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new england

Feature Story Steve Jackson

June 2018. issue 133

ALLINGHAM

1 new england focus.

R EMOVA LS

Years

THE ULTIMATE

RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE S

IN G L EL

! W NO

G E ED A ST AS W ELE E N R T US

217 TAYLOR STREET, ARMIDALE

89 MARTIN STREET, ARMIDALE

Our gated retirement communities provide a carefree lifestyle with your comfort and security in mind. To learn more about Oak Tree Retirement Villages call Kate Pigram today on 1300 367 155 or email kate.pigram@oaktreegroup.com.au 2 New England focus. 155 1300 367

www.oaktreegroup.com.au

focus_ team.

team From the

Welcome to the June edition of New England FOCUS.

inter is officially here, so get out your thermals and beanies and rug up, because it’s going to be a cold one! Rest assured this edition of FOCUS is packed full of entertaining things to read while you’re curled up by the fire. We are sending all our love and thoughts to Tracy and Greg, while Tracy battles cancer. A big shout out to CANassist, who have been so generous already to help Tracy with her medication needs. Cancer is an expensive disease, so every little bit of help, helps. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. ON THE COVER This month FOCUS is proud to celebrate Allingham’s 50th year anniversary! The harsh reality of business is that many fail within the first five years, so it’s great to see not just any old business but a family run business succeed for 50 years. We at FOCUS congratulate them and wish them all the best for 50 more years of successful trading!

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INSIDE THIS EDITION We’ve packed this edition full of stories for you, so let’s jump in and have a look at what we’ve got. Every year for the past four years the Pathfinders Pumpkin Run has travelled to Sydney from Armidale to deliver tonnes of pumpkins to those in need. This year, the non-profit has accumulated over 10 tonnes of pumpkin to give to the needy. We get the low down on this year’s harvest and a recap from 2017. Peter Hooper talks to FOCUS about his 46 years as a firefighter and how it all began at the age of 16, chasing grass fires to help the local firefighters put out the blaze. ”The Captain at the time, Gordon Black, would spot me there quite often, so he asked if I wanted to come and work with them. I was already there helping out all the time, so it sounded pretty good to me”. We sit down with Melissa and Shane, who’ve started Buddha Belly Kitchen here in Armidale. They’ve created a smart street food experience for the public during the region’s market days and have been

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warming the bellies of hungry customers. FOCUS got the inside scoop on the new retirement village being opened up on Taylor Street by Oak Tree. Feedback from the first group of locals to visit the new site was overwhelmingly positive. The first twelve homes in this exciting new community will be ready for the first residents to move into by August. Find out more about this amazing new retirement village inside! FINAL SAY Once again we’d like to ask you to keep our fearless leader in your thoughts and prayers as Tracy battles on. This publication is her baby and wouldn’t be what it is today without her. We’ll leave you with this quote that many of us can find great meaning in: “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go” - T. S. Eliot.

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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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New England focus. 3

Steve Jackson.

Caiti Baker.

Sassy Songstress Caiti Baker is one of the must see talents on this year's Bello Winter Festival bill. FOCUS chatted to Caiti about her love of music, influences and her upcoming performance.

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From cards to marbles, 45 vinyl to guitars, Steve Jackson has always been a collector. His passion for collecting has led him to collect one of Australia’s classics, the FB - EK Holden. FOCUS takes a ride with Steve, who tell us about his journey ...

16 21

Peter Hooper.

FOCUS talks to Peter Hooper, as he recalls his 46 years as a firefighter ...

issue inside this

Issue 133 - June 2018

Regulars 12. WHAT’S ON JUNE 28. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN 46. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE / JAMES TAYLOR

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Stay connected at 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, refurbished facilities and the security of village life close to shops, medical centres and public transport. Some of the perks at Newling Gardens • Refurbished community centre • Heated indoor pool • Pet-friendly • Gym, library & more!

For further information, call Jeremy on 0401 508 801 retireaustralia.com.au/newlinggardens

Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm Villas selling now!

173 Taylor Street, Armidale

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Steve Jackson From cards to marbles, 45 vinyl to guitars, Steve Jackson has always been a collector. HIS PASSION FOR COLLECTING HAS LED HIM TO COLLECT ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S CLASSICS, THE FB-EK HOLDEN. FOCUS takes a ride with Steve, who tells us about his journey ...

o begin, tell us a little about yourself ... My family originally came from out of the shire; we lived in Jannali NSW, and I was born in Caringbah Hospital in 1959. My parents moved my three sisters and I out to a country town called St Marys in Jan 1966. It was great out there in the countryside, surrounded by bush, rounding up turtles and Frilled Neck and Blue Tongue lizards. Neither Dad nor Mum drove, so we never had a car. I certainly over-compensated for that in my early teens. I had ten EH Holdens by 17 and subsequently became one of the founding members on the Holden EH Car Club of NSW in the mid ‘70s. In 1970, the next door neighbour, who worked in a car yard on Parramatta Rd (Auto Alley) Des Frawley would bring home a different trade-in every couple of days. His younger brothers and I used to wait for Des to go to bed, grab the keys

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and play in the cars, without touching the horn. One evening, a 1960 Holden FB sedan arrived in the driveway, a beautiful dark green with a light green side flash and chrome divide along the doors and the rear guard (later dubbed the budgie wing). This car left a lasting impression on me as an eleven year old. For those who may not know about them, describe the FB-EK ... The FB was released on Jan 14, 1960, after being delayed from an intended November 1959 launch. Like the FE-FC, the previous models styled off the ’55 Chev, the FB resembled the next General Motors shape 1956 1957 Chevrolet with the long rear fins of the rear and the wraparound windscreens. Holden appeared to be a few years behind the Chev shapes. The Holden EK continued Holden’s cosmetic redress, releasing a new model utilising the same body shape, with chrome and interior variation. Holden’s biggest engineering facelift came with the release of Holden’s first automatic car, with

the EK’s introduction on May 2nd, 1961. The Hydramatic (auto) transmission was a big hit, especially with the female drivers, who were increasingly adding to the demand for cars on Australian roads. What is it about the EK that you think makes it such an iconic Australia car? Many Australians received their delivery of milk, bread or mail (PMG) and electricity commissions using an FB or EK. Some may have had a ride in an FB or EK police car or ambulance, resulting in a good or sad experience. The Australian Defence Force commissioned Holden FB-EKs; so too did many government entities, such as the Forestry Commission and the Snowy Mountains Hydro Scheme. The exposure to these fabulous models extended to many overseas countries, due to Holden exporting, including New Zealand, Hawaii, South Africa, Iraq, Iran, Greece, Hong Kong, Singapore and many more. How many items have you collected over the

years? What started me as a collector … I would say my passion for collecting started when I was four years of age, collecting bottle tops in 1965. Rugby league cards 1966, Krazy Kricket cards 1967. I went on to marbles 1968, 45 records 1969, Holden cars 1974 then guitars 1975 (which is a whole new story). The Holden FB and EK collecting passion being a family obsession; there are and have been many rare Holdens in the stable. Do you have any limited editions or special model Holdens; what makes them so special? Donna Jackson’s Holden EK Premier Prototype, in metallic iridescent gold, is the pinnacle of the collection - this super rare car supports evidences of having three lives with General Motors Holden. Test Track Prototype: the Golden Holden’s first life was as a test car for the new shape and Holden’s new automatic - the Hydramatic transmission. Telltale signs include the late

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we have recently found a Desert Glow / Sandstone Beige out back of the Royal Café in Walcha.

THIS SHOULD PROVE TO BE A LENGTHY AND CHALLENGING RESTORATION AND COMPLETE KEN’S JOURNEY BACK TO THE ‘60’S. With Ken and I working on

these early cars together over the past few years, we have revived a few 1960 FB beauties.

addition of a chassis number, non factory production line build, tall breather snorkel for the automatic gearbox fitted pre the water bath testing at Holden’s test track at Lang Lang. The testing of the use This was the Holden By 1960 Holden had of multiple carburetion styling prototype of the captured 50% of wasn’t seen on a Holden soon to be “Premier” Australia’s car market; production model until for the next model therefore the Holden FB and the release of the X2 HD the EJ. The Premier EK total production exceeded Holden. EJ features included 320,000 vehicles. With The Golden EK Holden metallic paint, door this type of exposure, many was the first appearance armrests, bucket front people had come into contact on a Holden of power seats in leather, washer with an FB or an EK. assisted steering, preceding wipers, dual horns, its release on the odd rare radio, heater demister, EJ. The Golden Holden white wall tyres, boot also has a tow bar for the fifth wheel used on light and glove box light, etc. The Golden EK the test track, without any evidence of a trailer Holden went further, with outrageous Candy connection to enable lights and indicators. Cane trim, Golf Ball roof lining, power assisted General Managing Directors Car: the second steering, multiple carburetion. life for the Golden Holden was after EK May 3rd What are you currently working on? 1961, when it was registered with the number A new team - a few years back Ken Peter plate GMH-000 (reserved for Harlow W Gage, approached me to help assist him in finding Managing Director of General Motors Holden). another Holden FB in Desert Glow (pink)

and Sandstone Beige (Magenta), the same colour scheme Ken had in the mid 1960s as a youngster. I did assist Ken in finding an FB, though in reverse colours (Sandstone Beige/ Desert Glow) which Ken has been proudly driving around town. However, we have recently found a Desert Glow/Sandstone Beige out back of the Royal Café in Walcha. This should prove to be a lengthy and challenging restoration and complete Ken’s journey back to the ‘60s. With Ken and I working on these early cars together over the past few years, we have revived a few 1960 FB beauties. A two tone Sherwood and Colleen Green FB sedan (the same as Des Frawley’s FB, that left a lasting impression back in 1970) and a Wedgwood Blue and Cathay Grey FB sedan (both extremely rare colours). The two have since found homes and proved to be a labour of love. Our new projects are

a gorgeous Grecian White and Apache Red flash FB Wagon from Deepwater and a rare EK 215 Standard sedan ex Government COA (Commonwealth of Australia) factory Black. Any advice for the budding collectors out there? In offering tips to those interested in preserving or rejuvenating or to the last resort of restoring an old car, the key is it try to retain the originality - historical cars’ DNA, if you like - without making an old car better than they were new and erasing its history and integrity. Finding what is labelled today as a “Barn Find”; if it has the factory paint and is in liveable condition or better, the more valuable the car should be. I’m always happy to offer assistance in saving an old FB or EK Holden: Steve Jackson 0417 202 073. Thanks Steve. New England focus. 7

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Oak Tree Group

are delighted to announce the commencement of our second retirement village on Taylor Street, Armidale.

riday the 20th and Saturday the 21st of April saw the very first “Hard Hat Tours” at our newest Retirement Village offering in Taylor Street. The tours were a remarkable success, with many locals in attendance as the first to receive guided tours of our brandnew villas. The first twelve villas and the well-appointed Village Centre are set to be formally opened later this year. Feedback from this first group of locals to visit the new site was overwhelmingly positive. The village’s quiet location within the city was highly appealing. Also attracting positive comment were the neighbouring open parklands, the Community Garden and a nearby off-leash area for those wanting to exercise their dogs. The Village Centre also presents as a wonderful feature of living at Oak Tree Taylor Street, with beautiful wide north-east facing verandahs overlooking the Village Bowling Green. “There was a genuine sense of excitement from those who toured over the two days for what this brand-new village is going to look like when completed,” Area Manager, Kate Pigram said. Managing Director, Mark Bindon, stated that Oak Tree has continued to expand in NSW after recognising the need for quality 8 New England focus.

independent living options in regional We are committed to centres across the state. providing affordable “It became clear living options to give to us, just as it has “Importantly, seniors the ability to enjoy the in many other cases we deliver these many benefits that come with when we have been communities in regional retirement living evaluating regional centres close to shops, towns for development, medical facilities and that Armidale and other amenities for the the outlying areas of convenience of our the New England region are starved of the residents,” Mr Bindon concluded. infrastructure required to service seniors as Ideally positioned, the Taylor Street Village they age. is conveniently located in close proximity Far too often we see seniors having to to the City Centre and only a short walk to leave the towns they have grown up in, galleries, cafés and the local Conservatorium lived and worked in all their lives to seek of Music. When living in an Oak Tree alternative medical and age friendly living Community, seniors have access to a carefree options in bigger cities, simply because their lifestyle, the security of a gated community regional townships cannot accommodate and the companionship of like-minded their needs. neighbours at a similar stage of life. This sees regional towns stripped of their The Taylor Street village will comprise just history, wealth and community spirit, which forty-four villas and will be the first boutique we find sad and unnecessary,” Mark said. development of its kind for the city. Each villa “We are committed to providing will be built with quality fixtures, fitting and affordable living options to give seniors the appliances, ducted air conditioning, spacious ability to enjoy the many benefits that come bathrooms with walk-in showers and fullwith retirement living. Low maintenance sized open plan kitchen and living area. lifestyles, companionship, security and homes The Village Centre will be available for and facilities which are age friendly and the use of residents and will incorporate a designed to help seniors live independently beautifully appointed lounge and library, for longer are our focus. including fireplace, an open plan hall to host

social activities and events, as well as a craft room, gym, hair dressing salon, bowling green and outdoor BBQ and entertainment areas. Residents will also have access to the service of a village bus, with scheduled trips and regular visits to the central business district. There are many advantages in making the move to an Oak Tree Retirement Village. As a resident living with Oak Tree, you have comfort in knowing that your village is registered and operates in accordance with the Retirement Villages Act in your State. Oak Tree removes the burden of home maintenance by taking care of the gardening, upkeep of each home and all village communal areas, giving retirees more time to enjoy what life has to offer. The first twelve homes in this exciting new community will be ready for the first residents to move into by August, and right now Oak Tree are speaking to excited locals about the next steps for making the move. To make arrangements to inspect the plans or for more detailed information, call Kate Pigram today on 0407 333 453 or email kate.pigram@oaktreegroup.com.au

WIN A 7 NIGHT GREAT BARRIER REEF CRUISE ON BOARD P&O ARIA! SPEND $50 ACROSS SPECIALTIES OR $100 AT MAJOR STORES IN ONE DAY.

WIN A CRUISE HOLIDAY

SIMPLY ATTACH YOUR RECEIPTS TO AN ENTRY FORM AND PLACE IN THE BARREL, LOCATED NEAR THE TRAVELATOR. SUPPORTED BY

SHOP BETWEEN 14 - 29 JUNE TO WIN*

*TERMS AND CONDITIONS: AU RESIDENTS 18+ ONLY, WHO ARE/BECOME ARMIDALE CENTRAL (CENTRE) MAILING LIST MEMBER & WHO CAN TAKE MAJOR PRIZE 9-16/11/18. DURING CENTRE OPENING HOURS FROM 9AM 14/6/18 TO 2PM ON 29/6/18, SPEND, IN 1 DAY, $50 OR MORE AT PARTICIPATING SPECIALTY RETAILER/S OR $100 OR MORE AT PARTICIPATING MAJOR RETAILER/S. ELIGIBLE TRANSACTIONS EXCLUDE CIGARETTE/TOBACCO/LIQUOR, ONLINE/ LAYBY/MEDICAL/UTILITY PAYMENTS, BANK TRANSACTIONS & ATM/CASH WITHDRAWALS. ON SAME DAY VISIT CUSTOMER SERVICE DESK, PRESENT RECEIPT/S & FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS TO CONFIRM/SIGN UP AS MAILING LIST MEMBER & SUBMIT ENTRY. PARTICIPATING RETAILERS: ALL SPECIALTY AND MAJOR RETAILERS. MAX 1 ENTRY PER PERSON PER DAY. CENTRE RETAILER STAFF CAN’T ENTER. KEEP ORIGINAL RECEIPT/S. DRAW: 3PM ON 29/6/18 AT CENTRE MANAGEMENT OFFICE. 1 PRIZE: TRIP FOR 2 ON THE P&O ARIA – BARRIER REEF DISCOVERY CRUISE A841, INCLUDES RETURN FLIGHTS ARMIDALE - BRISBANE, UP TO $3,544. SEE WWW.ARMIDALECENTRAL.COM.AU ON 29/6/18 FOR WINNER. ENTRANTS WILL GET FUTURE MARKETING FROM PROMOTER. SEE CUSTOMER SERVICE DESK/CENTRE WEBSITE FOR FULL CONDITIONS INC. PRIVACY STATEMENT. PROMOTER: VICINITY CENTRES PM PTY LTD (ABN 96 101 504 045) AS DISCLOSED AGENT FOR CENTRE OWNERS, LVL 4, CHADSTONE TOWER ONE, 1341 DANDENONG RD, CHADSTONE 3148. PERMIT: NSW LTPS/18/23958. New England focus. 9

focusinterview.

Buddha Belly K I T C H E N

Starting a new business is tricky at the best of times. Meet Melissa and Shane, who’ve started the Buddha Belly Kitchen in Armidale. CREATING A SMART STREET FOOD EXPERIENCE FOR THE PUBLIC DURING THE REGION’S MARKET DAYS, MELLY AND SHANE HAVE BEEN WARMING THE BELLIES OF HUNGRY CUSTOMERS. FOCUS talks with them about their great new businesses and plans for total food domination!

hat inspired you to start Buddha Belly Kitchen? We wanted to create a street food stall, where we could bring quirky, fun but most importantly, healthy food full of flavour for everyone to enjoy. That’s why we evolved our little pop up menu to be always dairy free, gluten free, vegan friendly. Allergies are also another part of it ... so many people have a really hard time finding something to eat, whether it be at the supermarket shelf or in cafés, restaurants etc. We wanted to most of all share our love of food and be part of the community that in itself has been amazing; we have met so many cool people along the way, all because of our street food stall. How has it been since starting? Well ... life has been very busy! We have not stopped since we kicked off with Buddha Belly Kitchen. We’ve loved watching our street food stall grow, going to loads of food and wine festivals around the countryside as we developed our confidence. Our beautiful customers give us such positive feedback and support; that has been very cool. Generally, what can someone expect food-wise from Buddha Belly Kitchen? It’s a whole lot of flavour and superfood jam packed full of goodness in a cardboard box. We always try to be creative and 10 New England focus.

quirky and never boring. We try to have street food which is flavoursome but makes you feel good for eating it ... We hope our food makes people feel like that. We like to make sure we try to cover everyone’s needs, especially allergy needs and personal or use green banana flour soon too. Our cultural needs. sweets always come with loads of fresh What is a Buddha Ball? berries and vanilla coconut yoghurt, to It’s a creation which I (Mel) came make them all the more delicious. up with a long time ago in my Year We’ve loved watching our street What plans are in the pipeline? 10 food tech class at school, which food stall grow, going to loads We love that we can pack up the car, has since evolved over the years. It’s of food and wine festivals go on a road trip gypsy style and bring a dairy free, gluten free and vegan around the countryside our street food along too. All you need friendly crispy vegetarian tofu ball as we developed our to do is book a food festival or a local with superfoods like quinoa and loads confidence. Our beautiful market somewhere along the way, so I of raw goodness from vegetable too. customers give us such positive guess we definitely have more plans to The name Buddha Ball came from feedback and support; that has travel with our food stall business and the concept of Buddha Bowls, which been very cool. enjoy meeting cool people along the in food trends usually coincide with way. We will always keep Armidale close superfoods and all things healthy, so it in our hearts and make it our priority, as was a win. this is where we started and our support Besides savoury foods, you do some things for the began in this beautiful place. sweet tooth too? If someone was thinking of starting a food stall, what’s We love to offer our sweets! They are alway baked fresh one piece of advice you’d offer? in the early hours of a market morning. Our cakes are gluten Think outside the square and always have time and a smile free, dairy free, vegan - we try to keep them coconut based for your customers. Thanks guys. or polenta based, not using nuts, and we are also hoping to

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focus_What’s On New England

FIRST SATURDAY CHATS

Our next First Saturday Chats will be hosted by Elizabeth Stahlut (Solicitor) from 10am to 1pm at the Legal Minds office at 157 Beardy Street, The Mall, Armidale on Saturday 2nd June. As this is a popular program, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

J U N E

What’s

WORLD CUP SOCCER

DIAMOND DUCK DEBUT

ARMIDALE PLAYHOUSE FUNDRAISER

Diamond Duck will be launching their EP ... Their debut release weaves a rich tapestry of plucked strings, lush vocal harmonies, and unique songwriting inspired by a divers range of influences from The Beach Boys to Bach. Where Two Goats and a Baa. When 7pm, June 7th.

Demon Knights Football Club will be showing Australias opening World Cup fixture against France at the Wicklow Hotel. When 16th of June at 7:30pm Cost $15 entry at the door which includes nibbles and a lucky door prize.

NEW ENGLAND WRITERS

The New England Writers’ Centre presents Deadly Secrets, the second year of its popular crime writing event. When Friday, June 16 and Saturday June 17. Where Venues around Armidale and Tamworth Library. Watch the New England Writers’ Centre website www.newc.org.au - for more details soon!

Come along to our fundraiser for the restoration of The Armidale Playhouse, taking place at the Armidale Bowling Club! You can indulge in a two course, sit down dinner and enjoy the many festivities, including a silent and live auction, raffles, and games. When Sat 2nd June, 6:30 - 11pm. Tickets are $50 pp and available at www.adms.org.au

MYALL CREEK

JAPANESE ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN ADFAS Lecture: The Aesthetics of Traditional Japanese Architecture and Design. Adrian Boddy (Australian Lecturer). When 6pm, 7th June. Where (Michael Hoskins Centre, TAS). Cost $25 fee applies per lecture. www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=346043&

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A group of contemporary Indigenous artists respond to the Myall Creek Massacre and its aftermath in this new exhibition. Where New England Regional Art Museum, in Armidale. Exhibition opening June 8th, running until October 7th.

NETBALL CARNIVAL INDIAN NIGHT

Armidale City Bowling Club’s fourth pop up restaurant for the year is an Indian night. Featuring all the favourite dishes, this will be an extremely popular event so contact us on (02) 6772 5666 to book your table today. When Friday 8th June, from 6pm. Cost $25 per person. Reservations essential.

The Armidale Blues Rugby and Netball Club is hosting a modified netball carnival titled “The Armidale Blues High 5 for Ovarian Cancer”. When June 23rd. This “Fast5” style tournament will raise much needed funds for a very worthy cause. We invite teams from anywhere and everywhere to contact the club if you're interested in taking part. Contact Kate McDonald 0431 457 885 Email: armidalebluesnetball@gmail.com

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run Pumpkin P A T H F I N D E R S

Did you know pumpkins are fruits, not vegetables? And did you know the humble pumpkin was once recommended as a cure for freckles and used as a remedy for snake bites? OK, but did you know that it’s time again for the annual Pathfinders Pumpkin Run!

hat is the Pumpkin Run? Every year for the past four years the Pathfinders Pumpkin Run has travelled to Sydney from Armidale to deliver tonnes of pumpkins to those in need. This year, the non-profit has accumulated over 10 tonnes of pumpkins to give to the needy. The Pathfinders Pumpkin Run is a multi-day event where Pathfinders staff, at-risk young people, volunteers and partnering organisations will travel to different cities and towns to cook delicious pumpkin soup and deliver hearty vegetables to those who need it most. The idea for the Pumpkin Run was hatched from a desire to use crops produced at Tilbuster Station by our young people from Pathfinders youth refuge and Out-of-Home Care program to help others in the community. The working farm is utilised as a venue for our at-risk youth to participate in a range of agricultural, horticultural and trade skills programs, crop and vegetable production, animal husbandry, beef cattle production, fencing, welding and building construction. Where will you go? The Run commences at harvest, June 18th, with the stacking and packing of pumpkins at Tilbuster Station, and then departs Armidale for Newcastle. At Newcastle, Runners will deliver the pumpkins to Soul Café, where they’ll be prepared and served to the people. After 14 New England focus.

Newcastle, it’s straight to the Sydney Newtown Mission, to feed the needy once more. Finally, the Run will end at Government House June 21st, with a reception being served with pumpkins and goods sent beforehand. Who benefits from Pathfinders’ pumpkins? The beauty of the Pathfinders Pumpkin Run is that it not only helps those receiving the pumpkins and meals, but it also helps our at-risk youth and volunteers who are delivering the produce by practicing their generosity. The event engages the youth to give back to the local, broader community by donating the harvested produce to nursing homes, soup kitchens and Meals on Wheels. Despite being at-risk themselves, the Pathfinders young people get the opportunity to travel to Sydney and help homeless youth by delivering pumpkins and prepping hot meals for those in need. Members of the communities where we stop benefit by getting nutritious, free meals and a chance to gather and converse with others to build a sense of belonging. Remind us; why pumpkins? Pumpkins help you feel fuller for longer, sleep better, improve your vision, support the immune system and lower blood pressure. In fact, a cup of mashed pumpkin contains 245% of your recommended daily intake of Vitamin A, plus 19% of your Vitamin C and 8 percent of your iron. It’s a veritable superfood! Our young people grow and produce various crops at Tilbuster Station, from pumpkins to potatoes and corn. In the past, we’ve taken

Each harvest sees young people, volunteers, students and staff get together to pick and wash pumpkins, as

off on the Pumpkin didn’t give up on the Run with pumpkins and Pumpkin Run or those potatoes in tow! The people in need of its well as assist in sorting and great thing about using help; Pathfinders called bagging the potatoes which pumpkins is that they’re upon the community to are also harvested. hearty and versatile. donate pumpkins for the They taste delicious, charitable voyage. they’re very nutritious, So, after two months, and they can be made more than twenty donors into almost anything. and six tonnes of pumpkins later, Pathfinders How many pumpkins have you grown on was finally able to commence the 2017 Tilbuster Station? Pumpkin Run. As of this year, more than 20 tonnes of During the Run Pathfinders staff had become pumpkins have been grown and harvested at inspired by the young people’s attitude and Tilbuster Station! The fantastic work of our willingness to help. Their confidence grew each young people has helped Pathfinders feed day with the tasks of cooking, feeding and thousands of men, women and children across speaking to the homeless and many people New South Wales. who were in need of a healthy meal. Every year we are lucky to have more In the end, after donating the produce and more people attend the Harvest Day at to nursing homes, soup kitchens and other Tilbuster Station. Each harvest sees young charities as well as cooking up hot meals for people, volunteers, students and staff get those in need, the 2017 Pumpkin Run had fed together to pick and wash pumpkins, as well 2,000 homeless and disadvantaged people. as assist in sorting and bagging the potatoes What’s happening with the 2018 Pumpkin which are also harvested. This year is looking to Run? be one of our largest harvests ever, with more Our motivated staff are optimistic they’ll be than 10 tonnes of pumpkins yielded for our able to reach out and help more people in need 2018 Pumpkin Run! than any other previous Pumpkin Run! To stay Tell us about last year’s Pumpkin Run? up-to-date with the 2018 Pathfinders Pumpkin Last year, unfortunately, things didn’t go as Run, follow us on Facebook at facebook. planned, when two lots of pumpkins planted com/pathfindersaustralia, Instagram at @ by Pathfinders’ staff and young people perished pathfindersaustralia, and on Twitter at twitter. from unprecedented weather conditions. But, com/PathfindersAus. despite the hailstorms and heat waves, we Thanks everyone.

New England focus. 15

focus_editorial.

Courtney Baldwin

Courtney Baldwin, a 21-year-old apprentice hairdresser from Uralla, has been selected by WorldSkills Australia to compete against the best up and coming Australian tradespeople at the WorldSkills National Championships, to be held in Sydney in June. Supported by the New South Wales Government, the championships are part of Skills Show Australia 2018, which will be held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) from Saturday 2nd June to Monday 4th June. Over 400 competitors from across the country will vie for the title of National Champion in 50 trade and skill categories. Courtney is completing a Certificate III in Hairdressing at TAFE NSW Tamworth and is a third year apprentice at Cooper & Co Hairdressing in Armidale. She will compete in the hairdressing competition at the Skills Show. Courtney earned her place at the National Championships after a strong performance at the 2017 WorldSkills Australia Regional Competitions. “I am excited about having the opportunity to

WorldSkills Australia CEO Brett Judd said WorldSkills Australia was nurturing and developing the skills of young Australians, and congratulated competitors for “excelling in their fields and reaching such a prestigious national level”. He said events such as Skills Show Australia 2018 highlighted the diverse opportunities available to those pursuing a trade or skill. “Choosing a vocational education and training path can open up some incredible and varied career opportunities. Many of the occupations predicted to have the strongest jobs growth in the next five years are offered by our vocational education and training sector.” For more information on Skills Show Australia 2018 visit www.skillsshow.org.au

compete against so much talent within the hairdressing industry. Being chosen to compete at Skills Show 2018 in the National Championships is such an honour, and I can’t wait to see what I can achieve,” she said. Courtney was a high achiever at school and was encouraged to attend university, “but I knew I didn’t really want to do that”. “I spent just under two years qualifying as a Dental Assistant, but I realised I wanted to do something that was more me - creative, people orientated, fun and challenging. I applied and got my apprenticeship with Cooper & Co Hairdressing and am absolutely loving it. I believe having a set of trade-based skills can open a world of opportunities to individuals who like having a ‘hands on’ profession.”

focus_editorial.

Spiced Coconut

GOLDEN

milk

This healing turmeric latte is the perfect way to warm you from the inside out on these chilly days. It tastes amazing, and the health benefits are incredible. 16 New England focus.

INGREDIENTS

(Serves 4)

½ cup water 1 cup full fat coconut milk (or any desired milk) 3 cm piece fresh turmeric root skin on, or 1 tsp ground 2 cardamom pods 1 cinnamon stick, or large pinch ground. 1 star anise 2 cm fresh ginger, skin on, sliced, or ½ tsp ground Pinch of black pepper, ground or freshly cracked

METHOD Combine all ingredients except milk in saucepan. Gently bring to the boil, reduce and simmer for five minutes. Add coconut milk; simmer for further five minutes. Using a strainer, strain desired amount of tea into cups; add honey to taste.

focus_editorial.

Thoughts & prayers

The team has had some ups and downs lately, but we are soldiering on! Our fearless leader Tracy Le Messurier is taking extended time off at present to seek treatment for Advanced Ovarian Cancer. We are not sure when she will be back, but she is dearly missed already! James and Matt are holding the fort while we look for a new sales rep to join our team. If you know someone who would suit FOCUS, then get them to email louise@focusmag. com.au for more info about the role. In the meantime, we are sending all our love and thoughts to Tracy and Greg, while Tracy battles this horrid disease. A big shout out to CANassist, who have been so generous already to help Tracy with her medication needs. Cancer is an expensive disease, so every little bit of help, helps. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.

focus_editorial.

LOCALS 4 LOCALS

The lucky winners include Garry Keyes, who uses Hubbard Hire to find the right equipment for the job; Jennifer Sayer, who picked up some groovy stuff from Things with a Difference; Melissa Marshall knows the best way to treat your animals is at Armidale Pet Shop & Aquarium; Narelle Watson bought some yummy goodies from Moxonâ€™s on Marsh St; and Pam Moore always relies on Beardy Street Servo. All these winners each won $100

Winners every month! Itâ€™s easy to see Locals 4 Locals love giving cash and prizes to you and me - May 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.

in Locals 4 Locals Gift Cards in the draw.

That's a winner for everyone.

Locals 4 Locals are always ready to

When you spend your hard earned

support local businesses and the local

dollars, why not spend them where it

community by continuing this amazing

matters? Look for the Locals 4 Locals

service of finding five lucky winners.

With so many Locals 4 Local members

stores. Register your entry at the counter.

located in town, you'd be hard pressed

That's it! You have one entry in the L4L

to shop anywhere else! Not only does

prize pool. The more times you shop at

it boost our local economy, businesses

participating businesses, the higher your

spend dollars in the community too!

chances to win! New England focus. 17

focus_tech

IS TH

Relax DE-STRESS

OL CO

The Lavender Fields Bath Blend is a pampering tea soak, reminiscent of mountainside discoveries and deep Zen. Where dusk kisses the night and a gentle breeze encourages a relaxing, warm bath. Rekindle your spirit and unwind in a sensory journey of calming lavender notes, gentle patchouli and fresh litsea essential oils. Infused with earthy green tea leaves, allow your days to melt away by rebalancing and de-stressing from the core. A state of complete relaxation. Available now at Things With A Difference, 153 Beardy Street, Armidale.

Crackle

Candle focustea WITH ROSS FROM D A I LY R I T U A L A R M I D A L E

Blend

THE 4 BEST TEAS

month of the

TO CURL UP WITH THIS WINTER Anyone who has ever talked to me knows that I love my tea. I drink it when I’m cold, and I drink it when I’m hot. I drink it in the morning, and I drink it before I go to bed.

And oddly enough, it runs in my family. I grew up with people who start and end the day with a nice cuppa and it kind of became a Daily Ritual for me too. And since people are always curious what my favourite tea is or which blend in particular I would recommend to someone who is still quite new to the (wonderful) world of teas, I decided to dedicate this month’s FOCUS article to some of my four favourite tea blends. Copenhagen (Stockholm blend) This is a perfectly balanced blend of citrus, fruit, flowers and vanilla. Nice and sweet to warm the heart. China Golden Yunnan Black leaves with plenty of golden buds that give a slightly peppery, brisk liquor and a pronounced aroma. A highly popular golden tip tea from the highlands of

Where 18 New England focus.

the Yunnan province in South China. Tea for Energy A zesty and invigorating lemon and ginger herbal blend with a hint of raspberry to taste. A great winter warmer. Contains: Lemongrass, ginger root, hibiscus. All natural; no added flavouring. New England Breakfast (2017 Bronze Medal Golden Leaf International Tea Awards.) This is a perfectly blended black tea with a touch of New England sweetness. Full bodied flavoured tea with the added hint of vanilla. A true reminder of our New England mornings. Designed by Master Tea Blender Ross Patch from Daily Ritual.

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

focusinterview.

LUMINOSITY Youth Summit

Jwesastsiocna At just 16, Jessica Watson navigated and sailed the world’s oceans and spent a lonely 210 days at sea, before sailing into the Sydney Heads and becoming the youngest person to sail around the the world solo. This July will see Jessica as a keynote speaker at the Luminosity Youth Summit ...

i Jessica. Take us back to before your solo sail - what inspired you to get into sailing, and how did you convince your parents to let you take on such a daring adventure? It was my parents who introduced me to sailing. They weren’t sailors themselves, but they decided that sailing would be a great thing for me and my siblings try. So, we went a long to a local sailing club; it was actually my sister and brother who enjoyed it more than I did at that stage. I was quite scared and timid when it came to sailing; it actually took me a lot longer than my siblings to kind of enjoy it. What hurdles did you have to overcome before you set off on your adventure? There were years of preparations with sailing and gaining the experience I needed. In the early days it was more convincing people to take me seriously on these trips and help me gain the experience I needed. There was much more to it than sailing, in terms of skills that were needed and building support in other ways - such as sponsorship. And then the solo trip … tell us about that! It's a bit hard to summarise the highlights ... There were a lot of amazing great days out

there. I actually had more fun than I expected. I was able to handle the tough times better than I thought, but that's not to play down the really tough days that there were out there! I was in the Atlantic Ocean, and the boat rolled upside down four times, and there were other challenging conditions as well. There were times when it was calm and you would be going absolutely nowhere and at the mercy of the wind returning. What did you learn about yourself along your journey? I learnt the power of positive thinking; that's a discipline you can develop to actually stop yourself from getting down in the dumps too much ... Not to say I was perfect at it all the time, but it's certainly something you can get better at. I proved to myself that a little girl can sail around the world! How did you feel sailing into Sydney, knowing you had accomplished your dream? It was an extraordinary day - I was absolutely thrilled to get home. It was actually really overwhelming - all my Christmases were really coming at once. It was a huge amount to take in ... Just the thought of fresh food alone! It was incredible to have my family and the crowd there to welcome me. We are lucky enough to have you as a keynote speaker at this year's Luminosity Youth Summit. How are you going to

of different contexts; I inspire our youth on absolutely love speaking the day? to young people, as I’m To me, sharing my I WAS ABLE TO HANDLE THE TOUGH TIMES BETTER so inspired by young story really makes the THAN I THOUGHT, BUT people doing incredible point that you don’t THAT'S NOT TO PLAY things. I’ve had the have to be anyone in DOWN THE REALLY TOUGH opportunity to meet a particular to achieve DAYS THAT THERE WERE number of young people something incredible. OUT THERE! I WAS IN THE doing amazing things, I was a scared little girl ATLANTIC OCEAN, AND THE and I think it's really who sailed around the BOAT ROLLED UPSIDE DOWN special to be able to share world. FOUR TIMES ... our ideas and relate. I suppose with this Where can our readers Summit I am keen to catch up with your talk about the mental latest news and follow resilience that I had to you? Facebook is best, or my website develop and practice during my time on the www.jessicawatson.com.au water. Thanks Jess. As a young person, what does it mean to you to be able to share your journey at high calibre events and captivate your audience? It's an honour to come along and speak at events like this. It's pretty overwhelming to be able to share my experience in a number

plug! Luminosity Youth Summit 2018 PORT MACQUARIE NSW, 25 - 27 JULY 2018. www.luminosityyouthsummit.com.au/2018/ New England focus. 19

20 New England focus.

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

B E LLO W I NT E R FE S T I V A L

SASSY SONGSTRESS CAITI BAKER IS ONE OF THE MUST SEE TALENTS ON THIS YEAR'S BELLO WINTER FESTIVAL BILL. FOCUS CHATTED TO CAITI ABOUT HER LOVE OF MUSIC, INFLUENCES AND HER UPCOMING PERFORMANCE.

ell us about your history with music; what are your first memories? I’m lucky to have been born because of music. My dad, a blues musician, met my mum through her blues harmonica playing brother in the Adelaide music scene. My earliest memories are music - either my dad playing it, attending gigs or festivals, or listening to it anywhere in the house or car. I have so many memories; I wouldn’t know where to begin! And when did it become apparent to you that it was something you wanted to spend your life doing? As a pre-teen, I became obsessed with Aaliyah, Missy Elliott, Wu Tang Clan, Jay Z, Fiona Apple and the Spice Girls. I loved singing and started writing my own songs around the age of 12. Watching my dad live the life of a musician was sobering; the late nights, dealing with eclectic personalities, drunks in pubs, being responsible and accountable for the band, the instruments and chasing up gigs and the money you might make - it all looked too stressful.

I didn’t actively seek a life as a musician. I just don’t think I really had a choice. I studied Graphic Design and became a full-time designer, but it definitely wasn’t my purpose. I was good at it, but it wasn’t my calling. I met James Mangohig through a high school friend and we clicked musically immediately, and from then I knew I could do it. Who are your musical influences? So very many! Let me start, of course, with Big Mama Thornton, Irma Thomas, Etta James, Aretha Franklin, Little Walter, Junior Wells, Bobby Blue Bland, Ike and Tina Turner, Bessie Smith, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Jimi Hendrix, Little Richard, Chuck Berry. Koko Taylor… then I would say Aaliyah, Missy Elliott, Timberland, Lauryn Hill, Faith Evans, Leela James, Fiona Apple … the list goes on! How would you describe your sonic vibe? The music from my debut album ZINC I would describe as rusty blues meets driving hip hop laced with warm R&B and New Jack Swing! How was ZINC received when you released it last year? By industry means, it’s been received

cAiti Baker amazingly well - I got four stars from Rolling Stone, themusic.com.au and The Australian, all with super nice write ups about it. It’s also been nominated for an Aus Indie Air Award in the Blues and Roots Category, which is super humbling! I’ve definitely gained new fans, and the people who find me through Spotify or Apple Music or anywhere really, who reach out, always have nice things to say! It’s a nice feeling that’s encouraging and validating. It’s what I wanna do for the rest of my life, and I count myself grateful and humbled to be given the opportunity. We are excited to have you on the line up for this year's Bellingen Winter Music Festival. What are you looking forward to about playing this gig? First of all, that I get to play twice and spend at least two days in Bellingen. It’s gorgeous country, and I love meeting people from the region. Meeting fans and learning about a place is important to me. It helps me understand the world a little more and inspires me to create. What have you got planned for the next

12 months? I’m currently in the UK beginning my career here - getting the ball rolling, I guess! When I get back, I’ll be heading to Barunga - an incredible community festival that I attend every year in my home territory - the NT, 3.5 hours' drive south of Darwin. I can’t recommend a trip to this festival enough! I’ll be doing a national tour with The Teskey Brothers in June, Bello in July of course, then I’ll be locking myself in the studio to write album number two! And the cycle begins again! And lastly, where can our readers go to follow your journey and keep in touch? Social media of course! I’m on instagram @caitibakermusic, Facebook and twitter caitibakermusic, and YouTube - caitibaker. I have a website also - caitibaker.com Thanks Caiti.

plug! Catch Caiti at this year's Bello Winter Music Festival, 12 - 15 July. www.bellowintermusic.com

New England focus. 21

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

2018 New England

arts Grants FOR YOUNG PEOPLE ANNOUNCED

The innovative partnership, “NEW ENGLAND ARTS GRANTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE” , FORMED IN 2017 BETWEEN THE AUSTRALIAN DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY (ADFAS) Armidale and the Rotary Club of Armidale Central, continues to flourish.

he Rotary Club of Armidale Central and ADFAS Armidale have met their aim of increasing funds for grants to support the development of young people in the Arts in the New England and North West. $8,000 is now available each year to support a wide variety of young arts projects and the Tertiary Music Scholarship. How are grants decided? Applications are invited from young people and organisations early each year through print and social media. The partnership has increased the visibility of the grants and this is reflected in the wider range of applications received in 2018. The Rotary Club of Armidale Central and ADFAS Armidale, through a joint committee, review each application in terms of how best it fits the grants criteria. What is the Tertiary Music Scholarship? The recipient will have been studying a musical instrument, composition or voice for 7-12 years and has received recognition for his/her ability. They may have also displayed other ability such as conducting and have participated in orchestral, chamber music or vocal music activities at school and the community. The recipient is pursuing extended music study at tertiary level and a career in their field. The Tertiary Music Scholarship is determined each year by representatives from the Rotary Club of Armidale Central, ADFAS Armidale and the New

22 New England focus.

England Conservatory of Music. How is the partnership funded? Rotary Central has a range of fund raising initiatives, including the well known annual Book Fair. ADFAS Armidale membership fee supports funding, and there is an option to further donate to the young arts grant. The proceeds of the book raffle held at each ADFAS lecture, with the book prize often having been written by the lecturer, also support the young arts grant. Tell us about the grants for 2018. Six grants have been awarded this year. The Veracity Theatre Company aims to produce Australian theatre in Armidale. The company's focus is on young people who aspire to a productive future in the arts and Australian writing. The founder, Michael Cornford, is building a community repertory theatre company concentrating on professional development, quality and exposing audiences to great Australian playwriting. Savannah Roberts aims to improve and excel as a dancer and performer by competing in eisteddfods around the New England and coastal regions. She trains in ballet, jazz, contemporary, modern, hip hop and musical theatre. She looks forward to gaining feedback from industry professionals and will pursue her passion for dancing after completing her HSC. Charlie Fittler is a fourteen year old emerging Country Music performer and was one of only ten selected from over 400 buskers at the Tamworth Country Music Festival to play on Main Stage in the Country Music Busking Finals. He aims to make music his career, and the grant will help him to attend the

Tamworth Country Music Academy Junior Course, where participants receive intensive tuition from the industry's professionals. Eliza Scott, violinist, has been selected to participate in the prestigious two years Master of Performance at the Royal College of Music. She has demonstrated that she is a preeminent young musician. Her grant will support her flight to London. “New England Sings” is a unique program developed by the New England Conservatorium of Music. Held every two years, 800 young people from primary and secondary schools from across our region join together in Armidale. It provides an opportunity for many young people, including those with significant challenges, to develop their singing and musical potential. They perform Australian works that directly reflect the life experiences of the choristers, the landscape, Indigenous legends and languages of our region. The grant will support travel costs from small communities. The Tertiary Scholarship has been awarded to Ziggy Harris. Ziggy is studying at the Sydney Conservatorium in the Bachelor of Music Education program, and his instruments are violin and voice. He has previously sung in the Gondwana Singers and aims to pursue a career in music. Graeme Fordham AM (New England Arts Grants for Young People Coordinator). Phone. 0402 598 107 Email. glfordham@gmail.com

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

pBcoxyincg FOCUS LEARNS HOW TO HOLD THEIR OWN AT THE PCYC THIS MONTH IN THE BOXING PROGRAM. WE BOB AND WEAVE WITH THE PROS, WHILE CHATTING WITH SAM DAVIS, WHO TELLS US ALL ABOUT THIS GREAT SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY.

ell us a little about the boxing program … The boxing program was created to curb the steady rate of property offences and low attendances at school. The program's aim is to build stronger relationships with the local police and members of the community, by giving the kids a fun and physically active environment where they get to build these relationships in a positive way. The program targets discipline by rewarding youth with high attendance rates with boxing gear, branded gear and tickets to Sydney sporting events. The boxing program also provides all the students with breakfast before dropping them to school. Providing breakfast for sometimes up to 100 students is no easy task, but is required to ensure all students have the energy to concentrate throughout the day. PCYC, in conjunction with the police were reviewing a number of programs to find a suitable action plan for the region's problem. The boxing program combined the best of a number of programs already rolled out across the state. Boxing gave the youth of Armidale a place to go to get active, with inspirational role models from the police, Pathfinders and other youth agencies. Without the involvement of our volunteers from all organisations like Pathfinders and the local police, this

program wouldn’t be possible. From the commencement of the How long have you been running the program there have been some major program? changes in behaviour that ourselves and The program commenced in September staff at the schools have noticed. Getting and has continued to have a high the students up and active in the morning attendance rate. We are very thankful to has increased motivation and attentiveness have continuing volunteers who show up in school. every time, even in the cold, to The biggest change we ensure the kids get the best have seen in the program experience. is giving all the kids How can kids benefit breakfast. Ensuring 'S M A R G O from boxing? PR all the kids E TH The program was have breakfast AIM IS TO ER named Nanyapura before they BUILD STRONG S WITH RELATIONSHIPLICE (meaning “All of are dropped CAL PO LO E TH E us”) as the program to school OF TH AND MEMBERS ” was designed provides them ... Y IT N U COMM for all youth of with the energy Armidale to have a to concentrate sense of belonging and throughout the day. meaning. The kids benefit How can new people by having a direct involvement get involved? with local police, community leaders New people from all walks and members from the Aboriginal of life are welcome to attend. We community in a fun sporting are always looking for more volunteers environment. and members of the community to help The relationships the youth build out. People are welcome to come and box with the local police has a major effect with the kids, or just help with cooking in changing the way the youth view breakfast. authority. The relationships the kids build The program is always on the lookout during the program has had a major effect for members of the community who can in combating the increase in youth crime help with providing food or other services. and reoffending. If you need more information, please call Has there been a noticeable change in the club (02) 6772 1023. the kids' behaviour? Thanks Sam.

“

New England focus. 23

focus_tech

focustourism

WITH GAVIN MORONEY

Tech Head

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

tourism UPDATE

Armidale ... take a bow!

BATTLE Soundbars

OF THE

Today's televisions have come a long way; they're continually getting thinner and they look incredible. But, they only look incredible; in most cases, the sound they produce is as flat and as thin as the panel itself. This is where the Soundbar comes in. They are pretty much a neat strip of speakers in a box, giving you a simple way of achieving better sound. And by better - I mean amazing!

e compared the Sonos Playbar, Heos, Bose and the Bluesound Pulse. Right out of the box, there are a lot of similarities, with all of them having wifi connection, they can be controlled by their own app, have 5.1 surround sound and can be paired with subs and satellite speakers - and all can be wall mounted. The Sonos Playbar, $999.00: a perfect blend of simplicity and quality. Straight from the app, this was the easiest to navigate through, and is perfect for iTunes users. The soundstage is impressive and was complemented well by the subwoofer and the TV audio auto sensing, meaning I didn't have to fumble around looking for two remotes. Heos Bar, $1299.00: I found the Heos to be the great allrounder. It has a really nice clean look to it. Whether I was watching Star Wars or listening to Bob Dylan, I was equally impressed. Clarity was key with the Heos, as it has great deep base without being overpowering. Bose Soundtouch 300, $999.00: this was aesthetically the best of the bunch, with its smaller form factor and tempered glass top and an understated mesh front with input LEDs in the top left corner. This is definitely one for the movie buff, as it

24 New England focus.

has the biggest soundstage out of the lot, without losing any of the finer details; you quite literally feel like you're a part of the cast of a Michael Bay film. Bluesound Pulse, $1499.00: this one is definitely for the music lovers and it comes with a huge (and I mean huge) dynamic sound. Music is rich, detailed and has a great spread of sound. This is the only one that can be recessed into the wall, as there are no physical buttons, and it has a neat trick that you can flip the bar 180 degrees and a built-in sensor will adjust the left and right channels accordingly. Verdict: Well, it was incredibly hard to crown a winner. To be honest, they were all quite amazing and the way the technology is used to give you that cinema feeling is quite remarkable. I can't say there is a stand out winner for this one, and it will come down to personal taste. For movie lovers, Sonos and Bose might be the best choice, and for those who are more musically inclined, Bluesound and Heos are the pick. Personally, I would go with the Heos. I just found it great for everything I needed out of it, and it's the one that will be mounted on my wall. To test all these out for yourself, head out and see the friendly staff at Coffs Coast Audio, where you can sample each of these soundbars and see which one you think comes out on top.

What a whirlwind of conferences, events, graduations and sporting carnivals! With thousandss of visitors staying in Armidale last month, we have received excellent feedback for our customer service, facilities and warm welcome.

modern kitchen and two bathrooms, so there is utumn has once again not disappointed, with its beautiful plenty of room for a couple of families or a group colours, temperature and myriad of of friends. events. The autumn colours have once For further information or bookings, please again drawn in coach tours, and visitors from all visit www.nationalparks.com.au or contact the around Australia. The autumn colours were a bit Walcha office on (02) 6777 4700. late this year; however, once they arrived they To other things ... June is a busy month, with certainly didn’t disappoint. a number of events scheduled: With July school holidays just around the The French Film Festival 1st June - 3rd June. corner, why not book a winter getaway right here Melbourne City Ballet, Carmen, 1st June. in your own backyard? Melbourne International Comedy Festival Muluerindie Cabin in Warrabah National Roadshow, 12th June. Park is a secluded self Diesel performing at the contained stone cabin SerVies on 30th June. overlooking the Namoi On the 22nd June, keep River. This lovely handan eye out for the 2018 IF YOU WOULD LIKE THE built cabin has been Great Endeavour Rally as ‘WHAT’S ON’ EMAILED refurbished so that it they pass through Armidale TO YOU WEEKLY, PLEASE retains its original charm, … Give them a wave as CONTACT THE ARMIDALE complete with natural they travel through. VISITOR INFORMATION granite walls and open Please visit www. CENTRE ON 6770 3888 AND fireplaces. It now also armidaletourism.com.au WE CAN PLACE YOU ON OUR features lavish touches, for more information. DISTRIBUTION LIST. including beautiful big Alternatively, if you glass windows and doors would like the “What’s opening on to a large On” emailed to you timber deck overlooking weekly, please contact the the Namoi River. The Armidale Visitor Information Centre on 6770 cabin can accommodate up to eight people in 3888 and we can place you on our distribution its open plan design and has a fully equipped list. kitchen and a gas BBQ on the timber deck. To have an event added to the website Warrabah National Park is located 60 km west of calendar, email tourism@armidale.nsw.gov.au Uralla via the Retreat Road. Are you planning a conference or event this East Kunderang Homestead is a historic year? The Visitor Information Centre can organise cedar slab homestead, built in the 1890s, set lovely information bags containing maps, visitor spectacularly among the mountains and valleys guides and things to do in Armidale. Please of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. Once part of contact the Visitor Information Centre to arrange an extensive grazing property, its existence tells this on 6770 3888. a fascinating story of European occupation of The Armidale Visitor Information Centre is on the north coast and pioneer life of an isolated the lookout for some new ambassador volunteers pastoral station. to join our team. If you would like an opportunity The historic homestead has been carefully to volunteer at the Visitor Information Centre, restored to provide comfortable heritage please contact Katrina George on 6770 3906 or accommodation for up to 14 people. There are email kgeorge@armdiale.nsw.gov.au five bedrooms, a lounge and dining room, a

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

pinotcat Debbie Cartledge Chill out on a Winter’s Weekend In celebration of all that the New England Highlands has to offer, this is a weekend of culture, creativity and cuisine. The Arts Trail will give visitors and locals the opportunity to explore artist studios, galleries, museums and cultural venues of the Glen Innes and Tenterfield region. The North West Arts Trail Open Weekend is an initiative of Arts North West to boost the profile of our existing regional arts trail, Country Art Escapes. Country Art Escapes was launched in 2012 and has well over 70 subscribers across the New England North West, including artist studios, galleries, museums, workshops, keeping places and other cultural venues. Country Art Escapes will also be getting a new name - ANW connect; this will include a brand new website to include artist portfolios and an artist directory, as well as the existing art trails. This is a fantastic opportunity to promote your arts business across the region. The second North West Arts Trail Open is heading to the Armidale and Uralla Region on the 27th and 28th October. If you would like to be involved, please register your interest via the Arts North West Website. We would love to see you up on the New England Highlands in July; there’s no better excuse to rug up and enjoy the enchanting spirit of winter in the Highlands!

North West Arts Trail Open Weekend Glen Innes & Tenterfield 21 & 22 July 2018 In celebration of all that the New England Highlands has to offer, a weekend of culture, creativity and cuisine. The Arts Trail will give visitors and locals the opportunity to explore artist studios, galleries, museums and cultural venues of the Glen Innes and Tenterfield region. There’s no better excuse to rug up and enjoy the enchanting spirit of winter in the Highlands!

visit www.artsnw.com.au for more information

Connect

ON THE SEARCH FOR ACCESSORIES THAT WERE DIFFERENT FROM THE NORM, DEBBIE CARTLEDGE FOUND HERSELF CREATING HER OWN PIECES ... AND “PINOTCAT” WAS BORN, HER VERY OWN JEWELLERY LABEL. FOCUS CHATTED TO DEBBIE ABOUT HER VENTURE …

hat is your connection to the New England area? I originally came to Armidale as a boarder at NEGS, way, way back in the day. My parents then moved to Armidale and held businesses like Moore Park and built the original QC’s Coffee House in Hanna’s Arcade. So now we have opened up our shop in Hanna’s as well, it is bringing back many memories of being stuck behind the coffee machine every Saturday morning. When did you become in interested in jewellery design? I really just fell into it. I have always really loved accessories and have tried to find items that are not stock standard. Plus, I have always been crafty and tried many different outlets; however, over time, I never really got stuck into any one medium. Then, one day I gave clay a go. Literally from that moment on, I have not looked back. I love the way you can work it, the designs you can get out of it, the shapes you can create. There are truly no limitations. You can have very simply cut out designs or one that is 3D; you can create anything.

One teacher told me, “You are the boss of the clay; the clay is not the boss of you” - and this has always stuck with me. How did you get your creative business “Pinotcat Designs” off the ground? I was making so many pieces and giving them away, that I thought maybe I could sell them. Wow, if you look at my very first posts on Instagram, they are embarrassing to me now - I was so nervous putting that first post up. However, I just kept going, then I went to the markets in the mall and have now been selling online and doing markets for over two years. Everything has changed from my designs; to set up and to packaging. It has been one big learning curve. What inspires you? Colour, colour and colour, then throw in some patterns. I can look at a pattern on a dress or couch or anywhere and I start to think, “How can I recreate that in clay?” Tell us about the design and construction process … Some is free flowing and some is very deliberate; it depends on the technique I am using. If I am trying to recreate a pattern, then it is planned out and then put together. Other times I may have a

whole bunch of left over clay that I can combine into a pattern that just seems to work. I research a lot and see what shapes are trending in earring design. I am deliberate in the colour combinations I put together, then technique will dictate how it turns out. Currently I am using a marble and water colour technique, combining clay with glitter, paint and gold and silver foil. Do you have a most treasured item in your personal jewellery collection? My grandmother’s wedding ring, hands down. Where can our readers purchase your creations and follow your journey? I am now set up permanently in The New England Collective in Hanna’s Arcade and also have my own website: www.pinotcatdesigns.com My main social media channel is Instagram @pinotcatdesigns Since starting this I have to give a massive thank you to my family, friends and people in Armidale and surrounds who have bought my earrings and offered me many words of encouragement and support. I am truly lucky and blessed to have started this business in Armidale. Thanks Debbie. New England focus. 25

focusinterview.

& beyond

exhibition

FOCUS talks with Robert Heather, DIRECTOR OF THE NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL ART MUSEUM ABOUT THE UPCOMING EXHIBITION SET FOR JUNE. A massive joint effort has been put together to make this exhibition a four day program involving many members of the community…

yall Creek and beyond exhibition will commemorate the 180th anniversary of the Myall Creek Massacre; tell us all

about it ... The New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) is developing a major new exhibition that will open on Friday 8th June 2018 in Armidale as part of a four-day long program to commemorate the 180th anniversary of the Myall Creek Massacre in 1838. The NERAM exhibition Myall Creek and beyond will feature new artworks by Aboriginal Australian contemporary artists Robert Andrew, Fiona Foley, Laurie Nielsen and Judy Watson and is being curated by leading Indigenous curator Bianca Beetson. These artworks were developed through an artist-in-residence program at the memorial site and within local communities in 2017 and 2018. The exhibition will also include a new video work by David Leha (Radical Son) and Quarralia Knox developed through a series of community workshops with young people across the New England region in April 2018. What are the plans for the 180th anniversary program: Myall Creek Memorial? The four-day program of activities (7 - 10 June 2018) planned for the 180th anniversary will include: • a historical exhibition at the Armidale and 26 New England focus.

Region Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place about the history of the Myall Creek Memorial; • a one-day symposium at the Oorala Aboriginal Centre at the University of New England exploring the historical, legal and cultural significance of the massacre; • the opening of the contemporary art exhibition Myall Creek and beyond and an exhibition by Inverell based artist Colin Isaacs at NERAM in Armidale; • the 180th anniversary memorial event at the Myall Creek Memorial near the site of the massacre (near Bingara). The Myall Creek and beyond symposium at the Oorala Aboriginal Centre at the University of New England on Friday 8th June 2018 will include a keynote lecture by leading Indigenous historian Bruce Pascoe, as well as sessions exploring the national significance of the massacre from historical, legal and cultural perspectives. The New England Regional Art Museum will be organising a bus from Armidale to the memorial event near Bingara on the morning of Sunday 10th June for artists, symposium attendees and members of the local community. The Oorala Aboriginal Centre will also be organising a free bus for students and staff from the University of New England to attend. Other regional communities, cultural groups and organisations are encouraged to organise transport for community members, schools, students, elders and others who want to participate

The New England Regional Art Museum will be organising

in this historic event. New England in Armidale a bus from Armidale to Tell us a little about (Friday 8th June 2018) will the memorial event near the Myall Creek and bring together a series Bingara on the morning beyond background: of leading speakers and of Sunday 10th June for On the afternoon researchers who work in artists, symposium attendees and of Sunday 10th June history, law, cultural studies, members of the local community. 1838, a group of eleven visual arts, performing arts, convicts and ex-conpeace studies, education vict stockmen led by and other fields. a squatter brutally Participants will explore slaughtered a group the historical, legal and of twenty-eight Aboriginal men, women and cultural significance of the Myall Creek Massacre and the subsequent prosecution of the children who were camped peacefully at the murderers. They will also examine the way the station of Myall Creek in the New England contemporary memorial event has become a region. Although there were many other massacres of Indigenous people that occurred during local, national and international symbol for the Frontier Wars across Australia, this one had reconciliation between communities. special significance, because it was the only time The exhibition Myall Creek and beyond is a when white men were arrested, charged and partnership between the New England Regional hanged for the massacre of Aboriginal people, Art Museum and the Friends of Myall Creek Memorial and has been supported by Regional Arts following a police investigation. NSW through the Regional Arts Fund, the new The exhibition Myall Creek and beyond at South Wales Government through Create NSW the New England Regional Art Museum in and the Australian Government Department Armidale (8th June - 14th October 2018) will of Communications and the Arts Indigenous bring together leading Indigenous contemporary curator Bianca Beetson and the artists Judy Language and Arts Program. Watson, Fiona Foley, Laurie Nilsen and Robert Thanks Robert. Andrew to work with the local community and artists to research and create new works which will explore the issues and complexities of this historic event and its aftermath. Further information available on the NERAM The Myall Creek and beyond symposium at website at www.neram.com.au/myallthe Oorala Aboriginal Centre at the University of creek-and-beyond

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

i Rhianon. Can you briefly describe the event? The inaugural Coffs Harbour Skate, Ink & Rhyme Festival is an event celebrating the culture behind skateboarding, tattoo body art and music. The day will be jam packed with fun for the whole family - live music, skateboarding and graffiti. We have a range of selected tattoo artists performing body art on the day, retail/food vendors, children’s entertainment and much more.

COFFS HARBOUR SKATE, I N K & R H Y M E F E S T I VA L

RHIANON TAYLOR

The Inaugural Coffs Harbour Skate, Ink & Rhyme Festival is a cultural gathering of everything art. This event will be made up of local and travelling tattoo artists, musicians, graffiti artists, skateboarders and lots more. FOCUS had a chat to event organiser Rhianon Taylor, to find out more …

Where did the idea for the event come from? Having travelled to many different tattoo, music and skateboarding events around Australia, I always wondered if we could have a similar event here in Coffs Harbour. We had everything here to put such an event together - Coffs is a very cultural town, we have so many talented people here, so it all just made sense. So I started looking into all the nitty grittys to put on this event. With lots of hard work and the support of the Council and local business, we are just under four weeks away from festival day! Who are some of the tattoo artists we can look forward to seeing? We have 25 tattoo artists coming along to this event, all specialising in different areas of art. We have the Samsara Tattoo Studio team coming along, Miss Knees will be present - she has been a huge support for this event. It’s her artwork you see on all the flyers. We have Absolute Tattoo Studio bringing along artists from both their Woolgoolga and Kingscliff studios, such as Cameron Schenk and Shaun Misfud. The guys from Squall and Anchor in Yamba will be present, along with artists from Brisbane

Body Art and Impact Tattoos Newcastle. Come along, get tattooed on the day, choose from a range of talented artists - these artists will have flash designs on display for you to choose from and get tattooed and a special event rate. Who are some of the music acts and attractions people can look forward to seeing? We have a talented range of popular and local artists with plenty more to be announced. Jacquie Lomas will be one of the headliners at the event. We have bands such as Son of Jaguar and Matty Effie Morrison; an acoustic act, Handasyd Williams; and a Welcome Ceremony to respect and teach us about the Gumbayngirr lands we call home. Pops Good Skate Store will have a skate ramp performing live demonstrations and workshops. We have respected graffiti artists painting two vans live, and these vans will be on display. Dunghutti Creations will be hand painting a skateboard deck live; this will be raffled off at the end of the day. We will be running tattoo competitions; we have 20 trophies up for grabs. Enter your body artwork, and may the best tattoo win. We'll run our first ever “Miss Skate, Ink and Rhyme” tattoo model search. We have nine beautiful women taking to the stage to compete for the title. Be sure to check out the expo stage, for circus acts, dance performances and lots more. Is the event child friendly? The event is child friendly; children under five are free. Jumping castles and face painting will be present at the event. This is a fun day for the whole family. More info? Find out more on our Facebook page: Coffs Harbour Skate, Ink & Rhyme Festival and Instagram @skateinkrhymefestival

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

WITH SUSIE DUNN

Icing ON

CAKE

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

PLANES AND TRAINS "Planes and boats and trains", the song goes. People from our region once took a boat from the coast to get to Sydney; now boats are out of the equation.

hile roads remain our biggest transport network, aircraft with reliable timetables can be critical. Unfortunately, if it’s important, I now fly a day early to be sure I make my appointment - that costs! A pity more hasn’t been done to make trains really competitive. Discussion is running hot in Guyra around the future of the railtracks north. Isn’t there a middle way, keeping options open - have the Trail and keep the rails, if only as a "feature"? Naïve? Probably. The ABS Report on Regional Population Growth shows Armidale region increased by 1,103 people since the census. Adam Marshall underlines the importance of initiatives attracting people and businesses to relocate, as well as assisting growth of existing business and industry. A steady, sustainable trend is what we need. An apparent move to eliminate Armidale Mall’s permanent stage, positioned meaningfully between the (hopefully soon to be repurposed) Old Courthouse and Post Office, is most concerning. Apart from a performance venue, this is the people’s democratic forum for the region. When issues are canvassed, this is the recognised area to speak and rally. It’s low profile, not intrusive, could be renovated - but still marks an important public space and principle. Why fiddle with something existing with a demonstrable purpose? Spend the money on other things - a temporary moveable structure just doesn’t cut it. There’s been some great music from the stage lately, innovative and fun. These events bring the CBD alive. It’s the combined energies in our communities that make us - all have particular flavours, and their differences are to be celebrated. Les Davis’ unstoppable drive to feature Saumarez and ensure its future is one of the great examples of what a single person energising a good team can achieve. Someone who ignites imagination for a project is literally "awesome". And with Robert Heather’s departure from NERAM, it’s UNE’s gain: look forward to watching his contribution there. Gold medallists such as triathalon athlete Gillian Backhouse in the 28 New England focus.

Commonwealth Games and yes, Steve Dobson in the San Francisco Spirits World Cup for his NE Dry Gin - demonstrate some of the range in our district! First hearing Eliza Scott playing violin at school, now celebrating her acceptance into London’s Royal College of Music, she played with our treasured Armidale Symphony during the Bach Festival. And childhood’s magic is showing at the Armidale Art Gallery. Do visit! The sudden realisation of a crisis in waste accumulation has burst nationally. It’s definitely Australia’s problem - amazing that China refusing Australian waste came as a shock. Another example of our consumer society with its built-in obsolescence just rolling along, plus our inconsistent relationship with China demonstrated again. Why wasn’t something so inevitable confronted before? Recycling in Armidale has generally been praiseworthy, particularly the City to Soil programme. Perhaps it’s time a list of exactly what cannot be recycled is republicised. Could recycling uses be a project for UNE’s ideas Incubator? Historically Australian Chinese have been valuable citizens: time for negotiating some aware and informed grown-up relationships with China, surely. Through the work of many organisers we have a continuous flow of visitors for sport and conferences large and small, from TAS’ Rugby Carnival, to the CWA State Conference to Early Childhood Educators at Thalgarrah on the importance of play in nature. What an invitation to target these visitors in multiple ways, sending them away with ultra-positive attitudes and memories. Sport alone has put nearly $8 million into Armidale’s economy already this year. An important launch of Mugun & Gun at NERAM evidenced Aboriginal resistance to the colonisation of New England in what are becoming known as the Frontier Wars. The theme was "there can be no reconciliation without truth". Some reading and thinking for us all. Susie Dunn. *notes: June 2, Armidale Playhouse Renovation Dinner; June 8 Myall Creek and beyond, Oorala and NERAM; July 7, Wool Parades.

The City of Art WALCHA; CITY OF ART; labelled as such by an outspoken art critic, respected columnist for the Sydney Morning Herald and one time National Gallery curator, John McDonald.

awning posts and a variety of sculptures that line paved levee banks of the Apsley River, giving a delightfully distinctive aspect to Walcha’s streetscape.

A number of significant Australian artists were born, bred and still reside in the Walcha area, and others have been enticed to move here due to the presence of the vibrant arts community. Home to the revered Open Air Gallery, Walcha embraces art and boasts some form of exhibit at every turn. The installation of public sculpture in Walcha dates from 1996, when Stephen King presented the Council with a proposal for his fountain-sculpture, Weather Signs, in McHattan Park. In 1999 King, Ross Laurie, James Rogers and Mudgee artist, Nigel White created the sculptures that stand on Walcha’s four entrance roads.

This year the Walcha Sculpture Symposium will be held having secured a Regional Arts Fund Community Grant and Country Arts Support Program Grant, through Regional Arts NSW supporting different aspects of the event. Four professional artists will each create a free-standing timber sculpture in a public space, offering a unique opportunity to observe the creative process of completing their sculptures. Among other organised activities will be a dinner with the participating sculptors as guest speakers. The Walcha Sculpture Symposium will be held between 9 - 15 September 2018. Supported by Walcha Council, Walcha Showground and Walcha Gallery of Art.

Other public art projects have secured additional works in the form of street furniture, carved

For any further information, please call the Walcha Visitor Information Centre.

Art in all forms

Walcha Discover Walcha’s art, fine food, natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.

walchansw.com.au • 02 6774 2460

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

June 2018

AQUARIUS.

TAURUS.

LEO.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

Anything that has been unfair in the last twelve months should be brought into fairness soon. You are entering a cycle where balance and harmony are required to achieve maximum benefits. Keep calm and be the answers to your fears. Herderite helps us to see our evolution, thus making it less of a challenge.

PISCES. FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

The ending of feeling suspended is almost finished. You are discovering your role in the bigger scheme of things. Set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to walk fearlessly toward them. Try digesting some old undigested emotions. Rose Quartz attracts us towards loving experiences.

You are taking life far too seriously. This is leaving you feeling trapped, and your mind is your own worst enemy. Stop worrying about what other people think and be kinder to yourself in thought. You are attracting positive change, so get ready for good things. Tourmaline amplifies your inner peace, playful inner child energy and settles restlessness.

GEMINI. MAY 22 - JUNE 22

Time to practice patience. Justice is coming into play, so now is a great time to release old anger or resentment to align yourself with achievement. Become the answers to your fears. Visualisation is always helpful to manifest things. Tiger Eye helps to maintain a sense of balance and direction.

Some nice changes for career can be anticipated. Your communication will be the major tool you will use; express yourself with confidence but hear your own wise words, as these words will be your guidance. An exciting time for discovering new talents. Turquoise and Rose Quartz will enhance your loving charisma.

VIRGO. AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

You need to set some fresh goals or new intentions, as you are coming to a place where it’s time for you to have what you’re wanting. Avoid feeling selfish; you have taught others how to receive, and now you can teach them how to give. Personal relationships will empower you. Azeztulite allows us to explore alternate realities comfortably.

SCORPIO. OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Your self worth is vulnerable at present. Avoid making harsh judgements of yourself and avoid entertaining self depreciating thoughts. Mantra to yourself at least six times daily, other people’s thoughts are none of my business. Snowflake Obsidian is wonderful for shattering negative thoughts.

SAGITTARIUS. NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

You are very clever at manifesting things, but may not realise. This lack of acknowledgement prevents you reaching your true potential. Set some fresh goals and thank yourself when they arrive. 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.

Your word is your honour, so speak your truth. You hold great authority and your fairness will always ensure a positive outcome; just remain aware of your motive, as you are a peace keeper, and you will be heard. Phenacite helps us to release other people’s worries from our energies.

You have outgrown some of your old beliefs so instead of feeling comforted by them, you may be feeling trapped. Try debating with your beliefs, as this will change the influences in your life. Be patient with yourself. Topaz strengthens our self esteem and brings personal power to situations surrounding us.

You need to love yourself as much as you can, to allow yourself access to some positive changes. Friends are leaving, to allow room for new ones. You are also likely to find a new interest or hobby to benefit your self confidence. Rhodonite helps us to discover new talents.

New England focus. 29

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Blood FOCUS finds out all about blood, plasma and giving donations at your local Armidale branch. SOME OF THE THINGS PEOPLE ASSUME THAT YOU CAN AND CAN’T DO ... LET’S BREAK THE MYTHS AND GIVE WHAT’S NEEDED. FOCUS goes under the needle with the Armidale branch of the Red Cross.

ATTOO MYTH NEED NOT the Blood Service decreased the tattoo deferral BE SET IN INK ... from 12 months to six. The growing fashion for “The four-month deferral period provides body art is affecting blood a safety margin where we can be completely donations, with thousands of confident we have not missed an infection,” recently inked people being says Blood Service public health specialist Dr put on a waitlist by the Red Cross every year. Veronica Hoad. Blood Service Armidale community relations “It is a precautionary deferral and the Blood officer Stuart Ward wants tattooed AustraService acknowledges that the risk of an infeclians to help boost blood donor numbers and tion following a tattoo is very low if adequate debunk a common social infection control procemyth: that having a dures are followed,” she tattoo permanently rules said. out blood donation. A recent survey “It’s something that involving more than 21 I THINK WE REALLY NEED needs to be addressed,” countries (including AusTO GET THE WORD OUT he says of the common tralia) cited an increase in THERE AMONG THE misunderstanding. the popularity of tattoos TATTOO COMMUNITY “We have many doas one of the five comTHAT IF YOU REALLY nors speculate on how pounding reasons for a WANT TO MAKE A CHANGE long they have to wait 30 per cent drop in new AND LEAVE A LONG before giving blood and blood donors compared LASTING IMPRESSION, most of them are wrong, to 10 years ago. The THEN GIVE BLOOD. and usually by a big decline equates to more margin,” he says. “You than half a million new can donate blood four donors. months after getting a tattoo,” Mr Ward said. Stuart Ward said he sincerely believes the “People often profess they are not blood modern tattoo client is the perfect candidate donors because they have body art - some of for blood donation: they will endure needles them have tattoos that are many years old.” and they don’t mind the sight of blood, and In Australia there is a four-month wait for they want to leave their own mark on the donating blood after a tattoo. The Blood world. Service reduced the tattoo deferral period from BLOOD TEXTS six to four months in September 2017. In 2011 Blood texts aim to encourage people to

donate more often to save lives. Australian blood donors who give blood or platelets receive a text message following their donation to let them know where it was sent. Around 10,500 blood donors each week find out which hospital their blood is being sent to, and when it’s dispatched. Most blood donations are used within four to eight days after being given. The text message alerts come following a trial to let whole blood donors know the destination of their life-saving blood donation. Only three per cent of the Australian population donate blood on a regular basis, and not regularly, so, we need to develop ways to show donors that their blood makes a difference, and show those donors that there’s a real, dayto-day need for their blood. It prompted some donors to feel a special link to the unknown person their blood had helped. For many donors, the text messages reinforced why they donate blood in the first place Whenever we give, we feel good, and blood donors literally feel joy from giving. Although this “warm glow” is motivating, it is likely to fade while donors wait up to 12 weeks. This text message brings back those positive feelings we experienced about donating, and this may well re-energise us to want to give again. WORLD BLOOD DONOR DAY - THANK YOU ARMIDALE On Sunday 14th June, blood donors from

across the world will be celebrated as part of World Blood Donor Day. We’d like to thank our blood donating heroes in Armidale for saving lives. Just three percent of Armidale residents roll up their sleeves to make blood donations; yet one in three of us will need it in our lifetime. We will need it to save the lives of our unborn babies, to help us battle cancer, to save us dying from road trauma, and to help people through various other life-threatening illnesses. Blood donation is one of the easiest ways to help people, and one of the greatest gifts a person can give. The tiny pinch of a needle may last a couple of seconds. Yet your blood could mean a lifetime to the person who receives it. It only takes an hour to give blood, with most of that time dedicated to answering a few simple questions beforehand, and eating and drinking in our refreshment centre afterwards. Blood is then distributed to hospitals, where it is administered to the patients who need it. You’ll learn your blood type, be given a donor number, and enjoy free refreshments on us. We know that many people have the desire to give blood and help out, but aren’t sure how to do it. The easiest way to help out is to call us on 13 14 95 or to visit donateblood.com.au and join the Blood Service. New England focus. 31

professionals

DANI WALSH ART THERAPIST What is Art Therapy? Art Therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses art making as a primary form of communication. Talking can still be a significant component of an Art Therapy session, but the piece of art created by the client is seen as something that holds important information in its own right, guiding the conversation between the client and the therapist. Why would somebody see an Art Therapist? Any challenges or issues you may be facing in your life can be a good reason to see an Art Therapist. I specialise in issues relating to physical and mental health, life transitions and the ageing process, pregnancy and parenthood, and sexuality and personal identity, though there is no topic that is off limits. One of the benefits of Art Therapy is that when you create an artwork or image, you’re often accessing a different part of the brain than when you’re

32 New England focus.

talking - this can lead to discovering new and rich information about yourself and your life. Art Therapy can be beneficial for people of any age, and with any life experience or story. You don’t need any artistic experience - the focus is on the meaning of the image or artwork to you personally, rather than how it “looks”. How did you become interested in Art Therapy? I’ve always been interested in the therapeutic use of art making, and in people’s ability to purposefully create positive change. Since I was young, I have created images to help clarify and work through issues in my own life and have continued this as an adult as part of the therapeutic process. I was always drawn to Art Therapy, even more so after working as an Occupational Therapist and seeing the impact that art-based groups can have on people’s wellbeing and ability to express themselves.

New England focus. 33

34 New England focus.

New England focus. 35

ALLINGHAM REMOVALS

Over the past 50 years Allingham Removals has been growing and changing, offering the best services for their customers. The contents of an average home has greatly expanded over these 50 years, but so has Allingham’s Removals’ knowledge and quality of services; when you use Allingham’s, you aren’t just getting men and a truck. They have the equipment and skills to handle any job big or small, be it household, commercial, or overseas.

36 New England focus.

hen and why did you start the business? David Allingham started the business back in 1968! As there was only one other removalist in Armidale, it started because of the need to offer an alternative to rail freight. After 12 months operation, Milton Milligan (former owner of Alphas Furnishers) suggested we find a receiving depot in Sydney to receive and transport new furniture to the area. The reason for this was because the railways were not good furniture transporters, causing

too many damages. We did so and serviced furniture stores for the next 25 years, to towns from Maitland to Moree. The emphasis today is on household removals, overseas removals and storage. The storage aspect has recently been moving towards more use of containers, to eliminate handling and thus the chance of damage. My dad, Alan Cameron had a part to play in the early stages and development of Allingham Removals. I remember many trips as a young boy away in some of the trucks to Sydney and Brisbane (usually on school

holidays). In those days, a trip to Sydney could take up to 13 hours each way; now it only takes around six - seven hours. After Dad’s involvement in the business, he left and returned on different occasions over a period of many years. I too worked for Allingham’s for around 15 years, delivering new furniture from Sydney to Brisbane and managing the Brisbane depot for the last part, before leaving to start my own business, Cameron’s Furniture Transport. Afterwards David left the business, and it was taken over by his two sons, John and

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ALLINGHAM REMOVALS

Chris Allingham, who operated it successfully for around 20 years, before myself and two of my sons, Andrew and Greg took over the reins back in 2014. John is still with us handling the inspections and quotes; we also retained some of the previous staff, like Simon our operations manager, and Kel driving to Sydney every week. Tell us how the business has grown over the years ... When we purchased Allingham’s, we had already been operating Cameron Removals and had three furniture trucks, so with this new acquisition, our fleet doubled overnight.

The emphasis today is on household removals, overseas removals and storage. The storage aspect has recently been moving towards more use of containers, to eliminate handling and thus the chance of damage.

But, that wasn’t enough; we soon purchased four more trucks to keep up with the workload. As well as vans, utes and trailers, there are around 20 regos to keep up with - a significant increase. In the early part of 2014 we decided to equip ourselves with trucks that could handle shipping containers. So with a 13 ton forklift and a new purchase of 40 containers, we now have over 60 containers, for storage and

transport, with more to come. Over the last few years we have noticed a growing need for storage to allow flexibility. To help with this we are offering self storage as of the 1st June. Quite often when relocating, timing is very crucial. And not always are clients able to move directly from one home to another, due to new

leased properties not being available on the termination of the previous lease, or the sale of one home cannot be on the same day. Using our shipping container options can save you between 25 and 50% of your moving costs, as well as saving on chances of breakages due to double handling. How much of your success would you put down to being a family business? This is not our first business as a family, so with the knowledge we had from the previous one, it was a matter of fine tuning things to make it more successful than the previous.

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ALLINGHAM REMOVALS

Businesses are built on trust, so it makes it a lot easier if you have your family involved. With my wife, Bev and daughter in-law Shari in the office looking after customer service, my son Andrew handles the interstate removals, and is in charge of training new recruits. And Greg, my youngest son, is in charge of accounts and the daily running of the businesss; so far this formula has been successful. How has the world of removals changed over the years; was it sometimes difficult to adapt? Computers and technology are the biggest things that have changed our removal business; learning to go with these changes has made

38 New England focus.

We ended filling up three 40 foot containers, a 20 foot container and eight pallets of odd shaped items. Not to forget the transport of a car; we still have this job in store, with no delivery date in the foreseeable future.

it simpler. With GPS tracking in all the trucks, we can manage truck maintenance and keep an eye on where the fleet is. It also makes invoicing easier, as we can check the computer and see how long the job has taken and charge accordingly. Removals today, as opposed to what we were doing 50, 40 or even 20 years ago have increased in size. Everybody has more belongings ... two - three fridges, freezers, three to four TVs, two lounge suites, four - five

bedrooms of collectables, double garages and sheds, which we didnâ€™t have then. So now we need bigger trucks, and it takes longer. The original vehicle was a second hand International (short nose and petrol motor). Its capacity was about 30 cubic metres - those days an average household of goods! Today the average household would be more like 75 of 80 cubic metres. Technology in the trucks have changed as well; they are now faster, with greatly improved fuel economy. What are some of the bigger jobs you have

pulled of? Recently we where tasked with a large job where we had to remove everything that wasnâ€™t bolted down, including packing everything in to boxes. This included the garden furniture, shed tools, stored wood, even firewood. We ended filling up three 40 foot containers, a 20 foot container and eight pallets of odd shaped items. Not to forget the transport of a car; we still have this job in store, with no delivery date in the foreseeable future. Large overseas jobs would have been difficult in the past, but now with all the knowledge we have gained, they are relatively easy - they are time consuming more than anything. All items have to be wrapped in special bubble

focusfeature.

ALLINGHAM REMOVALS

wrap with two layers, itemised on an inventory

a reproduction throne,

list, numbered and loaded into a shipping

stuffed animals, two

container. Once a box is packed, there needs

pianos, one was a square

to be a list of items contained in the carton,

concert grand, interesting

so that customs know what is coming into the

fact - even most piano

country and hopefully do not delay the delivery

tuners and technicians

by opening every box to check its contents.

today have little or no

One of the most interesting jobs was a

familiarity with square

One of the most interesting jobs was a large removal coming in from San Francisco, We arrived at customs in Brisbane; all the furniture was laid out on the large warehouse floor, with antiques spread from one side to the other.

large removal coming in from San Francisco.

grand pianos whatsoever.

We arrived at customs in Brisbane; all the

What’s planned for the future of

furniture was laid out on the large warehouse

Allingham’s?

floor, with antiques spread from one side to

As mentioned, we are now offering self

the other. The most interesting part was that

storage as of the 1st June, which is just yet

there was a Lamborghini, Ferrari, and an AMG

another step forward for us adapting the

Mercedes. There was a Chinese wedding bed,

business as times change. We will keep moving

as long as there are things you need us to move. Fifty successful years in business is so great, and we couldn’t have done it without the help of our suppliers and the family bond that keeps us together. Not only would we like to thank our suppliers and past/present staff members, but

we would also like to thank you for supporting us to provide you with a service. No matter how big or how small, Allingham’s will be here to help as we have been for the past 50 years. On behalf of our readership, FOCUS would like to congratulate you on 50 years of successful business. Fifty more great years to come, we’re sure!

New England focus. 39

40 New England focus.

D E C A D E S

Piddingtons. What’s the difference between laser etching and traditional sand blasting? Laser etching is an exciting technique that produces greater detail than your traditional sand blast engraving. The laser is accurate down to .009 mm, which helps create the amazing detail in photos and other motifs. We use both methods to tailor all memorials to family’s needs. Are there limitations on the designs, or could someone do pretty much anything? Imagination is the only limitation. We have access to a vast graphic data base that helps us design unique and personal memorials. Everything from a rose, EH Holden, animals, personal hand drawn sketches or family photos can all be included to make that perfect memorial. The laser is not just limited to granite either; acrylic, glass, leather, wood and many more are all laserable materials. Visit our sister companies Stelvey & Co and LSP

I N

119 YEARS IN BUSINESS.

Creative Design for more examples. We also now offer an affordable option for pet memorials. We understand you are the only funeral home and monumental mason locally that does their laser etching on site. Could you tell us how this is beneficial? Previously when working with a family to complete a monument, designs, proofs and completing the monument could often involve months of back and forth to various manufacturers and suppliers. Now, we can sit down with a family to create a completely original custom monument, incorporating either laser etching or sand blasting (or even a combination of both), within a week have a final proof and depending on stock, have a completed monument within a month. For example, last month we were able to have a completed monument on the grave for the funeral, which before would have been unheard of.

T H E

T R A D E

35 YEARS IN BUSINESS.

Armidale & District Family Day Care. Armidale & District Family Day Care is celebrating 35 years’ service in the local community. Established in 1983, AFDC grew out of a demand from families seeking quality alternatives to centre based care. Since that time: • we have provided families with a range of unhurried, personal and professional family day care options (we estimate 14,000 children have accessed our services) • we have increased the range of care options to include Out of School Hours Care, Vacation Care and In-Home Care, and • we have supported the careers of hundreds of Family Day Care Educators, enabling secure self -employment and professional development. Our longevity has relied upon both the strength of partnerships within our service and with

community organisations. We are grateful for the efforts of past and present educators, board members and staff members, and we appreciate current community partners: • Armidale Community Preschool, where we meet for weekly playsessions that enable educators and children to network and play, and • Sandon Public School, which provides our Out of School Hours Care and Vacation Care with excellent facilities to run popular and creative school aged programs. To celebrate our recent 35th birthday, we provided a Pop up Playspace in Armidale Plaza, which was given the full play test by over 65 visitors, and we launched our Street Library. If you are passing by our office in Faulkner Street, why not stop and see what’s on the shelf? Our office is open 8:30 to 4:30, Monday to Thursday.

New England focus. 41

D E C A D E S

I N

T H E

T R A D E

Jamie A T K I N S

Relocating is not an easy task. Meet Jamie Atkins and his family ... with a recent move to the area from Newcastle, Jamie and his family now call Armidale home. FOCUS talks with Jamie about his relocation, the New England and his new role as the store manager of Cetnaj Armidale …

ell us a little about yourself and what brought you to the New England. My name is Jamie Atkins. I have been with my wife, Jenelle, for sixteen years and we have two young children together, Reiley and Chloe. My family and I enjoy camping with our two dogs and taking the jet ski out for a day. I was looking for a challenge in my professional career, and Cetnaj gave me an opportunity with the Armidale store. We have only been here six months and have fallen in love with the New England area and its community. Are you ready for the cold - and what do you like most about the area? The cold doesn’t bother me too much; my wife, on the other hand, doesn't like it so much, but luckily the fireplace at home keeps her warm. Our trip to work each morning we 42 New England focus.

always look at the car temp for outside, and so far it has only gone to -3. It is cold, but we are looking forward to seeing the snow and the reaction from our dogs! Our favourite season so far would be autumn, with the beautiful change on the trees. Relocating is hard, especially moving from a hub such as Newcastle. What has been the most challenging part of your tree change? The move wasn’t too hard, as Armidale has everything we need or want. The biggest challenge so far has been when we want to see family or old friends and the long drive back - but it is nice when they visit, as we get to show them all the great places we have found. Tell us a little about your role at Cetnaj. I first started at Cetnaj Warners Bay in July 2013 as a salesperson and have enjoyed working for the company. They have in turn

supported me with extra training and advice source a large variety of products that does whenever needed. My role with Cetnaj not just include lighting; it may not be in Armidale is stock, but we can get it. manager, and to What are you plans for be successful with the future? this role there is My plans for the future significant testing are to rent our house in and criteria for Newcastle and to be able A COUPLE OF THINGS each applicant to purchase a home in PEOPLE DON’T KNOW who wishes to be the New England area, ABOUT CETNAJ IS THAT a manager. as we love it so much WE ARE STILL A FAMILY What’s and as I intend to have OWNED COMPANY AND something that’s my children grow up ALL DECISIONS ARE little known here and have a family of MADE LOCALLY. about Cetnaj by their own here. people in the I also want to grow community? the Cetnaj name within A couple of the community as a things people trusted and reliable local don’t know about Cetnaj is that we are still a business that can service the locals and be a family owned company and all decisions are part of the community. made locally. The other is that we are able to Thanks Jamie.

D E C A D E S

I N

T H E

T R A D E

40 YEARS IN BUSINESS.

Cetnaj New England.

Cetnaj ... it may be a funny name, but Cetnaj have been providing electrical solutions to the New England for over 40 years now. Jamie Atkins has taken over the reins as the new store manager and is lighting the way into the bright future â€Ś FOCUS finds out more. For those unaware, what does Cetnaj do/ sell? Cetnaj provides a service to contractors and the public with supplying electrical products. Some of these products include lighting, electrical, data, air movement, solar, heating, aerials, the list goes on. With close to 4,000 suppliers, we are able to source a wide variety of products. How long has Cetnaj been serving the community? Cetnaj opened its doors in Armidale in 1990, so it has been servicing the community for 28 years but has been supporting other communities for 40 years with a trusted name, reputation that exceeds itself and wants to continue providing the service to the community for many more. Do you sell to everyone, or just contractors? We provide a service to all of the community, whether you are a contractor, business owner,

council or the general public. We are happy to help any and everyone. Tell us a little about your team. My team is a relative new team and still learning a lot of the products themselves, but what they lack in knowledge they make up for in willingness. The team starts with Margie, who has been with Cetnaj since August 2016. Margie is a local born and bred and with local ties within the community. Margie has worked within the community for may years and has always helped the locals. Margie has always been in the lighting within Cetnaj, but has lately been learning more of the other areas of the business and increasing her knowledge to better service the public. My other team member is Lachlan, who has recently been employed in March this year. Lachlan is a young man who is yet to start his own family. Lachlan is another local from the community, with local roots, who also has great amount of knowledge about the local

area.

CETNAJ OPENED ITS DOORS IN ARMIDALE IN 1990, SO IT HAS BEEN SERVICING THE COMMUNITY FOR 28 YEARS BUT HAS BEEN SUPPORTING OTHER COMMUNITIES FOR OVER 40 YEARS.

You have some exciting plans in the near future; tell us more! We have been doing several things to improve our store, but the most exciting improvement is the new consultation office that is going to be doubled up as a home automation demonstration room. This will be fitted out with new affordable options in home automation, from different scenes to the heater turning on when the temperature

drops below a set temperature.

Whatâ€™s the difference between Cetnaj and some of the other bigger retailers? Cetnaj is very much a service oriented business that is able to offer a complete home or business solution, from a complete lighting range, various options with switches, heating or air conditioning and so much more. With Cetnaj you are not just a number, and you will not need to go anywhere else.

New England focus. 43

focusinterview.

Peter Hooper FOCUS TALKS TO PETER HOOPER, AS HE RECALLS HIS 46 YEARS AS A FIREFIGHTER.

hen did you first know you wanted to be a firefighter? When I was around 16 years old, we lived on the eastern side of town, where they had a lot of grass fires. A couple of friends and I would jump on our push bikes and ride over to help them put them out and the Captain at the time, Gordon Black, would spot me there quite often - so he asked if I wanted to come and work with them. I was already there helping out all the time, so it sounded pretty good to me. The thing is, back in those days you had to wait for someone to die or leave town, since it was such an elite thing to be in the brigade. Lucky for me, the bloke whose spot I took moved away to the coast, which opened up the position for myself. Tell us about how many years you were involved and what sort of things you did. I did 46 years with the firefighters, starting off with just fires and we then became competent in car accidents and the rescue side of everything. Right from the get go, I got involved with the demonstration team, which was a state competition which had five members of each brigade - what are now called zone championships - but we called demos. It would be held every two years, and you’d compete to see who was the quickest and most efficient at tasks like rolling hoses or climbing ladders. More importantly, you are there to learn from one another, more so than compete. In 46 years you must have seen a lot of changes in how things were done and the 44 New England focus.

technology ... When we started, we had the old switchboard where you had to plug in I’m now an advanced first and wind the handle to its way from Armidale. aider, where in regular day to talk to someone. Then it In that time we would day jobs you don’t worry with came in that we all had go out and calm people first aid qualifications. It’s these bells in our house, down and analyse an important thing so they’d wind the handle what’s wrong with to learn, because you and the bells would go off them, before proceeding never know when you to tell us to get a move to give whatever aid may need it. on and head down to the we could, not being station. We didn’t have doctors. We can splint pagers or anything back broken limbs, bandage then, but when the pager you up and give you the did first come in - we thought they were the little green stick to puff on to help the pain. bee’s knees! That’s a really important part though, What was the change like when you because once someone has made contact branched off to Uralla? with a person in distress, they settle down I’d worked my way up the chain and was because they know help is there. So when the a senior firefighter by this point, so when I ambulance did arrive, we would do a handover went to Uralla, 12 years ago, I was the longest and tell them exactly what we found, how we serving out of anybody there. You always have found it and what’s changed, so they have a to start off below the officers though, so I was heads up already on what happened and can just below them until November 2011, when I jump right in. became Deputy Captain and then on to Officer. It’s not all doom and gloom or high intensity Spending that long in one profession, was situations though; we did also get the classic there ever an opportunity to go behind the cat up a tree, but most of it is serious stuff. scenes and off the frontline? You’ve finally hung up the helmet; when That’s where you head as you move further did you get into taxis? up the chain. For me, I love the community I’ve been driving taxis here since 1979 on and the look on someone’s face when you help and off as a casual job. I’d have my regular them out too much to leave the frontline. In day job whilst driving cabs at night and then Uralla we became mostly rescue, as there are a firefighting 24/7 on top of that, always on call lot of road accidents and a lot less fires, so we wherever I was. became first responders for the area. All my bosses new that it was part of my life That means the community had someone to and I would potentially have to drop things and look after them while the ambulance was on leave in the middle of a shift; it wasn’t ideal

for them, but they understood. We’ve had the cab business here for 12 years and it has now been advertised for sale and I’ve retired from the brigade, which was one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make. The caravan is parked out front, ready to go see a little bit of Australia and unwind. Do you have any final words? Young people need to join the Fire Brigade and come in to take the place of the old fellas like me who are leaving. I look back now after I put so many years in and think that I should’ve joined permanently, but I’ve helped thousands and thousands of people and I’m satisfied I’ve done a good job. We now need some younger girls and boys to step up and learn the trade, and you really do learn skills that will help you in your general life. I’m now an advanced first aider, where in regular day to day jobs you don’t worry with first aid qualifications. It’s an important thing to learn, because you never know when you may need it. In your normal day to day life you could be driving and come across a car accident; most people would call 000, which is good, but they can’t do anything themselves to help the situation other than that. Someone who is a qualified first aider can safely and efficiently asses the situation and provide medical aid if safe to do so; learning these skills can help you save lives on and off the job. Thanks Peter.

New England focus. 45

Business Minds

with James Taylor a UNE business/marketing intern of VIVID Thinking

Ingrid Rothe Introducing Ingrid Rothe, Brand Marketing Strategist, Vivid Thinking. Ingrid’s previous roles include Director of Marketing at UNE, Marketing Communications Manager at HP Australia/New Zealand, Corporate Communications for Lucent Technologies, and she launched Fujitsu PC Asia Paciﬁc into the Australian marketplace. Ingrid launched Vivid in 2013. In 2016, Ingrid won the local and regional business chambers’ awards for innovation, representing Armidale at state level.

ell us about yourself. I'm married - hubbie is a partner in a solar farm installation company and part-time academic. We have an eight-year-old daughter, and I’m proud stepmother to two young men, one a recent medical school graduate, the other still studying. I live on a farm surrounded by cattle, horses, and two terriers. What does Vivid Thinking do? Vivid Thinking is a brand and marketing strategy agency. We focus on partnering with small, micro and start-up businesses, to get their brand thinking right, to uniquely differentiate them from their competitors, and help them develop marketing plans that will deliver on their business objectives. You started out as Vivid Marketing Services. Why the name change? Over time, it became clear Vivid’s point of difference was overwhelmingly strategy. Getting the thinking right first led to much better marketing outcomes. We aren’t interested in trying to sell a predetermined marketing package, whether it’s a website or a print advertisement. A small business hiring you is a real investment of their time and money. We tailor our recommendations to what our clients’ business objectives are. Ultimately, the name change speaks to the very heart of what we do. Your professional background was very

46 New England focus.

James Taylor, a UNE corporate. Why What was your business/marketing intern focus on small biggest challenge with Vivid Thinking, has business? starting out? been exploring aspects When I first left Calculating the value of agency life, including UNE, I imagined myself of my time. Initially I writing up this month’s as a consultant for undervalued myself. Business Minds column. larger organisations I'm forever indebted to which, of necessity, one client who refused would be a fly-in-flyto pay, saying, "I'm out role. However, not paying enough for my services were what I'm getting out recommended to a small business, and I was of this ... you need to charge me more". She able to successfully scale down my approach didn’t pay until I did. That was an eye-opener for them. Seeing your work making a real for me. I also tend to overdo the valueand often immediate difference to a business add, which can be counter-productive. I’m is incredibly rewarding; so much so, I now definitely a work in progress! focus exclusively on start-ups, micro and What is your favourite part of running small business. your own business? What was the innovation award for? Working with a variety of clients and Engaging Vivid is an investment in making savvy business owners, learning about new the right strategic decisions upfront. Most industries, emerging market opportunities start-up clients then go on to do their own and new marketing tools. I'm constantly marketing execution, at least initially. Vivid’s trialling marketing tools, thinking, “Is it good DIY Marketing Tool Box is a philosophy and value? Will it increase efficiency? Do I have a set of tools and resources our clients can use client who would benefit from using this?” to successfully and professionally implement I'm constantly learning. the strategy and plans we develop with What do you look for in a new client? them. My ideal clients actively engage in the Demand then led me to create the DIY process, helping me understand their Marketing Workshop series, where microbusiness, so I can more quickly add genuine small business owners learn - hands-on, in value, working in an environment of mutual real-time, using cloud-based (often free) trust and respect. tools - the skills to cost-effectively and Any advice for a business starting out? professionally supercharge their marketing. Enjoy what you do and do it well. Don’t

give up, even on bad days. Sit down and describe your business in five years, 10 years’ time. Short-term decision making won’t take you in the right direction. Invest and outsource wisely - clearly, I should've outsourced accounting! I took six months to invoice my first client, because I recorded my hours worked on post-it notes scattered around the wall, ultimately undercharging them. Concentrate on your strengths and keep moving forward. Where to from here? Last year, amongst other challenges, I was needed to manage a family member’s business interests while my husband launched a new business. I worked closely with key retainer clients, limited new project work and focused on delivering private DIY Marketing workshops. This year the focus is on Vivid. Currently, I’m investing in systems to support business growth, redeveloping my website and then, next financial year, a renewed focus on offering public DIY Marketing workshops. What inspires you? Working with incredible business owners inspires me daily. I’ve asked myself, “What's the difference between businesses that succeed and those that don’t?” It always boils down to the attitude and drive of the individual. Truly successful businesses are always asking, “What’s next?” Thanks Ingrid.

thinking partner migration

WITH CHRISTOPHER SEROW & SAM DOYLE

thinking

partner migration

ur society is forever evolving, and as part of the major changes are the effect of globalisation and multiculturalism. A common scenario which Migration Agents see is two people who fall in love but live on opposite sides of the world. In the 2016 – 17 financial year, Australia welcomed 47,825 new residents who came into Australia under the Partner Visa program. The process can be very challenging and time consuming. It is important to understand the processes involved in applying for Partner Migration and obtaining proper legal advice can prevent additional stresses in an already significant step in a couple’s journey together. Which Visa is right for me? There are three streams which you can apply for when making an application for a Partner Visa depending on each individual’s circumstances. If you are in a De Facto relationship or married as defined by the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), you you can apply under the Partner Visa (subclass 820/801, or subclass 309/301) stream. If you are applying as a de facto couple, you must have been together for a period of twelve (12) months or have registered your relationship with the Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages. This Visa grants you a temporary Visa (subclass 820/309) for a period of two (2) years, after which time a further application for a Permanent Residence Visa (subclass 300/801) is issued. You can make an application for this Visa either inside or outside Australia. If you are intending on marrying your Australian partner, you can make an application for a Prospective Marriage (subclass 300) Visa. This Visa allows you to come to Australia to marry your partner, which you must do within nine (9) months from the date your Visa is granted. You must be outside Australia when your application is made and when it is granted. What are the main requirements? The primary requirements in applying for a Partner Visa is to show that you are

in a committed relationship that is genuine and continuing, and you are committed to a shared life to the exclusion of all others. A major part of proving this to the Department of Home Affairs is providing a written statement from both the Applicant and Sponsor. This statement forms the basis of your evidence toward obtaining a Partner Visa and should be carefully drafted to reflect accurately the history and nature of your ongoing relationship, as well as the commitment which has been made by both of you both personally and financially. You will also have to fill out a variety of forms and obtain a Federal police check from any country in which you have lived for more than 12 months in the last 10 years as part of a character assessment. The Visa application charge for Partner Visas is currently $7,000.00 plus credit card charges and other disbursements, such as medical examinations. English Language testing is not required for Partner Visas. Why see a Migration Agent? The process of applying for a Partner Visa can be quite daunting and challenging, so it is important to ensure that you have met the requirements of the Visa prior to making an application. Migration Agents are able to advise you as to what documentation to gather prior to making your application, and how to properly draft the statements setting out the history and nature of your relationship so that the requirements of your Visa will be met. At Legal Minds we understand the processes of making Partner Visa applications and can advise you on your best options moving forward. We are also able to process the applications in full, which takes the burden off you and helps to ensure a positive result. Talk to us, you’ll be inspired! Christopher K C Serow Principal, Solicitor Director, Notary Public Migration Agent (MARN 0854319) Samuel L Doyle Senior Paralegal, Migration Consultant New England focus. 47

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