a menu to suit your taste, budget and style.
24 MOORE ST, ARMIDALE 0467 512 876 MONDAY - FRIDAY: 8AM - 5PM THURSDAY - SATURDAY: 6PM - 9PM SATURDAY: 8AM - 2PM
New England focus. 17
Aurora
NATHAN AND ENORA
Croissants, tarts, coffee, macaroons are just the tip of the pastry mountain that Aurora café at the viaduct centre has to offer. We all love a great french Patisserie, now the New England can call Aurora Café their own. We catch up with Nathan and Enora to talk about all things pastry …
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nora and Nathan, tell us about your journey of discovery - food as a way of life? Enora: I moved to Australia seven years ago from France, without much English. I started work as a kitchen hand at Sofitel Hotel in Brisbane. Working closely with some very talented chefs, I discovered the amazing process of creating fine dining dishes, flavour matching and the creative use of colours. I am not a chef myself, but having an art degree background helped me appreciate the creative environment that working in hospitality can offer. Nathan: I started my trade in Armidale in 1998, then moved to Sydney working in hatted restaurants. It took me about six years to really start to love working with food. I travelled and worked in France in 2010, where I had the opportunity to work with some amazing local produce. Meeting the producers and farmers, I gained a new appreciation for food and how important it is in our lives. When and how did your paths cross? Nathan and I met in Canberra, when we were both working at Old Parliament House; Nathan working as the head chef and me as the event coordinator. We were working closely together and saw immediately that we were complimentary to each other. Our vision of quality of service and quality food was very similar. What prompted you to move to Armidale?
18 New England focus.
We decided to move to Armidale after our last trip to Brittany in France to be close to family (Nathan being originally from here) as well as the seasonal climate and lifestyle. Both of us grew up in country towns; after working in big cities like Sydney and I travelled and worked Brisbane, we wanted to go in France in 2010, where back to basics: working with I had the opportunity to communities, local producers work with some amazing pies, quiches and sandwiches, and farmers. local produce. Meeting the and plated breakfast on Armidale and its region has producers and farmers, I gained Saturdays from 8am - crepes incredible potential and the a new appreciation for food and and galettes and also some existing products from local how important it is in our lives. Aussie classics. farmers and producers are We have lots of free amazing; you only need to go carparking, wheelchair to the farmers’ market and access, a bathroom, and a sample it for yourself. dog friendly courtyard. What is Aurora Catering Company? Describe Plans for the future? your cuisine and what customers can expect to We can also hire out the café for small private experience ... events such as cocktail parties, small wedding Aurora Catering Company is a place where we receptions, birthdays. In the future we are looking at can both be creative, express our passion for quality doing pop-up Italian and French restaurant nights, service, quality food and be a part of the local and you can fi nd our small crepe cart at the farmers’ community, in a setting inspired by the Brittany market. region of France. We are open Monday to Friday from 7am and 8am During the week, we will be offering a nice range on Saturday. Ph (02) 6772 3376 for the café or 0417 of French pastries like coffee and chocolate eclairs, 553 266 for catering. lemon meringue tarts, almond croissants, with some Thanks guys. gluten free and vegan options, as well as homemade
New England focus. 19
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L U S Y I A N N A S E T R A F R O M A Z K A R E S TA U R A N T
PURE
goodness
CAKE
Ingredients (Serves 4) Cake 2 frozen bananas 2 tbsps maple syrup 1½ cups cashews (soaked overnight in water & drained) ½ cup raspberries plus extra to serve Mint leaves to garnish
Base 2 tbsps maple syrup 7 medjool dates ¾ cup ground almonds Chocolate bark 250 g dark chocolate ½ cup shelled pistachios
Method For the base, place the medjool dates, soaked cashews and maple syrup in a food processor and blend well. Spoon the mixture into individual moulds to create four bases. For the chocolate bark, place a sheet of baking paper onto a baking tray and spray with cooking spray. Melt the chocolate in a saucepan then pour onto the tray and smooth with 20 New England focus.
a spatula. Sprinkle with pistachios and chill in the fridge for 1 hour. Once set, peel off baking paper and break into pieces. For the cake, blend all ingredients and if needed, add a little warm water to thin the mixture. Once well mixed, spoon on top of the bases. Freeze for four hours and serve with chocolate bark, raspberries and mint.
Chef Lusyianna Setra
Azka Restaurant, Wine & Tapas Bar Quality Hotel Powerhouse 31 Marsh Street, Armidale NSW 2350 Phone (02) 6772 7788
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Unwritten law S C O T T
R U S S O
PUNK ROCK VETERANS UNWRITTEN LAW ARE HEADING DOWN UNDER THIS MONTH, CELEBRATING A HUGE TWENTY YEARS SINCE THE RELEASE OF THEIR “BLACK ALBUM”. THIS ALBUM WAS NOT ONLY AN IMPORTANT PART OF PUNK ROCK HISTORY, BUT SAW MILLIONS OF PEOPLE NAMING THEIR DAUGHTER CAILIN, AFTER HEARING THE SONG SCOTT HAD AFFECTIONATELY WRITTEN FOR HIS OWN DAUGHTER ...
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offs Harbour is lucky enough to Law, so we have definitely seen generations of play host to the group this month, fans and people coming up to us and saying, “I’ve and FOCUS caught up with front brought my kids up listening to you guys”... and man Scott Russo for a trip down especially people who have named their daughter memory lane. Cailin! Who knew! I was so young and writing Hi Scott. What have been some that song for my daughter. So, we definitely see major highlights for you being in the industry? generations of people coming out now; it’s really, Highlights are getting to travel the world with really cool. your friends. We’ve been As one of the most highly fortunate enough to get reputable and well known some really dope gigs with No punk bands of the ‘90s, Doubt, Blink 182, Big Day Out this tour in particular is in WE WILL BE PLAYING Tour, Warped Tour; it’s been a celebration of your self THE “BLACK ALBUM” pretty fortunate run, all in all. titled album making its Do you find at these shows debut 20 years ago. Can we FROM FRONT it’s mostly die hard fans, expect a run through of just TO BACK IN ITS or do you see a new wave this album as the show, or ENTIRETY, AND THEN of younger fans coming will you be throwing some WE’LL DO AN ENCORE through? other tunes in there? WITH AN ENTIRELY Well, the thing with us We will be playing the Black DIFFERENT SET. - and this being a twenty Album from front to back in year tour - is that there are its entirety, and then we’ll do going to be generations there an encore with an entirely now. For instance - and not different set. because of me - my kids love Blink and Greenday. How have you developed personally through It’s like everything has a 20 year cycle; they found music since the beginning of your journey? that on their own. People who’ve loved us are now I tend to write songs ten times over now, so it’s parents and have children of their own, and those more of a tedious process. When we were doing children probably grew up listening to Unwritten that record (Black Album), we were kids; we were
writing what we thought sounded cool. When I go over the lyrics off that record, I think to myself, “I cannot believe I really wrote that gibberish!” Whereas now when I write, I write something that means something to me or that I see personally, or that I’m personally affected by whether it be love, or heart break or partying, or whatever it may be. Are you bringing anyone along as support? In Australia, we’re trying to bring our friends Runaway Kids, who couldn’t get on the plane last time. Thanks Scott.
Don’t miss Unwritten Law with special guests on Wednesday 14 February 2018 (opening 7:30pm) at C.ex Coffs, Cnr Pacific Hwy and Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour. Tickets www.cex.com.au **18+** New England focus. 21
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New England WEDDING Guide
David & Mandy
COURTNEY Courtneys have been assisting brides and grooms in Armidale and surrounding areas for the last 48 years with their engagement rings and wedding rings. FOCUS catches up with David and Mandy Courtney about the next chapter of their lives and the end of an era.
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emind us how long Courtneys Jewellers has been here in Armidale, and tell us about the journey? We have been in three locations since Courtneys commenced in Armidale. Firstly, the family purchased an existing jewellers in Beardy Street (Sourrys & Fletchers before them). In the early 1970s the road was closed and our shop became one of the first businesses to be in the era of open street shopping malls; there was a lot of activity in this area, we found, until the development of shopping plazas. We moved from the Mall and for a short period of time traded in upper Dangar Street in the early ‘80s, whilst our current shop location was being developed. We moved in where we are now in December 1984; how time gets away - 33 years! We have always classed ourselves as a traditional jewellery store i.e. family owner operators, sales in rings, watches, giftware and service in areas that we can. The traditional jeweller, we have noticed in the last 10 years or so, is becoming less and less, unfortunately - whether it's from - like ourselves - family heading in different directions, the many chain store type jewellery shops, internet shopping. Who knows ... it’s somewhat sad. You have some exciting news to announce! Please tell us about it, and what does it mean for your loyal customers?
Unfortunately for some with future plans, this era was commencing. For most, having our assistance will come to an end. Yes ... mechanical wind up watches or mechanical Tracy at FOCUS has got, in media terms, "the rotor wound automatic watches, this evolution scoop”! Courtneys Jewellers in Armidale will brought a very big difference into timekeeping come to an end. The second generation of the - especially with the digital watches having Courtney family are retiring. alarms, stopwatches etc. They created a How did this come about? learning curve as well. Nowadays watches After being in the jewellery business in are telling your heart rate, have built in GPS Armidale since 1970, and all sorts of other you can basically in two functions; technology has progressed so much words say, “burnt out". since the wind up watch! David, after leaving We have been very school in 1975 joined MOST RECENTLY WE fortunate to have had up with his parents; his good staff over the years, wife, Mandy joining up BECAME GRANDPARENTS, a factor that brings good to the business in 1981, WITH OUR DAUGHTER, stability to a business, with a progression to LAUREN AND HUSBAND with Emma Hooper 28 take over the family WAYNE HAVING A BABY years and Libby Martin business - which BOY, WHOM WE WILL 11 years. occurred in 1990, when NOW BE ABLE TO SPEND What does the future David’s mother, Norma, hold for Mandy and retired and moved to PRECIOUS TIME WITH. David? Murwillumbah. We love Armidale, What have you loved with the four seasons; most about the last 40 it’s close to the coast, it's plus years? midway between Sydney and Brisbane, close Being in the jewellery trade for the many by windy motorcycle roads, 4WD bush trails, years has had many exciting, interesting and camping areas. Armidale has got it all, and we difficult times; we will just mention some of will stay on our Armidale property. the exciting stages! As most know, we are passionate about Probably the most exciting and interesting motorcycle riding and will tend to get the would be the introduction of mass production bikes out on a regular occurrence (not in battery driven Quartz watches in the mid ‘70s, winter though!) An off road camper trailer the digital watch being the most popular at we acquired several years ago will be out of that time. David had just finished school and
the shed and utilised more as well. Retirement will make it a lot easier to enjoy what we love doing. In the last couple of years we have managed to do several outback trips, and our future planned trips will be a crossing of the Simpson Desert, Nullarbor Plain and the Kimberleys in our crew cab 4WD. Most recently we became grandparents, with our daughter, Lauren and husband Wayne having a baby boy, whom we will now be able to spend precious time with. We both joined the Rural Fire Service 20 years ago after living in the district for a while, feeling that we should give some of our time doing voluntary work for the cause. David went through the ranks in his local brigade and attained Captaincy a number of years ago. With the jewellery business, farm etc. we seem to have found time to manage that as well (is there is a saying, "busy people seem to find time"?) Perhaps in retirement we will be able to do even more; hopefully health holds out. Final say ... To finish, we wish to thank our current staff and past staff over the years, our many suppliers in the jewellery trade over the 48 years, FOCUS - cheers, Tracy! But most of all, the people of Armidale, Uralla, Guyra and district for your support - we hope we have created some joy for you with a gift from COURTNEYS JEWELLERS Armidale. Thanks David and Mandy. New England focus. 23
24 New England focus.
New England WEDDING Guide
Photo credit: Chasing Summer Photography
Weddings at SAUMAREZ HOMESTEAD KIRI STEELE Chapel Street Bridal. FOCUS chats to Kiri Steele about her new venture for brides to be … What can a bride expect when coming to Chapel Street Bridal? Well, a bride won’t see rows and rows of wedding gowns! What you will see is a lovely inviting space to come into and have your dream gown created. I will take all the correct measurements, and we will determine your body shape and what styles will suit you best. You will be able to see and feel some fabrics and/or find a fabric you have been dreaming of and have a sample sent, to determine if it is indeed what you want. This similar process would, of course, apply to anyone having any type of gown made, no matter what the occasion. I can do bridesmaids, mother of the bride or groom - really, any ladies’ formal wear for life’s big events. How can people find you? I am available by appointment only; this usually happens outside normal working hours, to suit the customer. The best way to contact me is by phone, email or via my Facebook page. I would love to see anyone who is after a dress that will fit them perfectly for any special occasion.
Saumarez Homestead offers a flexible and affordable wedding and function venue with beautiful gardens, grounds and powered marquee sites, as well as a number of excellent indoor spaces to choose from for your wedding ceremony and/or reception and for your wedding photos. The beauty, peace and quiet of Saumarez will surround you on your special occasion. Synonymous with grace and style, the gardens, grounds, farm area and Saumarez Function Centre can accommodate groups from 60 to 1,600 in a truly Australian rural setting. You can hold your event in the Jackson Centre, a large stable and barn which can accommodate very large parties and has brick/timber floors, power and lights. Alternatively, there is the function centre, a relatively new building with a function room that can be divided in two and seats up to 95, a small modern kitchen, and a courtyard which can accommodate a small marquee and dance floor. The gardens comprise extensive lawns, large trees, flower beds and two large flat areas for the placement of hired marquees near the main homestead. The Farm Area has several marquee sites as well.
New England focus. 25
focusinterview. Coffs Coast WEDDING Guide
B R I D E of the M O N T H
BELINDA Heffernan
Belinda Heffernan tied the knot recently. FOCUS talks with Belinda about everything bridal, weddings and marriage.
H
i Belinda. Tell us a little about yourself ... I’m Belinda, and I started working in Armidale 10 years ago, having moved from Walcha to pursue my pharmacy career. I met Nick on NYE 2008/09 at
after the wedding. We had our reception at The Armidale City Bowling Club. I have always loved the Bowling Club for both location and the big auditorium which is downstairs. Sam and Patsy
the Wicklow Hotel. And from that night, I knew I had found
were amazing to deal with, and what
my soul mate, my best friend, the love of my life. However, it
they created in the reception was
was almost eight years until Nick proposed on my birthday in
breathtaking. I wanted the pastel
November 2016.
rainbow theme to be carried out. We
Do you think that once you have chosen the date,
matched the bridesmaids’ dresses to
everything falls into place?
the chair ties, but we blocked them
Yes, once I had the date booked for the venue, then
I’M LIKE EVERY GIRL REALLY! I’VE DREAMED OF MY WEDDING DAY FOR MANY YEARS. AND IV ALWAYS LOVED COLOUR. HENCE WHY I CHOOSE THE 5 PASTEL RAINBOW COLOURS.
I could have ever imagined. Wedding cake: Emma Grills from Cakes by Emma Jane made our gorgeous wedding cake. I loved that Emma sat with me and listened to my crazy idea of having a rainbow cake! Yes, the inside of my cake was the five colours of my bridesmaids, all in pastel and a huge four tiers. It wasn’t tacky, but truly elegant and tasted amazing. Makeup: Claire O’Connell from GoodtoGlow did our beautiful wedding
in colours. The bridal table, however,
makeup for my five best girls, my mum
everything else fell into place. But I was very organised too.
matched the wedding party. The boys had matching pastel
and of course, me. I loved the look she created and that she
Did you have a theme or a style to your wedding?
ties to the girls’ dresses.
travelled to me. I’m trying to think of the next time I can get
I’m like every girl, really! I’ve dreamed of my wedding day
And by chance, we found the most amazing garden,
Claire to do my makeup! It was flawless!
for many years. And I’ve always loved colour; hence why I
Jocelyn and Ray Winnington’s garden at Saumarez Ponds, 10
chose the five pastel rainbow colours - purple, blue, pink,
minutes out of town. It is five acres of beautiful manicured
job; in just under 2.5 hours they both managed six up dos
green and yellow.
gardens, a dam with a jetty and little paths that lead to the
and styled my mum’s and grandmother’s hair. I loved that
When and where did you have your wedding, and why
next magical garden. Jocelyn’s garden is filled with so much
these two gorgeous ladies listened to what I wanted. After
did you choose those areas?
colour and was unique. I wanted somewhere different to the
showing them two photos of what we wanted combined
regular Armidale locations.
together for the girls and then the style I had chosen, when
Tell us about the services you used throughout the day.
I saw my hair, I cried - it was better than perfect. These two
We decided to get married at St Peter’s Cathedral in Armidale. Nick’s grandparents (John and Patricia Mitchell) Mum and Dad (Barry and Denise Heffernan) and his sister and
Photographer: Nita Read (Nita Bread Photography) in
brother in law (Dwayne and Alyce Blore) were all married in
Tamworth did our beautiful wedding photos, almost last
the same church, and the church itself is beautiful. And the
minute! Nita and her daughter, Jess, were amazing to work
church bells are amazing; I loved having them play before and
with, and the images she has taken are beautiful - more than
26 New England focus.
Hairdresser: Amanda Riggall and Lee Sillitoe did an amazing
ladies also travelled to my house. So, I didn’t have to leave. Wedding gown: All Things Weddings in Glen Innes. Hailie was exceptional. Flowers: Rosemerrin did my gorgeous wedding bouquets.
New Coffs England Coast WEDDING Guide
N E W
E N G L A N D
I WAS LUCKY TO HAVE MY SISTER, AMANDA, STAND BESIDE ME AS MY “BEST GIRL”, ALONG WITH NICK’S SISTER, ALYCE AND THREE VERY CLOSE FRIENDS: FLO, WHOM I MET 12 YEARS AGO IN WALCHA; ANGELA, MY VERY FIRST ARMIDALE FRIEND; AND SHANNYN, WHO IS ALSO CHRIS’ WIFE AND MY ONLY BRIDESMAID LIVING IN ARMIDALE.
Band: Terra Firma; who doesn’t love Terra Firma! The boys were great as always. Stationery: Nikki from Niknee Designs designed our gorgeous wedding invitations, seating chart and three signs which she made for us. Nikki was a pleasure to work with and listened to what I wanted and created our gorgeous rainbow hearts. Car: Tamworth Luxury Limousines: I wanted a car so the whole wedding party could be together. The Stretched Hummer was perfect; Greig was amazing. How many people were in your wedding party? Fourteen! Yes, 14 including Nick and I. We had quite a large wedding party, being the last married and Nick being in five wedding parties. Luke was our best man, whom Nick met 12 years ago, and there were four guys he went through school with: Brad, Chris, Nick and Jay, who are all still very close 30 years later. I was lucky to have my sister, Amanda, stand beside me as my “best girl” along with Nick’s sister, Alyce and three very close friends: Flo, whom I met 12 years ago in Walcha; Angela, my very first Armidale friend; and Shannyn, who is also Chris’ wife and my only bridesmaid living in Armidale. We were also blessed with the cutest flower girl and pageboy - our niece and nephew, Phoebe (Amanda’s daughter) and Luca (Alyce’s son). Choosing guests is tricky; how many did you have? OMG this was hard, very hard! But in the end, you kind of have to be brutal. Our original list was close to 200 people, and then we sat back and decided - right, who has spoken to us and has made the effort to be a part of our lives in the
last 12 months? And slowly we crossed people off. We ended up inviting 140 people. Did you make any of the decor yourself? My beautiful mum made my wishing well. It was my dad’s bird cage. She spray painted it silver and had a new base put in it. It looked beautiful, and it was great to have something there to remind me BE ORGANISED, KNOW of my dad. WHAT YOU WANT, Nick’s mum, HAVE A BUDGET, Denise, made the DON’T LEAVE THINGS pew covers that we TO THE LAST MINUTE. used in the church; AND BREATHE. DON’T the flowers were STRESS OVER THE white, but she PETTY THINGS. added paper flowers in the same colour as the service sheets. She spent many hours on YouTube, until they were perfect. They looked better than the white flowers. Looking back on your special day, do you have any tips for future brides and grooms? Be organised, know what you want, have a budget, don’t leave things to the last minute. And breathe. Don’t stress over the petty things. And don’t be afraid to ask for help! The day goes so fast; enjoy it. It really is the best day ever!
Who gave you away? My mum, Heather Scott, gave me away. My dad passed away when I was 10, and I never knew how much I missed him until I was planning a wedding, my wedding. Of all the things I’ve accomplished in my life, this truly was the hardest. He had one job on the day of my wedding, and that was the weather - and he nailed it. It was a beautiful spring day. I used his wedding band as my “something old” to carry my dress around and wore Mum’s eternity ring as my something borrowed. I also had a locket with a photo of Dad and I looking at each other. Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue and the dreams you dare to dream really do come true. Thanks Belinda. New England focus. 27
New England WEDDING Guide
THE POWERHOUSE Armidale The Powerhouse Armidale is the ultimate romantic wedding location in the New England.
BONVILLE GOLF RESORT Bethany & Ryan Heagney celebrated their wedding day at the beautiful Flooded Gums Restaurant, Bonville Golf Resort. FOCUS had a chat to the couple to find out more.
W
hat was most important in making your wedding day perfect? As most of my friends could probably tell you, I’m a bit of a perfectionist, so basically I wanted absolutely everything to be perfect! Essentially though, the most important thing for us was to ensure that our friends and family enjoyed the day with us and that it went off without a hitch. We wanted there to be delicious food, drinks aplenty, lots of laughs, dancing and enjoyment all around. How important was it that your wedding reflected your personality? How did Bonville and your suppliers help achieve this? It was extremely important to us. We both love outdoor activities and really wanted to bring in a natural, country chic theme for our wedding. Bonville was perfect for this, as they have a ceremony venue within their very own lush rainforest. They also set up our pre-made wedding decorations at the reception, including timber rounds, flowers, vintage jars, candles and vines etc. to give it that natural feel. Our photographer, Stephanie Flay, was also extremely helpful in providing us with a natural and un-posed experience. Most of the time we didn’t even know she was there, and she captured the most amazing candid shots. What were the criteria for selecting your venue? Initially we wanted to be married somewhere out in the rainforest, but it would have been too difficult with relatives visiting from out of town and elderly guests with regards to accessibility, transport and accommodation. We wanted a venue that gave us that natural and outdoorsy feel without any of the hassle that comes with it, which is why Bonville Golf Resort worked perfectly for us. 28 New England focus.
The food, drink and reception venue was also very important. We wanted plenty of room for our guests, the band (Funk Thieves), dancing and socialising. We decided on a cocktail style wedding, rather than seated, but we were concerned with this, as we’ve been to cocktail events before where there hasn’t been enough food. It was really important to us to make sure that there would be an abundance of delicious food and really great service. Bonville excelled with this; they had wait-staff serving exquisite food for hours, and our guests still comment on the quality and quantity of the food to this day. How did Bonville ensure your day was really special? The staff were extremely helpful with all aspects of our wedding, from the initial consultation right through to dropping us off at our room after the reception and communications post-wedding. Bonville made the entire wedding essentially stress-free for us, which allowed us to really appreciate the experience and celebrate our most important day to date with all of our loved ones. What was the most memorable part of your reception? It’s hard to narrow it down to one part! We’ll never forget the laughs, dancing, delicious food, our guests’ crazy singing to Horses and of course, the amazing heartfelt speeches. It truly was an amazing experience. Married Saturday 29th April 2017 Rainforest Ceremony, Flooded Gums Restaurant and Terrace Lawn Reception. Photos: Stephanie Flay Photography www.stephanieflayphotography.com Thanks Bethany and Ryan. For more stories, check out our Facebook page: facebook.com/bonvilleweddings For enquiries, please call (02) 6653 4002.
Our superb celebration menus showcase the best seasonal New England produce. Internationally trained Head Chef, Lusyianna Setra, brings a cosmopolitan approach to wedding cuisine and special event dining. A complimentary three course menu tasting is held for couples who select the Premium Package. They experience the enviable task of choosing from four entrees, four mains and
Couples hosting a wedding reception at The Powerhouse receive a complimentary bridal suite package that includes a night in a sophisticated bridal suite, hand-made chocolates, sparkling wine and breakfast. Travelling guests are invited to stay, and exclusive accommodation rates are given to each wedding party. The Powerhouse Cottage, located adjacent to the hotel, offers bridal parties the perfect place to prepare for the big day and is ideal for extended families or groups with two, three or five-bedroom self contained options. To create your New England wedding, contact your Powerhouse wedding consultant on 6772 7788, events@qhparm.com.au or visit qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au
QHP0217
Bethany & Ryan
The Dumaresq Room is perfect for a sit-down celebration for up to 130 guests, or 220 for a cocktail wedding. For a larger event, the stunning Azka Restaurant, adorned with more than 70 Moroccan hanging lanterns, will host 180 for a banquet style wedding or 300 for canapés and cocktails. Both spaces are stylish, yet intimate enough to inspire couples to create their dream reception.
four desserts for their amazing wedding dinner. Our team specialises in matching boutique wines to each food element, and our talented waitstaff deliver impeccable service.
The Powerhouse
Every detail distinctively yours at The Powerhouse Armidale. Invite up to 130 guests for a sit down celebration or 200 for cocktails and canapés in our elegant wedding spaces. Our exceptional staff will create a sophisticated and memorable event with amazing food, wine and professional service. For your personalised wedding pack, contact: 6772 7788 events@qhparm.com.au 31 Marsh Street, Armidale
qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au /PowerhouseArmidale @qualityhotelpowerhouse #QHPG
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15/1/18 3:29 pm
New England WEDDING Guide
Armidale GOLF CLUB If you are looking for a wedding venue that is a combination of beautiful scenery and exclusive facilities, a wedding at the Armidale Golf Club might just be perfect for you. We are situated in picturesque countryside and have immaculately maintained grounds, meaning your guests can enjoy an alfresco glass of champagne as they admire the view. You can have your ceremony and reception at the same place. You could ask to borrow a golf buggy to transport you and your new husband around the course. As well as some fantastic photo opportunities, this adds a fun element to your wedding, and may save you a few dollars at the same time. The Function Room is available for small or large events of any kind. The Sand Wedge Bistro will design a menu with you to meet your budget and to suit your taste. Select from finger food, BBQ, buffet or a la carte options. Make the Armidale Golf Club your own club and enjoy the comfortable facilities and friendly atmosphere. You will always be made welcome. To make a booking or find out more, contact our friendly staff on (02) 6772 5837 or email us at: functions@armidalegolf.com.au
PETER HOWE Celebrant Peter Howe, one of Armidale and surround's favourite celebrants ... Peter’s ceremonies are very welcoming, friendly and professional, which is reflected in the type of service that you will prepare together. He will attend to all the legal documentation both before and after your wedding and make sure that all legal requirements during your ceremony are met. Most importantly, it is your wedding day; Peter will conduct the type of service that you want, and he is happy to help you in any way he can and offer advice when needed. It is important that on your wedding day your ceremony is just perfect for you both and reflects your personalities, beliefs and wishes. You are very welcome to include your own vows, special poems, verses, or you may simply like to choose these from his Ceremony Guide. Your special day can be formal, traditional, casual, or something in-between; there are so many possibilities, and his commitment to you is to provide a professional and friendly service. Quality and excellence are very important to Peter, and for your ceremony to be always remembered with love. It's important to choose the right celebrant, so contact Peter Howe today.
New England focus. 29
New England WEDDING Guide
CAITLIN Wedding
PROPOSAL
FOCUS talks to the newly engaged Reece Trickey about his now fiancée, Caitlin Murphy, how he proposed, and all that led up to this special moment.
H
ow did you two meet? While studying at UNE I lived at Drummond and Smith College. Caitlin also lived at DnS and
How did you know she was the one?
when I’m left to my own devices for a
out to the front of the ship in time to
day or for the weekend and I buy some
watch the sunset, and luckily we had the
clicked. We had similar senses of humour,
chocolate or have nuggets for lunch or
front deck to ourselves - so I got down
similar interests and just couldn’t stand
something along those lines. Then when
on one knee and asked the important
being apart. When you get a feeling of
Caitlin comes home and notices the box
was studying Zoology but was a couple
question.
excitement at the end of every day that
in the recycling or the chocolate wrapper
of years ahead of me and had moved
When do you plan to get married?
you get to see her, or struggle through
in the bin, she calls me to the kitchen for
out by the time I started there. However,
weekends when she’s
a “talk”.
the floor I was on was filled with people
away, or when you’re
How did you
studying Zoology as well from the same
not even a little bit ner-
propose?
year as Caitlin, and they would come
vous about proposing
over and have study sessions regularly.
... I think that’s a pretty
So, we hung out but never really spoke
When we started dating, we just
good indication that
until the following year, in which Caitlin
she’s the one.
had finished uni and was moving house.
What’s the most
Being the gentleman I am, I volunteered
romantic thing
to help out along with a group of other
you’ve done for your
friends. A week or so after that was uni
fiancée?
This probably
WHEN YOU GET A FEELING OF EXCITEMENT AT THE END OF EVERY DAY THAT YOU GET TO SEE HER, OR STRUGGLE THROUGH WEEKENDS WHEN SHE’S AWAY.
falls under the most romantic thing I’ve done. Whilst on a cruise out to New Caledonia with a group of friends, we
We are currently renovating our first home together and would like to finish a couple of our bigger projects first before we get into wedding planning. At this stage we have almost nothing planned; we have ideas on what we want it to be, but not when. What do you believe the key to a successful relationship is? Our number one thing would be good communication, it’s important that you both are on the same page and know
holidays, and a couple of us decided to
I’m not that great at
have a “boys’ night” - but I noticed on
romance. I once bought
decided to have
what to expect from each other. Finding
Facebook that Caitlin had posted a status
flowers for Caitlin,
a date night
someone who you can become best
about being bored. So again, being the
just because she was
where we would
friends with and who has compatible
gentleman I am, I invited her to our boys’
having a bad day. While
all go have
ideas about the future and what they
night. For some reason she accepted this
we aren’t overly romantic, I don’t think
dinners with our
want to achieve in life is essential for the
invitation from a somewhat random guy
you could find two people more in love
partners. I took this opportunity to have
long term.
she only met on a handful of occasions.
though.
a nice dinner with Caitlin (which I made
Thanks for chatting with us, Reece.
After that we began seeing each other
What’s the stupidest fight you’ve
her book to throw her off any scent) at
Congratulations to you and Caitlin on
had?
around 6ish, so we could catch the sun-
the engagement, and we wish you
set over the ocean. After dinner we went
all the best for the future!
much more regularly, and then decided we should officially start dating.
30 New England focus.
The most common would have to be
New England WEDDING Guide
“Tall Paul”
PAUL Mailfert Paul Mailfert, affectionately known as Tall Paul, is one of the most highly regarded professionals when it comes to catering for weddings and events. With so many events under his belt, FOCUS chats to Paul about everything he has accomplished over the years. 2018/19 marks a turning point for Jazzamataz, with Paul looking to the future and deciding to hand the baton to the right person …
H
i Paul. Tell us a little about how you came to start Jazzamataz Catering ... Well, in 1986 I had this idea to start a family restaurant in Armidale. I couldn't cook an egg in those days, but had a vision which I was compelled to follow. During the ten years we ran that restaurant, I started outside catering, and carried on after we sold. I worked from the kitchen at The Armidale Club for around ten years. Then in 2007 I converted my double garage at home into a commercial kitchen, and we've been full-time caterers ever since. How do you enjoy working from your own kitchen? Well, it's fully compliant, and it's great to work at my own pace. We do have staff, but usually only need them at the venue we are working from. The great advantage to our situation is that I'm able to keep overheads down, so I can pass on that advantage to customers. I'm also able to take time off in quiet times, without the normal running costs of a rented premises. By the way, we do many other types of functions, as well as weddings ... family functions, corporate catering, interest groups etc. What do you offer as part of your wedding packages? We have a number of options ... from hors d'ouevres / finger foods, entrees,
of them have been with us for over ten BBQs ... main courses which could be alternate service, buffet or banquet. years, so we have become a sort of hapProbably our most popular choice is our py family. My longest serving (suffering) carvery buffet. We cook onsite from our staff member is Eiluned ... hard to believe roasting ovens. We also specialise in we've worked together for about twenty curries, as we spent a few years serving years! great curries at the So what does Armidale Club. the future hold And of course, for you and there are home Jazzamataz made dessert choicWE HAVE A NUMBER OF Catering? es. We can also supOPTIONS ... FROM HORS I hope to retire ply all your cutlery at the end of this D’OUEVRES / FINGER and crockery needs. year or early 2019. FOODS, ENTREES, BBQS as part of our quote. It's not that I don't We take it all away ... MAIN COURSES WHICH enjoy the job; I and wash up back in COULD BE ALTERNATE really do. I get to our kitchen. SERVICE, BUFFET OR How do you work at different BANQUET. quote? places, do differI like to meet with ing menus, and the couple and their meet new people family and disevery job we do. cuss their vision in However, I have other things that I person. I then forward a quote for them want to do before getting too old. I've to consider. Sometimes we enter into got grandchildren whom I'd like to spend conversations after this before settling time with. on the menu that best suits. Most of This business has a great reputation, our customers come to us through word and many many regular customers, so of mouth ... every time we cater for a I'd like to pass it on to the right person. wedding, there are potential brides and Cooking skills are important, but you grooms on the guest list, so it's very mostly need to have good management important that every job we do is a good skills, get on well with people, and have one. a well developed work ethic. Oh, and a Do you work alone? sense of humour helps! No, my wife, Ricki, is involved too, and we have a great staff of casuals. Some Thanks Paul. New England focus. 31
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Announcing 2018 Concerts Announcing Announcing 2
Thursdays @ 7pm Concert Series Thursdays Thursdays @ @ 7pm 7pm
Karin Schaupp & Umberto Clerici Karin KarinScha Scha
Thursday 5 April @ 7pm - Armidale TownThursday Hall Thursday55A A www.trybooking.com/TDGU www.trybook www.tryboo
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Thursday 3 May @ 7pm - Lazenby Hall UNE Thursday Thursday33M M www.trybooking.com/TDGY www.trybook www.tryboo
The human voice is the most expressive of all instruments, and this concert voic The The human human voi features some of the great masters of choral writing: Hildegard of Bingen's features features some someo ecstatic melodies; exquisitely passionate madrigalsecstatic by Monteverdi and ecstatic melodie melodi Gesualdo; the lush harmonies of Brahms and the delicacy Gesualdo; Gesualdo; thelu of Debussy; andthe three thrilling Australian choruses for a mighty finale. three threethrilling thrillingAu A
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Goldner GoldnerQu Q
Thursday 8 November @ 7pm - Armidale Thursday Town Hall Thursday 88N N www.trybooking.com/TDHC www.trybook www.tryboo
Approaching their 25th anniversary in 2020, Australia’s Approaching Approaching premier string th t quartet remain in demand internationally as performers quartet quartet and recording remain remain artists. The Goldners bring unmatched musical intuition artists. artists. to everyThe phrase. TheGol Go It’s this closeness that makes them so appealingIt’s this this closene closen toIt’s watch in in the music as well. –– performance – every motion and every glance appears performance performance
More Information: New England Conservatorium Phone: 6788 2137 www.necom.org.au www.musicavivaarmidale.org.au
32 New England focus.
More MoreInfo Info New NewEngland EnglandC C Phone: Phone:67 6 www.neco www.neco www.musicaviva www.musicaviva
woodwind or brass instrument - includes individual lessons, ensembles and concerts.
Foundation String, Wind & Brass Ensembles Armidale Youth Orchestras Con Brio String Ensemble for adults
The New England Conservatorium offers a wide range of music programs to pre-schoolers, K-Yr12 students and adults. Programs start in February so enrol now and give your child the gift of music in 2018.
The New England Conservatorium offers a wide range of music programs to pre-schoolers, K-Yr12 students and adults. Programs start in February so enrol now and give your child the gift of music in 2018. Minisingers for K-Yr 2 Cantilena for Yrs 3-6 New England Singers for Yrs 7-12
String, woodwind and brass lessons for school students and adults.
A comprehensive intro for children learning a string, woodwind or brass instrument - includes individual lessons, ensembles and concerts.
Fractional and full-size string, woodwind and brass instruments
String, woodwind and brass lessons for school students and adults.
www.necom.org.au
Chamber Ensemble Program Foundation String, Wind & Brass Ensembles Armidale Youth Orchestras Con Brio String Ensemble for adults
Babes in Arms - For babies and parents Music-in-the-Lap for 1 Yr Toddlers, 2 Yrs & 3-4 Yrs Minisingers Family ClforassesK-Yr 2
admin@necom.org.au
Cantilena for Yrs 3-6 New England Singers for Yrs 7-12
6788 2135
Supported by the Fractional and full-size string, woodwind and brass instruments
www.necom.org.au
Babes in Arms - For babies and parents Music-in-the-Lap for 1 Yr Toddlers, 2 Yrs & 3-4 Yrs Family Classes
admin@necom.org.au
6788 2135
Supported by the
New England focus. 33
focusinterview.
Penny Marsh art exhibition
The wide range of styles and the talents of Australian artist Penny Marsh, who died in 2016, will be showcased in a new exhibition opening in Armidale on January 26th, 2018 (Australia Day).
H
osted by the New England Art Society and Armidale Art Gallery, the exhibition, entitled Penny Marsh - An Artistic Life is a major retrospective and a tribute to an artist who expressed her insights into the world as well as her inner experiences, both emotional and spiritual, in her painting. Penny Marsh’s artistic life spanned some five decades, merging with and reflecting her intense, sometimes exalted, sometimes peaceful and sometimes tumultuous inner world. It was an artistic life that flowed around her early experiences, training as an artist, struggles with mental illness, motherhood, work and family life, but with painting as its expression to the very end. Her work encompasses powerful portraiture, vivd landscapes and still life, along with abstracts and figurative works that are at times intense and at others dreamy or infused with an ineffable gentleness. Born in Grahamstown, South Africa, on 21 April 1953, Penny emigrated to Australia with her family in 1960. Her considerable talent and promise as an emerging artist was recognised during her schooling and borne out with an invitation to study art at East Sydney Tech (now the National Art School) where fellow artists included Kerry Lester (1953 - 2016), Peter Perdriau and others. She would work compulsively and passionately, painting and drawing in a figurative style with
flowing lines and vibrant colour. Often she would do portraits in indoor settings with influences of Matisse, but including imaginary scenes with figures, not surrealistic but in domestic interiors. She painted boards to capture the dramatic landscape of Bakers Creek. After periods in the Tasmanian wildness and in Adelaide and Melbourne, Penny travelled and spent time in India, but on returning to Australia she experienced florid episodes of schizophrenia. Her painting took on a more abstract style as she processed the changes in her life, reflecting her state of mind and the blurred boundaries that ensued. Despite the progression and medication of her illness, she continued to paint episodically in intense periods of clarity. After marrying and moving into Armidale in 1988, her productivity and the nature of her painting changed as the demands of motherhood, marriage and renewed academic study took up time. Always with a keen interest in philosophy, her spiritual life expanded, informing her painting and choice of style. Working in acrylics, oils and sometimes crayons and water colours, her painting simplified and became more expressionistic. In her later years she taught art and worked at Armidale’s Mallam House, helping others with mental illness for a number of years before passing away on 30 November, 2016. The exhibition, Penny Marsh - An Artistic Life, includes works for sale and will be running at Armidale Art Gallery at 168 Beardy Mall, Armidale, until February 26th 2018.
Always with a keen interest in philosophy, her spiritual life expanded, informing her painting and choice of style.
34 New England focus.
New England focus. 35
CONGRATULATIONS to our HSC Graduates of 2017
Francesca Branagan
N’dea Rumble
ATAR 93.5 Biology English Advanced English Ext 1 Maths General 2 French Beginners
ATAR 97.55 Ancient History English (Advanced) Mathematics Ext 1 Mathematics Ext 2
Subhanu Abbaraju
Amanda Bai
Stuart Browne
Georgie Cooper
Emily Dobos
Alexander Evans
Angus Gasbarri
Zoe George
ATAR 95.65 Mathematics Ext 1 Mathematics Ext 2
Mathematics Ext 2 (Accelerated student)
Drama Music 1
ATAR 91 Biology Hospitality
English Ext 1
Drama Music 1
ATAR 93.85 Business Studies Mathematics
Music 1
Etienne Greef
Tanvee Islam
Hanna Kwan
Rubie Redfern
Kevin Rothschild
Brianne Saxby
Aziz Winrow
Mathematics Ext 1 Mathematics Ext 2
ATAR 93.2 Mathematics Ext 2
Music 1
Mathematics General 2
Mathematics General 2
Mathematics General 2 PDHPE
Mathematics Ext 2
We congratulate the class of 2017 on their outstanding HSC results released this week. More than one third of candidates scored a Band 5 and/or 6. In the 35 courses that were offered across both schools, students attained 31 Band 6 scores (90 or above) and 120 Band 5 scores (80-89). Principals from both schools agreed that the outstanding results were a reflection of effective study practices and sustained effort. Our students should feel very proud of their achievements. We would like to recognise three of our creative arts students and congratulate them on their
36 New England focus.
prestigious nominations. Stuart Browne has been nominated for HSC Drama ‘OnStage’, Hanna Kwan has been nominated for HSC Music ‘Encore’ and Isaac Clarke has been selected to perform in ‘Callback’.
A great number of students have also excelled
The commitment of the teaching staff to prepare our students for the HSC is admirable. The support offered to students at both campuses extends well beyond timetabled school days and our results reflect that commitment.
apprenticeships.
in vocational courses and have completed their schooling with dual qualifications. Our schoolbased trainees will have a great head start in their careers with many having already taken up These excellent outcomes are a representation of the exceptional work that happens in our public schools throughout the school year.
MEET OUR SCHOOL CAPTAINS ARMIDALE HIGH SCHOOL & DUVAL HIGH SCHOOL Sabhanu Abbaraju
Georgie Cooper
The quality and substance of one’s highschooling is very important to any young person, and it is the foundation upon which their future is built. In saying this, I am very grateful for having completed my secondary education in our great public schooling system, and especially in Armidale’s largest Public High School: Armidale High. It is its strong culture that places an equal emphasis on academic, sporting and artistic success as well as the exceptional and highly experienced Teachers and Staff that contribute to Armidale High’s continued achievements in all areas. I know with certainty that myself and the Class of 2017 carry with us a robust foundation to excel in any endeavour that we may choose thanks to our time at AHS.
Armidale High’s supportive and inclusive culture have given me so many opportunities to grow as a person in and out of the classroom. As well having received an excellent education, I believe I am graduating with knowledge and experiences that will stand me in good stead for life after high school, for which I am very grateful to the amazing community of teachers, staff and students at AHS. I know that this culture and environment will be carried into the new combined school and continue to provide high standards of education to future students.
Stuart Browne
Zoe George
“As the final year of secondary schooling for myself and the Class of 2017 comes to a close, I can attest with absolute conviction that the education provided to us by the dedicated staff of Duval High School has shaped and enriched our lives. Over the years, our schooling here has provided us with extraordinary opportunities to express ourselves academically, athletically and creatively, whilst also providing the care and support necessary to enable us to excel. I am proud of my school, my teachers, and particularly my cohort, who came together in a big way this year in order to help pull one another over the finish line. The decision for me to attend Duval High School was a very fine one, and I am grateful for the opportunities it has
After completing six years of high school education at Duval I am delighted to attribute many of my successes in sports, academics and the arts to such a wonderful school. Being nurtured in a schooling environment that continues to uphold a strong sense of community and inclusion has helped me to gain a strong sense of self and identity for which I am consistently thankful for. Perhaps the greatest thing that I have been taught by my time at Duval is the value of Public Schooling, and the way that it crafts a strong drive to achieve within young minds, regardless of their background. The teachers at Duval high reinforce this importance, and have instilled the confidence in me that encouraged me to chase my dreams, and for that I can never be thankful enough.
– Armidale High School
– Duval High School
– Armidale High School
– Duval High School
provided me.”
New England focus. 37
green A Sea of
The luck of the Irish is heading to Armidale for this year’s Autumn Festival celebrations, with St Patrick’s Day falling on Saturday 17 March 2018. he annual event, which began in 1992, has grown from a small parade to a three day festival celebrating the seasons of New England, but also the diverse and unique community
AUTUMN FESTIVAL 2018
that calls our wonderful city and surrounding
parade will be St Patrick’s Day, which is actually the Saturday of the festival! So, let’s paint the city green with fabulous St Patrick’s Day themed floats. St. Patrick’s Day occurs annually on March 17 in observance of the death of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. What began as a religious feast day in the 17th Century has evolved into a variety
towns and villages home.
of festivals across the globe
This is an opportunity
celebrating Irish culture with
for the Armidale region
parades, special foods, music,
to come together and let their hair down during one of the many fabulous events planned throughout the three days. Autumn Festival this year will commence on Friday 16 March and conclude on Sunday 18 March with the annual Criterium bike race
dancing, and a whole lot of
St. Patrick’s Day occurs annually on March 17 in observance of the death of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. What began as a religious feast day in the 17th Century has
evolved into a variety of festivals across the globe celebrating Irish culture
with parades, special foods, music, dancing, and a whole lot of green.
through the CBD, and this
The regular features of the Autumn Festival, like the Campus to City Canter, Pancake Breakfast with the Band, mass pipe band performance, carnival rides, the grand parade, entertainment and stalls will all be back again for 2018. Application forms for entering a float in the grand parade or if you would like a market
year there will also be a
stall can be downloaded from
Tour de Rocks Motor Extravaganza at the Armidale
Council’s website at www.armidaleregional.nsw.
Racecourse on Sunday as well.
gov.au
The highlight of the festival is always the Grand
38 New England focus.
green.
Return completed application forms to Armidale
Parade through the Armidale CBD. This year
Regional Council, PO Box 75A, Armidale NSW
Council is encouraging everyone to get involved
2350 or email: afestival@armidale.nsw.gov.au by
and organise a float. The theme this year for the
5pm on Friday 2nd March 2018.
Armidale Autumn Festival
16 - 18 March 2018
This year’s theme
St Patrick’s Day!
Fri 16 Twilight Festival Markets and Amusement Rides in Curtis & Civic Park from 5pm
Sat 17
Sat 17
Sat 17
Armidale City Band Pancake Breakfast
Campus City Canter
Pipe Bands
At the Bike Track from SportUNE to Civic Park starting from 8am
7am at Civic Park
At the Stage in the Armidale Mall from 11:00am
Sat 17
Sat 17
Sat 17
Armidale Regional Council Autumn Festival Grand Parade
Autumn Festival Celebrations in the Park
Classic Car Show
Following the Parade
Saturday afternoon in the creeklands
From 12:30pm in the CBD
Sat 17 / Sun 18
Sun 18
Sun 18
Quilting & Needlework Exhibition
Autumn Festival Criterion Bike Race
Motor Extravaganza
In the CBD from 8am-12pm
Legacy House, Faulkner St Opens at 9am
Armidale Racecourse, gates open at 10am
AUTUMN FESTIVAL FLOAT & MARKET STALL APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN NOW! Download the application forms online at /www.armidaleregional.nsw.gov.au/council/council-events/autumn-festival
Follow us for more updates! facebook.com/ arc2350
@armidale regionalcouncil
@ARC2350 New England focus. 39
focusinterview.
TRI
Try A
WITH FRIENDS
Organisers of the bcu Coffs TRI on 3 - 4 March urge anyone who has ever contemplated a triathlon to grab some friends, family members or work mates and put a team together for the event. With a festival atmosphere, spectacular course and Coffs Harbour rolling out its usual welcome mat, you’re guaranteed to have a blast.
E
vent Director Noel Phillips said, “What better way to kick start your new year’s fitness resolutions than by entering a triathlon! Committing to an event with others is a great way to stay healthy and fit, with the added incentive of not wanting to let down your team mates. “While some individuals take the event very seriously, vying for a podium position or a PB, others join a team to push themselves hard in one discipline or simply for a bit of fun.” Some of the team names on the entry list such as "Not fit enough to go solo", "Straight off the couch" and "Are we there yet" are clear indicators it’s more about getting out and having fun than taking the event too seriously.
40 New England focus.
There are plenty of local business teams entered - guaranteeing some friendly rivalry - as well as some teams comprising multiple family members. For those who don’t have a full team, Village Sports can help put individuals in touch with each other to find a swimmer, cyclist or runner. The bcu Coffs Tri has three team categories: Male, Female and Mixed, with prizes for the first three placegetters in each division. Each team member also receives a goody bag with quality event merchandise and will go in the draw for some fantastic random prizes. The bcu Coffs Tri Standard (Olympic) Distance teams event comprises a 1.5 km ocean swim in the protected harbour, a 40 km cycle and a two-lap, flat run around the picturesque
A LOT OF PEOPLE ARE CONFIDENT IN ONE OR TWO DISCIPLINES, BUT NOT ALL THREE, SO COMPETING AS PART OF A TEAM CAN BE VERY REWARDING AND LOTS OF FUN.
harbour foreshores. Roads are completely closed for the cycle leg, ensuring a safe and enjoyable course. “Doing your first triathlon as part of a team is a great introduction to the sport,” said Phillips. “A lot of people are confident in one or two disciplines, but not all three, so competing as part of a team can be very rewarding and lots of fun.” All bcu Coffs Tri events on the weekend of 3 - 4 March start and finish at the Coffs Harbour Jetty and showcase the recently completed multi million dollar Jetty precinct upgrade. The event offers something for everyone, with races for children aged 6 - 12, and an
Enticer event on the Saturday afternoon, with the headline Standard Distance race with individual and team options on
the Sunday morning. All individual and team competitors receive a fantastic goody bag with quality event merchandise, as well as a prize for crossing the finish line. For more information and to enter, go to villagesports.com.au Event organisers urge those planning on taking part in the bcu Coffs Tri not to delay their entry for the event, as numbers are limited and filling fast.
focusinterview.
L I B BY DAV I S
ADFAS 30TH ANNI V ERSA RY ADFAS Armidale is celebrating its Pearl Anniversary on Wednesday 7th February. FOCUS talks to Libby Davis, Chairman of ADFAS Armidale, about this society and celebrating its 30th anniversary event.
P
lease remind us about what ADFAS is, and tell us about the local ADFAS group? ADFAS is the Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Society and is all about the arts. Members subscribe to a series of enjoyable lectures across a broad spectrum of fine, decorative, contemporary and creative art forms. ADFAS Young Arts supports young artists and performers in the region. Anyone with an interest in the arts or who wishes to develop an interest in the arts is very welcome to join. No prior knowledge is needed, and the lectures are pitched at a very accessible level. There are 37 societies across regional and metropolitan Australia. ADFAS Armidale was the third ADFAS to form in Australia in 1987. ADFAS Armidale lectures are held at 6pm on Thursdays in the Michael Hoskins Centre, The Armidale School (TAS). A light supper is provided after each lecture. (Please note: February 7 lecture will be held on a Wednesday in the Michael Hoskins centre and the March 1 and July 12 lectures will be held in the Memorial Hall, entry from Douglas Street, The Armidale School.) TAS provides ADFAS Armidale the use of the TAS Michael Hoskins Centre or the TAS Memorial Hall as a venue for lectures and technical support as well. The 30th anniversary lecture with Marilynne Paspaley is being held in February; tell us about this event and the guest speakers?
In 2018 ADFAS Armidale will celebrate A pair of Paspaley Pearl its Pearl Anniversary (30 earrings, generously donated by years) with a special Paspaley Pearls, will be lecture on Wednesday Treasures of the Silk first prize in the raffle 7th February on the Road ; to be drawn after the history of the pearl 12th April: Robyn Haig lecture, with all proceeds industry, presented by - Backstage with Margot going to the ADFAS Armidale Marilynn Paspaley. Fonteyn; Young Arts Program. Marilynne Paspaley is 10th May: the daughter of Nicholas Anne Sebba -“Les Paspaley Senior, Master Parisiennes”; Pearler and founder of 7th June: Adrian the Paspaley Pearls empire. The business is now Boddy - The Aesthetics of Traditional Japanese owned and operated by the next generation: Architecture and Design; her brother Nicholas Paspaley, her sister 12th July: Alex Makhrov - Summer Palaces of Roselynne Bracher and Marilynne Paspaley. the Tsars: The Highlights; Marilynne Paspaley AM is an Australian film 9th August: Linda Smith - Rossetti’s Women; and television actress and businesswoman 6th September: John Ericson - The Shakers of Greek descent, who is best known for her of North America: Their Beliefs, Architecture role in the television series G. P. as Dr. Tessa and Artefacts; Korkidas. She appeared in the movie Evil 11th October: Martin Ellis - Colour and Angels (A Cry in the Dark) and other television Brilliance: Women Stained Glass Artists of the series such as Water Rats. Arts & Crafts Movement; A pair of Paspaley Pearl earrings, generously 15th November: Gary Wilson Duyfken - the donated by Paspaley Pearls, will be first prize in fi rst European ship to visit Australia in 1606 the raffle to be drawn after the lecture, with all historic voyages and voyages in the replica. proceeds going to the ADFAS Armidale Young What can people expect to experience Arts Program. from attending an ADFAS event/lecture? National Chairman of ADFAS, Jill Bale and In 2018 ADFAS Armidale provides for her husband, Bill will also come to Armidale for its members and guests a program of ten this special celebration. What other events for ADFAS Armidale are illustrated lectures given by excellent overseas and Australian lecturers chosen for their coming up in 2018? communication skills and expert knowledge The rest of the 2018 lecture program in their fields. A light supper is provided after includes: 1st March: Christopher Bradley - The each lecture.
Can the general public attend these events? If so, how? Guests are most welcome, and a $25 fee applies per lecture. Tickets are available on Try Booking for all lectures. There is no fee for visiting ADFAS members. Gift vouchers are available for guest tickets. Tell us about ADFAS Armidale Membership? ADFAS Armidale was formed in 1987 by a small enthusiastic group of arts supporters, led by Patricia Tooth. Over thirty years ADFAS Armidale Membership has grown to over 200 members. New members are always welcome. The annual membership subscription is $130 for a 10 lecture season. Gift vouchers are available for membership subscriptions. Anyone interested in joining ADFAS Armidale should contact Jane Gow Phone: (02) 6772 6441 Email: adfasarmidale@bigpond.com New members receive a free ticket to invite a friend to a lecture. Plans for the future? ADFAS Armidale will continue to provide high quality lectures on Decorative and Fine Arts topics at an affordable price with great hospitality and continue to support its young arts program in partnership with the Rotary Club of Armidale Central in the local community. Thanks Libby. New England focus. 41
42 New England focus.
The 2017 Armidale show set a precedent as one of the most fantastic shows. In 2018
Armidale Show is gearing up to top it, with many family fun events, great prizes and entertainment for everyone.
FOCUS caught up with Briony, who tells us all about the 2018 instalment.
T
ell us about the show this year. with the inclusion of a ladies barrel race, an open The 2018 Armidale Show is steer ride, as well as all the bulls and broncs. We coming back bigger and better also have the Young Farmers Challenge returning than before. We have a great again this year, to test out the skills and knowledge line up of entertainment, trade of the teams taking part. Alongside of all this we stands and much more to see and will be introducing some more fun activities for the do at this year’s show. With Sydney Show running kids, with a treasure hunt planned for our schools early this year, our show has been pushed forward, day on Friday; we also have our Youth Show so we will run in the first weekend of March. Our taking place in the Exhibition Centre, as well as committee has worked very our spectacular pavilions, trade hard once again to ensure displays and more. So, there will we can showcase the New be plenty to do and see at this England’s finest and provide year’s show. the Armidale community Tell us about the events on WE ALSO HAVE THE with a great weekend out at March 4th? YOUNG FARMERS the local show. In 2018 Armidale was lucky CHALLENGE RETURNING What special events do enough to be selected to host you have planned? the Zone 13 Junior Judging AGAIN THIS YEAR, TO This year’s feature cake Finals, where there will be TEST OUT THE SKILLS in the cooking section is finalists selected to represent AND KNOWLEDGE OF THE a chocolate cake. We are our Zone at the Sydney Royal TEAMS TAKING PART. running a European breeds Easter Show in their relevant feature in the stud beef categories. The day will kick off cattle section, and we are at 9am at the Exhibition Centre. also once again running our The judging categories include: community business challenge and window display Stud Beef Cattle, Meat and Merino Sheep, Wool, competition. All these details can be found on our Fruit and Vegetables and Grain. website, where all our schedules are available for On Friday, March 2nd, Armidale will also be download. We will be having horse ball displays hosting the Zone 13 Beef Paraders Competition and competitions at the 2018 show. We also have as a part of our massive Youth Show. These Zone our Bucking Madness Rodeo coming back this year, events are a real spectacle, and the calibre of the
youth who participate in these events is very high. Is the Armidale Showgirl on again this year? Yes, the Showgirl Competition is running once again after its comeback in 2017. Local Showgirl judging will take place on Sunday, February 18. Our Showgirl committee is working very hard to ensure that all those who participate in the event gain as much from the experience as possible. If anyone is interested in taking part in the Showgirl Competition, please check out our website for further information. Just on another note: in 2018 Armidale Show has been given the greatest honour in hosting the 2018 Zone 4 Showgirl Finals on Saturday, February 10th. Our Showgirl Ball will commence at 6:30pm at the Armidale City Bowling Club. For further information or to book your tickets, please give us a call or check out our event on Facebook; all the details are there. Thanks Briony.
New England focus. 43
44 New England focus.
Engagement Centre
Bushfire Home Safety THE TOP FIVE ACTIONS TO MAKE YOUR HOME SAFER DURING BUSHFIRE SEASON There are some simple things you can do around your home to prepare it for a bush fire. You need to prepare well beforehand, as leaving it to the last minute is too late. Here are five simple things you can do before and during the bush fire season.
The Community Connect shopfront is a centrepiece for public engagement and information on Council projects and initiatives. Located in the heart of the Armidale Mall opposite Tattersalls Hotel the centre is open from 10am - 3pm Monday-Friday.
1. TRIM Trim overhanging trees and shrubs. This can stop the fire spreading to your home. 2. MOW Mow grass and remove the cuttings. Have a cleared area around your home. 3. REMOVE Remove material that can burn around your home (e.g. door mats, wood piles, mulch, leaves, paint, outdoor furniture).
yoursay.armidale.nsw.gov.au
4. CLEAR Clear and remove all the debris and leaves from the gutters surrounding your home. Burning embers can set your home on fire.
Be heard and share in our region’s future
5. PREPARE Prepare a sturdy hose or hoses that will reach all around your home. Make sure you’ve got a reliable source of water.
Your Say Armidale
Your Say Armidale is an online hub for the Armidale region to engage with Council and provide views, opinions and feedback on projects and initiatives being proposed for the region. Register today and have a meaningful impact on the decisions Council makes and share in our region’s future.
For all your insurance needs, come and see us at 97 Faulkner Street, Armidale; or call 6775 4577.
www.armidaleregional.nsw.gov.au
New England focus. 45
Forestry Corporation of NSW’s John Shipp, Aboriginal Partnerships Leader, and Justin Black, Strategic Projects Leader, are working together with Aboriginal communities to bring traditional Aboriginal fire practices to NSW State Forests. Tony Dodson, a Garby Elder, was involved in a project last year, and here all three discuss the outcomes and future plans for this unique yet longestablished approach to managing our forests.
Bringing traditional Aboriginal fire practices back to NSW State Forests
J
ustin, can you tell us a little about why Forestry Corporation is interested in traditional Aboriginal burning practices? Our forests were fashioned by how Aboriginal people managed the land, and frequent, low intensity fire was an important part of this management. It’s only natural that we look at traditional Aboriginal burning practices to guide how we can better manage our NSW State Forests today. Hazard reduction through proactive/managed fires or burns is an important tool for reducing the risk of wildfire and more importantly, is critical in maintaining the health of the forest when used in the right way. John, why is it important for Aboriginal people to be involved in fire management in State Forests? Our team works closely with Aboriginal communities across the state, particularly with cultural heritage. More and more we are focused on helping communities return to the bush and returning the bush to communities. For Aboriginal people, there is an intrinsic connection between people and country; it’s part of who we are. Using traditional fire knowledge and techniques to care for country is an important part of maintaining this connection. Not only that, having our 46 New England focus.
people sharing and caring for country creates wellbeing within our community - this is really important for community pride, health and success. Justin, tell us what’s been achieved to date. We have carried out a few burns with local Aboriginal Communities, where we have all gained insights into future possibilities of this approach. Last year we carried out a burn at Arrawarra, just north of Woolgoolga, with the Coffs Harbour and District Local Aboriginal Land Council and local community members, in an area that hadn’t experienced fire for some time. Every managed burn in State Forest requires a plan, which Forestry Corporation completed before bringing all parties together. It really was wonderful to see local Elders, Aunties and Uncles getting involved with some younger members of the community and Forestry staff. Our staff continued the burn with Land Council staff for a few weeks, working on over 1,000 hectares. For me personally, one of the most fantastic aspects of this project was watching the Aunties getting involved with and embrace modern techniques for measuring fuel moisture, while also sharing their knowledge on when to burn. It was the old and the new ways coming together and a pleasure to watch. Tony, you were involved with the burn
IT REALLY WAS
at Arrawarra; how as our fire regimes have WONDERFUL TO SEE important was it? changed, and the forests LOCAL ELDERS, AUNTIES This burn was are becoming filled extremely important, as with sick trees. Regular AND UNCLES GETTING it taught the different cool burns are the key INVOLVED WITH SOME methods of looking to fixing this problem. YOUNGER MEMBERS OF after country between Reinstating traditional THE COMMUNITY AND today and yesterday’s burning practices will open FORESTRY STAFF. societies. It will up country for cultural hopefully bring a better purposes and restore that outcome to managing traditional forest structure. the bush using Justin, how will Forestry traditional and European ways. It’s important Corporation continue this program? that we all work together to ensure that the We are slowly building our program across bush is maintained as it was in the past, using the state and are planning a number of joint fire to look after country and the animals. burns this year. It is important that we build When wildfire comes through, you can see on recent success, so we are planning to firsthand the impact that it has on our animals. introduce a research element to the program, John, you talked about healthy forests. to demonstrate how the health of the forest is How does fire improve the health of improving with regular cool burns. forests? Getting the community involved with Regular cool burns were a normal part the program takes time, and our Aboriginal of managing country by Aboriginal people, Partnerships team is doing great work with so forests traditionally had a more open the community, building capacity and getting understory and denser canopy - the reverse of them involved. I reckon in a couple of years what we see today. Victor Steffensen, a leading we will be in a place where burning with local Indigenous fire practitioner, talks about how Aboriginal communities becomes routine our forests have become upside down forests, practice. What a great place for us to be. where the canopy becomes sparse as the forest Thanks to Justin Black and John Shipp understory thickens up due to a lack of fire. (Forestry Corporation of NSW) and Tony You can see it happening across the country, Dodson, Garby Elder, for this interview.
Thinking Divorce W I T H
E L I Z A B E T H S TA H L U T , S O L I C I T O R
Thinking Divorce Unfortunately, marriages don’t always work out. And there are times when parties cannot always resolve their issues, to save the marriage, which means there is sometimes no alternative, except to dissolve the marriage.
T
hanks to legislation enacted in the Family Law Act of 1975, there is no requirement for either party to show that anyone was ‘at fault’, for the marriage not working out. However, before either the Federal Circuit Court of the Family Court can dissolve a marriage, there are certain criteria that must be satisfied. The Federal Circuit Court deals with the majority of divorce applications. The court must be satisfied that it has jurisdiction to deal with the matter. This will generally involve a party showing proof of Australian citizenship or residence, as well as evidence of there being a valid marriage to dissolve. If it was a marriage that took place overseas, it may also be necessary to provide not only a certified copy of the foreign marriage certificate, but also an English translation of the document, by an authorised translator. There is also likely to be a need to show that the other party has been notified, of the application for divorce. Where the marriage itself has been short, the court may impose a requirement for the parties to attempt counselling and reconciliation, before a divorce will be allowed. Criteria for Allowing Divorce Once the parties to a marriage separate, they will generally be allowed to divorce, provided there is an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, evidenced by at least twelve months’ separation. There are provisions under s.50 of the Family Law Act which allow for any attempts at reconciliation – if the parties live together again but for less than three months, they can add together the months before the reconciliation attempt and afterwards, to make
a total of twelve months. The court will generally grant a divorce, if they are satisfied that appropriate arrangements have been made for any children under eighteen years old. The order for divorce becomes final, one month after the court makes the order. At this point, both parties are then free to remarry. It should be remembered that the divorce itself will make no provision for property settlement. The parties must resolve any outstanding property issues themselves. Once the divorce is final, the parties have twelve months to resolve such issues, so it is generally best to deal with the property settlement before divorce. The divorce will also affect the rights of the former spouse, to inherit under a will. It is therefore strongly advised, that you seek legal advice, not only about the divorce, but also about any will you might have, as these will very likely need to be changed. It is possible to go onto the Federal Circuit Court website and download the actual divorce application form. It is also possible to ask the court registry staff about the court process itself, however they cannot give legal advice. It is best to seek legal advice, about the effects of divorce and any related issues, such as the care of children and property settlement. A lawyer can give you advice and assistance, to help you negotiate a path through what can be a difficult time in life. Talk to us. You’ll be inspired! Elizabeth D. Stahlut Solicitor New England focus. 47
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