new england
July 2018. issue 134
Feature Story Lior
NE Artist impression of Oak Tree Armidale, Taylor Street
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OAK TREE IS EXPANDING IN ARMIDALE
W
ith over a decade of experience in building and operating retirement villages throughout Australia, the Oak Tree Group is committed to providing quality accommodation for Australian seniors and locals now have an exciting new option to consider.
by an Area Manager with the support of hands-on Village Managers who live in the area and know the local people.
In response to this growing demand, Oak Tree is expanding in Armidale and the new Taylor Street village will soon be opening the doors as an option for seniors looking to downsize.
“We employ local people, often born and bred, who have an intrinsic connection to the immediate community. Our people actively support local community groups and build a strong rapport with our residents, their families and the broader community at large” said Oak Tree C.E.O Mark Bindon.
Originally from country towns themselves, the Oak Tree founders are passionate about helping seniors to continue living in their local communities. “Over the years we have seen a remarkable shift in culture from the ‘seachange’ once sought after in retirement. These days there is a growing desire amongst retirees to stay more connected to their roots in the home towns that they know and love,” said Managing Director of Oak Tree Group - Mark Bindon.
Kate Pigram and Diana Gordon in Armidale, Rod Sawtell of Tamworth and Kathryn Blinman of Gunnedah form the successful New England team working closely together to support local seniors to live an easier lifestyle in retirement.
“As a private operator, we insist on a close connection between staff and our residents. That’s our point of difference and the reason that we invest so much in identifying the right staff” he said. The Oak Tree Group’s “hub” strategy makes it possible to deliver quality product and service at a local level to a broader catchment of seniors.
“Being close to family, friends, their local and trusted doctors and favourite shops outweighs the urge to chase ‘the ultimate retirement destination’. The new trend is to live local and stay local” he said.
“Collectively, the hub of New England Villages and the local staff are equipped to address the needs of our residents and provide for them on a broader scale,” said Mr Bindon.
There will now be four villages in the New England region all managed locally
“Our Village Managers are there to back each other up and provide support
2 New England focus. 155 1300 367
on the ground across all local villages. Whether assisting each other with events such as Open Days or Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea or administrative back-up in the event of illness or holidays, Oak Tree give residents the comfort and surety that there are staff nearby. As local businesses, it’s also important for us to give back to the communities that support us. As a group of villages across three New England centres, we can do bigger things as a united group, and once again this year we have committed to corporate sponsorship of Tamworth’s White Elephant Ball, a major event for the region which raises awareness of depression in younger people,” he said. Oak Tree Retirement Villages offer a new way of life for seniors in a securely gated community with homes that are easy to live in. There are neighbours and friends of a similar age and interests, all enjoying a maintenance free lifestyle where lawns, gardens and village maintenance is the managed by the Oak Tree team.
Oak Tree have villas in Armidale, Tamworth and Gunnedah which are ready right now. Meet the team and take a tour. Display homes are open Monday to Friday from 10am-2pm. Call 1300 367 155 or visit www.oaktreegroup.com.au
www.oaktreegroup.com.au
focus_ team. Photo by James Russell Photography
team From the
J
Welcome to the July edition of New England FOCUS.
uly is here and we all know that means more delightfully chilly days, but it also marks the official launch of the Australian Space Agency on July 1st! There has been a lot of space talk surrounding Donald Trump’s new “Space Force” as a sixth branch of the American military, and we here at FOCUS are training hard by eating lots of space food sticks in the hopes of being on the first Australian manned mission in space! ON THE COVER This month we have the stunning Lexie Rose gracing our front cover with her good looks and fashion sense! Of course, she achieved this look with some help from Main Hair Design, who did a beautiful job with her hair and makeup, and Julie Harris from Laserwool, who made this stunning gown as part of this year’s
contacts. Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.
Fleece to Fashion Awards. Keep the 7th of July free, because you’re not going to want to miss the most glamorous event of the season! INSIDE THIS EDITION Continuing on from the cover we chatted to Liz Foster about this year’s Fleece to Fashion Awards; it celebrates wool in all of its dimensions and across all stages of production. There may or may not be some very special guests attending, but you’ll just have to read on to find out! UNE Discovery has embarked on a journey to transform the old boiler-house into a modern, steampunk inspired, Children’s Discovery Space and Community Area. Big things planned for a building with a big history! Dr Kirsti Abbott and Lee-Anne McKinnon outlined the plan for the space and what it’s taken to get to this point. This month instead of showcasing
Tracy Le Messurier
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jeff Cowan
SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joey Dable
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au
matthew.korodi@fairfaxmedia.com.au
michael@focusmag.com.au
MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont
COPY EDITING Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services
ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au
Ascent can provide support with daily life and activities designed around your NDIS plan. Support can be provided on an outreach basis, where staff can assist you in your own home. Higher intensity accommodation support can be provided for up to 24 hours per day within small group home residences.
jeff@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT Matthew Korodi GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michael Marchment jay@focusmag.com.au
joey@focusmag.com.au
tracy@focusmag.com.au
Ascent provides general assistance with daily life and activities to enable you to live inclusively within your local community. Our support is designed to meet your individual needs and to maximise your independence.
EDITION CO-ORDINATOR ADVERTISING CONSULTANT
louise@focusmag.com.au
ADDRESS 5/164 Beardy Street, Armidale PHONE 02 6771 5551 FAX: 02 6772 5551 WEB www.focusmag.com.au FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ne.focus TV www.focustv.com.au
a single business owner, we are highlighting an opportunity for the whole small business community to shine in our immediate region. Mr Anthony Fox, taking on the role of President of the Armidale Business Chamber at the June 2018 AGM, will be talking to us about the 2018 Armidale Regional Business Awards. FINAL SAY Tracy is responding well to her treatment; please continue with your prayers and well wishes. Don’t be surpised if you see her back on the FOCUS sales scene soon!
Housing and Supported Living
rnrmedia@bigpond.com
PHOTOGRAPHER James Brooks james@focusmag.com.au
Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders.Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. New England Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications Pty Ltd ABN: 62128786005. Material in New England Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications Pty Ltd 2016 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.
Want to learn more?
02 6776 8977 ascentgroup.org.au
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Fleece to Fashion Awards. Mark the 7th July on your social calendar, as the PLC Armidale Astra Arts Centre will be the venue for one of the most glamorous events of the season!
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Issue 134 - July 2018
EDUCAIION TRAINING
Skye Petho. Skye Petho is one of the region’s most well-known creatives. Skye’s shop, Arthouse Industries on Sunset Parade, Port Macquarie is a favourite with visitors and locals alike looking for unique fashion and giftware pieces from creative designers from our area and further afield.
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issue inside this
F O C U S
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The Boilerhouse.
FOCUS sits down with Dr Kirsti Abbott and LeeAnne McKinnon to learn more about the planned redevelopment of the Boilerhouse on UNE campus, which will be transformed into a Children’s Discovery Space and community social hub, planned to open in 2022.
F E A T U R E
Regulars 12. WHAT’S ON JULY 25. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN 35. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE
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Daphne & Ruth, RetireAustralia residents Daphne & Ruth, RetireAustralia residents
Stay connected at Stay connected at Newling Gardens this year Newling Gardens this year Enjoy a more connected and supported lifestyle when you make the move the warm and welcoming community atwhen Newling Enjoy to a more connected and supported lifestyle youGardens make the Retirement move to theVillage. warm and welcoming community at Newling Gardens
Some of the perks at Some of Gardens the perks at Newling
It’s easy to make the most of every day with maintenance-free living, a range of to activities and events, refurbished facilities and the security It’s easy make the most of every day with maintenance-free living,ofa villageof life close toand shops, medical centres facilities and public transport. range activities events, refurbished and the security of
• Refurbished community centre
Retirement Village.
village life close to shops, medical centres and public transport.
Call Jeremy on 0401 508 801 to book your tour
• •
L L
2 2
was $455,000
was $455,000
now $438,000**
now $438,000
ED TI TI I TIETD M M I MI M
ED TI TI I TIETD M M I MI M
TIME ED TIME TED T
•• Spacious, Spacious, open open plan plan living living
• Close to amenities
L L
2
• Close to amenities
LIMITED
2 2
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Villa 174
2
Newly built built villa villa •• Newly
2 2
2 bedrooms bedrooms + + study study •• 2 No stairs •• No stairs
was $412,000
was $412,000
WE WE ARE ARE OPEN OPEN Monday Monday to to Friday, Friday, 9am 9am to to 3pm 3pm Brand-new Villas selling now!
Image indicative only
Villa 171
•• Plenty Plenty of of storage storage
• •
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•
LIMITED
TIME ED TIME TED T
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•
E E
• • M EM E L ILMI IM I TI TI
• • M EM E L ILMI IM I TI TI
•
• Pet-friendly
• Gym, library & more!
LIMITED LIMITED
• Heated indoor pool
• Gym, library & more!
FEATURE PROPERTIES OF THE MONTH FEATURE PROPERTIES OF THE MONTH •
•• Refurbished community centre Heated indoor pool • Pet-friendly
Call Jeremy on 0401 508 801 to book your tour
E E
Newling Gardens
11
now $392,000**
now $392,000
173 173 Taylor Taylor Street, Street, Armidale Armidale
*Terms and conditions apply. Must settle by 31st August 2018. Prices current as of 5th June 2018. On selected properties only. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.
*Terms and conditions apply. Must settle by 31st August 2018. Prices current as of 5th June 2018. On selected properties only. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.
For further information, call Jeremy on 0401 508 801 For further information, call Jeremy on 0401 508 801 retireaustralia.com.au/newlinggardens
retireaustralia.com.au/newlinggardens
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to fashion A W A R D S
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Mark the 7th July on your social calendar, as the PLC Armidale Astra Arts Centre will be the venue for one of the most glamorous events of the season! THE FLEECE TO FASHION AWARDS WILL CELEBRATE WOOL IN ALL OF ITS DIMENSIONS AND ACROSS ALL STAGES OF PRODUCTION - the highlight of the evening being a fashion parade of finalists’ garments. Liz Foster fills us in on the finer details of the event …
H
i Liz. Many of our readers will know you for your extensive work within the wool industry over the years - particularly with the Australian Wool Fashion Awards (TAWFA). What's your role with The Fleece to Fashion (F2F) Awards? I’m a board member of the Fleece to Fashion Awards, am heavily involved in presenting the parade, but more importantly I’m mentoring Lucy Virgona and Mary Carter to transition into my job! What's the history behind Fleece to Fashion? Fleece to Fashion is a new not for profit organisation. Between all board members we have 100 years of experience in the wool and fashion industry. What's the aim of the event? The aim of this event is to bridge the divide between the Australian wool and fashion industries. Representing both the local and global spheres, this award event celebrates and promotes wool in all of its dimensions, and all stages of production. F2F invites everyone to celebrate the compelling story of Australian Merino wool production and its esteemed presence within the top fashion and textile manufacturing capitals across the world. Our core business is to educate and inspire the next generations of designers to continue to experiment and explore the many qualities Merino wool has to offer. Our purpose is to influence the industry from the grassroots, with the goal of seeing wool as
Please run us briefly through the event the number one used natural fibre in Australian programme. When will garments be judged, and global fashion. Promoting wool as a natural, and when can we look forward to seeing biodegradable and sustainable fibre is central to the fabulous fashion parade? F2F. Judging is to be held on Friday 6th July, Where and when will the awards be held something new, just a day before the big night. this year? Entrants are invited to dress models chosen The Awards Presentation Night will be held in by F2F for judging, but this isn’t compulsory. the PLC Armidale Astra Arts Centre, Crest Road, Many entrants do like to see their creations go Armidale, on Saturday 7th July - commencing at to judging presented the way they visualise; 6pm. sometimes these What categories can instructions are hard to people enter at the put on paper. awards - and are entries The Awards also open to students? The aim of this event is to presentation night There are seven bridge the divide between the will start at 6pm, with categories, starting Australian wool and fashion guests arriving in with Secondary School industries. Representing their black tie winter students; the brief both the local and global woollies. They’ll be is “Splash of Colour”. spheres, this award event served a complimentary Young Emerging celebrates and promotes drink, followed Designer - this is for wool in all of its dimensions, by substantial canapés in students who are and all stages of production. the form of a three course studying or have studied meal: entree, main meal fashion at a university, and dessert. Food will be TAFE or recognised provided by Nathan and fashion college; most Enora Walker, Aurora Catering and served by entrants are under 30. hospitality students from Armidale and Duval A new category is Active Outdoor Wear. High Schools. Sustainable Wearable Art is for recycled/ The fashion parade of finalist garments will upcycled garments or blankets, giving them a commence around 8pm and after a short break, new life in art. the presentation of prizes will begin. Racewear - an outfit fit for the like of What special guests/exhibitors/judges are Melbourne Cup Day. you expecting at the event this year? Evening Wear - glamorous gowns fit for any Our celebrity judges for 2018 are well red carpet event. known Australian Designers Akira Isogawa and And a favourite always is Bridal Wear Charlie Brown, who will be joined by freelance wedding gowns fit for any cathedral wedding.
journalist and regular New England Living Magazine contributor, Emma Downey. Local talented singer Stephanie Murat will entertain during the evening. Whom would you like to thank for helping to make this year's Fleece to Fashion Awards possible? The entrants; without them we wouldn’t have a completion. The guests attending, who make the night a glamorous and fun night out. But more importantly, without the generosity of sponsors and supporters, the event would not be possible. We would like to acknowledge NSW State Government, Armidale Regional Council, Landmark, Cressbrook Merino Stud, Roberts & Morrow, Bayer Better Choices, Quality Hotel Powerhouse Armidale, New England Wool, Bluey Merino, Jessie Street Drycleaners, New England Surveying and Engineering, Charmac Merino Stud,Meyer Vandenberg, New England Living Magazine, Grazag, Focus Magazine, Armidale Carpet Choices and the Royal Hotel Armidale. Where can we purchase tickets to the event, or find out more information? Tickets are on sale at: www.fleecetofashion.com - hit the purchase tickets button. A site map will come up, and you can choose your seats. Tickets have been selling extremely well; my advice is to hop online now and make your purchase. If you have no access to the internet, please call me on 0407 456 056, have your credit card ready and I can purchase for you. Thanks Liz. Interview: Jo Robinson.
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Lior burst on to the Australian music scene in 2005 with his stunning debut album - “Autumn Flow”. RECORDED AND RELEASED ENTIRELY INDEPENDENTLY, AND SPEARHEADED BY “THIS OLD LOVE” AND SUBSEQUENT SINGLES “DANIEL” AND “AUTUMN FLOW”, the album became one of the most successful independent debuts in Australian history, with sales surpassing Platinum.
A
swag of accolades followed, amongst them three Aria nominations (including Best Male Artist), as well as triple j’s prestigious “J Award” nomination for Album of the Year. Now is you chance to see Lior perform live at the Bello Winter Music Festival … Where did you grow up, and at what age did you realise your musical talent? I was born in Israel and moved to Australia when I was 10 years old. I started playing the guitar around the age that I came to Australia and a few years into playing, I became much more interested in singing and songwriting. I wasn’t very good at singing when I started, but it just felt like a beautiful escape and like home at the same time, so I just threw myself into it. I spent most of my late teen years playing in bands, and by the time I was in my early 20s, I made the decision to start a solo career, which led me up to recording my first album, Autumn Flow, in 2005. How did you get involved in the music scene? I did a lot of gigging with bands growing up in the Sydney music scene. I was writing a lot of songs and bringing them to the bands I was in. Looking back, I don’t think I was a very easy to deal with band member. I didn’t take well to the compromises that one has to make in order to keep a band together. Eventually I embraced the stubborn control freak within and set about to write songs for my first solo album. 8 New England focus.
lior
Why was your debut album amazing places. I didn’t take well to the Autumn Flow such a major Something people may not know compromises that one has to milestone for you? about you? make in order to keep a band I recorded and released I’m pretty good on the soccer field. together. Eventually I Autumn Flow entirely I grew up the Mediterranean way and embraced the stubborn independently. There was no spent a lot of my time kicking a ball control freak within and hype or marketing around the around. set about to write songs for my album, so the success of it was Thanks Lior. first solo album. purely due to the fact that the Since its origin, Bello Winter Music has songs were resonating with seen the addition of various new venues, people in a real and honest the reappearance of street theatre, way. That sort of reaction from workshops, marketplaces and the ever an audience was all I wanted popular magic bus; and, of course, year as a singer songwriter. after year of stellar lineup announcements. Since then, I’ve been lucky enough to have a loyal and In 2017 the event sold out in record time, and organic following. It is the music career I dreamed of showcased another mighty bill of much loved from an early age, and I feel extremely grateful to have international, national and local artists and content. The that. first street parade also took place, along with the now What can fans expect from your much anticipated coveted YOUTH MENTORSHIP programme and further performance at the Bello Winter Music Festival next workshops, walks and talks to engage the sustainability month? and eco-minded, as well as many arts and cultural The show in Bello will be an intimate solo show. I’ll be elements for all to enjoy. performing a few songs from my new album that I have just completed, as well a selection of old faves. What have been some of the highlights of your plug! career as an artist? Catch Lior at this year's Bello Winter Music Playing at Carnegie Hall would have to be one. Festival, 12 - 15 July. Opening for James Taylor and Carole King was certainly www.bellowintermusic.com right up there too. Music really does take you to so many
focusinterview. ANNA HENDERSON
STUART BOGGS
ROBYN JACKSON
We have a mixed exhibition OF ARTWORKS BY LOCAL ARTISTS, AS WELL AS SOME NEW ART MATERIALS in the gallery this month.
O
n the walls there are five landscapes by Robyn M Jackson - the three smaller coastal landscapes on paper, as well as two larger works on canvas which depict the New England landscape. Robyn plays with shape and form and layers acrylic paint with mixed media - charcoal, conte crayons and carbon to produce textural interpretations of the landscape. Stuart Boggs has three larger works on paper and two works on canvas in the gallery, including the large work on canvas titled Hawkesbury Timelines. This work was inspired by the laying down of sandstone in the Hawkesbury area over millions of years. His style is very loose and is an interpretation and emotional response to the landscape, rather than a snapshot of the environment. Anna Henderson is known for her dark, moody textural landscapes. She creates semi abstract landscapes on timber boards using mixed media. She first puts down an impasto relief, and then slowly works the oil paint and other mediums into the work with her hands and scraping back into the layers to form a clay
or encaustic like surface. There are seven works on display, ranging from the smaller 20 cm x 20 cm up to larger works 100 cm x 100 cm. Uralla based artist Tony Sevil has been working with found objects for over 20 years. He won’t mind me saying that he ANNA HENDERSON IS is an addictive collector KNOWN FOR HER DARK, and hoarder. He has MOODY TEXTURAL an uncanny eye and new products, including LANDSCAPES. SHE imagination and sees the Liquitex Paint Markers CREATES SEMI most amazing things in and Tombow pens. The ABSTRACT LANDSCAPES everyday objects, which Liquitex Paint Markers ON TIMBER BOARDS he then breaks up and are acrylic paint in a USING MIXED MEDIA. reassembles. Like the bird, marker form, which family which is in the allows you to use the gallery at the moment. paint in a more drawing These small pieces have fashion. By mid-July, the so much personality and are made from new Art Spectrum range of extra soft square reassembled piano pieces. pastel sets, which have got the pastel artists We have the fire raging, so call into the very excited, will be available singly in a range gallery and warm your eyes with some inspiring of 180 colours. These products, plus others will and beautiful artworks. complement our already extensive range of art After clearing some stock with the end of financial year sale, we have made space for making materials.
TONY SEVIL
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Skye Petho CREATIVE REGISTRY AUSTRALIA
Skye Petho is one of the region’s most well-known creatives. SKYE’S SHOP, ARTHOUSE INDUSTRIES ON SUNSET PARADE, PORT MACQUARIE IS A FAVOURITE WITH VISITORS AND LOCALS ALIKE looking for unique fashion and giftware pieces from creative designers from our area and further afield.
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s well as being a retailer, Skye creates eye-catching glass bead jewellery and also works as an arts mentor and business trainer. Skye tells us all about her latest passion project, Creative Registry Australia... What is Creative Registry Australia, and how did you come up with the idea? It’s a bit like Tinder - it helps creatives and retailers hook up! Creative Registry Australia is an online platform that connects small business creatives with retailers who are looking to buy and stock Australian handmade items. I’ve always been passionate about supporting Australian creatives and dedicated to sourcing unique, handmade, limited edition items. Working as both a creative and a retailer, I understand the challenges both face. For creatives, it’s difficult to be found. Creatives are great at creating, but often don’t want to spend their time or money securing retailers to stock and sell their items. For retailers, it’s time consuming and difficult to find those special, handmade, high quality items to make their stores stand out. And so, the idea for CRA was created! What type of creative artists are signing up? We’re looking to fill the site with unique offerings from a broad range of artists, creatives, makers and designers. CRA is for Australian, unique, quality handmade goods. We’re not interested in the cheap, junky, imported stuff you sometimes see at markets. That’s what sets us apart from other creative platforms like Etsy. The creatives who are signing up live and breathe their creative projects - whether it be painting, jewellery making, ceramics, photography, textiles, design and more. For these creatives it can be really expensive to break into the bigger wholesale markets and extremely time consuming to approach and pitch to retailers directly.
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“TINDER” FOR CREATIVES AND RETAILERS IS LIVE!
Through Creative Registry Australia, it’s easy for creatives I genuinely want to support individual businesses and the to be found by and connect with ready-to-purchase retailers. industry as a whole. I’m putting together a whole host of Creatives are able to reach new audiences, expand their valuable resources to help creatives turn their passion into a brand, build their business and sell their products. profession. The best bit is CRA provides the search power through the Those who join Creative Registry Australia will have access platform - the rest is up to you; we won’t charge commissions to valuable tips and techniques to grow and improve their or a fee for sales. businesses. And how does Creative Registry Australia help retailers? We’ll produce a range of business how-tos on a range By using Creative Registry Australia, of topics, including pricing, marketing, retailers can stay one step ahead of merchandising, packaging, legals, their competitors by discovering unique accounting and sales conversion. stock for their shelves. I also want to use Creative Registry It’s free to search and connect directly Australia to build a community, where we Searching on Creative Registry with top quality, independent creatives. can all learn from and support each other. Australia is as simple as typing Searching on Creative Registry I’m exploring the idea of CRA catch-ups in a keyword and browsing Australia is as simple as typing in a to get creatives together in the future. the results. It’s quick keyword and browsing the results. It’s What are your plans for Creative and easy, available quick and easy, available anywhere Registry Australia beyond Port anywhere - anytime. anytime. Retailers can choose to link Macquarie? Retailers can choose to link up up with creatives in their local area, or We’re currently focusing on filling the with creatives in their local area, discover creative products from right site with creatives from Newcastle to or discover creative products around the country. Coffs Harbour. We have so many talented from right around the country. I know how hard it can be to source people in our region, and countless unique, handmade Australian items boutique stores. We want to help that you can’t find in every other store them find each other and support local in town. businesses. Retail shop owners often spend hours of their time outside From there, we’ll be launching the site Australia-wide next of the business searching for suppliers. They also rely on year! crowded, overwhelming trade fairs and wholesale markets, Tell us about the special launch offer? but this obviously takes them away from their business and Creatives can sign up now to secure a listing for the first six doesn’t always uncover that special high quality piece they’re months FREE! This is a limited time offer, so get in fast. looking to stock. It’s quick and easy to sign up - just tell us a little bit about Creative Registry Australia is a business-to-business tool that you, your business and your items, then you’re ready to be smooths, simplifies and speeds up the wholesale process. discovered. Sign up for FREE now at What other benefits will Creative Registry Australia www.creativeregistryaustralia.com.au provide? Thanks Skye. New England focus. 11
focus_What’s On New England
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What’s
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Junior ORCHESTRA WORKSHOP The New England Conservatorium’s annual Junior Orchestra Workshop gives Year 3 - 9 students an intensive two day experience playing in a large orchestra under the leadership of specialist conductor Ann Phelan, NECOM tutors and guest musicians. When 4th and 5th July. Cost The standard fee of $110 covers two days’ tuition and morning tea. An Early Bird fee of $100 is available if you make early payment by Fri 8th June. Conditions of entry apply.
6 POP up THAI Armidale City Bowling Club will be hosting a Pop Up Thai Restaurant! When Friday 6th July. $25 per person for all you can eat (kids under 12 - $10). Reservations Essential - please call (02) 6772 5666.
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First SATURDAY CHATS Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Sam Doyle (Senior Paralegal/Migration Consultant) from 10am to 1pm at the Legal Minds offices. Where 157 Beardy Street, The Mall, Armidale. When Saturday 7th July. As this is a popular program, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.
Old Teachers’ COLLEGE TOUR Join us for a tour of the Old Teachers’ College. Discover hidden passageways locked up for decades. Explore underground chambers that once protected Australia’s finest artworks during World War II. Three new tours 7pm, 8pm and 9pm on Friday 13th July! Ticket prices $10 children (age 13 - 15, must be accompanied by an adult) $15 adults.
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BOO SEEKA
Australian electronica/hip hop duo Boo Seeka are performing live at UNE’s The Stro. When 9pm on Thursday 12th July. Tickets available online.
CROOKED Tree
Local duo Crooked Tree performance. Where Charlie’s Last Stand. When 28th July. Grab a drink, kick back, and enjoy some good tunes! Playing from 6:30 until late.
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Winner winner
You may remember this face from our June edition of FOCUS. Courtney Baldwin, a 21-year-old apprentice hairdresser from Uralla, had been selected by WorldSkills Australia to compete against the best up and coming Australian tradespeople at the WorldSkills National Championships, held in Sydney in June. Well, Courtney won! Over 400 competitors from across the country did compete for the title of National Champion in 50 trade and skill categories. In Courtney’s hairdressing sector, she competed against 14 competitors from around the nation. Over the three days, Courtney competed
in many aspects of hairdressing, including ladies’, bridal, men’s, beard and men’s perms, amongst seven different and technically different sets. Courtney would like to thank everyone who supported her during the lead up to the event, including Janelle from Cooper & Co, family and friends, and a big thank
you to Kerry Maher, one of Courtney’s TAFE teachers, whose dedication went outside the confines of TAFE to come along to the competition! The WorldSkills world event will be held in Kazan in Russia in 2019. Congratulations to Courtney, Uralla’s and now our national hairdressing champion!
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Living
Dream the
Meet the Cadzow family, who hail from the Northern Territory and have made NEGS their “home away from home” for the past three years. We chat with Bec Cadzow, who along with husband Steve, made the huge decision to send their girls away to boarding school, as they each completed their primary school years on Alice Springs School of the Air.
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My husband Steve, our three daughters, Gabrielle in Year 10, Bridgette in Year 8 and Imogen in Year 3, and I live 200 km north west of Alice Springs.
positive experiences of their lives to date.
Why NEGS? For us, the school ticked so many boxes. Specifically, we wanted a boarding school that had a strong academic reputation. Since the first day the girls stepped through the school gates, NEGS has accommodated them in so many more ways than we could have imagined. Academically, the girls have flourished, and both constantly tell me that boarding has been one of the most
able to make great friends.
They love the constant interaction with others, the highly engaging weekend activities with the other girls and being I think part of the magic of NEGS is that for those girls who have grown up riding, mustering and campdrafting like us, the opportunity to keep their horses on campus is incredible. This has certainly eased the homesickness, as they are so busy caring for and taking responsibility for their horses.
Gabrielle has taken to music and plays the flute beautifully; she has competed at the Armidale eisteddfod and completed her first ABMEB exam. The music department hosts regular recital evenings, which have now become “live”, so we can watch Gabby performing in real time. We truly are great advocates of NEGS and extremely passionate about the school. The girls are encouraged to make the most of every opportunity. They are nurtured both academically and socially, and for long distance parents, this is very, very important.
focus_editorial.
The Armidale Drama & Musical Society is hitting the stage at TAS Hoskins Centre once again this month with "Heathers: The Musical". Performing from the 13th - 28th of July, Heathers: The Musical is a rock musical based on the 1988 cult film Heathers, which opens conversations about dark issues such as violence in schools and teen suicide, whilst maintaining light-hearted and humorous characters. Westberg High is ruled by a shoulder-padded, scrunchie-wearing clique: Heather, Heather and Heather - the hottest and cruellest girls in all of Ohio. But when misfit Veronica Sawyer meets the troubled and sexy stranger J.D., the two hatch a twisted plan to put the Heathers in their place - six feet under. FOCUS had a chat with Amy Roff, who plays lead role Veronica Sawyer, and she told us: “Heathers is not for the faint hearted! It’s a show with some dark themes and serious attitude, which is what makes it so different. "ADMS this year is featuring a fresh, young cast with some brand new members, a few society veterans and an immense amount of talent. No matter how old or young you are, I can guarantee at least one song will get stuck in your head. Support local theatre and see Heathers this July!”
heathers T H E
M U S I C A L
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LOCALS 4 LOCALS
The lucky winners include Clayton Gilmour, who visits Moxon’s on Marsh St to fight his hunger; Deanna Edwards, who trusts Armidale Mower & Chainsaw Centre to have the tools for the job; Erin Bourke knows that Beardy Street Servo is the place to go; Geoff Bishop, who knows Hubbard Hire has the machinery he
needs; and Ingrid Rothe, who trusts nTech & Communications with her tech. All these winners each won $100 in Locals 4 Locals Gift Cards in the Draw. Locals 4 Locals are always ready to support local businesses and the local community by continuing this amazing service of finding five
Winners every month! It’s easy to see Locals 4 Locals love giving cash and prizes to you and me - June being no exception! Winning cold, hard cash has never been easier; all you need to do is shop and enter at your favourite shops. The more times you enter, the more entries you have to win.
lucky winners. With so many Locals 4 Local members located in town, you'd be hard pressed to shop anywhere else! Not only does it boost our local economy, businesses spend dollars in the community too! That's a winner for everyone. When you spend your hard earned dollars, why not
spend them where it matters? Look for the Locals 4 Locals sign in the shopfront of your favourite stores. Register your entry at the counter. That's it! You have one entry in the L4L prize pool. The more times you shop at participating businesses, the higher your chances to win! New England focus. 15
focusinterview.
Jack
Wilson LUMINOSITY YOUTH SUMMIT
N i n j a
T
W a r r i o r
ake us back to your childhood; what’s your heritage, and where did you grow up? I was born and bred in Cairns, Far North Queensland. My father’s side is Aboriginal from the Mount Isa/ Cloncurry region (Kalkadoon tribe) North West QLD, and my mother’s side is Welsh/English, as she was born in Sydney. I was a very fortunate child, with great role models like my father, who played football and was constantly exercising around us, which was very humbling. But I was the youngest of three boys, which had me tormented and bullied by my older brothers and made me a first grade mummy’s boy. I was also a chubby kid, which didn’t help the situation either. Did you have any struggles as a teenager/young adult? Sure did. I explored temptations and crossroads as I came to my late high school years, where I dropped out of school at the age of 15 - leaping into the real world and tackling an apprenticeship. My mother and father split up around this time, which was confusing for me. This led to going out partying, staying out late, becoming a rat bag. I had no understanding what I was doing, nor did I have an understanding of what life was all about. This lifestyle clouded and isolated me from what I
16 New England focus.
Jack Wilson’s vision is to inspire, educate and encourage our Indigenous and Non-Indigenous people all around the world to achieve their goals and believe anything is possible. Luminosity Youth Summit is hosting Jack as a keynote speaker at this year’s Summit. FOCUS chatted with Jack about his greatest challenges, childhood and his heritage ...
loved in life, which was family, fitness, health. Going cold turkey, making How did you sacrifices and going all in on overcome this? this opportunity changed my In 2013 I was mind set, created positive fortunate to be lifestyle habits and got me selected in a squad and sizes to believe anything is possible in to New York to smash the of 12 Indigenous this life, but most importantly be yourself in Marathon in 3 hours 14 men and women to the pursuit of happiness. minutes. travel to New York I prepared with a pure work ethic six and run a marathon - seven days a week, impeccable body to raise awareness weight, strength training and high volumes around Indigenous of cardiovascular training. For example, I health. We had seven months between that moment did hill sprints, stair sprints, sand sprints, plyometric and running 42 kilometres in the USA. At this explosive leg training. Something that is essential moment, I knew I had to step up with pride, change for anything you’re working for in life is meditation, my lifestyle and give this opportunity 150%. visualisation, manifestation and affirmation. These Going cold turkey, making sacrifices and going all mental practices are very powerful to make something in on this opportunity changed my mind set, created a reality (law of attraction). positive lifestyle habits and got me to New York to Thanks Jack. smash the Marathon in 3 hours 14 minutes. I believed anything was possible at this point. What inspired you to compete on the show plug! Australian Ninja Warrior, and how did you Luminosity Youth Summit 2018 prepare both mentally and physically? PORT MACQUARIE NSW, 25 - 27 JULY 2018. It helped me to continue my journey to inspire www.luminosityyouthsummit.com.au/2018/ Indigenous/Non-Indigenous people of all ages, shapes
A Life-Changing Move.
T
he pristine waterways of Wallis Lake and the magnificent beaches this region has to offer all combine to make
Forster is still under $500,000, and rural land holdings although getting rare, are still well priced,” quotes Steve Attkins, Principal of LJ Hooker Forster Tuncurry.
the area one of renewed focus. The Forster Tuncurry region has recently featured as one of the top five regions for future capital growth. The region offers an exceptionally stable climate, with a very reliable rainfall also part of the weather patterns. Once a holiday village, it has now taken on a renewed
The Great Lakes and Coastal Hinterland of Forster Tuncurry on the Mid North Coast has become a highly sought after destination in the last few years. Close proximity to Newcastle airport at Williamtown - plus striking distance to Sydney, thanks to the recent highway upgrades, makes for easy access to metro areas, combined with the benefits of regular rainfall.
emphasis for many Sydney
EASY ACCESS TO THE MULTIPLE UNIVERSITIES OF THE PORT MACQUARIE AND NEWCASTLE AREAS ALLOWS FOR FAMILIES WITH MATURE AGED CHILDREN TO BE CLOSE TO EDUCATION AND LIFESTYLE.
and Newcastle property owners looking for the next step. But, it’s fast being “discovered”… “Whilst still affordable now, the twin towns Forster Tuncurry have experienced capital growth over the last five years of 46.1% and 47.1% respectively. The average price in
Easy access to the multiple universities of the Port Macquarie and Newcastle areas allows for families with mature aged children to be close to education and lifestyle. Coming off large farm holdings, many would like to downsize, and the area has this to offer.
Good productive soils and production are viable in the hinterland grazing area, that are only surpassed by the Mid North Coast’s multiple beaches. As they say, “just over the hill” to an affordable and great lifestyle that has much to offer the downsizers, the retiree and the young families.
New England focus. 17
Hit new heights at Sealy! Award-winning, eco-certified Sealy Lookout in Orara East State Forest has a huge variety of visitor experiences - from Forest Sky Pier, to Gumgali Track First People’s experience, Korora Lookout, the Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience, Nyanggan Gapi café and beautiful rainforest walks. Now, Sealy Lookout (Niigi Niigi in local Gumbaynggirr language) offers even more, with the addition of the new TreeTops at Coffs. The new TreeTop Adventure Park offers visitors the opportunity to see the world from the forest canopy. Visitors can enjoy tree-to-tree activities, from easy to the more challenging, within a safe and supported environment. Perhaps best of all, TreeTops is highly accessible, being suitable for people of some intellectual, physical and sensory disabilities. New carparking and toilets at Sealy Lookout
make it even easier to experience this forest playground. Getting there: Travel north from Coffs city along the highway and past the Big Banana. Take the left turn onto Bruxner Park Road. Drive up through banana plantations and enjoy amazing views along the way. Just after the Orara East State Forest sign, turn left at The Gap. Follow Scenic Drive and drop into Korora Lookout/Gumgali Track, TreeTops and Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout. Find out more about all the Sealy Lookout experiences: www.treetops.com.au/locations/coffsharbour bmnac.org.au/giingan-tourism-experience www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit/forests/ orara-east
ALL GLOSS. ALL FREE. EVERY MONTH. Feature Story
new england
December 2017. issue 127
Feature Story Paul Kelly NEW ENGLAND
new england
Slow Fashion
November 2017. issue 126
Feature Story Paula Jenkins
July 2017//Issue 122
Mr & Mrs
Wild. RAPIDCLEAN NEW ENGLAND
Celebrating 20 years
N E W
E N G L A N D
C O N S E R VAT O R I U M
O F
M U S I C
OUR REACH
GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
18 New England focus.
Elders Insurance Talks house fire safety.
• Cleaning out the flue and chimney of your fireplace. • Ensure that your electric blanket is in good condition, has no fraying cords, and don’t leave it switched on all day or night. • Clean the lint filter of your dryer after every use, and don’t hang your wet clothes up too close to the fireplace. • Keep everything one metre away from your heater and ensure that your heater is in good working condition. If you suspect a fault, get it fixed or have it replaced. • Use all electrical items as per manufacturer’s instructions and do not overload power boards or use items that have frayed or broken electrical cords. • Never leave your cooking or burning candles unattended. • Clean up leaves, twigs and debris from around your property and in your gutters. • Ensure that no trees are touching power lines. • Ensure that you have working smoke alarms and change your batteries regularly. Always make sure that you have an evacuation plan in place and that the entire family is aware of fire safety. • Keep a fire extinguisher and a fire blanket in your home, especially in the kitchen. • Call Elders Insurance New England on 6775 4577 and check that you have adequate insurance cover in place.
Up-close Animal Encounters. Billabong Zoo Koala and Wildlife Park cares for over 80 species, with over 200 animals located throughout ten acres of shady gardens. Experience an up-close Animal Encounter with personal Zoo Keeper commentary: available with Snow Leopards, Cheetahs, Red Pandas, Meerkats, Koalas and Snakes. Bookings essential. An Animal Encounter is a very special experience that stays with you for a lifetime. You can also enjoy 14 free Zoo Keeper talks throughout the day. There is a children’s playground and an all-day Kangaroo and Wallaroo walk-through meadow for patting and feeding; Zoo Café for meals, snacks, ice-cream, coffee and drinks; souvenirs, gifts and retail therapy in the popular Zoo Shop. The multi award-winning Billabong Zoo is always fun for the kids and educational for everyone. Open every day: 9am 5pm, rain or shine. Billabong Zoo, Port Macquarie - it’s more than a great day out. It’s the best value zoo in Australia. Located at 61 Billabong Drive, just off the Oxley Highway (two minutes from the Pacific Highway). For full details, visit billabongzoo.com.au or call 6585 1060.
Set in 10 acres of lush gardens with over 80 species of mammals, reptiles and birds. Rain or shine, Billabong Zoo is a great day out where you can get up-close to Australian & exotic animals.
ZOO TALK FREE presentations throughout the day. UP-CLOSE Book a personal animal encounter. ZOO CAFEÉ ZOO SHOP
- -✁ -------------------------------------------------------(excludes food and drinks) One voucher per person. Expires on Sunday 22 July
- -✁ --------------------------------------------------------
Winter is now upon us, and now that we are all using our fireplaces/heaters and electric blankets, it is important that we ensure that appropriate household fire safety measures are in place. Some precautions that you should consider implementing in your home at this time of the year are:
New England focus. 19
focusinterview.
Madame Butterfly
The New England Conservatorium will present Opera Australia’s production of Puccini’s masterpiece, Madame Butterfly at Lazenby Hall in Armidale on Thursday, August 9 at 7:30pm.
O
pera Australia visits Armidale only once every two years, so this onenight only production is something not to be missed.
Puccini's popular opera inspired the musical Miss Saigon. It is filled with stunning music, from the lovers' first rapturous embrace to the intense finale. One of Australia's greatest theatrical minds, John Bell, directs this Englishlanguage production, complete with beautiful costumes and sets. The cast of Madame Butterfly is impressive, with multiple principal artists from Opera Australia, plus a live touring Chamber Orchestra under the baton of conductor Warwick Stengårds. The local Children’s Chorus will be under the direction of Opera Australia’s Regional Children’s Chorus Master, Joshua van Konkelenberg, and choral conductor Leanne Roobol, who directs NECOM’s renowned New England Singers and Cantilena choirs. We spoke with John Bell, to find out more about his vision for Madame Butterfly: Madame Butterfly was originally set at the end of the 19th Century. What is it about Butterfly that makes it so timeless, even though times have changed? I have, in fact, changed the setting of it to a more modern setting - setting it in Nagasaki, just at the end
20 New England focus.
of the second World War, during the American occupation. By making it more contemporary in setting, I was quite keen to nudge people into thinking that this wasn’t a fairy tale or an escapist piece; it’s a true story and things that happened in the story are still happening around us today. I think with a piece like Butterfly, the story is so powerful and compelling. It’s a powerful story and one that’s very timely. People will be quite surprised by how easily they will be able to react to and empathise with what’s happening on stage. That’s the great thing about it. The most beautiful, emotionally captivating music, and yet the story is a very sad one and quite a rueful one. How do you take audiences on a trip to Japan using only a single set? The set itself is a very elegant little Japanese house, and most of the Japanese characters are dressed in traditional clothing. We see Goro making an attempt to dress like a westerner, but the fact that Pinkerton is in a US Army uniform gives us the picture; all of that combined will ensure we know where we are. The opera is performed in English; do you think anything gets lost in translation from the original Italian? I think any opera is best when it’s performed in its original language, because that’s what the composer had in their
cast on stage. What does head and you have to I THINK WITH A PIECE work pretty hard to it take to bring these get the same quality young people on board LIKE BUTTERFLY, into the words in and make them part of THE STORY IS SO English. What you the story? I think it’s a great POWERFUL AND gain though, is an thing that the local kids can COMPELLING, IT’S ONE immediate response get involved. When Pinkerton THAT’S VERY TIMELY. and recognition first arrives, the kids can all from the audience. run on with him, hugely It’s all there for excited to have the American them in fairly simple in town, carrying his luggage, English. When we’re doing these regional tours to welcoming him to Nagasaki. They’ll come back audiences that perhaps haven’t seen much opera in the wedding scene to watch and react with and don’t necessarily know the piece, it’s a great applause and then with horror when The Bonze advantage. charges in and then again in the “Humming What advice do you give to a first-time opera goer? I would say if you can get hold of a recording before you come along and get familiar with the music, you’ll enjoy hearing it again when it’s live. If you get to know the tunes a bit before you come, you’ll feel a great glow of satisfaction when you hear it live. I wouldn’t worry about brushing up on the story, but get to love the music before you come. Also, I think it’s always advisable to bring tissues and also something to stop you coughing - that’s always a great help as well. At each stop along the regional tour, a local children’s chorus will join the Opera Australia
Chorus”, and I’ll get the choreographer to give them a stately little dance to do. So I think they’ll have a good time.
plug! Don’t miss your chance to see Madame Butterfly in its one-night-only performance on Thursday 9 August at Lazenby Hall, University of New England at 7:30pm. Tickets are on sale now at www.trybooking.com/ UTQA or phone: 6788 2137.
New England focus. 21
FIONA FOLEY ROBERT ANDREW
focusinterview.
Myall
Creek E X H I B I T I O N
The title, “Myall Creek and beyond”, refers to a very specific place, whilst the word “beyond” could be interpreted as meaning to forget or move on. However, in the case of this exhibition, “beyond” means deepening and expanding the conversation.
JUDY WATSON
T
he artists selected for this exhibition were chosen for their ability to create work which does exactly this: deepen the conversation. All of them, in different ways, interrogate dialogues surrounding Aboriginal massacres, frontier wars and hidden histories, whether it’s through the artists creating work that responds to the place “Myall Creek”, or the artist’s broader response to issues surrounding Australia’s frontier history. Art is a powerful medium to convey stories which transcend the spoken or written word, through its ability to capture the challenging, truthful, spiritual, metaphysical and unspoken essence of a story. However, this presented a challenge when curating this exhibition, as I was faced with trying to curate work that authentically engages with the story of atrocities such as Myall Creek, but at the same time I was mindful of not triggering trauma in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander audiences who share this dark history. In this exhibition, Judy Watson collaborates again with Greg Hooper to create a site-specific response to the Myall Creek Massacre site itself. Judy and Greg, along with Robert Andrew, Laurie Nilsen and Fiona Foley, undertook an artist residency at the Myall Creek Memorial Site as a part of the development phase of the 22 New England focus.
EXHIBITION VIEW
project. The residency enriches the work, as it is informed by and connected to place. This project enabled Judy to directly interact with the site to create a work that gives the audience access to a different way of seeing the site. Judy does this through the creative documentation of the site and region, which provides both a contemporary and an historical context. Fiona Foley’s new work takes a different approach to the history of place: she retells the story of the massacre through a large-scale installation work. As per previous works, Fiona’s use of ash denotes the way in which Aboriginal bodies where often disposed of - they were burnt - as was the case in the Myall Creek Massacre victims. Fiona continues to tell the story of the massacre through repetition of objects: ten hoods and twenty-eight pairs of shoes become metaphoric substitutes for the perpetrators and the victims. Robert Andrew spent time working on site whilst additionally developing relationships with local elders to develop his work, which utilises local languages, ochre and new technology to highlight notions of hidden histories allied with Aboriginal massacres and the white washing of Australian history. Jenna Green, in her review for Robert Andrew’s exhibition Mutable histories at the Museum of
Brisbane in 2017 states: “Andrew’s work seeks to further reveal the truth of this history and the future with which it has left us.” Laurie Nilsen takes a more confrontational approach through his installation, which articulates the bloodied violence of the massacre, and the treatment of Aboriginal people during these early times as equal to or lesser than an animal. Laurie centres his installation around a rusty meat cleaver once used by butchers for cutting up large bullock and sheep carcasses, to convey the actions and ideals of the perpetrators of the Myall Creek Massacre. Laurie Nilsen is best known for his work with barbed wire, which he uses to speak about the practice of fencing off traditional Aboriginal lands for pastoral use, which denied Aboriginal people access to their land for hunting and ceremonial purposes. These fences also led to the death of many of our native animals because of entrapment and no longer having access to their waterholes or food sources. Further to this, Aboriginal people were often shot for trespass, should they cross the fence boundaries. Nilsen says: “The barbed wire fence is an important colonising metaphor. That goes without saying the boundaries and the barriers that have been established in the last couple of hundred years in Australia. They’ve had a profound impact and as I’ve travelled around the country, it’s been a huge
learning curve how simple structures like that can wreak so much change in the lifestyle of a people whose boundaries certainly weren’t made in wire.” Warrabah Weatherall interrogates notions of surveillance and spatial violence in the work he has produced for this exhibition. He creates a carceral container boxing in a bound chess pawn, which denotes historical notions of control of the Indigenous people. Furthermore, Warrabah’s work evokes images of the horrific prison cell footage of death of Cameron Doomagee whilst in custody in Palm Island in 2011. He draws parallels between traditional Aboriginal massacres and ongoing deaths in custody. Julie Gough’s work HUNTING GROUND (Haunted) Van Diemen’s Land (2016) and GROUNDS OF SURRENDER (2011) really pushes this notion of “beyond”. The inclusion of Julie’s artwork in the show is about expanding the conversation, highlighting the scope of the impact of Aboriginal massacres within Australia. Julie’s work draws attention to the impact of colonial violence on place; in this instance, Tasmania, her homelands. “I undertook this project to honour and pay my respects to the Wirraraay people who were murdered at Myall Creek on June 10th, 1838 Lest we forget”. Essay excerpt by Bianca Beetson, Curator, Myall Creek and beyond.
IS TH IS OL CO
Fizzing FANTASY FLOATERS
“Fizzing fantasy floaters” ... these little bath balls promise to make your tub time so much more magical - especially if you have a weakness for all things unicorn. Not to mention, they’re a bargain! Available now at Things With A Difference, 153 Beardy Street, Armidale.
focustea WITH ROSS FROM D A I LY R I T U A L A R M I D A L E
THE BEST DARJEELING TEA YOU’LL EVER TASTE
Champagne in a cup!
A PRIMER ON FLUSHES Darjeeling traditionally produces black teas: the freshly plucked leaves are withered overnight, rolled and fermented (or oxidised) before being fired. The teas have an unrivalled metallic brightness in the cup, fragrant aromas, and flavours that hint of apricots, peaches, Muscat grapes and toasty nuts. But, each flush offers a distinctive variation on these characteristic traits. First flush teas, made as new leaves, stimulated by the first moisture after a winter of dormancy, start appearing on the bushes. Yellowish-green in the cup and light on the palate, they have an appealing spring freshness to them, with a hint of astringency that gives the tea a pleasing crispness. Darjeeling’s renowned muscatel flavour - perhaps best described as a musky spice with sweet notes - is at its most pronounced
Where
Blend
month of the
during the second (or summer) flush. They days are warmer and the tea leaves slightly bigger. The brilliant golden-coppery liquor offers rounder, deeper flavours.
misty hills, the rains tapered off, and
The monsoon arrives in Darjeeling sometime in June, and during the wet months that follow, the bushes produce abundantly. But, the leaves are larger and coarser, and the damp weather complicates the withering and fermentation steps, making it difficult to turn out fine teas. Despite their romantic name, the monsoon flush is generally consigned to blenders who will mix it with other, often lesser teas to give them flavour.
or so days.
Second flush teas are harvested in June and produce an amber, full bodied, muscatel-flavoured cup. Autumn flush - the last of the year begins by the end of October, once the monsoon has withdrawn from the
the temperatures begun to drop. The tea bushes reduce their output as they move towards hibernation. It is the shortest of the harvests, and lasts just 30 Darjeeling blends available from Daily Ritual. *Carstleton FTGFOP. 2nd flush. Delicate, light and very aromatic. This Darjeeling tea is considered to be one of the most prestigious. *Millikthong FTGFOP1. 1st flush. Beautifully structured and well-rolled greenish leaf. Yellow - brown infusion, fresh and aromatic. *Margaret’s Hope FTGFOP1. Highly aromatic, second flush Darjeeling with bright infusion and round full flavour. A goog all day drinking tea. Grades FTGFOP: Fine Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe.
Find out more about other quality blends at www.dailyritual.com.au New England focus. 23
focustourism
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
New Azka Restaurant Winter Menu Azka Restaurant Head Chef Lusyianna Setra has created a divine winter menu to help you through the chilly season! We’ve got wonderful new season comfort food and delicious beverages to warm you from the inside out. Add these to your wish list of new dishes to try, all available in small or large serves: • Five spice crispy pork belly, apricot, caramelised pearl onion, chilli sauce • Ramen noodle soup, thinly sliced roast beef, spring onion, soft boiled egg, nori • Braised rosemary lamb shank, creamy parmesan polenta, gremolata • Tomato sour cream tart, bocconcini, black olives, cream cheese Is there anything more satisfying on a cold winter’s day than a hot juicy steak? We think not - don’t go past our: • Grass fed eye fillet of beef, roasted cauliflower hummus, grilled asparagus, vine truss tomato,
Moroccan spiced dressing. Winter means putting the white wine aside and replacing it with some exciting new “go to” drinks. Azka Food and Beverage Manager Nicholas recommends a Frozen Gin & Tonic cocktail combining local Dobson’s Distillery gin, tonic, new season fresh lemon and lime zest served with homemade cucumber jelly. Azka Wine & Tapas Bar at The Powerhouse is one of Armidale’s most comfortable bars to while away an evening. Relax by the fireplace with cosy blankets, a vino in hand and tasty tapas plates. With over 40 wines by the glass to sample, you’ll be spoilt for choice and quality. Azka Restaurant, Wine & Tapas Bar are open every day for your convenience at 31 Marsh Street, Armidale. To book, call 6772 7788, email dining@qhparm.com.au or visit qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au
Dine in
24 QHP0250_July New England Focus focus. 156x125_Final.indd
1
style
20/6/18 1:01 pm
Winter in Armidale. Winter in Armidale is an exhilarating time for our visitors, with our beautiful frosty mornings, crisp wintry days and if they are lucky, a chance of snow.
D
• How about a game of golf? The Armidale Golf uring the winter months we see an increase in visitors from Club has a magnificent golf course, and they Southern Queensland and the have golf clubs for hire for children and adults. North Coast, who are here for After a fun nine or 18 holes of golf, why not stay a real winter experience … only for lunch at the “Sandwedge”! wimps go to Noosa for winter! • Horse riding is available at Harlow Park, located Wondering what to do with the children 20 minutes from Armidale. Choose from one these school holidays? hour to half day tours. Contact 6778 4631 for • Give mountain niking a go! There is a bookings. wonderful new track for beginners at SportUNE, • Fossicking for gold is a great activity for the as well as challenging tracks for the more whole family to enjoy. Hire the pans from the experienced riders. Best of all, there is a café Uralla Visitor Information Centre and try your nearby in the SportUNE complex. The mountain luck at the Wooldridge Recreation and Fossicking tracks are located west of Reserve, located 6 km from the hockey fields. Bikes Uralla. can be hired from the • The Dutton Trout Armidale Bicycle Centre Hatchery located on and Bicycles Central on IT IS WONDERFUL TO SEE THE Point Lookout Road has Marsh. aquarium displays, guided RETURN OF WOOL FASHION • Pack a picnic and tours and an audio visual AWARDS TO ARMIDALE. THE visit the Camel Farm, show. Learn about the AWARDS WILL BE HELD ON located 15 minutes endangered native fish and SATURDAY 7TH JULY, AND from Armidale. There is the breeding and rearing of THEY WILL SHOWCASE something for everyone, Brown and Rainbow Trout. THE USE OF MERINO including camel rides, • New England Bike Tours WOOL BY NATIONAL AND farm visits, camel milk located in Guyra provide INTERNATIONAL DESIGNERS skin care and camel wool tours to cater for all AND STUDENTS. products. Bookings are abilities. Be guided through essential: phone some of the New England’s 0439 922 350. best mountain bike tracks, through some of the • The UNE Natural History Museum is region’s native bushland, follow the old Cobb & open from Monday - Friday, 9:30am - 4:30pm. Co. stage coach route, or meander around town Come along and explore the natural world. and take in the sites. Bike hire provided, or bring There is a wonderful selection currently on your own. Phone 0415 254 614 for bookings. display, including geological specimens, botanical Pop on in to the Armidale Visitor Information pieces, horns, invertebrates, aquatic animals, Centre and pick up a copy of Out and About with reptiles, fossils, a variety of skeletons and skulls, Kids. We are open Monday - Saturday, from 9am birds, mammals and more! Did we mention the - 5pm, and 9am - 3pm on Sundays. recently discovered and yet-to-be-officially-named It is wonderful to see the return of Wool dinosaur? Fashion Awards to Armidale. The awards will be held on Saturday 7th July and they will • The Threlfall Walk at Gara Gorge (otherwise showcase the use of Merino wool by national known as the Blue Hole) is a pleasant 5.5 km and international designers and students. The loop that provides magnificent views of the gala event, titled Fleece to Fashion, will be held at Macleay Gorges. Rock hopping, and exploring PLC - and tickets are selling quickly. For tickets or the riverbed provides for a lovely day out. The further information, please visit: picnic areas have free gas BBQs, toilets and picnic tables available. www.fleecetofashion.com.au
focus_contributor
focus_contributor
WITH SUSIE DUNN
Icing
ramen Noodle Soup
ON
CAKE
Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh
L U S Y I A N N A S E T R A F R O M A Z K A R E S TA U R A N T
THE FUTURE
O
I visited UNE’s Smart Farm, curious about a differently managed rural future.
pen Day takes you by the hand, showing how hi-tech research could turn a farmers’ day into a totally different experience, where a screen can give information on caring for your land and stock, simultaneously gaining maximum profit - a classic meeting of science and technology seeking the best paths to application. The speakers all had knowledge, passion, curiosity and energy, and their acceptance of the challenges of climate change should give pause to all the doubters. The acceptance of the term "social licence to operate" is another sign of the times. If you have any interest in agriculture and the land generally, do take an opportunity to meet the team. Rural job opportunities are a whole new ball game, with nature itself inevitably the ultimate umpire. And yes, setting up costs, but is the end result better? I honestly find it very difficult to put the pain from drought into words - you know it will end, but wonder if you’ll still be standing. They’re part of Australia, and how much our blundering early European-style farming has worsened them is irrelevant when you are in one. The idea of putting money into a high-tech future can seem absurd. But it does rain eventually, and then perhaps we can do some rethinking. Hurray! Hurray! Through Trish Stephen’s magicking of the space, Armidale’s lovely Hanna’s Arcade is coming back to life: her vintage fashion store, Pastish, and the brand new Collective with Tracy’s Wright’s Raw Fibre fashions and a whole range of different fun goodies from the Collective members - plus Witchery and the other specialist shops already there and - put out the streamers - a special café. It should be a goer! I was devastated to hear from Adam Marshall’s office that the way forward for the Old Armidale Courthouse he’d long been working on has hit a bump. I gather the NSW Government apparently wants the money rather than to recognise a positive community-based approach. With all the money being spent in Sydney on so many tangled, then "back flipping" ideas, it seems wrong that an historic building here in such an important position should be seen as simply an
opportunity to monetise. Armidale’s OTC is also "on the chopping block", with big worries for NECOM. But Adam Marshall scored an overdue goal, securing $846,000 to finally complete the Aboriginal Cultural Centre & Keeping Place. An extra gallery will double exhibition space, boosting functions, visitors and sales. Fleece to Fashion (Google it) is presenting a new look Gala Night symbolising the wool/ fashion story. I’m looking forward to the rebirth of the parades in Armidale on July 7. It promises a night of fun, based on one of the world’s most important fibres with frankly unsurpassable and inventively fashionable qualities. I love parades Turners always gives special and stylish ones with Kerry’s particular flair, and for Melbourne Cup Day the CanAssist Cup Lunch and parade is a traditional event. The ARC is following up its "Unleash the Opportunities" slogan by "unleashing" its Arts, Cultural and Heritage Advisory Committee to evaluate ideas for a festival promoting our region. Fingers crossed they can come up with something able to put a fresh, different mark on the national calendar. It’s not easy to please everyone. And when the Property Council of Australia’s international cities expert finds that "Sydney’s brand is better than the product", that should make us think. We must evaluate honestly where we go with promotions, ensuring our product demonstrates how much better we are than the competition. Fix Armidale Mall first - it shames us every day! Hopefully Susan Law, Council’s new CEO, will prioritise it. Our new Yazidi citizens are gradually arriving, growing our population. Those I’ve met have been warm and genuine and after their horrific experiences at the hands of ISIS, we can hopefully fold them in here, teaching them English and giving them confidence and hope. Susie Dunn. • Guyra Trout Festival Team fundraiser Art Competition 24.9.18 - 1.10.18. Google Guyra troutfest. • Cheers for Armidale’s Rotary Central, wrangling nearly 80,000 books fundraising.
Ingredients (Serves 4) Soup 500 g beef fillet, trimmed 2 L pre-prepared beef stock 1/3 cup soy sauce 3 tbsp oyster sauce 1 tbsp garlic, finely chopped 4 cm ginger, sliced 1/3 cup miso paste 4 poached eggs, halved 400 g egg white noodles Garnish Sesame seeds, sliced chilli, spring onions and nori sheet
Chef Lusyianna Setra
Azka Restaurant, Wine & Tapas Bar Quality Hotel Powerhouse 31 Marsh Street, Armidale NSW 2350 Phone (02) 6772 7788
Method Mix the stock, soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger and miso paste in a stockpot or large saucepan, bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Taste the stock - add sugar or soy sauce to make it sweeter or saltier. Thinly slice the beef and place in the pot to cook for 2 - 3 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside. Cook the noodles according to packet instructions, then drain and divide between four bowls. Top each with a quarter of the meat and two egg halves. Strain the stock into a clean pan, then bring to the boil once again. Divide the stock between the bowls, then sprinkle over the sliced nori, spring onions, chilli and sesame seeds to serve. New England focus. 25
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The Sawtell Chilli Festival will be running for its 20th year in 2018 - IT'S A FESTIVAL THAT'S GONE FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH, VISITED BY MORE AND MORE PEOPLE, YEAR ON YEAR. FOCUS had a chat to Kathryn Greenway, to find out more ...
festival
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an you briefly describe the event? The Sawtell Chilli Festival has been an annual event in First Avenue for the past 19 years and now attracts over 13,000 people to the village on the first Saturday of July. The festival features over 100 chilli related stalls offering a variety of foods and flavours from some of Australia’s leading chilli product manufacturers, as well as local restaurants and cafés showcasing their own famous cuisine. Entertainment, music, competitions and giveaways guarantee a great day out for the whole family. The festival will be held on Saturday, July 7 from 9am until 4pm on Sawtell’s First Avenue, and entry is by gold coin donation. Make sure you save the date ! Where did the idea for the event come from? Twenty years ago the Sawtell Chamber of Commerce decided to work on an initiative to bring people into the village during the winter season. They wanted people to see that Sawtell was not just a summer seaside gem, but was just as beautiful and diverse during the cooler months. The Chilli Festival was born from the passions and vision of local volunteers, and this passion, vision and commitment continues today. The festival is now an iconic local event and has grown from strength to strength in terms of visitor numbers across the years. We welcome revellers from the Coffs Coast and across the country. So, it must be said congratulations to the founding volunteers, who would probably never have envisaged that their simple festival idea
26 New England focus.
would become such a massive success. Who are some of the vendors we can look forward to seeing? We have so many, that sadly we cannot accommodate all the vendors who wished THE FESTIVAL IS NOW AN to be part of the 2018 ICONIC LOCAL EVENT festivities. This year we AND HAS GROWN FROM have concentrated on STRENGTH TO STRENGTH IN chilli related products, so will showcase their talent TERMS OF VISITOR NUMBERS there is a huge variety of for us, Magic Mike will ACROSS THE YEARS. WE chilli products and food be there to entertain WELCOME REVELLERS FROM from all over the country; the kids, there will be THE COFFS COAST AND that is the majority of all dancers, Zumba sessions, ACROSS THE COUNTRY. vendors. an appearance by Big Dog The balance of and the Smurfs. the stall holders are For a small seaside charitable organisations village, Sawtell certainly and community clubs such as Rotary, Lions, has a big music scene. We can enjoy the music Boardriders, Landcare and stalls offering of KADA, singer songwriter and 2013 finalist in children’s activities. the Music Oz Awards and a proud Sawtell local. Don’t forget also, that Sawtell’s many The opening act at the 2017 Coastal Sounds beautiful boutiques and cafés and restaurants Battle and the People’s Choice winners, the are on show, so there are bargains to be had Fingerz, will entertain on our south stage, as and more chilli cuisine to delight in. well as Louey Howell and Funkatu, Wheels and Make sure you arrive hungry, as there is so Waveman, and heading our main stage are much to taste and of course, products to take Simon and Angus.There are also bands visiting home. from out of town. Who are some of the music acts and There will be an "Aussie BBQ Great Chilli attractions people can look forward to Cook Off" at 1pm, where celebrity judges will seeing? be casting their vote for chef of the day from There are two stages at each end of First Sawtell’s very own restaurateurs. Once again we Avenue with jam packed line ups. will have best dressed and best stall announced. Mayor Denise Knight will open the event at Triple M’s Moffee will be broadcasting live 10am on the main stage, and NBN New’s Kate from the festival between 9am and noon, Haberfield will be our MC during the day. adding to the fun and entertainment. Sawtell Public School choir and dance group Is the event child friendly?
Absolutely! Family is key. There will be child friendly entertainment and activities for the kids. This year we will have face painting, a jumping castle, a ride, wizard sand art, plaster painting and ice cream stalls, to name just a few fun choices for the little ones. Who are some of the sponsors of the event? This year we are delighted to have Triple M as a naming rights sponsor, so the event is officially known as the "Triple M Sawtell Chilli Festival". Other proud sponsors are NBN News, McGrath, Woolworths, The Sawtell Hotel, The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce, The Sawtell RSL, Bathtime Productions and of course, FOCUS. The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce are so grateful for the generous support of our sponsors, without whom we could not stage this important community celebration. Where can we find out more? People can visit our Facebook page to keep up with announcements and news on the event.
Saturday, July 7 from 9am until 4pm on Sawtell’s First Avenue, and entry is by gold coin donation.
Coastal Lifestyle Business.
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oastal and regional areas of New South Wales appear to be significant benefactors of the deteriorating housing affordability in Sydney, as an increasing number of people leave the city for more affordable locations. The top five regions in New South Wales where net internal migration was the highest, according to figures from the ABS 2015/2016: Richmond - Tweed Sydney - Outer South West Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven Mid North Coast Hunter Valley, exc. Newcastle
Here is the Place, Now is the Time. An increasing number of Australians are ditching their city lifestyles, opting instead to live in regional areas both on the coast and inland. Sydney, Australia’s largest city and also its most expensive in terms of housing costs, is shedding residents to other parts of the country, due largely to the high cost of housing.
Top five regions for net NSW internal migration, 2015-2016 Real estate agents are reporting strong interest in regional property sales, as first home buyers and retiring baby boomers realise the savings that can be made by a move to the country. The combined regional average (house price) in Australia is $355,000, compared to the capital cities' (average) of $656,000, which is a $300,000 difference; the average price in Sydney is just on $900,000, Melbourne $720,000. It’s an absolute no-brainer. It’s half the price in regional areas. Over recent months, there have been a flood of stories about how Sydney residents are being forced to leave the city due to its high cost of living
and degrading quality of life. Today, The ABC continues this theme, reporting that many young Sydneysiders are planning their escape from the city, again forced out by the high cost of living. Around three quarters of the people confessed that they too had an exit strategy planned. The NSW government’s own population projections also show that Sydney’s population will balloon by 1.74 million over the next 20 years, 53 million of which will come from net overseas migration: “Yes! Sydney is very swamped,” said Steve Attkins. Sydneysiders are leaving in growing numbers and relocating to major regional centres within commuting distance, or cutting ties with the big city altogether and moving to coastal sea change or regional tree change areas for a complete lifestyle make-over. We will see more Sydneysiders making these changes in the future, due to the following trends: More retiree buyers' decentralisation due to technology affordability. The search for cheaper properties comes as housing prices remain elevated in the east coast capitals, despite some recent softening on the back of bank clamping down on lending. Among Sydney residents who left the city over the fiscal 2017, the most popular destination was Newcastle, followed by the Illawarra, the ACT, the Gold Coast and the NSW Mid North coast.
New England focus. 27
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Boilerhouse
FOCUS sits down with Dr Kirsti Abbott and Lee-Anne McKinnon to learn more about the planned redevelopment of THE BOILERHOUSE ON UNE CAMPUS, WHICH WILL BE TRANSFORMED INTO A CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY SPACE AND COMMUNITY SOCIAL HUB, planned to open in 2022.
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ell us a little about the Boilerhouse and its history. The Boilerhouse on the hill is actually one of four that were spread around campus, and it was built in three stages. Stage one was in the 1950s, and it was quite small and only served the few buildings. As the university expanded, they had to What made you choose this building add to it, so stage two was built in the for such a project? We’ve had obstacles, which are ‘60s in a minimalist, brutalist style; it’s It was less about the university than now being overcome. It’s a a massive rectangular prism into which the insightful philanthropist that we contaminated site, given they put two French boilers. work with. Chris Abbott of the Abbott its age and the type of They made provisions for three for Foundation focuses his work on helping building materials used when the university continued to expand, children in early childhood development. at that time. We’ve found but by the time they needed the third He was instrumental in establishing asbestos, lead paints, mercury, boiler it was too big - so they simply the Early Start Discovery Space at the among other things, but we knocked down part of stage one and University of Wollongong. He really were lucky that the university built an even more brutalist geometric wanted to start a movement of children’s was really committed into design; the one we know and love as the museums and playscapes, especially in cleaning that all up. UNE Boilerhouse today. regional areas. In 1971 stage three was finished, When it came down to choosing the and in 1974 it won an Australian building for the facility, we did have a little Architectural Award, the same year that bit of a look around town and on campus the Sydney Opera House got their award. to find a site that was appropriate for an iconic destination and There are parts of stage three that are the only examples of when he saw the old boiler-house, he said, “That would be conveyor belts, flues, hoppers, and other old coal-fired boiler perfect”. technology anywhere in NSW, possibly even Australia. What sort of obstacles have you faced renovating such
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an old structure? the discovery space and although everything will be child We’ve had obstacles, which are now being overcome. It’s focused, we believe that parents and grandparents will a contaminated site, given its age and the type of building enjoy the interactive experience and be able to engage in materials used at that time. We’ve found asbestos, lead play with the kids. Great for winter play options in Armidale paints, mercury, among other things, but we were lucky that and the region! the university was really committed into cleaning that all Is there anything the community can do to help? up. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Annabelle Duncan, had We’re coming into the design stage - which is exciting, a remediation and demolition report commissioned to have because there is plenty of time to hear from the community all the environmental testing and about what they want to see in a facility contamination testing done, and we like this. We will have an online survey have since contracted Coffs Harbour that can be filled in as a general form of Demolition to start the clean up contact; we are particularly interested work required from those reports. in artists, educators and early childhood The children’s discovery The exciting part is looking at specialists. People can also sign up to space will be a play based remediating and retaining a lot our newsletter, which we will be putting education focused of the individual items within the out regularly, so they can keep up with area that will also building, so we can salvage and what we are doing. include kids’ parties, repurpose them for play and art Community testing and prototyping workshops, and school projects around campus and town, will start in September, and the idea holiday programs, and it for example. of that is to have pop-up play stations will be paid entry. Can you tell us about the at the markets, for example. They will development of plans for this be ongoing for the next twelve to space? eighteen months, which allows us tons Originally it again grew out of of opportunity for engagement with the our philanthropist’s idea of wanting to have a children’s community - so be on the look out for that! discovery space in this area, which mirrors the idea of We are also very keen for the community to own this children’s museums in the United States. There are over building in a sense and are accepting donations through our 400 of them in the US, and they are popping up more and website. We are currently in the community support and more rapidly around the world. Originally, these children’s fundraising stage, and we encourage people who would museums arose due to high density populations, meaning like to be involved to consider donating to the project. No kids had very few places to play. Over time, we’ve realised matter how big or small your donation is, you know that the huge cognitive behavioural/social/emotional benefits there is a brick or nail, or maybe something larger that is on unstructured play for kids, capitalising on families yours, and that you’ve helped shape the future of play and playing together to form connections and bolstering family learning in our town! dynamics. We know that kids learn through play; we all do! Thanks guys. Although the main part of redevelopment will be the children’s discovery space, we are also making a community space. The children’s discovery space will be a play based education focused area that will also include kids’ parties, workshops, and school holiday programs, and it will be paid entry. But there will also be the free community space, which will showcase our collections, have permanent exhibition space and offer performance space for live music with a café. It will still have play based opportunities there on a slightly smaller scale, for people who come and want a little taste of what else is inside. We will have revolving experiences and encounters in
New England focus. 29
with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343
July 2018
AQUARIUS.
TAURUS.
LEO.
SCORPIO.
JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19
APRIL 21 - MAY 21
JULY 24 - AUGUST 23
OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22
The challenges you are facing at home stem from not being appreciated or honoured. It is time you try something new to break the dynamics and re-educate those surrounding you to be a little less selfish and more considerate of your needs. A journey is a strong possibility, resulting in further career success. Rose Quartz is wonderful for self-confidence and appreciation.
A sense of justice will be experienced to enable you the freedom to move ahead. Avoid giving your personal power away at this time, as this is an action that causes self-disapproval. Rose Quartz will aid in raising self-worth.
This month your awareness is being called toward your usual happy way of processing life. The reason why you are so fearful at present is because you are currently taking life far too seriously. Lighten up and bring back your laughter, and watch your fears disappear. Pyrite will bring back courage.
Life may seem a little suspended at the moment, because you need to let go of something from the immediate past that has been exhausting you and causing sadness. Don’t be afraid to try something different. Your awareness is being called to recognise your creativity, because it’s through this talent you will be drawing success near. Turquoise is great for self-validation.
PISCES.
GEMINI.
VIRGO.
SAGITTARIUS.
FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20
MAY 22 - JUNE 22
AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23
NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21
You may be feeling a little “up-rooted” lately, but don’t forget how badly you wished for change to come into the picture. The reason you may be feeling this way is because your outcome is not quite here yet. Try a little new goal setting, as this will assist in a happier outlook. Ruby or Garnet will help you feel grounded, taking away some of the dilemma.
Relationships are likely to be on the main agenda this month. Be open with your communication to avoid any misunderstanding and know which insecurities belong to you and which ones don’t. Kyanite helps build inner bridges, so we can literally get over things.
Adventure a little longer. If you’re feeling stuck, write some goals down and plan a course of action. Movement is important for dispersing some of your restless energy right now, so keep busy and keep having fun. Carnelian will empower and enthuse.
Now is a really good time to debate your own rules and regulations for life. Your judgement prohibits you from enjoying life to its fullest, so be kinder to yourself. Plan a holiday for yourself and get out of your current circumstance to try a little new goal setting. Citrine will shatter negative thoughts and attract an abundance of positive ones.
ARIES.
CANCER.
LIBRA.
CAPRICORN.
MARCH 21 - APRIL 20
JUNE 23 - JULY 23
SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23
DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20
Be patient a little longer; you’re about to step into some happier times, but your attitude is critical. If you can step into the unknown fearless, there will be nothing to worry about. Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.
Don’t get caught up in holding on to garbage or things that are not a priority; this takes your confidence out of the picture, leaving you wondering where to go next. Set some fresh goals and enjoy! Selenite is great for an abundance of crystal clear energy.
With regards to relationships, instead of looking at what you’re not getting, concentrate on all the special qualities of this relationship. You will feel completely different. Chrysocolla will keep your heart singing.
Important words need to be spoken to bring a happy outcome to a potential negative situation. Don’t be afraid to speak from the heart, as your intention will be felt. Enjoy some laughter, as celebration is on its way for a family member. Citrine keeps us positively focused and lifts our spirit.
I am
YOU
could be
30 New England focus.
we are
at
PLC ARMIDALE
ALL GIRLS PRE-KINDER TO YEAR 12. BOARDING FROM YEAR 5.
plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au 02 6770 1700 Educating successful women of tomorrow in a Christian environment
IN ALLIANCE WITH PLC SYDNEY
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BOO Seeka
BOO Seeka’s synths and beats keep the energy sizzling like a neon sign on the Miami strip. THE SYDNEY HIP-HOPPSYCH-SOUL PROJECT BEGAN AS AN OUTLET FOR A COUPLE OF MUSICAL EXPERIMENTS - A TESTING GROUND FOR NEW SOUNDS. And it’s growing, multiplying and producing delicious sounds.
Celebrate NAIDOC Week at Pathfinders. NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC is celebrated not only in Indigenous communities, but by Australians from all walks of life. The week is a great opportunity to participate in a range of activities and to support your local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
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combination of pulsating synth sounds that bed down layered textures of electronic bass and percussive beats. Influenced by the layerings and experimental beats of Major Lazer, the cool swagger of DJ Shadow and The Seed 2.0’s Cody Chestnutt’s soulful vocal delivery, BOO SEEKA snaps up melodies and bounces them off hip-hop/R&B driven grooves and beats that vibe. To date, the duo have accumulated over 11 million Spotify streams and dominated national airwaves with their singles Oh My, Deception Bay and Fool. Their 2015 debut Kingdom Leader peaked at #6 on the Australian iTunes Electronic chart, and was premiered and featured as Song of the Week on HillyDilly.com. The track made blog and radio waves abroad with features on The Music Ninja and LaBelle Musique and received airplay on KCRW (California), and on XFM in the UK. BOO Seeka’s follow up single Deception Bay reached #50 in triple j’s 2015 Hottest 100 edition and snagged the outfit a J Award nomination for Unearthed Artist of the Year in 2015. BOO Seeka’s infectious live performance have seen multiple sold-out headline tours and festivals in Australia and abroad, including appearances at Groovin’ The Moo, Splendour In the Grass, Party in the Paddock, The Big Pineapple Festival, The Great Escape (UK) and SXSW (Austin TX, USA) earlier this year. They’ve supported the likes of Sticky Fingers, SAFIA, DMA’s, Jarryd James, Cherub (USA) and North East Party House, to mention a few. More recently, they’ve sold out headline shows in Amsterdam, two shows in London, San Francisco and New York, proving
that they’re songs and infectious rhythms travel beyond their breeding grounds.
The annual National NAIDOC Awards Ceremony recognise the outstanding contributions that Indigenous Australians make to improve the lives of Indigenous people in their communities and beyond, to promote Indigenous issues in the wider community, or the excellence they’ve shown in their chosen field. These Awards celebrate excellence, build towards a
better future and remind us of this nation's 65,000-year-old history. Under the theme - Because of Her, We Can! NAIDOC Week 2018 will be held nationally from Sunday 8th July and continue through to Sunday 15th July. As pillars of our society, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have played - and continue to play - active and significant roles at the community, local, state and national levels. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women fought and continue to fight, for justice, equal rights, our rights to country, for law and justice, access to education, employment and to maintain and celebrate our culture, language, music and art. Pathfinders is holding multiple events during NAIDOC week across the New England; we look forward to seeing you there!
Their debut album, Never Too Soon was released August 4th, 2017 (through Sureshaker and Warner Music Australia). Working with producer and long time collaborator, Ian Pritchett (Bootleg Rascal and Lyall Moloney), expect development in the duo's sound, with band member Sammy Seeka describing Never Too Soon as: “This album best reflects our recent life experiences, encapsulating all we've encountered over the past two and a half years. Our recording process for the album followed no structure; we recorded vocals in carparks, tour buses and our studios in Sydney. One vocal loop was recorded into an iPhone on stage in a theatre in America. Ultimately every idea and piece of music we had come together in my bedroom studio; we then took it to our producer Ian Pritchett's garage studio, and that's where the songs came to life.” Never Too Soon placed at #1 on the Australian iTunes Album Charts on the day of release and debuted at #8 on the first week ARIA Album Charts. It was also chosen to be triple j’s feature album of the week, the week after its release. Their most recent singles, Does This Last, Turn Up Your Light and Gold Sail navigate through a bed of spacey synth and string layers, building on their eclectic soul-tronic sounds. All three singles have been placed on high rotation on triple j and have been featured on a few Spotify AU/ NZ playlists (including five weeks on the Indie Mixtape playlist). With a freshly developed sound and an impressive live show to follow, they’ll be heading to UNE Amridale at The Stro on 12 July. Tickets: https://tickets.oztix.com.au/default. aspx?Event=88874 New England focus. 31
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Health Wellbeing and
W I T H S U N D I A L D E N TA L
WITH SHANNON LAWRENCE
- H E A LT H F U L W I S D O M
F UNC T ION A L
Benefits of Orthodontics Nutrient deficiencies caused by blood pressure medications You might be forgiven for imagining that orthodontics is a cosmetic treatment. Indeed, improving the aesthetics of a person’s smile is one of the primary benefits and motivations of orthodontic treatment; however, millions of people worldwide use orthodontic treatments to straighten their teeth for the health benefits, which range from practical, functional, and structural, to long term improvement in their overall health. Bite Correction: A “bad bite” means that the jaws are not perfectly aligned - so upper and lower teeth won’t meet properly when closed. A poor bite can lead to a range of long-term problems, such as headaches, difficulty eating or even speech. It can cause uneven wear on the teeth and cause erosion problems. Correcting a bad bite leads to a generally healthier mouth for the patient and better long-term dental health outcomes. Resolving Overcrowding: Some patients struggle with the size and number of teeth within a relatively small mouth. This can be uncomfortable and can force teeth out of line. The best course of action is often to remove a number of teeth and realign them into a wellproportioned smile-line, which looks and feels better for the patient. Crowding can also make it difficult to keep your teeth clean and cause the formation of periodontal pockets that lead to gum disease. Impacted Teeth: Impacted teeth are those that do not have sufficient space to erupt properly. Orthodontics is used to create space to allow the tooth through and then ensure that it achieves a suitable position within the context of the other teeth. Gaps: Sometimes teeth naturally grow leaving gaps, and this can displace the load on other 32 New England focus.
teeth and cause long-term problems such as cracked teeth. Orthodontic braces can be used to close gaps between the teeth for an even smile line and to create an even load on the jaw and the teeth. Jaw Realignment: Orthodontics can be helpful in realigning the jaw, the bite and the alignment of the teeth. Fully functional teeth need to be in alignment to work properly, and jaw alignment has a skeletal and functional health impacts. Rotated/Misaligned Teeth: Many people have one or more teeth that are rotated, twisted or out of line. Orthodontics can address this and in some cases, results are surprisingly quick. Mouth Health: Straighter teeth can also reduce the risk of swollen gums, redness and periodontal pocketing and reduce the risk of gum disease, which can all be caused by widely spaced or over-crowded teeth. It can also remove “food traps” created by misaligned teeth or gaps, which increase the risk of dental decay. This improves the general health of your mouth, as well as improving your overall health.
Before delving in to specifics, I will discuss how medications affect nutrients.
are potassium, calcium, vitamin D and possibly Co-Enzyme Q10.
How medications affect nutrients There are a few ways that medications can affect how our bodies absorb vital nutrients. The medication may: • Take hold of a nutrient and pass it out of the body • Change the pH in the gastrointestinal tract, so that the nutrient can’t be absorbed properly • Increase or decrease the body’s ability to move nutrients around the body • Increase or decrease the activation of nutrients, so that they can be properly absorbed
Symptoms that can occur due to deficiencies in these nutrients are fatigue, leg cramps, frequent infections, thirst, muscle weakness, bone loss, confusion, high blood pressure, confusion, heart disease and rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Some medications need particular nutrients in order for them to be able to work also. ACE Inhibitors and nutrients depleted by them Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE Inhibitors) are one of the most commonly used families of blood pressure medicines. Examples include: ramipril, enalapril, lisinopril, quinapril, fosinopril, trandolapril and captopril. Nutrients that can be depleted by these medicines are zinc, magnesium, potassium and calcium. Deficiencies in these nutrients can cause hair loss, slow healing of wounds, loss of taste or smell, prostate problems, loss of sex drive, frequent infections, leg cramps, weight gain, bone loss, high blood pressure, higher risk of cancer. Calcium channel blockers and nutrients depleted by them
Sundial Dental Port Macquarie 6583 3533, or
Another commonly used family of blood pressure medicines. Examples include: amlodipine, nifedipine, felodipine, diltiazem and verapamil.
visit us at www.sundialdental.com.au
Nutrients that can be depleted by these medicines
For more information about your dental health, book a consultation with the Caring Team at
Beta blockers and nutrients depleted by them Examples of beta blockers include: atenolol, metoprolol, sotalol and bisoprolol. Beta blockers can deplete the body of Co-Enzyme Q10 and melatonin. Symptoms that can occur due to deficiencies in these nutrients are insomnia, disrupted sleep, increased risk of cancer, autoimmune disorders, muscle cramps, memory loss. Centrally acting blood pressure medications Clonidine and methyldopa are examples of this. Co-Enzyme Q10 can be depleted by these. Depletion of Co-Enzyme Q10 can result in fatigue, weakness, muscle and leg cramps, memory loss, frequent infection, liver damage, higher risk of heart attack, higher risk of cancer. It is important to know that you may be deficient in these nutrients if you take any of the listed medicines. Supplementation with nutrients is important to prevent the effects of depletion. It is not possible for me to suggest particular supplements that would suit everyone and their situation. Please discuss with your pharmacist, naturopath or GP before starting a supplement. Stay tuned for ways that I can help you individually with your health. Reference: Drug Muggers, Suzy Cohen.
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Nations of
ORIGIN Nations of Origin has become the largest Aboriginal youth sporting event in NSW. THE PROGRAM HAS FOUR MAIN COMPONENTS: RECONCILIATION, EDUCATION, CULTURAL IDENTITY AND IS AIMED AT INCREASING SCHOOL RETENTION, with all participants required to have 80 per cent school attendance to be eligible to participate.
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hat is their community under their traditional Nations of local Aboriginal nation name from Origin? their area, with uniforms adorned Nations of with totems of their Aboriginal nation. Origin is a This provides an opportunity for nonmultifaceted Aboriginal young people to learn about sport, cultural, education and leadership their local Aboriginal culture and foster program, which culminates during relationships and understanding between NAIDOC week annually. The program local cultures. has four main More than components: 1,200 young rugby reconciliation, league, football, education, cultural netball and identity and sport. basketball players This is not a typical competition; It is aimed at and boxers from the players are not selected increasing school around NSW will on talent. Nations focuses retention, with compete at the on the cultural and all participants sixth PCYC NSW education aspects of required to have Nations of Origin competition, and therefore an 80 per cent tournament in July. select players who could benefit school attendance Being held in most from this experience. to be eligible the Hunter from to participate. July 16 to 19, 97 All participating teams from 25 sporting teams NSW Aboriginal must consist of Aboriginal and nonnations playing under 16s boys’ and girls’ Aboriginal young people, with a ratio of rugby league 7s, under 14s boys’ and 70:30 in the formation of the teams. girls’ football fives and under 14s netball Cultural identity is a focal point of will be joined this year by 36 under 14s the project, with all teams representing and 16s “3×3” basketball teams and 30
under 16s boxers. How will Armidale be involved? This year Armidale PCYC will be sending down both a male and female rugby team and a netball team competing for the Aniwan people. This is a once in a life time experience for some of these players; the work that goes into this competition will ensure the players will never forget the experience. What is PCYC's role? This is not a typical competition; the players are not selected on talent. Nations focuses on the cultural and education aspects of competition, and therefore select players who could benefit most from this experience. PCYC's main focus is to ensure the whole week is completely funded, from jerseys, accommodation, food and travel. How can new people get involved? As mentioned, PCYC Armidale is fully funding the program for all the players. The event is one of our largest mission based activities. If any members of the community wish to help in any way with sponsorship, food or travel, please get in contact with the club. If you need more information, please call (02) 6772 1023. New England focus. 33
Need some motivation to run this winter? We all know how hard it can be to get moving and stay motivated during winter. It’s cold and dark, lots of layers are required and staying indoors can be very enticing. However, it is also a great time to run outdoors, and the cold air can be invigorating. Training for an event or running with friends is the best motivation there is during the colder months. That’s the tip from the organisers of the annual Coffs Harbour Running Festival. The unique “off-road” event has something for all ages and abilities, with the choice of a half marathon, 10 km run, 5 km run/walk and the 3 km family fun run/walk - all held on the scenic Coffs Creek Walkway. Entries for the event on Sunday, September 9 are now open, with early bird prices available until the end of July. The course is spectacular, meandering along the banks of the picturesque Coffs Creek, through the town’s Botanic Gardens to the iconic Park Beach. The track is mostly flat and shaded and follows a bush trail through swamp forests of mangroves, casuarina and paperbarks. The Bendigo Bank Coffs Harbour Running Festival is now in its eighth year and attracts approximately 1,600 participants annually from all over Australia. “We are so lucky to have this
unique running track in the middle of our town, taking in so many beautiful sights,” race director Noel Phillips said. Marathon legend Steve Moneghetti is returning as the event ambassador again this year, hailing it as one of the most unique courses he has run on. Steve will be on hand to chat to other participants, provide running tips, training advice and share his stories. For those looking for some motivation during winter, Armidale parkrun is an excellent training option. It is a free, timed 5 km event open to runners and walkers of all standards and takes place at 8am every Saturday morning at SportUNE, Madgwick. Phillips said, “It is a great way of assessing where your running fitness is at and testing yourself against others and the clock before deciding which distance to compete in at the Coffs
Running Festival.” $165,000 since the Early Bird prices for the inaugural event in 2011. The course is spectacular, event are on offer until Life Education, Coffs Coast meandering along the 31 July, and organisers Autism, Camp Quality banks of the picturesque encourage all those and Early Connections are Coffs Creek, through the planning on taking among the charities that town’s Botanic Gardens to part to enter early and will benefit again this year. the iconic Park Beach. take advantage of the Volunteers fromS these reduced entry fees. “It’s groups also assist on the also a great opportunity day by manning the water to set a goal to work stations on the course. towards through the winter months and be part For more information and to enter the 2018 of a fun, community event,” said Phillips. Bendigo Bank Coffs Harbour Running Festival on The event raises money for local charities and Sunday 9th September, go to: www.villagesports.com.au community groups and has donated over
Mike Blewitt s Coast Coa Co astappy! ast Coffs Drive away h
SINCE 1978
mikeblewitt.com.au
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Business Minds
with Ingrid Rothe of VIVID Thinking
AnthonyFox ARMIDALE BUSINESS CHAMBER This month instead of showcasing a single business owner, WE ARE HIGHLIGHTING AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THE WHOLE SMALL BUSINESS COMMUNITY TO SHINE IN OUR IMMEDIATE REGION. Mr Anthony Fox, taking on the role of President of the Armidale Business Chamber at the June 2018 AGM, will be talking to us about the 2018 Armidale Regional Business Awards.
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ell us about the Chamber ... The Chamber’s purpose is to inspire, energise, and resource local businesses by: creating connections and helping forge stronger business networks; promoting change and innovation; facilitating quality training and development; and recognising business excellence. What’s coming up? Apart from our regular end of month networking drinks, sponsored by Regional Australia Bank, our focus is squarely on the 2018 Armidale Business Chamber Awards. Nominations are open now, and entries close on 6th July! Why does the Chamber put so much emphasis on the Business Awards? There’s so much innovation and great work being done by Armidale businesses - the Awards aim to recognise their achievements and to help inspire innovation and development in the broader business community, as well as employees of business. We should celebrate our success, sometimes in difficult circumstances. Operating a business in regional NSW can be tough going. The Awards night provides us with an opportunity to relax and celebrate. The Awards should also allow our community to find out more about a diverse range of businesses often operating under the radar of most of us. The Awards are about people - the people who run a business, and those who work within it, and without whom the business would not thrive.
More than just locally How can a business that address the needs recognising business success, benefit from entering of a diverse community, the Awards can also the Awards? including seniors, people raise the profile of More than just locally from a culturally and our businesess across recognising business linguistically diverse the region and even the success. The awards can background, and people state, opening up invaluable also raise the profile of with disability. opportunities for networking our businesses across The 2018 Chamber and collaboration. the region and even Business Awards will also the state, opening up host three Customer invaluable opportunities Service Awards, with the for networking and popular Customer Service collaboration. - Retail Award, helping profile local retailers who In previous years, local winners have gone are finding innovative ways to give customers a on not only to represent Armidale at the New better experience in their stores and to manage England North West Awards but also at state their businesses more efficiently. The Awards level. In fact, in 2017, five Armidale businesses will also recognise local tradie heroes - as well as out of thirteen categories went on to represent businesses in the food and entertainment areas the New England North West at state level. - so important for the development of tourism. We also spoke to winner of the Excellence This Award also includes customer service in the in Small Business category, Ross Patch of the Armidale region. Daily Ritual. Ross said, “As a small regionallyWho can enter? based retailer, it was an honour to represent Anyone can nominate a local business they Armidale at the state level and a real boost to be think deserves recognition. And this is so recognised by my own community. My staff and important, as many businesses are too modest to customers really shared my pleasure in the win.” “blow their own trumpet”. And of course, selfWhat Award categories are there this year? entry is permissible; we have so many businesses This year, we will have 18 Award categories, that fly under the radar in our community, and recognising achievement in a range of areas: this ensures they have the opportunity to be such as innovation, sustainability, outstanding recognised for their successes. employee, and enterprising woman, as well Do you have to be a member to enter? as all-round excellence in small business. 2018 The Awards are open to all business in will introduce a new Award - Excellence in Armidale, Guyra, Uralla and Walcha, and you Workplace Inclusion, which recognises businesses don’t need to be a member to enter.
How do you enter? Nominations and Awards entry are now open at http://www.armidalechamber.com. au - and will run through to 6th July 2018. For further information, see the Chamber website - armidalechamber.com.au - or contact the Armidale Business Chamber on 6771 1177. Any advice for a business preparing their Awards submission? Write about your business journey, your strategy, your outcomes, your celebration. When answering, use examples to demonstrate your approach, initiatives or successes. And when asked for measurable results and outcomes, use actuals, not percentages. The judges are seeking to determine the credibility of your entry. Before you start, doublecheck your eligibility for the category. We also encourage you to enter more than one category. The New South Wales Business Chamber has some great tips available online at businessannualawards.com.au/Award-entry/ Resources. And of course, feel free to call us to get specific advice. When will the Awards night be held? The Awards Gala Night will be held at the Armidale Bowling Club on 10th August 2018. The Gala Awards Night is a great night out, and in recent years it has sold out, so we encourage you to book early. I’m looking forward to hearing the success stories that will emerge from this year’s Awards program. Thanks Anthony. New England focus. 35
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Deborah Nay has held the position of principal at Armidale City Public School since the beginning of Term 2 this year. With a student population of 440 and a staff cohort of around 40, Deborah’s role is a varied one. She plans to build on the school’s already considerable strengths throughout 2018 and beyond …
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i Deborah. Where are you originally from, and what’s your association with the New England region? I grew up around Kyogle on the North Coast, but spent most school holidays with my grandparents in Tenterfield. I came to Armidale to do my teacher training at the old Teachers’ College and spent three wonderful years in Armidale. During that time, I also worked at the old Department of Agriculture Veterinary Laboratory, which was located near the University of New England and held a casual job at Fossey’s. Please share a bit of your career background with our readers ... At the end of my training, I was appointed to Coonabarabran Public School. I spent five years working at the school, with a short period of time at the TAFE. In 1995, I applied for and was appointed as a teaching principal at Mount Parry Public School, a reasonably isolated one teacher school 70 km south-west of Quirindi. At the beginning of 1999, I moved to Curlewis Public School, which is located 20 km south of Gunnedah, where Matt Hobbs (previous principal of Armidale City Public School) was one of my teachers. I spent twelve years as a teaching principal in the village and taught whole families of children. After sixteen years as a teaching principal, I took on the role of non-teaching principal at Condobolin Public School. Condobolin is located in the centre of New South Wales on the Lachlan River, and is considered by many to be quite isolated. For a little over seven years, I was privileged to work with a terrific team of teachers and support staff, who ensured that the students were at the centre of all decisions. Working
together, we managed to see many positive changes in school culture, learning and how the community viewed our school. I learnt a lot about working with a range of staff and outside agencies to meet the needs of students, and how to do this in a more remote setting. How long have you been principal at Armidale City Public School, and how do you feel you’ve settled into the role so far? Following my appointment through transfer, I moved to Armidale at the end of Term 1. I have been the principal at Armidale City Public School since the beginning of this term, replacing Matt Hobbs when he took up the position of Director, Educational Leadership for the Northern Tablelands. As with any new position, I have been kept busy learning about the people and processes specific to Armidale City Public School. I have enjoyed my time at the school, including meeting many community members at the annual Mother’s Day Fete that was held at the start of the term. While I know the names of staff, I am still learning the names of each of the students. Tell us a bit about the school ... when was it built, and how many students/staff are there currently? Armidale City Public School is the oldest school in Armidale, celebrating its sesquicentenary (150 Years) in 2011. It was one of the demonstration schools that many trainee teachers would visit throughout their training. The classrooms are somewhat larger than in most schools, to accommodate the additional teachers who would stand around the room to observe teachers at work. We currently have an enrolment of 440 students across eighteen classes. Of these,
ARMIDALE CITY PUBLIC
SCHOOL IS THE OLDEST 20% of our students activities. SCHOOL IN ARMIDALE, come from a language What are some things CELEBRATING ITS background other you’d like to introduce/ SESQUICENTENARY than English and 15% change at the school (150 YEARS) IN 2011. of our students are moving forward? Aboriginal. Around Armidale City Public 40 committed staff cater School is a great school with to the learning and many traditions that are worthy of continuing. As the new principal, I will wellbeing needs of children with special learning be looking at how we may be able to build upon needs, through to those identified as gifted and talented. the systems and processes in place to make it easier for teachers to teach and students to learn. What do you feel are the school’s strengths? What do you feel your major focus as One of the main strengths of Armidale City principal will be throughout the remainder Public School is the way in which staff and of 2018? students support children coming to school with little or no English language. The children are As a principal, my major focus will continue made to feel welcomed and a part of the class to be around supporting staff to do their job, from the moment they arrive. Additional support so they can provide the best possible education is offered through specialist teachers to help the to the students at our school. This will be ongoing, as I learn the names of our students children and teachers overcome the language and work with staff to best address the strategic barrier. directions: challenging and inclusive quality Though we are no longer considered a learning culture; confident, caring and resilient demonstration school, our school works closely individuals; and highly effective, collaborative and with the University of New England to support trainee teachers. In the short time I have been at informed teaching. the school, we have had six practicum students Where can we find out more about the developing their skills alongside our experienced school and the programmes it offers? teachers. Setting future teachers up for success in Information about our school can be provided the profession is another of the strengths of our by contacting the school office on 6772 3420 or school. by accessing the school website: We have an experienced staff who embrace www.armidalec-p.schools.nsw.edu.au current research to improve students’ outcomes. Thanks Deborah. They also offer a broad range of extracurricular Interview: Jo Robinson. New England focus. 37
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In her current role with Hunter New England Health, RACHAEL SUMMERS PROVIDES CARE FOR CLIENTS FROM AS FAR NORTH AS THE QUEENSLAND BORDER to as far south as Uralla.
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o two days are the same in Rachael’s job - a fact she enjoys immensely! Rachael must also enjoy the challenge of study, as not only did she obtain her qualifications as a Nurse Practitioner in Aged and Chronic care last year, she’s now got her sights set on completing her PhD! Hi Rachael. What's your relationship with the New England area, and how long have you called it home? I moved to Armidale in 2012 after a few years working in Queensland, and I moved to Australia in 2008 from Wales in the UK. I feel very at home here in Armidale! It’s a lovely city. Whenever I travel away, I cannot wait to return. Please give us a brief overview of your career in the health industry to date ... I started my journey in 1993 as an Assistant in Nursing, then qualified as a Registered Nurse in 1996. Since then, I have specialised in many areas, including Neurosurgery, Cardiothoracic Intensive Care, Telehealth, Oncology, Renal Dialysis. To date, my career has seen me work from junior level right through to senior management. I have also guest lectured at UNE and recently spoken at two national Gerontology conferences within Australia. You've recently completed a course of study and you're now a qualified Nurse Practitioner. When/where did you complete this study - and how long did it take? I qualified as a Nurse Practitioner in Aged and Chronic Care last year after four years studying with Deakin University in Melbourne. I must be addicted to study now, as I have just commenced a PhD with Edith Cowan University in Perth! Juggling work and study is a challenge! 38 New England focus.
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Why did you decide to follow this study pathway? It certainly is a challenge to keep work and study going together. My family, including my husband and four children, have I qualified as a Nurse also been incredibly Practitioner in Aged and supportive. Further Chronic Care last year education in life is so after four years studying very important, and it’s with Deakin University never too late to learn! in Melbourne. I must be Besides being a great addicted to study now, as I have career move, I also just commenced a PhD with hoped that I’d become a Edith Cowan University in Perth! no cost involved for this good role model for my service. children too and show I can see people in them the value that a their own homes, via good education can telehealth, in the community or in hospital bring. and have the ability to refer on to clinicians as What's your current role with Hunter New necessary. England Health ... and can you tell us a bit I also run a monthly Psychogeriatric clinic about what's involved with this job on a with the visiting Psychogeriatrician, Dr Millie day-to-day basis? Ho, at Armidale Community Health. As a Nurse My role is a Tablelands sector role, so I cover Practitioner, I also have the ability to prescribe the area from the Queensland border, down as medications as appropriate, which is useful for far as Uralla. I see mainly older people living in those who have difficulty accessing their own the community who have challenging health GP due to physical isolation or health problems. issues. Sometimes, these problems take people I work very closely with the person’s GP in into hospital frequently, and their health can order to make this process work well, and good be a bit of a puzzle. My role is to work out why communication is key. the problems happen and see what’s missing. Generally, no two days are the same! The types of problems I see a lot are frequent One day I can be out in someone’s paddock falls, memory issues, social issues, general completing a health assessment 200 km away; health queries, family worries, frailty, age the next day I might be in Armidale Hospital related decline and difficulty accessing care. with a patient on Medical Ward! I also help people with Advance Care What do you most love about your job? Planning and with Chronic Disease My favourite part about my role is definitely Management plans. I take referrals directly from the public, GPs, hospital staff, clients’ the diversity and all the wonderful people I get families and/or carers, and there is generally to meet. Everyone’s situation is different, their
needs are unique, so I learn something new every day. It is the best feeling to know you have helped someone and made their life a little bit easier today. Each and every career also comes with its challenges. What's the hardest part about what you do? The worst part about my role is that I am forever being reminded of the fragility of life and that good health is precious. I guess I wouldn’t be human, unless I felt a little sadness when people I’d got to know well entered into the final stages of their life. I try to think positively about the fact that I am helping things be a little easier during hard times. It makes what I do very rewarding. What do you enjoy doing when you're not working (or studying)? I have several pastimes which I enjoy, and these mainly include cookery, reading, vegetable gardening and sewing. It helps me to relax a lot, and of course my family benefit from all the hearty meals that I cook! Thanks Rachael. Interview: Jo Robinson.
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O’Connor Academic Excellence at
O’Connor continues its tradition of academic excellence, with students and staff being recognised across many areas, including Science and STEM. Innovation Program
skills necessary to live in our 21st Century world.
O’Connor has embraced the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) movement and has been a leader in the region, working tirelessly to support the digital literacy of both teachers and students to equip them for our changing world. O’Connor introduced an integrated STEM elective in Year 9, 2015 with the support of the Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Armidale.
National Youth Science Forum
Since then STEM has been fully integrated into the school. The teachers are passionate about providing learning opportunities to develop 21st Century skills. Many of the resources used were developed by the teachers to ensure quality courses are delivered.
Participants take part in sessions on entrepreneurship, critical thinking, how to work together effectively, and more. The focus is not solely on academic achievements, but on developing well-rounded individuals who have the skills and confidence to determine their futures. It is highly competitive and students from across Australia apply.
One of key success indicators for this initiative is measured through student subject selection and engagement in these subjects in Year 11 and 12 at O’Connor. The STEM initiative enhances and develops cross subject collaboration both at a student and teacher level and provides space and time to improve and enhance their digital literacy
The National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) is a highly prestigious science event for Year 11 students. The NYSF is a 12-day residential program designed to give students a broader understanding of the diverse study and career options available in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and to encourage continued studies in these fields.
Sam Frazier, Year 12, was selected to attend the forum in January 2018 at Australian National University in Canberra. He participated in a range of field trips, lab visits and met eminent scientists. The forum solidified Sam’s goal of
studying Science on completion of his HSC.
Student Spirit Award
From the forum, a small number of students who have shown leadership skills throughout the 12 days are selected to return to be student staff members at the next forum. O’Connor is proud to announce that Sam was selected as one of these students. Sam will spend the July holidays in a training program that includes an outward bound expedition in preparation for the Jan 2019 forum. We congratulate Sam on his achievement!
Year 12 students have been recognised for their work and commitment at school, parish and community level. As a collective, these students have changed the culture of the college by their active participation in the faith and liturgical life both of the college and the parish, their community service and their contribution to Catholic social justice.
Year 11 students Harrison Stewart, Meg Lye and Laura Di Luzio have all applied to attend the 2019 NYSF. We wish them the best of luck and thank the Central Rotary Club of Armidale for their continued support of our students to attend the NYSF.
These students are active in their community in a variety of ways. Many are part of music ensembles, ever ready to perform when needed. They are also part of the Drama Club and Dance Club, coordinating eisteddfod pieces and mentoring junior students. Many were part of the very successful school productions, Annie and High School Musical.
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Help us win Recycled
Gardensets
The kids at Duval High School are diverting the ARMIDALE COMMUNITY’S ORAL CARE WASTE FROM LANDFILL FOR THEIR CHANCE TO WIN ONE OF FIVE RECYCLED COMMUNITY GARDEN SETS, as part of a national recycling competition run by Colgate, Chemist Warehouse and global recycling pioneers TerraCycle.
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etween 23rd March and 31st October 2018, the Colgate Community Garden Challenge invites pre-, primary and secondary schools nationwide to collect all brands of oral care waste and send it to TerraCycle, who will give the waste a second life by creating new products. Five recycled community garden sets will be awarded to five schools, with each set including three garden beds, two custommade benches, one rubbish bin and one sign, plus a $500 gardening voucher to buy seeds and plants. Besides showing how recycled materials can be used as a sustainable alternative to virgin plastic, the sets are designed to promote gardening and healthy eating among schools. Bridget Labrosse from Duval High School said the competition has inspired students to get involved in school recycling, and that a recycled community garden set would complement the school’s sustainability ethos. “Recycling is a lifelong skill and is so
important to teach to the next generation,” Miss Labrosse said. "I love the idea of getting students outside and learning hands-on skills. The recycled community garden set would be an excellent teaching tool for studying ecosystems, plants and habitats!” How can the community help? The Armidale community is encouraged to drop their used oral care products at Duval High School to be recycled, and vote for them every day online at www.terracycle. com.au/colgategardenvoting. “Colgate is thrilled to partner with Chemist Warehouse and TerraCycle to give kids the opportunity to win a recycled community garden set while reducing landfill,” Colgate Vice President and General Manager of South Pacific, Julie Dillon, said. “Well done, Duval High School - keep up the great recycling work!” “At TerraCycle, we want to ‘Eliminate the Idea of Waste’ and a perfect place to start is with schools,” Jean Bailliard, General Manager of TerraCycle Australia, said. “We
at random. By sending at least one shipment want to thank the kids at Duval High School for their amazing recycling work, and wish (minimum 2 kg) of accepted oral care waste them all the best in the competition!” to TerraCycle, schools earn one entry into Schools can visit the draw to win a recycled www.terracycle.com. community garden set. au/colgategarden to Accepted oral care join the competition, waste includes: toothpaste access posters Besides showing how tubes and caps, and resources recycled materials toothbrushes, toothbrush to get started, can be used as a and toothpaste tube and to watch sustainable alternative outer packaging and floss to virgin plastic, the their competition containers. sets are designed to ranking on a digital Additionally, in monthly promote gardening leaderboard. prize draws, schools will and healthy eating So whats the have the chance to win a among schools. Competition? pack of 60 upcycled pencil The Colgate cases made from recycled Community Garden toothpaste tubes - another Challenge will have example of how oral care waste can become five winners that will each win a recycled community garden set: three winners will be the schools that recycle the most oral care waste and earn the most online votes from the community; two winners will be drawn
a valuable new product. Competition entry, rules and an interactive leaderboard can be found at www.terracycle.com.au/colgategarden New England focus. 41
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Apprenticeships at
UNIPLAN
UR VISIT O ES y HOM DISpla IDalE IN aRM
A N D
T I M B E R L I N E
CUSTOM DESIGNED MODULAR HOMES & GRANNY FLATS
I At Uniplan Group we’re passionate about making your home building experience as easy and hassle free as possible. By building your new home in our factory in Armidale we can control every facet of the job. When it’s complete we deliver and install the finished home on your land. Our experienced team makes every step of the way simple.
Call us today on 1800 864 752 or Visit our display Homes Drop around to 22 Myrtle Drive to see our stunning displays between 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday and Saturday by appointment
@uniplangroup.co @uniplangroup sales@uniplangroup.co
www.uniplangroup.co 22 Myrtle Drive PO BOx 5004 ArmidAle NSW 2350 1800 UNiPlAN (1800 864 752)
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would like to ask you about growth, means our doors are always your staff, training programs, open to new staff. At present we have job growth, etc. but first opportunities for a number of trades, give us a quick overview of including tiling, painting, plastering and Timberline and Uniplan: We are carpentry (both in our factory and for on a family business based in Myrtle our job sites). Drive, Armidale, with two divisions. How do folks go about applying for Timberline makes bathroom furniture, a job at Uniplan/Timberline? such as vanities and mirror cabinets. We You’re welcome to drop out to 22 ship around 120 cabinets all around the Myrtle Drive any time. We have a simple country every single day. Uniplan builds application form for you to fill in. Based modular homes. Uniplan’s aim is to make on your expertise, one of our team will then let you know the home building what vacancies process as easy we have at the as possible, by moment. helping our clients Do you accept with design, We are very positive about future growth apprentices? Council through opportunities for My word we do! to building and our company. More We currently have installation. importantly, we are 24 apprentices and How many staff passionate about growing two trainees. do you have? this fantastic city we live in. If you’re a young Well, we started person wanting to as a three man get into a trade or a family team on a mature age person block of dirt with looking for new skills - we’re more than a shipping container back in September happy to invest in you. We work closely 1999. We have now grown to 122 staff. with TAFE and other training providers to The family has certainly grown! I’m enhance your skills. told this makes us the largest private What hours do you work out there? employer in Armidale. The Uniplan factory operates from Are you currently looking for more 7am to 3pm. The Timberline factory is a staff? 24 hour operation running three shifts. We are always actively recruiting. What perks do your staff enjoy? We Because Armidale has quite a transient have a great culture here, but let me population, it’s not uncommon for staff preface it by saying that our #1 company to be moving on to other locations. value is “We’re a team of spirited hard This, in addition to our ongoing
workers”. The first thing visitors notice is that our staff all roll their sleeves up and make stuff happen. Having said that - we have a very happy and inclusive team. The perk that staff love the most is our FREE LUNCH FRIDAYS! Every single Friday, staff are treated to either pizza, BBQ chicken and chips or a delicious BBQ works burger, cooked right here. Mmmm … my mouth is watering now! What are your plans for future jobs in Armidale? We are very positive about future growth opportunities for our company. More importantly, we are passionate about growing this fantastic city we live in. I’ve said it hundreds of times; Armidale needs a larger spectrum of employment opportunities. If Armidale continues to grow and expand, it brings the opportunity for greater diversity and opportunities that will make it an even better city to live in. So many families have roots here and would love to live here, but we need a bigger pool of employment to keep people in town. Uniplan and Timberline will continue to do our bit to support the growth of the Armidale community. We wholeheartedly encourage other businesses to do the same. What do you think are the most important things when looking for a new job? It’s simple - is the culture of the company a good fit for you, and is there job security? You have to feel part of the company, so that you enjoy your work!
Thinking Divorce W I T H
E L I Z A B E T H S TA H L U T , S O L I C I T O R
Thinking Divorce Unfortunately, marriages don’t always work out. And there are times when parties cannot always resolve their issues, to save the marriage, which means there is sometimes no alternative, except to dissolve the marriage.
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hanks to legislation enacted in the Family Law Act of 1975, there is no requirement for either party to show that anyone was ‘at fault’, for the marriage not working out. However, before either the Federal Circuit Court of the Family Court can dissolve a marriage, there are certain criteria that must be satisfied. The Federal Circuit Court deals with the majority of divorce applications. The court must be satisfied that it has jurisdiction to deal with the matter. This will generally involve a party showing proof of Australian citizenship or residence, as well as evidence of there being a valid marriage to dissolve. If it was a marriage that took place overseas, it may also be necessary to provide not only a certified copy of the foreign marriage certificate, but also an English translation of the document, by an authorised translator. There is also likely to be a need to show that the other party has been notified, of the application for divorce. Where the marriage itself has been short, the court may impose a requirement for the parties to attempt counselling and reconciliation, before a divorce will be allowed. Criteria for Allowing Divorce Once the parties to a marriage separate, they will generally be allowed to divorce, provided there is an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, evidenced by at least twelve months’ separation. There are provisions under s.50 of the Family Law Act which allow for any attempts at reconciliation – if the parties live together again but for less than three months, they can add together the months before the reconciliation attempt and afterwards, to make
a total of twelve months. The court will generally grant a divorce, if they are satisfied that appropriate arrangements have been made for any children under eighteen years old. The order for divorce becomes final, one month after the court makes the order. At this point, both parties are then free to remarry. It should be remembered that the divorce itself will make no provision for property settlement. The parties must resolve any outstanding property issues themselves. Once the divorce is final, the parties have twelve months to resolve such issues, so it is generally best to deal with the property settlement before divorce. The divorce will also affect the rights of the former spouse, to inherit under a will. It is therefore strongly advised, that you seek legal advice, not only about the divorce, but also about any will you might have, as these will very likely need to be changed. It is possible to go onto the Federal Circuit Court website and download the actual divorce application form. It is also possible to ask the court registry staff about the court process itself, however they cannot give legal advice. It is best to seek legal advice, about the effects of divorce and any related issues, such as the care of children and property settlement. A lawyer can give you advice and assistance, to help you negotiate a path through what can be a difficult time in life. Talk to us. You’ll be inspired! Elizabeth D. Stahlut Solicitor New England focus. 43
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