new england
May 2018. issue 132
Youth ARMIDALE
Orchestra
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Feature Story
Carnivale Armidale
A NEW OPTION FOR SENIORS IS COMING
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eading provider of affordable retirement living communities, the Oak Tree Retirement Group, is well underway on the development of a brand new Retirement Village in Taylor Street, Armidale.
The Oak Tree Group launched into NSW in 2012 with its first village in Cardiff, Newcastle and have continued their regional focus across New England, Northern Rivers and now into the Central West. Managing Director, Mark Bindon, said Oak Tree has continued to expand in NSW after recognising the need for quality independent living options in regional centres across the state. “It became clear to us, just as it has in many other cases when we have
been evaluating regional towns for development, that Armidale and the outlying areas of the New England region are starved of the infrastructure required to service seniors as they age. Far too often we see seniors having to leave the towns they have grown up in, lived and worked in all their lives to seek alternative medical and age friendly living options in bigger cities, simply because their regional townships cannot accommodate their needs. This sees regional towns stripped of their history, wealth and community spirit which we find sad and unnecessary,” said Mr Bindon. “We are committed to providing affordable living options to give seniors the ability to enjoy the many benefits that come with retirement living. Low maintenance lifestyles, companionship, security and homes and facilities which
Artist impression of future build
are age friendly and designed to help seniors live independently for longer are our focus. Importantly we deliver these communities in regional centres close to shops, medical facilities and other amenities for the convenience of our residents,” said Mr Bindon. The Taylor Street village, which will consist of forty four villas with premium quality fittings, will be the first of its kind for the city. Our recent “Hard Hat Tour” of the site was a great success with many locals venturing out to view the new village. The first twelve villas and the well appointed Village Centre are set to be opened later this year.
To register your interest or for more information call Kate Pigram today on 1300 367 155 or email kate.pigram@oaktreegroup.com.au
Artist impression of future build
RETIREMENT LIVING IN ARMIDALE AT ITS BEST!! MAINTAIN THE COMFORTS OF YOUR CURRENT HOME 2 bedroom villas available from
3 bedroom villas available
$355,000
2 New England focus. Street, Armidale 217 Taylor
from 1300 367 155
$430,000 www.oaktreegroup.com.au
focus_ team.
team From the
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Welcome to the May edition of New England FOCUS.
ay is here, and autumn has transformed the New England into a blend of beautiful reds, browns and yellows. With that comes the start to the cold weather, so why not snuggle up under some blankets while you read through this edition of the New England FOCUS. Our fearless leader and edition coordinator for the entire 11 years of this publication’s life, Tracy Le Messurier will be taking some time off to look after herself due to some recent health issues. We wish Tracy all the best for a speedy recovery and hope to have her back soon. ON THE COVER Armidale is full of so much music and culture; even the air we breathe is probably a little more artsier than that outside of the New England. Performing beautiful music for us to enjoy and featuring on our cover is Disa, a member of the Armidale Youth Orchestra that is celebrating their 50th birthday this year. Originally formed in 1968 by a small
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group of interested community members, the Armidale Youth Orchestra has stood the test of time and continue to provide us with ear melting enjoyment - and shall continue to do so, I’m sure, for quite some time. INSIDE THIS EDITION This month’s edition is packed to the rafters with some great stories. Fourteen year old Isabella Watts has only been training for running for two years and is already winning medals state-wide and nationally. Training with the elite Viper Squad, Isabelle spends her days training at Harris park and her nights completing set exercise routines at home, committing total dedication to her sport. Keep an eye out for this upcoming name. Carnivale is coming to Armidale! Carnivale Armidale will take place at the Armidale Town Hall, celebrating the cultural diversity in our community with an opportunity for all groups to show their song, dance and food with the wider community. Entry is free, so tell your
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friends and family to come along to the event of the year. More details inside. Armidale’s newest power couple, Connie and Drew Twyford tell us what it’s like living the busy schedule of gym owner and osteopath. Drew brings our very first Osteopathy service to Armidale and tells us what osteopaths do and why you may need to pay him a visit. Connie works in the reception during the day, but morning and afternoon she is making people sweat in the F45 gym right next door. FINAL SAY As the colder months approach, we hope you keep warm! Stock up on plenty of wood and fill those gas bottles! We’ll leave you with this wise quote from Tomas A. Edison, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”
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Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders.Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. New England Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications Pty Ltd ABN: 62128786005. Material in New England Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications Pty Ltd 2016 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.
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focusinterview.
Carnivale ARMIDALE
CARNIVALE ARMIDALE WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY 12TH MAY FROM 3PM TO 8PM AT THE ARMIDALE TOWN HALL.
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hat is Carnivale Armidale? Carnivale Armidale is a celebration of cultural diversity in our community and an opportunity for all groups to share their song, dance and food with the wider community. It creates an opportunity for the whole community to gather together to enjoy the richness of the many cultural groups that Armidale is blessed with. Entry is free, and you can just watch or learn new dances and sample affordable exciting and diverse food. What is the origin of the event? The concept for a dancing event was initiated by migrant and refugee students and their English language teacher at TAFE in 2008. The students wanted to share their culture and the opportunity to celebrate their time in Armidale. After a long break, the event was reborn in 2017 as “Carnivale Armidale” on a greater scale, to include more groups and cultural food. This event was a great success, with over 500 people attending. This year Carnivale will include even more entertainment and diverse food and games, and the planning committee has reached out to more cultural groups. What is planned for this year? Earlier this year we were approached by members of the Sustainable Living Committee to be part of Carnivale, and with their help we are including sustainable practices in our event. Armidale Regional Council is also erecting a display to educate people on basic principles in recycling. Their small tank will be available for people to fill their water bottles, instead of buying bottled drinks. Good sustainable living is essential for our area to grow in the best direction for our diverse community. Armidale has over 80 different cultural backgrounds, and we don’t often have the opportunity to connect with these groups. However, Carnivale provides a forum for the community to experience some of our diverse cultures. Hence, we will share music, dances, games and food from different cultures, including Indigenous, Bhutanese, Indian, Middle Eastern, South American, Filipino, Indonesian and Vietnamese. A tea house is often an important component of some cultures, and members of the community will coordinate one. Australian bush dancing is also included, and Aboriginal dancing by Duval High School will feature in the event. Participation is a key feature for the success of previous
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events, and this year we have selected Armidale Regional Council (ARC), FOR OUR YOUNG groups who will be teaching some Multicultural NSW, NSW Justice, PEOPLE THERE WILL of their dancing steps to everyone at Readers’ Companion and Karbullah BE SPECIAL GAMES the event. However, joining in is, of Poll Merino Stud. ORGANISED AND LINDA course, not compulsory and you are Karbullah Poll Merino Stud have very welcome to watch only; but we decided to become a sponsor for FRAME WILL BE THERE are certain you will soon be in the Armidale Carnivale this year. In TO PAINT FACES WITH dancing spirit too, prompted by the a decision to embrace Australia’s SPECIAL THEMES. people and music. multiculturalism, their ethos is For our young people there will be making a difference, whether this be special games organised, and Linda in supporting multicultural events or Frame will be there to paint faces through their merinos. with special themes. The committee has hired a photo booth This family business channels their passion into breeding for people to take free photos in colourful costumes. and running stock more sustainably, more efficiently and Thanks to sponsorship from Reader’s Companion, we are more humanely. Their sheep are dual purpose, performing organising a colouring in competition for children up to 12 well in both meat and wool. Their philosophy is minimal years. chemical and invasive intervention. This is seen in their lack Entries are available from Reader’s Companion in the Mall, of need to drench their ewes since 1992, the stock’s natural Armidale Library or from schools. immunity to worms, the high levels of lamb survivability and Entries close on Friday 4th May 2018. Prizes will be mulesing eliminated since 2004. With plain bodied sheep awarded at Carnivale Armidale on 12th May. We will free of wrinkles, the stock does not suffer from fly strike. endeavour to display the entries at the event for all to This also means during the shearing process there are admire. much less cuts. The stock grazes on natural pastures, Carnivale Armidale will be a colourful event, and we including natives like Old Man Saltbush. Their breeding encourage all attendees to come with their cultural costumes program also emphasises survivability in adverse conditions if possible, or dress in colourful clothes to help us create a and a better metabolism for faster wool growth and carnival atmosphere. Sometime during the event we hope to nutritional efficiency. They are excited to partner with an have a parade to highlight different cultural dressing. event that celebrates all Australian backgrounds and the Armidale Regional Council has organised Rusden Street beauty of multiculturalism that can be found in rural areas to be closed from Faulkner Street to the entry of O’Connor like Armidale. Lane, so that we can have more space for our celebration. Final message? The event will start at 3pm for all, especially our children, Entry is free, and so are face painting and photos from a to enjoy the day. All foods offered are affordable, and the special photo booth. Come for a free photo to add to your committee encourage people to come and sample a different album. Tell your friends and come and bring the family to the dinner than their usual food. event of the year - Carnivale Armidale on 12th May at the Carnivale Armidale is supported by Northern Settlement Town Hall, starting at 3pm. Parents, please encourage your Services (NSS), Sanctuary Services Incorporated (SSI), children to enter the colouring in competition.
Discover the warmth of Newling Gardens Retirement Village this year Enjoy a more connected and supported lifestyle when you make the move to the warm and welcoming community at Newling Gardens.
WE ARE OPEN
It’s easy to make the most of every day with maintenance-free living, a range of activities and events, exclusive facilities and the security of village life – all within easy reach of amenities and the centre of town. Some of the perks at Newling Gardens • Refurbished community centre • Heated pool & gym • Manicured gardens • Craft room, library & more!
Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm Villas selling now!
173 Taylor Street, Armidale
For further information, call Jeremy on 0401 508 801 retireaustralia.com.au/newlinggardens New England focus. 5
focusinterview.
Esther
Eckley Gallery 126 would like to introduce a new artist to Armidale and to the gallery.
Esther Eckley, who hails originally from Wales, moved with her husband and two children to Australia three years ago and has been a resident of
Armidale for just under two years.
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sther paints contemporary still life scenes, with the aim of capturing the beauty of everyday objects such as pots, bowls, flowers and fruit. As well as portraying their light and beauty, shadows also play an important part in her artwork, and the goal is to paint in a way that resembles an object in a simple way that also captures the opposites of light. You may have seen two of her works in our Christmas show. “I used to paint landscapes and seascapes in Wales, but wanted to tackle a new subject here in Armidale. The striking difference here is the light, and I wanted to capture these magnificent colours in my still life scenes. “My palette has changed completely,
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and it’s something I am It was great to meet thoroughly enjoying with clients, artists and I took a break from painting for because as an artist, art lovers in order to a couple of years when we first you want to experiment receive feedback as moved here and think it’s the and develop every day.” well as constructive best thing I have done. It gave Esther has exhibited criticism! That’s the me time to observe, her work at Gallery 126, beauty of fairs; there’s reassess and decide Moree Gallery, Dungog a lot of information what I really want to Contemporary and KAB you can get out of paint and achieve as an artist. Gallery in Terrigal. She them, and it’s up to recently returned from you to decide whether a successful Saatchi to use it or not.” art fair in Sydney, Esther has been The Other Art Fair, where she sold half painting for around 10 years, and her her artworks and was blown away by the passion arose following a serious knee injury interest in her style and technique. playing rugby union for Wales. She gained “The fair confirmed to me that I’m on the eight Welsh international caps in total as a right track with my work and that I should breakaway, before her career was cut short possibly make more use of the palette knife. by an illegal tackle.
“I was devastated at the time. I loved playing rugby and thought it was the end of my world, but soon realised it was the discovery of another one. Art came to me as a sort of therapy after my injury and in 2006, I organised my own art exhibition and haven’t looked back since. “I find still life painting a real challenge every day and further down the line, the intention is to also paint local landscapes, as I’ve fallen in love with the scenes and light of New England. We’re very happy here and consider ourselves extremely privileged to live in such a wonderful place.” Esther’s work can be viewed in the front gallery @ Gallery126. She will also be part of a joint still life exhibition in the rear gallery later in the year.
The Armidale Youth Orchestra.
Sam Davis.
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Sam and the family have recently made the treechange to the New England region. Newly appointed manager of the PCYC Armidale, Sam is looking forward to enhancing the PCYC and getting the current activities pumping! FOCUS chats with Sam about his re-location, the PCYC and the future ‌
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The Armidale Youth Orchestra (AYO) is celebrating their 50th year. FOCUS caught up with Caroline Downer, who told us all about the past, present and future of the AYO.
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Claire Bonnor and Kassandra Hunt are the founders of Austockphoto: the first 100% Australian, 100% royalty free stock photography library, described by some as a "game changer" for the industry.
issue inside this
Issue 132 - May 2018
Regulars 12. WHAT’S ON MAY 24. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN 41. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE
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focusinterview.
Isabella
Watts FOCUS talks with 14 year old PLC student Isabella (Bella) Watts, who has only been training for running for two years and is already winning state medals and making national finals.
W
hen did you first become involved with athletics? I’ve enjoyed running from an early age. I remember in my first ever race I refused to take my hat off at the start line. Mid race it fell off, I stopped, picked up the hat put it back on - and still won the race. It wasn’t until 2016 when I was in Year 6 that I started to train seriously. You have been successful in recent events; tell us about them ... My first run of the season in 2018 was at the NSW Country Championships in Wollongong, where I won a silver medal in the 400 m and a gold medal in the 200 m, running a nationals qualifying time. In February I competed in two state championships, the first being NSW Juniors State Championships held in Sydney. My first race was the 400 m, where I narrowly placed fourth with a new two second personal best. It was this race where I became the youngest female 400 m runner in Armidale Athletics Club history to break 60 seconds. In the 200 m it was also a very close race, where I was only 0.1 of a second (blanket finish) off first place, running a pb of 25.86, placing fourth. A few weeks later I competed in Brisbane at the Queensland State Titles, where I came away with the silver medal in the 400 m and fourth again in the 200 m. In my most recent competition, I competed at the Australian Junior Athletics Championships at Sydney Olympic Park in both the 200 m and 400 m. I won my heat in the 400 m and placed fifth in the final, with a new pb of 57.74 and became the fastest female on record for the 400 m in a 8 New England focus.
T R A C K
S T A R
Armidale Athletics Club history. I also competed I have already achieved I train four days a week in the 200 m after the tough days of 400 m the qualifiers for next year’s at Harris Park with the running and placed 14th. Nationals Titles for both the 200 Viper Squad, whilst Do you train with a group of athletes or m and 400 m, and I hope to also doing a long run train solo? medal there. each week to keep I train with a group of athletes called the Your family must be very my fitness. Most nights I Viper Squad. It is a large group of about 50 supportive; what does it spend at home completing current athletes ranging from beginners to mean for you to have such a set exercise routines, Australian and world champions. I am lucky to great support network? working on my strength. train with this group of hard working athletes, I am very fortunate to have who help me bring out my best each and every a great support team around training session. We are a close knit team who me - my coach, my team mates, support each other through the highs and my family and most especially lows of the sport. I am also very fortunate to train under my my parents, who give me the opportunity to achieve in coach Jay Stone. Jay is the current 200 m and 400 m World my chosen sport. I am lucky my parents are self employed Masters indoor champion in his age category. (House worX); this gives them the flexibility to be able to How do you keep fit to keep at the level you need to attend most training sessions and most importantly, my compete? athletics meets. This usually includes up to 10 trips away I train four days a week at Harris Park with the Viper each year. Squad, whilst also doing a long run each week to keep my Would you encourage other children to take up fitness. Most nights I spend at home completing set exercise athletics? routines, working on my strength. If you are up for the challenge and love making new What are your goals for your running over the next 12 friends and feeling a part of a group, then I definitely months? recommend athletics. My short term goal is to win gold and break Anneliese What are your plans for the future? Rubie’s (400 m Commonwealth Games Finalist 2018) long I would love to be able to represent Australia and compete standing record in the 400 m at the Combined Independent at the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics. Schools (CIS) state championships. Thanks Bella.
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focusinterview.
Inspired Living by Goldengrove Homes welcomes you to a world where the dream of home ownership becomes a reality.
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ow long has Inspired Living by Goldengrove Homes been established and tell us about the company? Inspired Living by Goldengrove Homes is a specialised project home division of the Goldengrove Building Group Pty Ltd that strives to provide an exceptional service to our customers in all areas of the home building process. This desire to be the best transcends across every member of our dedicated and skilled team of 70 plus staff, translating into a stress-free experience for the first home buyer and the family looking to upgrade their home. Inspired Living by Goldengrove Homes offers the safety, security and resources of a large residential building company with a well established local New England base, having built over 250 homes in the region over the past five years, using local staff, trades and suppliers. The launch of the Inspired Living by Goldengrove Homes division of the Company in December 2017 brings to Armidale a fresh new approach to the project house and land package market. Inspired Living by Goldengrove Homes offers the complete package to customers, that is the land, the construction and the finance, so it is really a one stop shop approach that customers to date are loving. Being able to offer the complete package enables Inspired Living by Goldengrove Homes to alleviate the stress that people experience trying to put the whole building process together themselves.
job selling homes, but Tell us about the local Inspired Living by an opportunity to be team in Armidale ... Goldengrove Homes part of helping people At Inspired Living by offers the complete achieve the dream Goldengrove Homes package to customers, of their first home or we are very proud of that is the land, the finally having that nice our local team on the construction and the new home they have ground. finance, so it is really a always wanted for Bernie Fangmeier is one stop shop approach that their family. the New England Senior customers to date are loving. Where does Inspired Building Supervisor. Living have land in Bernie has been working Armidale? with our customers for There are two land five years now, ensuring estates currently: Wybenia and Taylor Grove the homes that are built meet the exacting Estates. standards that they, the customers, expect. Wybenia Estate is located at Lara Avenue This success comes from Bernie’s passion and off Waterfall Way, just a minute from pride in the finished product and as he says, Bunnings, and Taylor Grove Estate is located “My reputation is based on the smile on the in Greaves Street off Taylor Street, next to the customer's face when I hand over the keys to Oaktree Retirement Village that is currently their new home”. being built. Both estates are located only a Ash Dell is a local Construction Supervisor few minutes from the town centre, for easy in Armidale. Ash is currently working on the access to shopping and commercial facilities. new Oaktree Retirement Village in Taylor Both Wybenia and Taylor Grove estates Street. You only need to drive past the offer prime flat blocks that are ready to build building site to see what a great job Ash on now. Land sizes are from 539.3 m2 to is doing here in creating a quality building 828.3 m2 (737 m2 average), offering private product. Ash is a very keen young man and is lots to more open lots with scenic rural views. focussed on building a reputation based on There are options to suit everybody. quality outcomes. Tell us about your homes, and why Corina Fangmeier is the local Inspired should prospective customers consider Living by Goldengrove Homes Display Home Golden Grove? Consultant. We are very pleased to have Well, we specialise in helping everyday Corina on board as part of our local Armidale folk achieve the dream of owning their own team, as she brings a wealth of customer home. service experience to the team. Corina’s It doesn’t matter which customer we are obvious exuberance for customer service working with, they all receive the same level shines through from the minute a customer comes through the display home door. Corina of transparency when it comes to the pricing of their new home and the finishes they comments regularly, that her role is not just a
receive. A turnkey finish home is complete with landscaping, driveway, stone bench tops, blinds, fly screens, light fittings, airconditioning and more. A full list of all the inclusions is available from Corina at the display home. What about home loans for your customers? Choose to build with us and you’ll not only get your perfect home, but you’ll also get the right finance solution with support and guidance from our partners at Inspired Living Finance. The Inspired Living Finance Team will determine what you can actually borrow, discuss your mortgage options, process the loan application with your chosen lender, manage loan settlement and importantly, coordinate construction progress payments, making the process simple and stress free. In other words, they manage the whole process from beginning to end for you. Describe the process of building with Inspired living by Goldengrove Homes? Building a new home is exciting; however, the process can often seem overwhelming for new home owners, which is why as part of our commitment to excellent customer service the Inspired Living by Goldengrove Homes team are available to offer support every step of the way through the journey of building your dream home. Your Customer Service Coordinator will also be there to answer any questions you may have along the way and arrange on-site inspections as your new home is built. New England focus. 11
focus_What’s On New England
M A Y
What’s
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UNE OPEN DAY
COSI
Presented by Veracity Theatre Company. When 3rd, 4th and 5th, 10th, 11th and 12th May. 8pm. Where TAS Hoskins Centre. Tickets available https://www.trybooking.com/UPAJ
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ITALIAN POP UP
Armidale City Bowling Club - join us for our next Pop Up Restaurant. When Friday 4th May. An all you can eat Italian night for only $25 per person. Due to popular demand, reservations are ESSENTIAL, so contact us to book on (02) 6772 5666.
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FIRST SATURDAY CHATS
Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Christopher Serow (Solicitor) from 10am to 1pm at the Legal Minds office at 157 Beardy Street, The Mall, Armidale on Saturday 5th May. As this is a popular program, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.
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Open Day runs from 7:30am - 2:30pm Friday 11th May, starting at the residential colleges at 7:30am, where you can tour the residences and meet current students to chat about college life. When you arrive, don't forget to register to receive your free Open Day Kit, morning tea, and lunch voucher.
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BACH TO THE FUTURE
9th New England Bach Festival - 10 CONCERTS OVER THREE DAYS. When Thursday 10th - Sunday 13th May. Bookings www.trybooking.com (type nebf into search bar or find links on www.ne-bach-festival.com) or at Regional Australia Bank branches. More info see www.ne-bach-festival.com or www.facebook.com/ NewEnglandBachFestival/ or phone 6772 5889 / email benjaminthorn@bigpond.com
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LES PARISIENNES
ADFAS Armidale May lecture: Les Parisiennes. When 10th May 2018. Where (Michael Hoskins Centre, TAS). Anne Sebba NADFAS - guests are most welcome and a $25 fee applies per lecture. Enquiries Phone (02) 6772 6441. Email adfasarmidale@bigpond.com Tickets www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=346042&
ROTARY BOOK FAIR
When Saturday 12th to Saturday 19th of May. Where Racecourse, Barney Street (Waterfall Way). Time 9am - 5pm. More info (02) 6772 0936.
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WALCHA FARMERS’ MARKETS
The markets include a wonderful range of fresh produce, gourmet food, plants and health and wellbeing stalls, with an all-day BBQ, fresh espresso coffee and live music. When Saturday 19th May 8:30am - 12:30pm. Where McHattan Park, Fitzroy Street, Walcha. More info (02) 6777 2448 or email info@walchafarmersmarket.org.au or go to www.walchafarmersmarket.org.au
focusinterview.
The New England
Collective The New England Collective is a group of New England based designers and artisans creating gorgeous items across a range of media. We are aiming to bring a new type of retail to Armidale through promoting local startups and creatives alike.
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ow did the New England Collective come about? The Collective came about after many conversations between our little group, who were all keen to expand their market. As individuals it was impossible to open a retail space; as a collective it became possible. For us, the concept only works as a group. We know the New England is a creative hub for artists, makers and small business start-ups, and we are keen to extend the opportunity to other New England associated people who are in this position. There has been a huge resurgence in the desire to purchase local and handmade products. We believe this is not a fad and more a movement. To this end, we created The New England Collective, went in search of a space and are now seeking expressions of interest from other like-minded individuals. Tell us about the people and products that are involved? There are four partners in the Collective:
Tracy Wright – Raw Fibre Raw Fibre was founded in 2016 and is focused on challenging the trend of fast fashion by producing a range of women’s clothing from beautiful natural fibres. All garments are currently made locally using fibres such as wool, linen, cotton and silk. Tracy’s focus on the use of the finest quality fabrics and yarns has been well supported by women in the New England and beyond, with
the business continuing to grow. Raw Fibre’s garments reflect their clients women who are passionate about quality and timeless fashion. The designs are classic with a modern touch and will not date.
Debbie Cartledge – Pinotcat Designs From the moment I started playing with clay, I loved it. All clay designs are 100% from me and made by me; no two pieces are ever the same. I am obsessed with colour and pattern and I have recently been incorporating other media into my pieces. Clay gives me the opportunity to be creative and at the same time, I find it so relaxing. I am always expanding my range, currently producing a lot of earrings; however, in the future hope to produce a bigger range of accessories. What’s in a name: (everyone asks!) Pinotcat designs came from naming one of my cats Pinot, after my favourite wine Pinot Noir hence Pinotcat Designs!
Leanne Brien – Trims and Things Trims and Things founders Leanne and Sandra (sisters) are self-confessed craft queens, who give credit to their mum for giving them a taste of all things crafty as they grew up. The Trims and Things concept came to us in 2012, when Sandra was keen to start some kind of business together. We didn’t know what this future business would be, but started to explore our options. Our shared passion was for beautiful papers, ribbons, tags and cards, so it soon became obvious how we
gnikam si nagilliG wehttaM evitaerc lacoL sih - enecs yhpargotohp lacol eht no kram sih SUCOF .tsav si tnelat sih dna war si krow mih ot dettahc dna ttaM htiw pu thguac noissap sih tuoba could make a business The store will be located out of something we next to PasTish in the THERE HAS BEEN A both love. beautiful Hanna’s Arcade HUGE RESURGENCE th So, if you love cute 12th May. from 5 IN THE DESIRE TO tags, cards, pretty Plans for the future? PURCHASE LOCAL wraps and all things At the end of May, the AND HANDMADE gifty as much as we New England Collective PRODUCTS. WE do, you’ve come to will progress from the BELIEVE THIS IS NOT the right place. We pop up into a permanent A FAD AND MORE A aim to create a place shop, which will become MOVEMENT. for people who want a unique retail space for to bring a touch of locals who are looking to beauty, creativity and sell the products that they fun to their lives. We’re so excited to be doing either make, source, or distribute locally. Our something we love. goal is to help and support each other in
Stevie Chadd – WildHeart Candle Co Previously known as Soy Candles by Stevie, WildHeart Candle Co is a local business creating a range of soy candles, melts and reed diffusers using a range of hand poured fragrances. The elegant designs and subtle scents are the perfect addition to any space. Tell us about your pop up store? We were previously known as the New England Makers, so this is our third pop up store. The new space will come under the name The New England Collective. It will feature local artisans and small business owners. Our focus is Mother’s Day and getting Mum that perfect gift that is made or distributed locally. We have had a lot of interest from local businesses to be involved, and the range of products available will be far greater than in our previous pop ups.
growing our businesses. Starting a business, especially one that puts your creations out in the world, can be frightening and nervewracking; we hope to ease that by working as a group. The fantastic thing is you may only make one item or one hundred, and we will be able to assist you in getting into the retail market. Tracy, Debbie, Leanne and Stevie are very excited about what the future holds for this space. We are looking at holding workshops and small exhibitions of unique products. There are so many possibilities, that the only problem will be where to stop. For more information regarding the New England Collective, you can contact us at newenglandcollective@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook or Instagram thenewenglandcollective. Thanks everyone. New England focus. 13
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April ter Hedde S A N D P L AY
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hat is Sandplay Therapy? Sandplay Therapy is an internationally recognised holistic and creative approach to counselling. It is based on Jungian Psychology and was developed by Dora Kalff and Margaret Lowenfield in the 1950s. Sandplay facilitates the psyche’s natural capacity for healing - not only showing presenting issues, but it can also show the SOULution. What is the process? Imagine a room, with a tray filled with sand and bookshelves filled with miniature figures. These figures symbolise all aspects of life trees, cars, animals, people, buildings, fantasy etc. Clients use these figures to create a visual manifestation of their inner world, bypassing the mind. The facilitator and the client then go on a precious journey together, to explore the client’s
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T H E R A P Y
April ter Hedde is a Certified Sandplay Therapist who uses creative processes to access inner wisdom to enhance the wellbeing of adults, teenagers and children. She brings her experience in working with mental health, disability support and youth at risk to her private practice. April works closely using her core values of honesty, integrity and connection in a supportive and safe therapeutic setting. wounds and inner yearning to heal. Clients marvel at how quickly they find clarity from this process. Who can benefit from Sandplay Therapy? For children, the process is disguised as play, and they tell you “a story”. Their subconscious is working through self-expression, inner self-development, conflict resolution and finding their place in the world. One of my favourite sessions was with a young boy, who was playing out a battle scene. I asked him which side he was on and he responded, “I’m on the good side - but both are good, because they are both fighting for their families. Everyone dies, but everyone wins, because it was from love”. Youth are at the stage in their life where they are wanting to be their own person, developing a strong idea of how they want to be seen, which often conflicts with how they see themselves. As Sandplay also shows the perspective
of the other people involved, youth learn to be kinder to themselves, and to others in their lives. Adults find themselves amazed that by working on one issue, they see improvements in all areas of their life. Issues typically explored include: addictions, health, loss, grief, anxiety, life purpose, work, relationships with partners, friends, children and colleagues. Adults not only work on their adult life, but also address and heal childhood issues. For people with intellectual disabilities, Sandplay is empowering - an opportunity to have a voice and to be heard, to explore parts of the self that is often buried deep inside, to make choice and relieve inner tensions. A lady I’ve worked with describes it best: “It’s my life in a box”. So ... Sandplay is for anyone who wants to heal, explore and embrace becoming the best version of themselves. How and why did you become involved in
this type of therapy? I have worked in the disability sector for seven years. The people I have cared for have taught me so much about life and who I am, that I wanted to find a way to give back to them, a modality that enabled them to share more about themselves, without the need for speech. I Googled “Alternate Therapies”, and Sandplay Training Australia caught my attention. I rang the company to discuss and lo and behold, they had one space left in Workshop 1 in one week’s time! It seemed too synchronistic to pass up, so I took that opportunity. During the training, I experienced my own Sandplay proces,s as well as learnt to facilitate. I realised that I needed this modality to really see and to understand the complexities of my self. My tray said a lot more than what my voice could say. That was the cherry on the cake. Thanks April.
Our philosophy is to help our patients move better for life and to that end we offer a wide array of treatment services from physiotherapy, sports rehabilitation, podiatry, women’s and men’s health, remedial massage, dry needling, occupational therapy, and coming soon, exercise physiology.
Our wellness classes include Rehabilitation Clinical Pilates, Hydrotherapy, Balance and Falls, Parkinson’s Disease and our latest additions, Express Yoga and Diabetes. Our staff are highly qualified and passionate about a holistic approach to your health.
Tanya Scales
Drew Chalker
Andrea Howarth
PRACTICE MANAGER
PHYSIOTHERAPIST
RECEPTIONIST
Dip Management & Leadership/Business Accounting, Civ Training And Assessment
B Physio (ACU)
Deborah Hunter
Sam Lord
Liz Maertin
PRINCIPAL PHYSIOTHERAPIST
ALLIED HEALTH ASSISTANT & REMEDIAL MASSAGE THERAPIST
SENIOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST
B Science, Unsw; Pgd Physiotherapy, Usyd; B Arts, Curtin Uni
B App Sc Physio, USYD
Dip Remedial Massage Therapy, Cert IV Allied Health Assistant
Nicki Scholes-Robertson
Lynette Sue
Kristy Stevens
SENIOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST
SENIOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST
PHYSIOTHERAPY AIDE
B App Sc(Physio), La Trobe Uni
B App Sc Physiotherapy, USYD
Dip App Science, Cert III Aged Care / Cert III Disability, Cert IV Physiotherapist Allied Health Assistance (NE Institute Tafe)
Naomi Saunders
Casey Garnham
Carmela Birch
SENIOR RECEPTIONIST
PHYSIOTHERAPIST
PHYSIOTHERAPIST
B Physio (Hons)
B Physio (Hons) CQU
Nicholas Barnes
Tara Sharpe
Liam Mcauliffe
PODIATRIST
RECEPTIONIST
PHYSIOTHERAPIST
B Podiatry (Hons), QUT
Dip Bus, JCU
B Physio (Hon 1A) Uni. SA
All RSP physiotherapists are members of the Australian Physiotherapy Association. 210A Rusden Street, Armidale | 6772 1962 Book online 24/7 at movebetterforlife.physio/book-online New England focus. 15
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r o c k y r i v e r p u b l i c s c h o o l Rocky River Public School - a fine example of the tenacity of a small community to establish, maintain and support their children’s education at a small school through 168 years of history. Principal Josie Thornton tell us more about this fabulous country school.
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hen was Rocky River primary school established, and how has it evolved and grown over the years? Rocky River Public School is one of the oldest schools in the New England region and celebrated its sesquicentenary in 2010. The discovery of gold and parents seeking an education for their children were the reasons Rocky River became the first public school in New England in 1860. Miners provided the equipment and built a slab hut measuring 10 by 7 paces. On the first day of school in 1860, 59 students were enrolled. Rocky is a small rural school situated 5 km north of Uralla on the Thunderbolt’s Way. The students are from a wide socio economic range within the local area and the township of Uralla. It is currently a two teacher school and works within a cluster of small schools known as" The Thunderbolts Alliance" in the area for sporting, cultural, social and professional development activities. How long have you been principal at the school, and tell us about your team? I began my Principalship at Rocky in September 2011. The position of Principal in a small school is not an easy one, but with the support of an outstanding staff such as I have, my stress is kept at a minimum. Anne Miller works closely with me in the position of School Administration Manager. Her responsibilities are many and varied, from applying first-aid to managing the school finances. Merryn Macinnis is the Lower Division teacher, while Jess Brien is the Stage 2 teacher. Sally
Castle supports students with special needs and others who require additional support in the classroom. Describe a typical day/week for students at Rocky River from Kindy to Year 6? On arrival at school, the students set about completing the jobs they have been allocated for the week. Upper Division students work with the younger students to help them put up the flags, tidy the library and computers, collect the mail, water the garden and the favourite job is caring for the guinea pigs, rabbit, chooks and fish. At Rocky there is emphasis on Literacy and Numeracy every day, including the L3 program for Lower Division. Literacy and Numeracy is integrated into all other areas of the curriculum. The core curriculum is supported by additional learning programs such as You Can Do It, Responsible Pet program, guest speakers, and sporting development programs. Tell us about the excellent learning facilities and the beautiful and expansive playgrounds? Our grounds are cared for by our general assistant, Angus. The students are fortunate to have access to a volley ball court, tennis and basketball court, sandpit and colourful and attractive playground climbing equipment. The playground is large, with various areas for different types of play, including soccer. Because the school participates in the Premier’s Sporting Challenge, we have excellent sport equipment. Every child at the school has access to their own computer as needed, as well as a number of iPads. Teachers regularly use the SMART technology through interactive whiteboards. Last year we began an interactive program with South Korea using the connected classroom
have a holistic view of technology. This has been EVERY CHILD AT THE education, encouraging an exciting program, which SCHOOL HAS ACCESS TO our students to be the Upper Division students THEIR OWN COMPUTER involved in not only look forward to. AS NEEDED, AS WELL academic and sporting How important is the AS A NUMBER OF IPADS. activities, but also role of the Rocky River TEACHERS REGULARLY USE actively promoting P&C association to the THE SMART TECHNOLOGY student leadership, school? THROUGH INTERACTIVE values and contributing The school is an WHITEBOARDS. to the wider community. important part of the In the small school Rocky River community, environment, students which is very supportive and all major school activities are well attended. are encouraged to work independently and Staff, parents and local residents actively work cooperatively to become self-motivated learners. together to provide a strong foundation for Plans for the future? learning excellence. The P&C is a very strong We will continue to provide the best advocate for small school education for their education for our students in a culture of respect children, and they work tirelessly to raise funds and belonging, with each individual student for projects such as reverse cycle air conditioning being known, respected and supported. for the main building. Teachers will continuously participate in Why should parents consider Rocky River for Professional Learning, to ensure ongoing delivery the education of their child, and how can of high quality teaching programs. they do this? We aim to build a sense of identity and a feeling of belonging and connection to school, The school provides comprehensive local and global communities. We will equip educational experiences to enhance the students with the skills and attitudes that will academic, cultural, physical and social enable them to compete locally and globally in a development of students. A dedicated staff, market that values human interaction. excellent resources and a beautiful rural setting Students require a high level of digital combines to develop in the students a love literacy in order to thrive and work in the of learning which, together with strong basic world. Seamless and purposeful integration of academic skills, will carry them through their technology into future-focused learning and education and their lives in the 21st Century. teaching can provide opportunities for students In this small school, students interact across to think independently and develop skills that age groups, playing with and caring for each will enable them to flourish in a world driven by other as a family. Small class sizes ensure technology. They will be responsible participants individual attention, with each child treated as an individual, and their own needs, interests of the 21st Century. and talents are understood and catered for. We Thanks Josie. New England focus. 17
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T H E A R M I D A L E Y O U T H O R C H E S T R A ( AY O ) I S C E L E B R A T I N G T H E I R 5 0 T H Y E A R . F O C U S C A U G H T U P W I T H C A R O L I N E D O W N E R , W H O T O L D U S A L L A B O U T T H E P A S T, P R E S E N T A N D F U T U R E O F T H E AY O .
Youth ARMIDALE
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hen was the Youth Orchestra formed? It is actually the Armidale Youth Orchestra’s 50th birthday this year - which is quite an achievement and a momentous event for a community youth orchestra. It was formed in 1968 by a small group of interested community members, including K Aubrey, Davydd Williams, Sue Metcalfe, Wendy Huddleston, Mrs Colbeck and Mrs Dewhurst. Mr Neville Meale was the first conductor. It was just the one orchestra of about 30 players. There have been a number of conductors over the 50 years - but key people include Laurie Pulley, Sue Metcalfe, Warwick Dunham, and Phil Oxley. What is different today? Today the Armidale Youth Orchestra has expanded to three ensembles - the Armidale Youth String Orchestra, the Armidale Youth Wind Ensemble and the Armidale Youth Orchestra, with almost 100 players in total. Is it usual for a regional town to have a Youth Orchestra? There are only a handful of youth orchestras in regional cities, and certainly not many in towns the size of Armidale, and who have had the longevity of AYO. It is also unusual that a town of Armidale’s 18 New England focus.
size is able to have an orchestra with all of Conservatorium, Griffith University in the symphonic instruments, even ones that Brisbane, Sydney Conservatorium of Music, are considered endangered. Endangered WAAPA Perth, Elder Conservatorium instruments are the ones that are in high Adelaide, Canberra School of Music and demand, like the bassoon, oboe, French Royal Academy in London. horn, trombone and double bass. AYO has And I’m sure there are some key been able to offer some scholarships to performers today who played with AYO encourage students to study instruments in the early years? on the Endangered List. Our scholarships One 1980s AYO Alumni is David are funded through donations from the Griffiths, a Senior Lecturer in Music (Performance - Clarinet) Armidale Symphony at the Melbourne Orchestra, Armidale Conservatorium of Music and Drama Music. He studied Society and individual first at the Canberra community members. OUR SCHOLARSHIPS School of Music, and Over the 50 years ARE FUNDED THROUGH then New York at the that the orchestra DONATIONS FROM THE Manhattan School of has been in ARMIDALE SYMPHONY Music. As a winner of existence, there ORCHESTRA, ARMIDALE the Artists International must have been MUSIC AND DRAMA Award in New York, many players? SOCIETY AND INDIVIDUAL he made his Carnegie Yes, and there are COMMUNITY MEMBERS. Hall Debut in February many alumni of AYO 2000. Engagements who continue to play have taken him to Israel, their instrument, Switzerland, Austria, some in community Japan, China, Korea, Canada, Serbia and orchestras and in their spare time while the United States. He has collaborated they pursue their careers outside of music. with members of the Cleveland, Shanghai, Some have remained in Armidale, and Oxford, Tin Alley, Flinders and Ciompi String some have moved elsewhere. But there Quartets, appeared with the New York Wind are also alumni who have pursued a career Soloists and performed chamber music with in music. Some have studied music (or Principal members of the Berlin and Vienna are currently studying) at the Queensland
Philharmonic Orchestras. David has also held positions as Associate Principal Clarinet with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Principal Clarinet of the Macau Orchestra and Principal Clarinet of the Shanghai Radio Orchestra, as well as Guest Principal with all of Australia's major symphony and opera ballet orchestras. Alice Rickards, an Alumni of the mid 1990s completed her undergraduate at the Queensland Conservatorium before moving to the UK and completing a Masters at the Royal Academy of Music. She is currently a member of the BBC Scottish Orchestra and also performs with the Dunedin consort. Her violin and cello duo, "High Heels and Horse Hair" have created interesting platforms for chamber music, including commissioning eight composers to write new works inspired by wild Scottish plants. But of course, there are not just performers, but some of AYO Alumni have gone on to teach music both privately, but also in schools throughout Australia. It is certainly a wonderful legacy of the orchestra ... Absolutely. And we even now have children of Alumni who are part of our current membership. Who are the current players of AYO? The AYO offers music students from 8 - 21 years a weekly ensemble program during term and provides opportunities
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to share the love of music making to our community. It caters for students from about Grade 2 AMEB all the way to A Mus and beyond. It is wonderful to see the mix of schools - we have players from all the high schools in Armidale - O’Connor, Armidale High, Duval High, PLC, NEGS and TAS. We also have members from some of the primary schools - including PLC, TAS, Ben Venue, Armidale City, Martin’s Gully, St Mary’s and the Waldorf School. Many of our current players have had success with auditions to Australian Youth Orchestra programs (National Music Camp, Young Symphonists), to Playerlink (Sydney Symphony program), ACO Academy (Australian Chamber Orchestra), State Music Camps (Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide), and to the NSW Regional Youth Orchestra (an initiative of the NSW Regional Conservatorium Association). There are certainly some very talented musicians in our orchestra! Does AYO have public performances? The Armidale Youth Orchestra has a calendar of events throughout the year. In February of every year, AYO moves to Sawtell for its Annual Music Camp. Students spend the weekend rehearsing, often with a guest conductor, but there is always time for beach, fun and games. It is
THE OPENING DEPICTS A FROSTY WINTER MORNING, THE SUN BURNING OFF THE OVERNIGHT MIST, THEN MOVING TO SPRING AND THE START OF NEW LIFE.
an important start to the year, where players can really get to know the repertoire and have specific sessions with instrumental tutors. This Annual Music Camp started about 20 years ago at Valla Beach, under the direction of Mal Hewitt. For the past couple of years, the guest conductor has been Ben Castle, a string specialist who is Head of Strings at Melbourne Grammar School. Sawtell is also a great way to plan for the first concert of the year and the orchestra’s major fundraiser, the Rosemary Leitch Garden Party, held in Autumn of every year. This fundraiser started 20 years ago in Rosemary’s Garden in Armidale. Rosemary has been a long time supporter of the orchestra and opened her garden for the event. For the last two years, the Garden Party has been held in the beautiful gardens of Chevy Chase. There are plenty of other concerts that the AYOs are involved in - from Eisteddfod performances, to school concerts, both in Armidale and further into the region. Our school concerts are designed to introduce students to orchestral music and
instruments, and our students particularly enjoy playing to their peers. For our final event of the year we have a major performance at Lazenby Hall, our Gala concert. I understand that this year your Gala Concert will be a bit different? Since it is our 50th birthday in 2018, we have something very special planned. We have a celebratory concert - The AYO Big Birthday Bash, on 19th August at Lazenby Hall. We have commissioned local composer Paul Marshall to write a piece specifically for the orchestra and have invited alumni players to join us in its performance. Tell us a bit about Paul Marshall and his piece. Paul Marshall began composing while still at school. He is published by Reed Music (17 books - saxophone, clarinet, bassoon, viola, cello, bass, chamber music and concert band). Paul's orchestral suite, Landscapes, was premiered by Beecroft Orchestra in 2008; a year later, the same orchestra premiered his Saxophone Concerto. The AMEB has included pieces on the syllabuses
for saxophone, clarinet cello bassoon, and in 2016 Paul was accepted as a pedagogical member of the Australian Music Centre. Paul has written a number of evocative compositions which reflect landscape, and which highlight the individual timbres of a number of orchestral instruments. Our commissioned work, Where the mountains kiss the sky is an orchestral tone poem inspired by the wild mountains in the areas surrounding Armidale. The opening depicts a frosty winter morning, the sun burning off the overnight mist, then moving to spring and the start of new life. There is a brief interlude of a hot, dry summer’s day before the final flourish to complete the piece. Paul has tried to make the most of all sections of the orchestra, challenging the young players to rise to new heights, and we are very excited about its world premiere! Sounds like we need to put the 19th August into our diaries now! Yes, and we are also inviting any AYO alumni to come along - either as players (particularly strings!) or as audience members. Come and celebrate this special occasion with us. Contact NECOM for more information 6788 2135. Thanks Caroline. New England focus. 19
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close-knit community offers blanket support to local family.
A dedicated group of Uralla knitters has combined their time and expertise in an inspired gesture of community support: to raise funds for the Oxley family of Uralla.
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wo of Jacob and Christie’s three beautiful children have Spinal Muscular Atropy. The family are desperately trying to raise funds to go to the USA to access specialised medical treatment, as yet unavailable in Australia. The knitting group has hand-knitted a stunningly beautiful blanket that will be raffled to contribute to the much-needed pool of funds for the family’s necessary journey to the States. Susan McMullen from the knitting group came up with the idea and was backed enthusiastically by the knitters. Twelve months later, the stunning twocolour queen-sized blanket, made from Cleckheatons Country 8 ply wool, is finished. A raffle for the exquisite blanket is now underway. Everyone who buys a ticket will be part of this warm gesture of support. Raffle tickets are available from The Uralla Wool Room, Uralla Central School, and Angela Hoskins at UNE. The Knitting and Crochet Group gets together twice a week to share ideas and copious cups of tea. See details about the times on urallawoolroom.com.au or phone Annie, the coordinator, on 6778 4226.
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AY & N I G H T AD
Market in the Mall On 3rd May 2018, the Mall Markets Team is excited to be joining with Armidale Regional Council to showcase our Mall for a very special all day and night market - a Taste of New England High Country. 20 New England focus.
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rom 1st to 4th May, the Country Women’s Association will have their Conference in Armidale which will bring approximately 1,000 people to town. As part of the conference, there will be a special market held on Thursday 3rd May to showcase the Mall, and the diverse range of New England culinary delights and produce, as well as our boutique stallholders. The Mall Markets team is excited to be working with Armidale Regional Council
to help promote the great food and produce available in the New England region. You can find our stallholders from 11am in the Mall selling great food and local condiments, and from 3pm onwards Council has organised music and entertainment for all to enjoy. Come down and taste some of our local beer, wines and spirits, as taste testing will be on offer from some of our wonderful alcohol providers. Make sure not to miss out on this great event!
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If you’re looking for a canvas painting to light up your living room, or as a gift for a friend or family member, look no further than one of our great stallholders, Elaine’s Art.
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laine and Keith Nicholson have been attending our Markets in the Mall for many years and are valued members of our community. Hailing from Barraba, Elaine loves coming to the Armidale Mall Markets and selling her prized artworks to our thriving community. Elaine has been an artist for many years and travels around Australia and abroad to seek out picturesque locations as inspiration for her artwork. The attention to detail that
Elaine’s paintnew people at the ings provide are markets and is more ELAINE LOVES TO MEET NEW PEOPLE AT what attracts than willing to take THE MARKETS AND IS people to orders for paintings. MORE THAN WILLING purchase them. If you have a place TO TAKE ORDERS FOR Elaine and you would like to PAINTINGS. Keith find that see transformed the Armidale into a painting, community bring a photo down is the perfect to the Mall Markets environment to market their artworks, and talk to Elaine. Come down to the as our community is thriving with Markets on 27th May and find Elaine’s art and culture. Elaine loves to meet Art!
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LOCALS 4 LOCALS
The lucky winners include Kylie Giles, who only eats the best meat from Jackson's Quality Meats; Michael Snell and Bree Oehlers, who always relies on Beardy Street Servo; Michelle Peak, who always gets the freshest goods at Bakers Delight; Tim Bower, who shops at Inner Path Natural Therapies and Brian See, buying groovy stuff at Things With a Difference. All these winners each won $100 in Locals 4 Locals Gift Cards in the
Winners every month! It’s easy to see Locals 4 Locals love giving cash and prizes to you and me - April 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.
Draw.
That's a winner for everyone.
Locals 4 Locals are always ready to continue supporting local businesses and the local community by continuing this amazing service of finding five lucky winners.
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!
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!
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WITH GAVIN MORONEY
TH IS
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Blend
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For years I have been on the hunt for the perfect headphones, and finally they are here. As soon as I set eyes on the Bowers and Wilkins PX, I was excited.
away you notice the spacial audio sound, which is honestly incredible - left and right audio channels with vocals coming up the front and hearing instruments off in the distance. The PXs are able to accentuate the direction, width and depth the music was intended to be heard, throughout most genres. The audio signatures are very natural and balanced, the bass was tight, defined, focused and not overpowering. Midrange
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Our house-blended latte mixes are an absolute favourite with our customers! Packed with amazing flavour and endless health benefits, they are perfect for serving both hot and over ice, as well as flavour and nutrition boosters for smoothies, cakes and desserts! We’ve worked tirelessly to develop delicious, nourishing and all-natural recipes, resulting in our current flagship range of Golden Latte, Spiced Beetroot, Spiced Matcha and our Cayenne-5-Spice Cacao. However you choose to use them, these are a brilliant and healthy start to your day! Feature product Spiced Beetroot Mix A delicious and nutrient-dense rose-
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Connie Drew &
T W Y F O R D
FOCUS CHATS TO CONNIE AND DREW TWYFORD, THE
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BUSIEST POWER COUPLE IN ARMIDALE.
hat brought you to Armidale? D: I’ve never lived anywhere but the Gold Coast; however, Connie grew up in the New England area and over the years we’ve become quite familiar with the people, the community and the culture. We were looking for an opportunity to challenge us and both be our own bosses, and it just happened that Armidale ticked all of those boxes. We knew that the F45 model would work, because we’ve both had over three years’ worth of exposure to the model, and Connie has worked in a few different studios on the Gold Coast, so was always comfortable in knowing how to run her own show. But, finding out that there are no Osteopaths in the New England region - we were sold. There was a whole community out there that needed to find out how good Osteopathy is. The community has welcomed us with open arms and have ever since we first started investigating the idea, so knowing that we’d get the support of the community had us sold before we signed the dotted line. What does the average day look like for people running two businesses side by side? C: 4:15am alarm - snooze ‘til 4:25am (very necessary) and then quick shower and sneak out of the house, so we don’t wake up housemates or dogs. Gym opens at 5am, classes run at 5:15am, 6am, and 6:45am, followed by breakfast and much needed coffee. Midmorning class is at 9am. We pass through the double doors and conduct a quick wardrobe change, because the Osteopathy Clinic opens at 10am. Drew treats all day until 4:30pm, while I do his reception, paperwork
and follow up for both the gym and clinic. Wardrobe change number two, into our gym gear, pass through the double doors and open the F45 at 4:45pm, for our 5pm and 5:45pm classes. We generally squeeze our own session in there somewhere. And once they are done, we clean the gym, set up for the next day’s class and hopefully get home, have dinner and be in bed by 9pm, before it starts over again the next day! So, Connie, tell us more about F45 Training. When did F45 open here in Armidale? We opened the doors in the last week of February, so almost eight very busy weeks! But we are loving it! What’s different about F45? It’s for everyone, literally. Everything we do can be adjusted up or down to suit every individual, regardless of the fitness level of the person who walks in the door. We are not just a gym for fit people - we are a gym for every body type, age, gender and fitness level. Our technology is by far the best in the business; it doesn’t matter what F45 Studio in the world you walk into today - you’d do the same workout! Every workout has been created by a team of exercise scientists and tested in over 10 different studios, before it arrives on our schedule. We also have heart rate monitors available in studio that show live updates while you train, so for those looking to take their training to the next level, they have the opportunity to kick it up a gear. What is the best way for people to get involved? There are heaps of different ways to be involved … We offer all Armidale and surrounds residents their first seven days free, so everyone is welcome to come in and try for their first seven days!
We knew that the F45 model would work, because we’ve both
had over three years’ worth
of exposure to the model, Want to chat? Reach muscular pain and and Connie has worked in out to us! We’d love to more. We take a holistic a few different studios on hear from you! Contact approach to your the Gold Coast, so was always us on either social treatment by reviewing comfortable in knowing how to run platforms of Facebook your direct problem area, her own show. or Instagram, or email us as well as assessing your at armidale@f45training. whole body and lifestyle, com.au. including your diet, type Just want to get of work and sporting activities. This helps us to understand the cause it done? Download the F45 Training App of your problem and assist with immediate and (available for both Apple and Android) and long-term relief, preventative solutions, and select Armidale as your studio - you can see pain management skills. our entire schedule, as well as book into your Osteopaths can offer assistance for people classes from there! who seek relief from pain, be it recent (acute Tell us more about Osteopathy, Drew. pain) or recurring (chronic pain). Two of Osteopathy is a form of “manual medicine”. the most common conditions patients seek We focus on treating musculoskeletal and comfort from, are back pain and neck pain. neuro-musculoskeltal issues with non-surgical Most adults, due to various sedentary postures and drug-free approaches and therapies. like prolonged sitting, experience stiffness of Osteopathy is a small profession, with just over the spine resulting in aches and unpredictable 2,000 registered professionals in Australia spasms. The goal of the osteopath is to reduce compared to Chiropractors, where there are the tension in the muscles and ligaments of the over twice that number, and Physiotherapists, spine to bring back its mobility, thus making where there is in the vicinity of 40,000 in your neck and back ease up from the stiffness Australia. - with one of the objectives of osteopathic An Osteopath’s care is different; there is treatments to maintain your functional lifestyle a lot of significance on understanding the - if necessary and when applicable - to keep psychological aspects of an ongoing injury - as you from experiencing debilitating body aches. well as the biological aspects. Osteopaths are What are your future plans with your mostly interested in really searching for and practice here in Armidale? understanding the cause of the issue - and I would love to see myself or my clinic be where possible to pin it down, and will do able to spread and reach more areas of the this as much as possible. For example, this New England. This may mean increasing my often means we will be looking at your pelvis team, and finding new spaces. Being the only with a knee complaint, or your neck and your Osteopath in the New England, we are very workstation with a recurring back problem. excited to see how Osteopathy will grow and This means we often pick up on things that where the business will be taken, especially might be missed by other approaches. as we become a part of the New England’s When would someone find themselves general health regime. needing to visit your practice? Thanks guys. Osteopaths treat all kinds of joint or New England focus. 23
focus_contributor
WITH SUSIE DUNN
Icing ON
Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh
CAKE
WOULD YOU LIKE A ROLLED GOLD PROMISE?
T
There seem to be a lot of them around nationally. Let’s go for solid gold ones, rather than a thin coating on a base metal.
his column, of course, is just a series of snapshots of things that come my way. So much on, hard to always be current. Most things really start from the energy of individuals. We’ve tended for a while to be sidetracked, waiting for our local Council to do things. At the end of the day though, it is our community drivers who‘ll initiate change. Council is setting up public brainstorming, and facilitating results is their job. We’ll hopefully celebrate their skills in analysing and delivering what’s possible to all our local communities. I love meeting people who really have goals for where they’re going, with whatever skills they have. UNE’s Incubator are hands on pointing into future possibilities - good to see their town/gown interaction with an event at Charlie’s Last Stand. Then, talking with Nathan Hooper-Walker of the new Aurora Café, he absolutely fizzes with knowledge, experience and energy. I’m glad he came home from France to Armidale. NERAM and NECOM Directors, Robert Heather and Russell Bauer, bring new directions, energies and enthusiasms. And UNE’s Professor Mingan Choct invariably brings a wisdom and humour I enjoy immensely. John Johnson, a passionate Armidalian, lives every animated minute, and Deni McKenzie has launched her book, Jewels of New England. The opening of the exciting Digital Hub was thought-provoking: TAFE’s had such a good history, it’s to be hoped they can keep one foot on solid ground while using new augmented reality online. An Armidale Business Chamber breakfast talk from Dr. Chris Parker, Director of the newly located APVMA, spoke candidly of managing disruption and change, making a good case for relocation here. And it was good to see agriculture students from local high schools learning regenerative farming principles. There’s been a steady awareness in rural Australia that farming had to change - most farmers know the need to sustain the planet and their own viability. It’s the “cowboys” who blow holes in what nature and commonsense tell us - and give urban Australians wrong
24 New England focus.
ideas. Many with skills find themselves here because of their partners - we should tap their experience. Some are identified as being over-qualified. Let’s lift our game and profit by integrating them! We seem to constantly hire outside consultants. Council recently ran a Tourism Strategy event. Good idea, but at the end of the day the SWOT analysis had everything on the whiteboard that I’d seen on multiple whiteboards before. Our problem is that focusing on one drawcard e.g. the gorges, gives a distorted overall view. I hope they come up with a totally new approach and a “hook” summing up our exciting package. I personally don’t think we should join other groups. Let’s spend our money differentiating ourselves and make a splash! Armidale city and the region wait impatiently for a credible plan to revitalise the Central Mall - soon. This has to be easily do-able and reverse the current depressing centre - it’s morale destroying for residents, businesses and tourists. Underlying problems must be addressed, with rents a growing discussion point throughout Australia. Council response to recent proposals for the Creeklands could also mark a turnaround in recognition for the city and enjoyment for its people and visitors. The Locally Made & Played music around the Mall was great - should be one for each season. Once Australians prided themselves on a healthy scepticism - then overnight privacy was finished and the world abandoned itself to giving all its details to an avid market targeting us. Some scary. I must admit I like to be in control of my details - but that’s probably dated. Now we’ve let sport change from what we see locally to commercialised “personalities”, tv ratings, couch viewers, gambling corruption, and out-of-touch athletes with unsporting decisions. And from coverage of the Commonwealth Games you’d think there were only Australians there. Not sporting. We are so lucky here. Susie Dunn.
Irresistible Style. Nothing says Mother’s Day like Irresistible Style ...
on offer for those looking for something to make their mum feel special this Mother’s Day.
What fabulous things does Irresistible Style have for Mother’s Day this year?
What does Irresistible Style offer that makes it easy shopping for those hard to choose for mothers?
Our sleepwear is very popular at this time of year, and quality sleepwear can by hard to find for discerning mothers wanting something beautiful and comfy to sleep in. The one thing everyone needs is sleepwear and we stock all the great brands, offering a great range to choose from, including: Yuu, French Country, Givoni, and Schrank. Of course, we also have our usual wide range of fabulous underwear, socks, hosiery and thermals
If you can’t decide on something you like in store or are concerned that she may not like your choice, why not consider a gift voucher this Mother’s Day ... and don’t forget we will wrap your purchases for free. Come in and see Helen and Lyn at Irresistible Style; we would love to help you find something special for the mother in your life this Mother’s Day.
focus_contributor
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
Spoil Mum at The Powerhouse.
If breakfast is your mum’s favourite meal of the day, then consider treating her to a special Sunday morning breakfast at Azka Restaurant. We’re open from 6:30am - although Mum may
Spoil
Ingredients (Serves 4) 4 Portobello mushrooms, grilled 2 tomatoes, cut in half, seasoned and grilled 1 red capsicum, seasoned and grilled 2 avocadoes, cut in half and grilled 200 g tricolour quinoa 400 ml water Handful of spinach Green Goddess dressing: 1 small garlic clove, minced 3/4 cup mayonnaise 3/4 cup sour cream 1/2 cup chopped parsley 1/4 cup chopped tarragon 3 tbsps chopped chives 2 tbsps lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste
Are you searching for a gift for Mum that says, "We love you on your special day"? Our Powerhouse gift certificate is the answer. You can choose the value of the gift certificate and mum can use it to dine for breakfast, lunch, dinner, tapas or coffee and dessert. For the ultimate indulgence, purchase an overnight accommodation package, so Mum can enjoy a little "me time". Azka Restaurant, Wine & Tapas Bar is open every day from 6:30am until late. Call 6772 7788 or visit qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au
Mum Book now for Mother’s Day lunch on Sunday, 13 May at Azka Restaurant at The Powerhouse. • 2 courses – 79 per person • 3 courses – 89 per person Plus all mums receive a special gift!
Chef Lusyianna Setra
Gift Certificate
Azka Restaurant, Wine & Tapas Bar
Purchase an exclusive Powerhouse gift certificate for mum this Mother’s Day. It will make her day!
Quality Hotel Powerhouse 31 Marsh Street, Armidale NSW 2350 Phone (02) 6772 7788
Also open for breakfast & dinner on Mother’s Day. Bookings 6772 7788 or events@qhparm.com.au 31 Marsh Street, Armidale
Method To cook the quinoa, place rinsed quinoa and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil; turn the heat down to low, cover and simmer until the water is absorbed (approx. 15 minutes). Use a fork to fluff and separate the grains. Grill the mushrooms, tomato and avocado halves. Deseed the capsicum, cut in half and grill. Cut the grilled
want a sleep in on her special day of the year!
QHP0243
quinoa Vegetable Stack TRI-COLOUR
On Sunday 13th May, we get the chance to celebrate our mums in a big way. Spoil yours this Mother’s Day with an amazing lunch at Azka Restaurant at The Powerhouse, Armidale. Indulge in a specially designed menu by Head Chef Lusyianna Setra - two courses for 79 per person or three courses for 89 per person. Plus, all mums will receive a Powerhouse gift! Visit the website to view the menu and be quick to secure your table.
capsicum into thin strips. For the Green Goddess dressing, mix all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Starting with the field mushroom, layer the spinach, quinoa, tomato, avocado and chargrilled capsicum. Drizzle the Green Goddess dressing and garnish with alfalfa sprouts.
/PowehouseArmidale
@qualityhotelpowerhouse #QHPG
QHP0243_Mothers Day Focus 156x125_Final.indd 1
qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au
New England 13/4/18focus. 9:24 am25
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26 New England focus.
Alison Spencer PLC Armidale has been providing opportunities to families since its inception in 1887. This year sees a new era of boarding leadership and operation at PLC Armidale ... enter Mrs Alison Spencer.
A
lison is not your ordinary mum. In fact, you could say that as the new Head of Boarding of PLC Armidale, the former Occupational Therapist has instantly become a “professional parent“ and surrogate mum (spare a thought for Alison this Mother's Day) to the growing number of both domestic and international girls, as well as to her own four daughters. Alison, what is your vision for your new role as Head of Boarding at PLC Armidale? Boarding is really an extension of living at home, so my plan is to offer a genuine homely experience and continue to build a strong and vibrant boarding family, within the PLC Armidale and broader community. Having four daughters yourself, how do you and your husband, Chris, juggle life and everyone’s commitments? The Spencer family really is invested in PLC Armidale, with all four daughters attending the College. My husband, Chris, is also the Director of PLC Pathways, the College’s Intensive Residential English Language (ELICOS) program for international students, which commenced in 2017. Boarding at PLC really has become a family affair … Fostering an environment which encourages family values and involvement is really important to us. Having the whole family involved brings its
own economy of scale, and living on campus Balancing the need for consistency in does blur the lines of family and college routines with the need to be responsive to life, which can be challenging yet incredibly each individual girl's needs is a real focus. rewarding at the same time, and it’s great fun! Together with our staff, we endeavour to Our daughters love it, prepare girls daily for life and it does mean that beyond school, where we can take a pastoral they are genuinely role with the boarders supported academically more easily. The Christian and socially, as well as BALANCING THE NEED ethos of the College is a encouraged to develop FOR CONSISTENCY IN really significant element greater independence. I ROUTINES WITH THE for us, and being in also approach requests NEED TO BE RESPONSIVE the service of others is for activities applying modelled daily to our the same metric as I TO EACH INDIVIDUAL boarders, as well as our would scrutinise my own GIRL'S NEEDS IS A REAL own children. daughters’: ”Would I feel FOCUS. The safe, secure comfortable allowing my and peaceful rural own daughters to see/be environment within involved with that?” Armidale is also a very At the end of the important aspect. It also means that in reality day, life as a boarder is what you put into it there is greater access and opportunity for girls and ultimately what you get out of it. We do to be engaged and involved in more activities, organise various activities, such as visits to such as NECOM and various sports, as well the beach or special events (e.g. Seasons of as providing a real academic advantage, with New England recently), movies, dance classes, everything situated so close means more time cooking, art and craft, to group guitar lessons. and greater access to assistance. We also Girls can choose to be as busy or as involved as transport the girls everywhere in the boarders’ they like … or not. buses, which makes for busy afternoons and What else can the boarders (or prospective) weekends. at PLC Armidale look forward to? What benefits and challenges does PLC Armidale’s bespoke boarding experience boarding provide? also offers diversity, not only in the cultural
sense, with the increasing number of international girls and Pathways students, bringing with them different perspectives but also offers the lifelong skill of being able to get along with people from all walks of life, whether they are from China, Thailand, Glen Innes or Mungindi. Just as in any family, the girls benefit from the depth of relationships in the boarding environment, which quite often lasts a lifetime. Boarding at PLC Armidale is as much for our Day Students as it is for our boarders, as we have a number of boarding options from a casual night here and there when the need arises, to weekly, and of course, full-time during the school term. We even have lovely appointed parent accommodation, which is used constantly by our families, as it enables parents an affordable visit, as well as the opportunity to be involved in their daughter’s life at the College. With growing demand for places at PLC Armidale, the third Boarding House, known as Hilton, will be renovated this year, following the refurbishment of Austin Boarding House in 2017 and the recent freshening up of the Todd/McBean Boarding House and on-campus accommodation for the Head of Boarding. Boarding at PLC Armidale does have a genuine bespoke look and feel, along with practice, in more ways than one. Thanks Alison. New England focus. 27
On This Day Ceremonies Paul Skippen founded On This Day Ceremonies because of a desire to assist people as they prepare significant moments on life’s journey. Life has many key milestones between birth and death, each of them worth celebrating and remembering in a personalised and unique way. Any significant event in life deserves the utmost attention. On This Day Ceremonies prides itself on working with people to plan a ceremony that is distinctive, personal, well planned, stress-free, and where appropriate, a bit of fun. Paul has many years’ experience designing ceremonies and rituals that tap into people’s stories, heritage and culture. Paul believes that no two stories are the same and no two ceremonies should be the same.
28 New England focus.
On This Day Ceremonies facilitates weddings, funerals, naming ceremonies, anniversaries and any other key moments where people want to gather, celebrate and remember. There are many different options for creating a lasting memory when it comes to planning any event. Each request is listened to and valued, ensuring that all relevant wishes are met. Paul knows well from experience working with people, that there are many ways to highlight ceremonies. Paul will come to any planning meeting with a well-resourced knowledge that will offer the opportunity to think outside the box. It’s important that you find the right person to give your ceremony that special attention that it deserves. Contact Paul at On This Day Ceremonies, so we can have a chat about your significant life’s moment.
Respite care changed everything. Respite care changed everything for Alex and his family. Alex has always dreamed of becoming a palaeontologist. However, until recently, he didn’t believe something that wonderful could really happen to him. Alex has both Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Noises, lights and movement of everyday life can overwhelm him. Even a quick trip to the supermarket used to leave him trembling, and making friends felt like climbing a mountain. “Finding out Alex has Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder was heartbreaking at first, but then it was such a relief to find out what was causing his behaviour and to figure out ways to help him,” said Amanda, Alex’s mum. Alex and his family started working with House with No Steps’ early childhood specialists in 2007. It was at this time that
Short Term Accommodation and Assistance (respite) was suggested to give the family extra support. “We initially hesitated - it was hard to spend so much time doing everything yourself and then hand it over to somebody else. “House with No Steps’ respite care has been a life changing thing for all of us. With the support of staff, Alex has challenged himself. He’s made new friends and enjoys taking part in group activities - all within a safe and happy environment. With respite, my husband, Sean, and I get time to be Sean and Amanda, not just Mum and Dad. We can recharge,” said Amanda. House with No Steps offers Short Term Accommodation and Assistance across NSW, Qld, ACT and Victoria. For information, call 1300 538 746 or email enquiries@hwns.com.au
arm.catholic.edu.au
CSW 2018
• C A T H O L I C
S C H O O L S
D A E L N R A E L E V R E S
W E E K •
Catholic Schools Week (CSW) 2018 is held from 27th May to 2nd June and will involve the communities of all Catholic primary and secondary schools across the Diocese of Armidale. This time highlights the wonderful opportunities that Catholic schools provide, and celebrates their distinctiveness and many achievements.
T
he theme for CSW 2018 is "Serve. Learn. Lead". This reflects Catholic schools' focus on serving the community and being leaders of faith and learning. Catholic education offers a sense of community, a faith dimension, value-based learning and social justice programs. These elements, combined with an outstanding academic reputation, give Catholic school students a wonderful opportunity to be the best they can be. Catholic schools make an important contribution to Australian communities. Students are encouraged to learn and develop their skills, build strong positive relationships, explore their own values, and focus on how they can support those most in need. Catholic schools connect in a very tangible way with their parish and local community. Catholic schools cater for students with special needs, indigenous students, students from diverse linguistic backgrounds and students from rural and remote regions. The schools in the Diocese of Armidale are building a professional learning community in a Catholic context as a vehicle for school improvement. Our moral purpose is to ensure that all students learn to their full potential, so they can graduate to a world where they can make a difference based on the values and beliefs of their Catholic education. On Tuesday 29th May, schools in the Armidale Diocese will gather to celebrate a Catholic Schools Week Mass and the Spirit of Catholic Education Awards. This is a celebration of the gift of Catholic education and unites the school communities. It is an opportunity to thank all those who contribute to Catholic education in the Diocese of Armidale. All families, parents and friends are invited to join in the celebrations by attending some
of the planned activities and events in each school. Contact your local Catholic school to see what you can be involved in during this year’s CSW. There are 24 schools in the Diocese of Armidale, including 19 primary schools, two central schools and three secondary schools. These schools are now accepting enrolments for 2018 and beyond: Primary St Mary’s Primary, Armidale Sacred Heart Primary, Boggabri St Joseph’s Primary, Glen Innes St Mary of the Angel’s Primary, Guyra St Michael’s Primary, Manilla St Joseph’s Primary, Tamworth St Joseph’s Primary, Tenterfield St Joseph’s Primary, Walgett St Joseph’s Primary, Wee Waa St Joseph’s Primary, Warialda St Joseph’s Primary, Barraba St Xavier’s Primary, Gunnedah St Joseph’s Primary, Mungindi St Francis Xavier’s Primary, Narrabri St Joseph’s Primary, Quirindi St Edward’s Primary, Tamworth St Nicholas’ Primary, Tamworth St Joseph’s Primary, Uralla St Patrick’s Primary, Walcha Central Holy Trinity School, Inverell St Philomena’s School, Moree Secondary McCarthy Catholic College, Tamworth O’Connor Catholic College, Armidale St Mary’s College, Gunnedah
s l o o h c S c i l o h Cat 27 May-2 June Week 2018
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To learn more, please contact: The Catholic Schools Office Unit 2, 131 Barney Street P.O. Box 636 Armidale 2350 Phone: (02) 6772 7388 www.arm.catholic.edu.au New England focus. 29
focusinterview.
Sam Davis Sam and his family have recently made the tree change to the New England region. Newly appointed manager of the PCYC Armidale, Sam is looking forward to enhancing the PCYC and getting the current activities pumping! FOCUS chats with Sam about his relocation, the PCYC and the future …
30 New England focus.
T
ell us a little about yourself ... I was born in Glen Innes and after school left the New England for Townsville, in sunny North Queensland. I originally had ambitions on becoming a vet, but after a few years my passion drew me to the sports world. I was honoured enough to have the opportunity to play AFL in Sydney, after which moving back to Townsville to finish my degree in Sports Science. What brought you to the area? My partner and I both love the region and when my partner was offered a veterinary role at Uralla Vet Clinic, we both jumped on the opportunity. Tell us about your new position ... As manager of PCYC, I am in charge of many different branches, all working under the same roof. PCYC Armidale has a fully functional fitness centre, sports complex, after school and vacation care, as well as youth crime prevention programs - all of which I oversee. Every day is different, meeting new faces of the community working together to help the community.
What is the plan for the PCYC over New England is very unique in terms the next few months? of business marketing and running Over the next few months the comevents. Word of mouth is so powerful, munity will see major changes to the and the biggest challenge will be making club. The club will see the reintroduction PCYC the talking point of the town once of archery classes, which was once a again. major success. The club's functional What challenges does the Armidale area will also get PCYC face at the a makeover, to moment? introduce Bubble Being a not for Soccer and Archery profit organisation, Tag, which will be a we rely on funding Word of mouth is so great thing for the from grants and powerful, and the biggest town. the community to challenge will be making What's the best run programs. With PCYC the talking point of part about what increased youth the town once again. you do? crime in the region, My job has endwe have found less opportunities; it challenging to I can be putting on source funding and a program to help volunteers to enunderprivileged youth or be working sure programs can address these issues. with top level athletes. Our mission Any final thoughts? here reaches such a large portion of the Keep a lookout for new and exciting Armidale community, and we are always things coming to PCYC and if anyone looking to reach more. has an upcoming event or charity day, What has been the biggest challenge please get in contact to see if we can moving back and starting your new help. role in the New England? Thanks Sam.
New England focus. 31
focusinterview.
Aligned for success
FOCUS gets the kinks and cramps sorted out talking with Uralla’s newest Chiropractor, Col Clarey. FOCUS finds out why the Clarey family made the tree change to the New England.
T
ell us about your family and what brought you to the New England? My wife, Beck, and I fell in love with Uralla on our honeymoon three years ago road-tripping through the Hunter Valley, the Blue Mountains and central NSW. It was a real highlight of that trip, and we got to know it better more recently before moving there to live in January this year. Beck grew up in country NSW and my grandparents lived near Tenterfield, and with three of our four children now independent and studying at university, we ran out of excuses not to escape the hustle and bustle of the Gold Coast and move back to the country. My step-daughter, Frankie, lives here with us; she is working at The Top Pub in Uralla and helping out in the practice as a receptionist as well. With most of Beck's family close by in Inverell and Moree, and Uralla such a beautiful country town with the “going ahead” energy that it possesses, it made this special part of the New England a perfect fit for us. Why did you become a chiropractor, and what do you specialise in? I credit my mum and dad with why I became a chiropractor. My mum was interested in natural health, and my dad having been in the airforce and a long haul Qantas pilot for many years would visit the chiro regularly to counteract the effects of sitting for many hours in the cockpit. He thought it would be a good profession for me and suggested I take a close look at it. I personally was attracted to the fact that chiropractic is a skilled manual therapy, and I would get to use my own hands and body in the application of my trade. Today, I still really like the fact that being an experienced chiropractor is in many ways very similar in its application to being a professional golfer; the techniques I utilise to improve the bio-mechanics of someone's spine and body requires very similar levels of manual
32 New England focus.
dexterity and finesse akin to that of an elite golfer or anyone who has developed their craft to a professional level. My training and experience allows me to assess my clients’ neuro-musculoskeletal health, and it’s a privilege to be able to help them regain or better their overall health and wellbeing. As well as my chiropractic degree, I have a post-graduate degree in sports chiropractic and I have worked closely with elite, professional and Olympic level athletes and their coach for the past 10 years. The long course women's triathlon World Champion, the previous Commonwealth Games champion and Olympic Silver Medalist have all been long term clients of mine in the recent past. I enjoy helping athletes of any level perform more efficiently and powerfully. My experience with western acupuncture, spinal stabilisation and core strengthening means I really enjoy helping out anyone with complicated or unresolved complaints that are still troubling them. It's really nice to be able to offer this level of care to those who live here and near-by. What are the primary reasons patients rely on chiropractic treatment for their health and well being? Great question, thank you. There is still quite a bit of misunderstanding in the community about what chiropractors do and why we do it. Sure, we are trained and experienced at attending to many of the common causes of back pain, neck pain and headaches, and as such these are often the reasons many clients first seek out chiropractic care. But also because a lot of what we do therapeutically as chiropractors is neuromechanical in nature we, as a natural effect of our treatment, remove a lot of unwanted (neural) tension from the body that has built up over time from our repetitive and often stressful lifestyles. The benefits of this are not only a better functioning spine, nervous system and body, but also many other positive effects, like sleeping better. By altering tone within the nervous
tune-up, all in one. This system, we allow not only We love all the seasons is why Usain Bolt has a our muscles but also our here and maybe naively, chiropractic check-up and brain to switch off more we are even looking adjustment literally minutes fully during sleep, so the forward to our second before he races. Peak quality of sleep improves. winter in the high performance relies on the This then results in more country, having rented in body working at its peak, energy and the ability of Armidale last year before and facilitating better functhe body to regulate and purchasing our new home tionality from a neuro-museven heal itself better. in Uralla. culoskeletal perspective is This in turn typically leads what chiropractors do best. to better overall health, That’s our niche market, in better posture and an many ways. increased ability to cope What are you loving most about living here, with our busy lifestyles. So those in the know rely and what are your plans for the future? on chiropractic care to help maintain and facilitate their vitality and physical wellbeing. We love all the seasons here and maybe What are the benefits of this treatment? naively, we are even looking forward to our Well, apart from less discomfort, better sleep, second winter in the high country, having rented better posture, a more efficient spine and body, in Armidale last year before purchasing our new better sports performance and more energy, one home in Uralla. We love the country lifestyle and of the other benefits to having a spine and body how friendly everyone has been in welcoming us that is functioning closer to its best is that when to this region. We love the good coffee and food the movement patterns and muscle tone of the in town and having recently completed building spine and body are improved, we see a mechanmy practice rooms, Beck and I are going to have ical unloading and improvement of the areas of some fun finishing off renovating this pretty the spine that are typically the first to show signs little house together. That, walking our loveable of premature osteoarthritis and degeneration dogs, Rolly and Lucy and some more exploring of especially the lower back and mid-cervical neck the diverse and spectacular natural parts of this regions. So ultimately you can think of chiropracbeautiful part of Australia. tic care like both an electronic and mechanical Thanks Col.
New England focus. 33
focusinterview.
James Day Visual Storytelling
Humble local professional photographer James Day has a true passion to tell people’s story visually through his works. New Englander Steph has a condition called Cone-Rod Dystrophy. When James took photos of her finding her wedding dress, this created not only a visual representation of the day, but a necessary descriptive editorial of it too.
J
ames, tell us how you came to do this job ... This story began for me on the 18th May 2008. I vividly remember the day when Steph got in touch to say that she wanted photos taken while she still had her vision. We took photos of Steph running through fields in a white summer dress as the sun shone. Fast forward to nearly 10 years later, and I find myself on the phone to Steph as she tells me she’s getting married and she would like to speak to me about photographing her wedding. When I was speaking with Steph, one thing that was very clear was that planning the wedding was going to be a rather unique experience for Steph. Steph explained to me that she wishes she went and tried on dresses while she still had her vision. She decided not to, as she didn’t want people to think she was strange. I think we are all guilty of not doing things because of what others may think. Steph has a condition called Cone-Rod Dystrophy. It’s a condition that first started affecting her when she was 19 years old, and over the last 13 years she’s gradually lost her vision. I very hesitantly asked, “May I ask how your vision is these days?” “I’ve lost the majority of my vision and I only see some shapes and shadows,” Steph replied. Going dress shopping, tell us how the day unfolded ... It’s now Tuesday morning. We jump in a 7-seater car. Rob (Steph’s partner) has the day off work, and he is chauffeuring us all to the first wedding dress shop, which is about a 30 minute drive. While Rob is driving us to the shop, he’s not allowed to join us, as Steph doesn’t want Rob seeing her in the dress she says yes to. Navigating the busy streets is 34 New England focus.
something Steph is able to do, but she also her mum in great detail what each dress was isn’t shy to ask if she can hold on to your like. I must say, they did an exceptional job. arm. When Steph did this to me, there was While they could explain the dress, it was up something quite intimate and special about it. to Steph’s entourage to help interpret Steph’s I actually felt quite privileged to be able to help vision for her dress. guide her down the street. With Steph’s mum having the same I imagine that most women have walked condition, the way she experienced the dress past a wedding dress shop and stared in was by walking up to Steph and touching the the window and critiqued what they saw. dress. Steph’s mum articulated so beautifully While we waited for the shop to open for what each dress was like. As I was listening to our 9am appointment, Steph’s brother, Cal, her describe the dress, I realised that she could described to her what he saw. Shopping for a see things that I couldn’t. Her touch senses wedding dress without vision is a little more were so heightened, that she was able to challenging. Steph explained to me that it describe things that the eyes couldn’t see. required all of her attention, as she did her Any final thoughts? best to gather up all the You may be information to help her wondering why I imagine how the dress wanted to photograph would look. someone dress shopping First, it starts with ... Not only do I care Shopping for a wedding dress walking up to the dress without vision is a little more to touch it, but luckily challenging. Steph explained Steph also had her friend to me that it required all and bridesmaid, Jess, by of her attention, as she did her side, who explained her best to gather up all every dress to her in great the information to help her detail. imagine how the dress would look. As Steph stood there patiently, she would wait for people to say something. Steph told me she was waiting for everyone to just say, “That’s the one”. However, Steph’s family and her bridesmaid were a little more reserved at times, as they waited for everyone to take in all the details. This brought on a little anxiousness in Steph. Eventually however, everyone would jump in and give their feedback based off what Steph said she was looking for. The pressure really was on the ladies in the dress shops to explain to Steph and
about Steph, but I also care about her story. To be able to help others get an insight into what her life is like is something that I want to be a part of. I also hold hope that one day she may be able to relive these moments if medicine progresses and they are able to restore her eye sight. We take photos to remember moments, but during this journey it’s got me thinking about the ways that photography can be experienced even when it’s not seen. The reason for sharing the explanation for each of the images is so that Steph can get an idea of what I saw in each of the images. Moments after I left to fly back to Sydney, the shop assistant asked Steph, “Will you say yes to the dress”? “Yes.” Now we’ll just have to wait and see which one she chose at her wedding in November. Thanks James.
New England focus. 35
focusinterview.
Popla is a new and exciting restaurant destination for foodies on the Coffs Coast. After the success of their first restaurant in Newtown, Sydney, the crew from Bloodwood have done the tree change to Bellingen and opened Popla. We spoke to Simon De Graaff, the restaurant manager, about what drew them to the area, their vision for the restaurant, and the locally sourced, house-made (and delicious) menu.
Popla
H
Bellingen
i Simon. Popla has a sister restaurant in Newtown, Sydney. With Bloodwood already being so successful, what made you decide to open another restaurant here on the Coffs Coast? Yes, the big sister is in Newtown and in her ninth year of service now and still going strong. The success of the Bloodwood story meant that we wanted to spread the good word a little further afield. The truth is, we had been toying around with the idea of another restaurant for a couple of years, but could never commit to a site because of all sorts of reasons. We found this little gem of a site through Mitchell (Head Chef, owner). He’s spent a number of summers up here in this part of the world with family and friends, enjoying what the Bellingen Shire and Coffs Coast have to offer. It’s a bit of a cliché, but the tree change was the driving motivation. Tell us a bit about the concept behind Popla; what do you hope to present to your customers? Popla’s concept is pretty simple. Good food, designed to share, house-made, with a focus on flavours from the fire and promoting local ingredients and Australian products including organic wines, leaning towards minimal intervention. It’s, again, built on the success of
36 New England focus.
the concept for our sister in Newtown. We found that having an easily adjustable menu for dietary requirements and having almost an entirely gluten free menu really helped us give our guests what they wanted and needed easily. We hope to bring an exciting and creative dining experience to a larger portion of the community, educating on the way about new flavours and ingredients. We know you source most of your produce locally; does that determine what ends up on the menu from season to season? Yes, sourcing produce as locally as possible, and adjusting the menu accordingly is what keeps us going as chefs and waiters. The excitement that comes with testing new products, ingredients, and seeing how we can bring that to the diner is what keeps the job fun and interesting. We also want to have some fun at the end of the day, and keeping things fresh and different is the best way to do that. Of course, the favourites are hard to change around, but most of us should know by now that eating a local, perfectly ripe tomato in peak season is a way better way to enjoy your food than eating out of season from the other side of the country. Your chefs do a lot of cooking on the original fireplace hearth. How does that differ to other cooking methods? We all think the fire adds that extra element
The excitement that comes with
testing new products, ingredients, and seeing how we can bring that to the diner is what keeps
- a depth of flavour and we’ve given the old girl, character. For the chefs it’s quite evident. We have it’s much more tactile kept the exterior as simple the job fun and interesting. and involved ... Watching as possible, in accordance constantly, adjusting fire with the heritage listing temps, maintaining a of the building, but when vegetarian grill in time you step inside - it’s a very with the meat grill. different story. There’s very At the end of the day, it’s really all about the contemporary street art on the walls by Georgia flavour; we’ve just added the key ingredient Hill. We’ve knocked out one of the kitchen FIRE. walls, so you can see the action, and there’s What is your personal favourite dish on the a generous bar to showcase our all Australian menu? spirits and wine list. It’s the light, bright, breezy, Why’d you have to ask that? If I had to say younger sister. just one, it’s going to be the dumpling. It’s a What are some of the challenges and re-invention of something Mitchy’s done before rewards of running a restaurant? on the Sydney menu. I say just “The Dumpling”, Oh, my. Challenges are many and various. because it’s been through a couple of changes The unpredictability of the small country town in since we’ve been on the ground in Bello. comparison to the big bustling city is obviously Whatever the filling, whether it be garlic prawn, a huge hurdle, as we are now setting up a salt cod, oxtail ragu, or kangaroo tail (which it restaurant in a holiday destination. The rewards is at the moment) it’s that bath of butter and come in the strangest moments - middle of gossamer-thin pastry that seals the deal for me. service on a Saturday night, when someone is The restaurant building is quite well known really understanding and enjoying what you do. in the area and has been a restaurant for Being around the best food in town is always many years. How have you put your own a bonus. The list goes on; you just gotta find stamp on it? someone who loves what they do. I think if you come and see the new face lift Thanks Simon.
hearing problems? Re-connect with your loved ones
As an Audiologist, Leanne Betterridge often sees people putting off having their hearing tested, until they feel that their “age” matches their view of “when it is acceptable to have a hearing loss”.
I
t is heart-breaking to listen to people recount their personal struggles, often lasting many years, without seeking help. People with a hearing loss tend to gradually change their lifestyle to reduce the need to hear what is being said. These people may stop listening to the radio, stop watching TV, stop going to meetings, stop going out with friends, even leaving their employment. Successful use of hearing aids and listening tactics can help to re-connect people with their friends and family, be less tired at the end of a day and participate in a wider range of listening activities. As social isolation can lead to feelings of sadness and even depression, it is important to find ways we can all stay connected. I have enjoyed over 20 years helping people get great outcomes with hearing devices. I have seen some wonderful changes in technology available to keep people connected. On one occasion a client came to see me after successfully using hearing aids
for a few weeks. They were excited about the improvement in their ability to participate in conversations and feel part of the social group again. Naturally, I was thrilled for them! What saddened me was their next comment that if only they could have heard like this years ago, they would not have had to leave their job! I hear many variations of this regret. Signs of hearing loss include: feeling left out of conversations and missing the punchline of jokes, avoiding social situations because trying to hear is exhausting and frustrating. This can all lead to social isolation and even depression. Top 10 reasons to seek medical advice about your ears; 1. A sudden drop in hearing. This should be treated as an emergency, seeking immediate medical attention. 2. Pain or discomfort in ears. Untreated middle ear problems can cause permanent hearing loss and even risk lives. 3. Discharge from ear canal.
4. Dizzy spells; when the world seems to spin, even though you are stationary. 5. A difference in hearing sensitivity between your two ears. 6. A severe blow to the head or ear. 7. Difficulty equalizing or “popping” ears by gently blowing with mouth and nose blocked. 8. Long standing sinus infections. 9. Tinnitus i.e. noises in the ear that no-one else can hear. 10. Gradual deterioration in hearing. Hearing loss is viewed by most people as embarrassing and eighty percent (80%)
of people with a hearing loss choose to do nothing about it. Be in the twenty percent (20%). Choose to be involved and maximise your hearing and improve your communication experiences. If you notice your quality of life changing because you have trouble understanding what is being said, or everyone sounds like they are mumbling, please seek hearing support and advice. Phone Hearing New England Pty Ltd on (02) 6788 2211 for an appointment to discuss these issues.
New England focus. 37
with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343
May 2018
AQUARIUS.
TAURUS.
LEO.
JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19
APRIL 21 - MAY 21
JULY 24 - AUGUST 23
Your inner strength has been challenged lately. Now is the perfect time to set some new goals for a positive future. You will enjoy some newfound talents and friends. By walking fearlessly into your future, you will discover even more personal strength. Herderite helps us to see our evolution thus making it less of a challenge.
Your soul is calling out for your attention. Listen to your needs. Some personal nurturing is required. Release other people’s stress and problems, as these weigh you down. Set some personal goals and enjoy what is about to befall you. GOOD LUCK! Tourmaline amplifies your inner peace, playful inner child energy and settles restlessness.
Goal setting at this time will benefit you mostly. New beginnings are at hand, so make the most of this creating time. You can have what you want, but you need to know this. Give yourself permission to receive your wish, and enjoy it when it gets here. Turquoise and Rose Quartz will enhance your loving charisma.
VIRGO.
GEMINI.
PISCES.
AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23
MAY 22 - JUNE 22
FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20
Your emotions have been a little over sensitive lately as you have begun a cycle of self-discovery, where you will be letting go of a lot of passed hurt. Try to recognise all of your insecurities, so you can release them and their influence from your sphere of existence. Rose Quartz attracts us towards loving experiences.
Balance and equilibrium are about to enter your picture. Justice will be granted; you will have a positive outcome regarding a legal matter, but you can expect a series of delays first. Good news will be given soon. Tiger Eye helps to maintain a sense of balance and direction.
You are currently involved in a cycle of family or group healing. Listen to your words of wisdom, as these words will contain your own answers. Removing any prejudices or judgements will assist you further. Look for the outcome of your magical words. Azeztulite allows us to explore alternate realities comfortably.
SCORPIO. OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22
You are entering a new cycle, with lots of excitement and laughter. At first your fears and insecurities will surface but if you claim them and heal them, nothing will hinder your progress. If you treat them light heartedly, they will be transformed into new strengths. Snowflake Obsidian is wonderful for shattering negative thoughts.
SAGITTARIUS. NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21
A gift is about to be bestowed upon you. This was your creation through a wish made several months ago. Now all you need to do is get out of the way and let heaven help you. Romance and passion are likely to be a major influence over the next few months. Sugilite would be of great benefit at this time, as it helps us face our challenges with a joyful outlook.
ARIES.
CANCER.
LIBRA.
CAPRICORN.
MARCH 21 - APRIL 20
JUNE 23 - JULY 23
SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23
DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20
You are about to embark on a journey. For some this will be literal, for others, an inward journey of self discovery. During this time, you will make new friends and acquaintances who will mirror your lessons in life perfectly. Carnelian helps us take active steps towards change.
I am
You have answers to other people’s dilemmas. This is because you have a cosmic understanding of life. You are a natural teacher and other people are drawn to you, because they know you have their answers. Don’t be afraid to speak; just be aware of your motive. Phenacite helps us to release other people’s worries from our energies.
The world is your oyster. You will soon be finishing off old business ties and making ways for new opportunities, so be prepared. Some new friends are entering the picture, which is why old relationships are fading away. Words need to be spoken to clear some old issues. Speak from the heart. Topaz strengthens our self esteem and brings personal power to situations surrounding us.
I am
YOUYOU
could be could be
at
we are
at
we are
PLC PLC ARMIDALE ARMIDALE
38 New England focus.
Choice is upon you. Your talents have been activated, which will wake up new gifts. Some direction is needed now, so you will be ready for the perfect opportunity. Deep inside you have your own answers, but unfortunately you are lacking the confidence to listen. Trust in your sensitivity and psychic ability, as this is never wrong. Rhodonite helps us to discover new talents in the workplace.
ALL GIRLSALL PRE-KINDER GIRLS PRE-KINDER TO YEAR TO 12. YEAR 12. BOARDING BOARDING FROM YEAR FROM 5. YEAR 5.
plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au 02 6770 02 1700 6770 1700
Educating successful Educatingwomen successful of tomorrow women ofintomorrow a Christian in environment a Christian environme
IN ALLIANCE IN ALLIANCE WITH PLCWITH SYDNEY PLC SYDNE
FOCUS distributes 12,000 copies every month across the New England - via our home delivery and direct to businesses. If you happen to miss out on one at home, or are visiting from out of town, then please visit one of our outlets by the 10th of the month to grab your free copy. OUR OUTLETS • • • •
•
Nevilles Store, 201 Brown St, Armidale Moxons Bakery, 2/36 Marsh Street Armidale Carrs Newsagency, 170 Beardy St, Armidale Richardsons Home Timber, 5-7 Bundarra Rd, Amidale Lynches Rd IGA Store, Beardy St Armidale
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Rafters Guyra, 87 Malpas St, Guyra High Country Wholefoods, 120 Bradley Street, Guyra Visitor Info Centre, 135 Rusden Street, Armidale FOCUS OFFICE, Beardy Street, Armidale
Elders Insurance. FOCUS chats to Marriott Smash Repairs and The Armidale Golf Club to hear how great Elders really is, straight from the customer’s mouth ... “Marriott Smash Repairs have been working with Elders Insurance New England for 20 years, and couldn’t be happier. Their staff are always friendly, courteous, and make sure that they find solutions to our needs whenever required. We are proud of the business relationship we have with Elders Insurance New England and look forward to continuing to work with them into the future.” “We are proud to say that Elders Insurance New England have been the Armidale Golf Club insurers for nearly 10 years. When you have a damaging storm come through right on Christmas, you don’t really expect your Insurance Agent to go above and beyond to help you out. But this is exactly what Ben Page did. Damage on our Golf Course was assessed and repairs were quickly under way. The claim was an unusual one, but Ben was able to get things through quickly and with little fuss. Elders Insurance New England is now one of the Armidale Golf Club’s bigger sponsors.” For insurance, it’s obvious where to go; give Elders Insurance New England a call.
FOCUS can also be found at selected hotels, resorts and motels in the New England. Missed a copy?
You can find EVERY edition of FOCUS online on our bookshelf at www.issuu.com/focus.mag
OUR REACH
GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
New England focus. 39
focusinterview.
Austockphoto Claire Bonnor and Kassandra Hunt
Claire Bonnor and Kassandra Hunt are the founders of Austockphoto: the first 100% Australian, 100% royalty free stock photography library, described by some as a "game changer" for the industry. The library is a source for local Aussie imagery that feels familiar and authentic, structured to ensure photographers are paid fairly for their work.
T
ell us a little about your business and why you started it ... Eleven years prior to launching Austockphoto, we founded Sydney design agency Boheem, in 2004. Throughout our years as designers we would regularly find ourselves trawling the pages of international stock libraries, a process we found increasingly frustrating, as our clients’ demand for true-tolife Australian photography grew. What began as a nagging frustration soon became glaringly obvious: it was almost impossible to find stock photography that truly reflected Australian life. Sure, there were images of kangaroos and Aussie flags, but that stuff is for tourists. Where were the everyday moments, the familiar faces, the bright skies, the beach, the bush? Australian brands have been trying to share Australian stories with their Australian audiences using off-shore photography for way too long - something had to be done! Kass, tell us a little about yourself and why you made the move to the New England region. As our design business reached its 10th year, I was juggling managing clients, staff and Sydney life with the demands of a young family, and I felt like I needed a (big) change. Less than 12 months later, Matt (my partner) and I had sold our house in Sydney’s Inner West, bought a caravan, packed-up the kids and hit the road, ready to embark on the iconic Australian "big lap". We used our time on the road to meet with photographers from far and wide and spread the Austockphoto word. 40 New England focus.
Fast forward 10 months, and our adventure was cut short after our car engine "died", leaving us stranded in regional Western Australia. After discovering it could be months before we were back on the road, Australian brands have we returned to Armidale, been trying to share We were recently our hometown, to regroup Australian stories voted the Coolest and plan our next move. with their Australian Startup Company It turns out a tree change audiences using offin Australia by was the answer, and for shore photography for Anthill Magazine! now we’re here to stay, way too long - something Austockphoto has enjoying life back in the had to be done! been built by the hard New England! work and dedication With such big names as of our small team and Shutterstock and Getty of course, the 200+ Images in today's world, enormously talented photographers who what sets Austockphoto apart? contribute to the collection. The international stock photo libraries curate It was very encouraging to everyone involved their collections without really understanding to receive such a "cool" award and official what everyday life in Australia looks like. These recognition. images are often popular clichés directed more What has been the biggest challenge towards tourists and our export market. The starting up a business like this? Australia that we know and love is uniquely There have been endless challenges growing diverse, with much more culture, history and Austockphoto to where it is today. Technical depth. challenges with the development and ongoing The library is 100% curated by us. Working maintenance of the website, logistical as designers for over 15 years, we are challenges managing so many photographers essentially our own end customer; this gives us and images, time and financial challenges. pretty good insight into what local clients are The biggest task ahead of us now is looking for! convincing Australian designers, marketing We also have a personal connection between managers, creatives and businesses to look Australian businesses and our photographers, beyond the big name libraries and support something which the larger international our collection. We believe a change in trends libraries are unable to offer. to "buy local" will benefit not only local We hear that you recently won a huge photographers, but the wider Australian creative industry. accolade - tell us about it!
Do you only have Australian photographers as your contributors? Our criteria is that the images need to be shot in Australia. Permanent residents and people who visit Australia regularly are welcome to apply; what we really hope for is for all contributors to be an engaged member of our community and make a point of uploading new images on a fairly regular basis. What's next for Austockphoto? We have an endless list of grand plans! We’re still on a mission to add more and more engaging and beautiful content to the library, so that visitors to the site will have plenty of options to choose from. We are aware that the demand for video is increasing, and intend to add video sometime in the near future. There are so many fantastic opportunities for Austockphoto to grow and for Australian brands to benefit; the great southern sky’s the limit! If someone wants to get involved, what do they need to do? Interested photographers can head to: austockphoto.com.au/calling-photographers and fill out the form to share your portfolio of work with us. We love hearing from new people and review applications every three months. Thanks Kass.
Business Minds
with Ingrid Rothe of VIVID Thinking
Brett Campbell LASER ELECTRICAL ARMIDALE
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ell us a little about yourself. My family moved here when I was about four. My father was a local insurance agent, so I grew up in Armidale. I did my electrical apprenticeship at the local hospital; this was great training in all things domestic and commercial. After completing my apprenticeship, I left for the great adventure in WA, where I worked for a couple of years in the mining industry north of Kalgoorlie. In fact, I would say I grew up there, going there as a 20-year-old man and coming back somewhat more of a man at 22. After returning, I worked for various companies in Armidale and then travelled for a year throughout the UK and Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Meeting people from different backgrounds and religions was a life-changing experience. Before having children, my wife, Carol, and I travelled extensively for a couple of years before coming home via Asia. We then settled down, mostly because Carol said we had to. We have three kids: Jenna, 21; Tom, 19; and Jack, 17. Jenna and Tom are at university, and Jack is in Year 12. And starting your business? I started my own business in the early ‘90s, as Brett Campbell Electrical. We then grew, rebranding eight years ago as New England Electrical. What does Laser Electrical Armidale do? We do both commercial and domestic electrical work, although the majority of our
Introducing Brett Campbell of Laser Electrical Armidale, formerly New England Electrical. From starting out as an electrical apprentice at the Armidale Hospital, Brett is now an employer with three tradies, three apprentices and an office manager on his team.
work is domestic-based. Some of the bigger businesses in the Laser Group have national clients, so for example we could now also look after Coles in Armidale on behalf of another Laser business. We’re doing a lot of solar now for both ourselves and a lot of companies out of town. It’s such a great way for people to save money on their electricity bills - it leaves a great green legacy. Why the switch to Laser Electrical? We joined the group two years ago, after we were recommended to the Laser Group by another business in town. We were approached by the State Manager, who flew up from Sydney. We were very cautious at first, but after just one meeting, they won us over. Since joining, they have made us a more efficient and accountable business, thanks in large part to their digital systems and support. We use an app for every job, which is much more efficient for our clients and our business. We do make a big point of telling our clients that we are not playing on our phones, but in fact we are doing our jobs, and saving time and money. What is the secret to your success? We’ve stood the test of time, and I think the reason is simply that we try. We try to do the right things by our clients, to give the right advice, and to do the job properly. We focus on being respectful in how we treat our clients and their homes. Joining Laser with their “totally dependable” mission statement has proven to be really nice fit for
us. Do your homework, check your market, What were your biggest challenges and get advice form other business people. starting out? After my experience with Laser, I’d recommend My biggest challenge was building a looking into a group which provides business clientele, through word of mouth, and training and administrative tools and support. advertising. For me, the camaraderie I’ve found within the What is your favourite part of running group has been invaluable. I would have only your own business? one word of caution: make Definitely our customers, meeting sure you share the same new people every day, values. and doing the right Where to from here? thing by them. It’s I’d like to consolidate We’ve stood the test of time, very satisfying, making and I think the reason is what we do, and I’m their work with us an simply that we try. We try looking forward to industry enjoyable experience. to do the right things developments, as well as I have always found by our clients, to give building on what we are that the simple task the right advice, and of cleaning up after learning with Laser. to do the job properly. ourselves makes people You are exceptionally happy. well-travelled; what kept As a small business you in Armidale? owner, what I’m often asked of all qualities have you the countries I’ve visited, where would I like to found the most useful? live most. My answer is always the same. The I genuinely like people, meeting people, only place I can imagine bringing up a family hearing about their lives and their life experience, their travels. I love developing a in is Australia. I can’t imagine a better town more personal relationship with our clients. than Armidale. There are so many wonderful, What inspires you? interesting people in this town, who have been My family first and foremost, followed by very good for and to us. Being able to raise a the need to do a good job and get rewarded family in this town is quite unique: having a for it. I’m happy living a nice if sometimes university in town makes kids think they can boring life. go to uni, and the schools are second to none. Any advice for a business just starting out? Thanks Brett. New England focus. 41
focuseditorial.
Nine Steps to reduce winter air pollution
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Armidale Regional Council residents are being asked to help improve winter air quality by checking their firewood heaters, chimneys and the quality of the firewood they are collecting.
s we move well into autumn, young children and frail older people. There is now is the time to start also evidence that smoke pollution can cause thinking about your firewood cardiac problems. heater, any maintenance on But we can all help reduce the amount of your chimney you need to woodsmoke pollution this winter by using aged complete and the collection dry wood and running our heaters properly. or purchase of quality dry timber. Temperatures Some simple steps to reduce woodsmoke are also starting to drop, and you may be lighting pollution are: your wood fire heater for • Don’t let your heater the first time this year. The smoulder overnight - keep incorrect use of wood fire enough air in the fire to heaters can seriously affect maintain a flame. our air quality. Council is also looking at • Burn only dry, aged Before using your wood implementing real time hardwood in your wood air quality monitoring fire heater, clean your heater. Unseasoned wood devices in Armidale by chimney of any build-up has lots of moisture, which introducing purple air of creosote and collect or causes a fire to smoke. monitors, with real time purchase good quality aged • Store your wood under results being able to be viewed hardwood. cover in a dry, ventilated via the ‘purple air’ website. On colder days, area. Freshly cut wood woodsmoke particles from needs to be stored for inefficient heaters float in at least eight to twelve months. the air and can be seen as • Never burn rubbish, a smoke haze that sometimes sits over built up driftwood or painted or treated wood. These are areas. This sort of pollution can be bad for our sure to pollute the air and can produce poisonous health. gases. Woodsmoke can cause breathing difficulties, • When lighting a cold heater, use plenty of dry especially for people suffering existing respiratory kindling to establish a good fire quickly. conditions, such as asthmatics, and for very 42 New England focus.
• Use several small logs, rather than one large log and stack them loosely in your heater, so air can circulate around them. Don’t cram the firebox full. • Keep the flame lively and bright. Your fire should only smoke when you first light it and when you add extra fuel. Open the air controls fully for 5 minutes before and 15 to 20 minutes after reloading the heater. • Check your chimney regularly to see how well your fire is burning. If there is smoke coming from the chimney, increase the air supply to your fire. • Have the chimney cleaned every year to prevent build-up. It’s the responsibility of all wood heater owners to follow these easy steps and minimise the harmful effects of smoke pollution on their neighbours and the community. Council is also looking at implementing real time air quality monitoring devices in Armidale by introducing purple air monitors, with real time results being able to be viewed via the “purple air” website. For information on how to use your wood heater better, contact Armidale Regional Council on 1300 136 833 or visit www. armidaleregional.nsw.gov.au or the EPA website at www.epa.nsw.gov.au/woodsmoke
thinking same sex marriage
W I T H E L I Z A B E T H D . S TA H L U T ( S O L I C I T O R )
thinking
same sex marriage
U
nder the Marriage have their future needs considered as part of a Amendment (Definition final adjustment of property interests. and Religious Freedoms) Marriage can and does affect rights under a Act 2017, the definition of Will or a trust, so it is very worthwhile to seek marriage was changed from legal advice about the effects that marriage ‘a man and a woman’ to ‘2 people’ voluntarily will have, on your entitlements, if you are entering into a union for life, to the exclusion contemplating getting married. It is also of all others. This means that marriage is no worth getting legal advice, if you are thinking longer restricted to heterosexual couples. of protecting individual assets, by entering This also means that into a Binding Financial same sex marriages that Agreement, either in have occurred overseas contemplation of a can now be recognised marriage or a divorce. This also means that same sex in Australia, in the same marriages that have occurred As the amendments way as has been the overseas can now be recognised case for heterosexual to the Marriage Act in Australia, in the same marriages. This also 1961 only occurred way as has been the case for means that people in late last year, it may heterosexual marriages. This also a same sex marriage be a while before the means that people in a same can now seek a divorce impacts of the change sex marriage can now in the same way that are fully understood, seek a divorce in the same heterosexual couples within the community. It way that heterosexual have been entitled to couples have been has also been necessary divorce, in the event of a entitled to divorce, in the to enact changes to marriage breakdown. event of a marriage breakdown. other legislation, both Other impacts of the to give practical effect change in the law mean to the changes in the that the Family Law Act Marriage Act, as well 1975 now applies to as to ensure that the same safeguards under same sex couples where there is a need to consider property settlements and parenting issues, in the event of a marriage breakdown. Previously, same sex marriages could not be recognised under Australian law under the Family Law Act 1975. This meant that same sex couples in NSW had to have their property settlement issues dealt with as a de facto relationship under the Property (Relationships) Act 1984. As the Property (Relationships) Act 1984 does not take into account the future needs of a party as a consideration in a property settlement, same sex couples could suffer disadvantage in the event of a relationship breakdown compared to heterosexual couples, who could choose to have their settlement dealt with under the Family Law Act 1975 and
anti-discrimination and other legislation are maintained, and to avoid conflicts in the legislation itself. Whether you are in a heterosexual or same sex relationship, it is important to seek legal advice, about the effects of marriage or divorce and any related issues, such as the care of children, property settlement and rights and expectations under a Will or a trust. A lawyer can give you legal advice and assistance to help you negotiate a path through what can be a complex (but hopefully joyful) time in life. Talk to us You’ll be inspired! Elizabeth D Stahlut Solicitor New England focus. 43
UNE OPEN DAY
Friday 11 May 2018 Check out our courses, meet lecturers and get a feel for campus life. Friday is your day to ask lots of questions, explore the UNE campus and ďŹ nd out everything you need to know about going to university.
une.edu.au/openday University of New England CRICOS Provider Number 00003G 44 New England focus.