Issuu

Glamping New England

issue 139

ses s y l U

Club annu

RETIRING? LEAVE HOME

MAINTENANCE BEHIND TOO Imagine spending your retirement years surrounded by friends, engaging in daily social activities, going on regular outings and living in a modern home with all the garden and external maintenance done for you. Stop imagining, Oak Tree Retirement Villages is making this a reality throughout Australia.

The fast expanding Oak Tree Group, with a portfolio of villages spanning across the eastern coast of Australia, constructs purpose built low set homes accompanied by a community centre and a variety of leisure facilities in regional Australia. Villages are specifically designed to suit independent retirees looking for a relaxed, carefree lifestyle choice and are unique in both layout configuration and palette. Design wise, the emphasis is on lifestyle longevity. Oak Tree uses designs that

will have a timeless appeal remaining classic yet contemporary. The exterior, with clean lines and modern features, are finished in a variety of colour schemes in keeping with the natural surrounds. The highly durable materials used in the construction of our villas are long lasting and require minimal maintenance. Fixtures used both internally and externally are of a high quality and will withstand the test of time. Internally, special care and attention has been taken in the layout with open plan living and abundant storage to ensure no steps and minimal door way lips to avoid trip hazards, and limited reason for bending or reaching. Oak Tree provide a Village Manager to oversee the day to day village activities and undertake maintenance of your villa, gardens and community facilities. The Armidale villages, located in Martin Street and Taylor Street, have easily accessible recreational facilities, such as

Oak Tree Retirement Villages 89 Martin Street, Armidale 217 Taylor Street, Armidale

oaktreegroup.com.au 2 New England focus.

a bowling green, landscaped gardens and a village centre, which have an inviting community feel and offer a place for residents to entertain family and friends. “For us at Oak Tree, our vision is about value adding to provide not just a home but a lifestyle,” says Oak Tree Director Mark Bindon. “We endeavour to create an enriching environment for our residents, one where they can connect with fellow residents in a social atmosphere, feel safe and supported by our dedicated Village Manager and ultimately enjoy their retirement years in carefree style,” Mr Bindon said. With their intentional regional focus Oak Tree is helping to keep seniors at home in the areas they’ve grown up in, lived in and loved.

If you are ready to embrace a carefree retirement lifestyle make enquiries today on 1300 367 155 or visit www.oaktreegroup.com.au

focus_ team.

team From the

Welcome to the December edition of New England FOCUS.

hat does this time of year mean to you? Is it the smell of gingerbread and butterscotch pudding (yum!), BBQ prawns? Or is it games of backyard cricket … mountains of crinkled, discarded wrapping paper … the delighted screams of your children … A Christmas service at your local church? The festive season means something different to everyone, but it’s wonderful to see Christmas spirit alive and well in the New England! There are so many groups and individuals out there helping those in our community for whom Christmas may not be such a joyous occasion. Cue … this month’s cover! On the Cover On December 8 this year, members of our local branch of the Ulysses Club, the New England Bushrangers, will once again team up with motorcyclists of all ages, with all types of bikes, to ride

through the streets of Armidale for the annual Toy Run. Culminating in a Show ‘n’ Shine behind Hungry Jacks, the event is an opportunity to give gifts and funds to the Salvation Army for distribution throughout the community. Our cover features well-known local Allan Piddington, from the New England Bushrangers, and our gorgeous, very excited junior model is Lily McFarlane - who absolutely loved the bicycle and helmet provided by Bicycle Central on Marsh for the photo shoot (guess what she wants for Christmas now, Mum?) Thanks to our fabulous photographer, James Brooks and everyone involved in the cover shoot. You’re all stars! Shop Local As this is our Christmas edition, we’ve pulled together some ideas to showcase the array of unique products our local retailers stock. When you’re doing your Christmas shopping, remember to shop local - so funds can stay in our community and benefit everyone! EDITION CO-ORDINATOR ADVERTISING SALES

contacts. 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 IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

Tracy Le Messurier

tracy@focusmag.com.au

SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES Amber McFarlane amber@focusmag.com.au

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Jo Robinson

Local business owners support so many charities, sporting clubs and groups, and Christmas is a major chance for us to support them in return. Thank You As we wrap up our final edition for 2018, the team at New England FOCUS would like to express our sincere gratitude to our contributors, advertisers and readers. Thank you for a brilliant 2018 … We are very much looking forward to sharing a magnificent 2019 with you all. There are some exciting plans afoot for New England FOCUS next year, so stay tuned. Merry Christmas! Final Say “It’s Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air” - W.T. Ellis.

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GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITING Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services rnrmedia@bigpond.com

PHOTOGRAPHER/EDITORIAL James Brooks james@focusmag.com.au

jo@focusmag.com.au

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. 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 material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as 'Interview or Contributor' are non-sponsored content. Greater Port Macquarie Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2018 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Fairfax Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation. FOCUS delivery bags can be REDcycled at your local Coles Supermarkets and the paper through normal recycling methods.

Want to learn more?

02 6776 8977 ascentgroup.org.au

New England focus. 3

contents Issue 139 - December 2018

focusinterviews

Kerry Gulliver.

feature a special

THE CHRISTMAS ISSUE

Kerry Gulliver is a talented local artist inspired by the shapes, patterns and colours in nature. Kerry constantly experiments with new techniques and often quite unusual painting “tools”, and her completed works are striking and unique. NERAM will be the venue for Kerry’s latest exhibition, Relievo … her works will be on display from December 7 .

The

Christmas

Karen Lawlor. Fresh from competing at the WBFF Fitness and Fashion Show on the Gold Coast, local lass Karen Lawlor shares what she learned from the whole experience. She says she wouldn’t change a thing - despite suffering more than her fair share of costume hiccups on the day! We also found out what Karen has planned for 2019 …

The Herd Bar Bridget Doran.

Bridget Doran is a young entrepreneur with a vision … Having dreamed of owning her own café and seeing a gap in the market, Bridget has started her own mobile catering business, supplying excellent coffee, scrumptious treats and a bar service around the New England area.

Celebrating an Earlier Era at UNE.

When the New England University College opened eighty years ago, it was the first regional university in Australia; today it is known as UNE and has students around the world.

4 New England focus.

the Usual

Suspects

12. WHAT’S ON DECEMBER 21. TOURISM WITH KATRINA GEORGE 25. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN 43. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI 45. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE 54. MINDING YOUR BUSINESS WITH ANTHONY FOX

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No matter where you are in the world, read FOCUS for free online every month @ www.focusmag.com.au

focusinterview.

Planning a party or wedding, but you’re a long way from town, or accommodation options are limited? Pip Taylor and Rose Doodson have the solution! The enterprising pair operate Glamping New England … they’re able to oﬀer luxurious accommodation that travels to YOU!

Glamping ping

ow did the concept behind Glamping New England originate? I (Rose) was getting married on my property in Kentucky back in February 2018 and I wanted my guests to be able to stay onsite, as many people were travelling long distances. I called around and couldn’t get anyone to set up for a reasonable price (clearly there was something lacking in the region!) so, I decided to buy my own tents. I had five tents, all kitted out glamping style. Feeling quite under the weather on the morning after the wedding and wondering what I was going to do with these tents, I asked my good friend and neighbour, Pip, if she wanted to start a business setting up tents. And, Glamping New England was born! Little did we know what we were getting ourselves into! The business has come a long way since the start of the year! We started with the first five tents, and that quickly turned into 10 tents, then 20 tents. We’ve upgraded the decor from our original five tents and we explored different furnishing options - not only do things need to look fantastic, but they need to be able to be easily transported and not break! We’ve imported floor rugs that fit the entire floor of the tent, which helps to keep it warm on those colder nights (a must with the New England weather!) and makes the tent look absolutely fantastic. We also use super comfortable mattresses, not blow up mattresses, which always seem to go down and can be very cold. To make sure our glampers

stay warm, we also use winter weight wool or goose down doonas. Our set up really is luxury in the outdoors. Describe the accommodation options you offer - what’s included? We have 20 canvas bell tents that we can bring and set up pretty much wherever you want us to set up - in your paddock, in your garden, or even in your backyard in town. The tents are super spacious, and accommodation is usually an individually styled queen suite tent. Each tent has different decor and comes with super comfortable queen bed, all bed linen, wool or goose down doonas, pillows, cushions, throws, bedside tables and a battery powered LED vintage hurricane lantern. We can also put extra single beds in the tents for families. There’s a variety of other things we can also set up with our tents. We can set the tent up with five single beds for the best slumber party ever - the tent is decorated kid style, and we also provide a few board games and puzzles. We can also set up the tent as a space for kids’ parties or a space for kids to hang out in at weddings. The tents are such a beautiful space to be in, so we’ve also set the tent up as a social space for adults - cushions and low tables all around. It’s such a nice space to spend the night with great company, delicious cheeses and good wine! How far and wide do you travel to provide glamping accommodation? We travel fairly far and wide - we’ve been from Tenterfield to Spring Ridge. We don’t tend to do any set ups that require us to stay overnight. Both Pip and I have young children,

EACH TENT COMES WITH SUPER COMFORTABLE QUEEN BED, ALL BED LINEN, WOOL OR GOOSE DOWN DOONAS, PILLOWS, CUSHIONS, THROWS, BEDSIDE TABLES AND A BATTERY POWERED LED VINTAGE HURRICANE LANTERN.

so we limit ourselves to about 3 - 3.5 hours’ drive from Kentucky. Hopefully in the future we can offer our services further afield. Typically, what types of people use your service? Our main clients are people having weddings or parties on their own properties, and they are a bit of drive from any accommodation. If a bus back to town is organised, the party pretty much stops when the bus arrives! With Glamping New England’s pop up accommodation, no one is tempted to drive home; the party can keep going as long as people can keep dancing, and your guests are staying in luxury! We have selected some of our favourite locations and you can book a stay on our website. This includes some pretty spectacular spots in the region’s national parks. What do you love most about running your business? We love getting out to some amazing places throughout the region. There are some really beautiful properties that we get to see. We also love being involved with people’s big life celebrations. Another thing we love is being able to work around our young families. We often have our kids on site “helping” with our set ups. When we aren’t onsite, we can also work from home, which gives us time to spend with our kids as

well. What promotions/ special offers do you have coming up over the next few months (if any)? We have just finished a tent giveaway to celebrate our new website. We will soon launch a promotion at Lake Keepit for the Australia Day weekend. We are offering 50% off our gorgeous tents for the weekend at Lake Keepit. Keep an eye on our website and Facebook pages for more details. What are your plans for Glamping New England moving into 2019 and beyond? We are hoping to grow and develop our business further. We have only been in operation since March this year, so we still have a lot to learn about running a successful business. We hope to develop Glamping New England so we can get people from outside the region staying in some of the beautiful locations our region has to offer or coming to some of our great festivals and events. Where can we find out more info/contact you? All our contact details are on our website: glampingnewengland.com.au on our Facebook or Instagram, or you can call us on 0427 442 533. Thanks Rose and Pip. Interview: Jo Robinson. New England focus. 5

focusinterview.

It’s almost time for the annual Ulysses Club Toy Run! Each year a cavalcade of amazing motorcycles - led by none other than Santa himself - parade through the streets of Armidale, completing their ride at the Visitor Information Centre car park.

s Ulys

es Club annua

he Toy Run aims to raise awareness, funds and charitable donations for the Salvation Army, who provide support and some extra special Christmas cheer for local families. Allan Piddington explains just what will unfold on December 8, and how you, too, can get involved! Hi Allan. What's your involvement with the New England Bushrangers branch of the Ulysses Club Inc.? I instigated the formation of the branch in 2002, and that followed on to becoming the inaugural President of the branch. I have been involved with the Ulysses Club since that date. For those who may not be in the know, what is the Ulysses Club all about - and what type of members does it typically attract? Ulysses Club is a social group for motorcyclists over the age of 40 years who enjoy riding motorcycles and going on rides together. This may involve going to other branch “Meet and Greets”, Toy Rides or Christmas functions. When and where do the "Bushrangers" regularly meet? We have been regularly meeting at the Royal Hotel on the first 6 New England focus.

Ulysses Club is a social group for motorcyclists over the

Wednesday of the month at 7:30pm. Tell us a bit about the Toy Run the club is involved with at Christmas. How long has the club been organising this event? The Toy Run was started 26 years ago by Barry Goyen and was continued on by Tony Cuffe, and also myself, with the help of other branch members. How does the Toy Run work - and where will it travel to this year? We meet at Technology Park UNE, Madgwick Drive and ride into town under police escort, through Donnelly Street, Marsh Street, Beardy Street Mall, Moore Street, West Beardy Street and down Dumaresq Street to the Visitor Information Centre car park. We deliver toys and cash to the Salvation Army Officers, who bring their truck down for us to fill up with lots of goodies. There’ll be a “Show ‘n’ Shine” display of all the motorcycles involved behind Hungry Jacks at the conclusion of the Toy Run. What dates are proposed for the Toy Run this year? Santa always leads the Toy Run, which will be held on 8th December 2018, leaving Technology Park at Midday. Anyone with a motorcycle can join in the Toy Run - not just members of the Ulysses Club. Everyone is welcome, and all types of

motorcycles are welcome members of both the age of 40 years who too! Come and have a Salvation Army and enjoy riding motorcycles look and a chat. the New England and going on rides How can the general Bushrangers for coming together. This may involve public help the Ulysses along for the FOCUS going to other branch ‘Meet & Club with the Toy photoshoot, and to Greets’, Toy Rides or Christmas Run? Anyone can come Holly Harris and Nathan functions. and donate a toy or a Whitehill from Bicycle non-perishable food item Central on Marsh for at the Salvos’ truck. No providing the terrific fluffy toys please! Cash girl’s bicycle and helmet! donations are also very welcome. Further info about Ulysses Club Inc. There are a lot of people who usually come Australia: down and look at all the different makes and There are over 137 branches of the Ulysses models of motorcycles too. Club around Australia. What other organisations/individuals The aims of the Ulysses Club are: have come on board to assist with the • To provide opportunities for older Toy Run this year? Armidale North Rotary motorcyclists to get together for has been involved also for all these years, companionship and support providing a delicious BBQ lunch for a small • To show by example that motorcycling charge. They also make a donation to the can be an enjoyable and practical activity for Salvos. riders of all ages Where can we find out more info/contact • To draw the attention of the public and you? For anyone wanting more information, private institutions to the needs and views of don’t hesitate to contact me on older riders. 0428 722 706. If you’d like to “grow old disgracefully” and Thanks Allan. fi nd out further info about the Ulysses Club Interview: Jo Robinson. Australia-wide, check out UlyssesClubAustralia The New England Bushrangers website: on Facebook or visit the website: newenglandbushrangers.ulyssesclub.org www.ulyssesclub.org Many thanks to Lily McFarlane and

New England focus. 7

CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION WITH GIFTS GALORE ecember is always a busy The gallery space will be hung with a group and exciting time @ Armidale show of the Gallery 126 artists for our Christmas Framing and Art Supplies Exhibition, which we hope you can find some Gallery 126. There’s an advent time to call in and visit. There will be works from calendar on the front counter, Stuart Boggs, Kerry Dunne, Elouise Roberts, Robyn which Jackson, Anna Henderson, we share with one lucky Emily Simson, Esther customer. Each day of Eckley, and Steph Clark. December, a drawer is All the artworks will be for opened to reveal a surprise sale and will be available If you are planning on getting for the countdown to for Christmas, if you are something framed before Christmas. wanting them as a gift. Christmas, you’d better come Our framing workshop The new Fossil Collection and see us very soon, to is busy-busy with all the of work by Gabi McGrath beat the cut-off date! framing to be completed. If for RedPeg Studio has We also have plenty of readyyou are planning on getting arrived. Her jewellery and made frames for those last something framed before wearable art is handcrafted minute gift ideas. Christmas, you’d better using ethically sourced come and see us very soon, sterling silver. She recycles, to beat the cut-off date! We up-cycles and salvages all also have plenty of readymaterials. made frames for those last minute gift ideas. Gallery 126 will be open up until and including We can offer advice to help choose a gift Saturday 22nd December. We will re-open early for the artist in the family, young or old. We in the New Year and would like to thank all our have goodies arriving daily. If it all becomes too customers and wish them a safe and happy daunting, there are gift vouchers available. holiday season.

8 New England focus.

HOW TO WEAR A

scarf

style.

ou may have seen these beautifully dressed, smiling Armidalians and marvelled at their effortless, elegant style.

Mary Tut (dressed in traditional robes) and Rosa Agok (dressed in executive style) spared a few moments to share just how easy it is to wear a scarf in multiple ways. The women kindly posed for us while on a visit to NERAM recently (they’re pictured here with NERAM’s Director Rachael Parsons) and said they were happy to share some of their style secrets for the benefit of the whole community. For those of us who want to protect our heads from either the heat or the cold, or who suffer hair loss (due to increasing age or illness), it’s a welcome gift at Christmas time!

STEP #1

STEP #2

STEP #3

STEP #2

STEP #3

STEP #4

STEP #5

HEAD WRAP #1 1. Fold scarf diagonally into a triangle. 2. Place scarf over the head. 3. Tie scarf in a knot at the back of the head. 4. Bring two ends of knotted scarf to the front of the head, and tie again at the front. 5. Voilà!

STEP #1

HEAD WRAP #2 1. Fold scarf twice lengthways, so you have a long, thin rectangle, and place around the head. 2. Knot scarf at the front.

STEP #4

STEP #5

3. Take one end of knotted scarf and pull it diagonally towards the back of the head (ensuring head is covered). Tuck the loose end into the band of scarf that’s already around the back of the head. 4. Take the other loose end of scarf and repeat the step above, covering the head diagonally from the opposite direction. 5. Pull the scarf on top of the head into a peak … and voilà!

New England focus. 9

focusinterview.

Kerry Gulliver is a talented local artist inspired by the shapes, patterns and colours in nature. Kerry constantly experiments with new techniques and often quite unusual painting “tools”, and her completed works are striking and unique. NERAM will be the venue for Kerry’s latest exhibition, "Relievo" … her works will be on display from December 7 .

Gulliver Relievo exhibition

with a bit of John Glover thrown in as an influence. I also went to the Flinders Ranges, but am yet to translate the studies done there into larger works, and I regularly visit family at the coast and in Sydney. The works for this coming exhibition at NERAM in December have mostly been done since the Tasmanian works, but some were started beforehand. Tasmania was a bit of a tangent for me stylistically, but the works for this exhibition are closer to my usual approach. Armidale was a good choice While I spend as much time for me, as I spent most as possible in the studio on of my childhood in the larger works, I also do a lot of New England, and experimentation on paper on a i Kerry. I believe NERAM was also a big smaller scale, and many of these you were drawcard. It's also close are studies that I will expand on at interviewed by to the gorge country, which is a later date. This enables me to get FOCUS quite great for painting trips. ideas down quickly, while trying a while back a lot of different approaches and around seven techniques on a smaller scale. years ago, I think! What's been What part of the New England keeping you busy over this time do you call home, and what do period? you love most about it? Since then I have participated in several group shows I live on the outskirts of North East Armidale, on a and have had a solo exhibition (at NERAM in 2015). lovely undulating bush block which fortunately has not This solo exhibition was based on a trip to Tasmania been fully cleared in the past, so it still retains a lot of its with an artist friend. Tasmania is a very inspiring place old eucalypts. I am on a ridge and love and am inspired by for a landscape painter and while there, I took a lot of the views from my home. I am also near the Pine Forest photos and did thumbnail sketches, from which I created and walk there regularly with my two dogs and have a larger works on my return. While I tend to paint more great studio which has views on four sides. abstracted landscapes, I found myself coming up with It is a very private block, and I love the peace and quiet. more figurative interpretations (in acrylic paint on paper),

H 10 New England focus.

While I have established a certain amount of garden and planted a lot of trees, the introduced plants blend in well with the natural landscape, which is still relatively bushy, with openings through to distant vistas. I am close to town, which is convenient. Armidale is a great place to live in, as it is not manic like the city, and it has a great art gallery. I lived in Sydney for years and after some time, I started hankering for life in the country. Armidale was a good choice for me, as I spent most of my childhood in the New England, and NERAM was also a big drawcard. It's also close to the gorge country, which is great for painting trips. How do you feel your art practice has evolved in recent years? For the last eight years I have been doing a lot of low relief work, where I have built up the surface with moulded felt and plaster. I have always included a lot of patterning in my work, and I found that the low relief technique really suited this approach. I guess I am working toward a certain style of landscape painting, which I can tantalisingly envisage in my mind. Each new technique I discover hopefully brings me closer to this goal. It's a constant treading of a long path. You describe your artwork as semi abstract landscapes. What is it that most captures you about a scene you're painting - is it the shapes you see, patterns or colours, for example? Colour and light in the landscape are a great inspiration, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons, when the colours are greatly enriched. Everything looks more 3D, as the forms are lit from the side and the shadows are stronger, creating an element

focusinterview.

Gulliver Relievo exhibition

of drama that you don’t see as much when the sun is overhead. I like the repetition of shapes and textures in nature; it's a constant patterning, and along with the daily and seasonal cycles creates a great sense of rhythm. Many aspects of my work come from my imagination, and I like to combine this with elements of the viewed landscape. How do you decide what to paint next? No matter where I am, there will be a visual prompt which jumps out at me. It can be a scene, a pattern in a rock, the shape of a shadow, a combination of colours, or the I am constantly on the lookout texture on a man-made structure. for interesting implements at I also find stimulus from looking hardware stores, with which I can at art, whether in galleries, art books achieve different effects. I glued and magazines, or from people beads on a paint roller Keep persevering and learn from creating art around me. for instance, and this the many inevitable failures, instead I also find the colours produced has produced some great of feeling defeated. Don't give up on the retina after looking at bright textures. I use kitchen spatulas when paintings can’t be resolved, as lights to be evocative, and hope a lot to scrape into the paint. a good percentage of what painters to use this more in the future as a produce don't work. This is a regular basis for work. Colour has its own part of creating art, and often days language, and an understanding of it can make a work, whether abstract or representational, very of work can be painted over in a few minutes after much frustration. This can also be a way to push through and powerful. discover new techniques. What are some of the materials you like to use in your I would say to her to keep working toward a vision or work to create interest and texture? goal and realise there are many tangents on the way. Also, I mainly use acrylic paint, to which I often add felt, to find her own style and spend time in developing and plaster, pumice, sand, and collage. I like to use canvas, moulding it, so that she can look back on her life and not paper or board as a support, though some of the works are feel that she could have devoted more time to doing what done on moulded felt. she loved. I am constantly on the lookout for interesting implements You share your passion for art with others and at hardware stores, with which I can achieve different hold classes/workshops too. What are some of the effects. I glued beads on a paint roller for instance, and this upcoming sessions you'll be offering? has produced some great textures. I use kitchen spatulas a I love teaching art, and I learn a lot from my students lot to scrape into the paint. I sometimes soak fabric in paint in the process. With one of my groups, who are mainly and lay it on the canvas and peel it off when dry. It creates younger artists, I am doing a workshop based on Pop a wonderful effect that you can’t achieve with a brush. I am Art. The bright colours and contemporary imagery can be constantly experimenting with different materials. refreshing and though we won’t be using screen printing, Considering you've loved drawing and painting since which is a commonly used technique in Pop Art, the poster/ you were around 12, there must have been many comic book style can be achieved through paint, masking things you've learned about art and creativity since! If techniques and photo collage. you could go back and speak to your 12 year old self, I love teaching techniques such as sgraffitto (drawing into what's some advice you'd give?

wet paint) and frottage (similar to brass rubbings) and am happy to share my skills with anyone. You also have an upcoming exhibition at NERAM. Tell us a bit about the works you'll have on display, and the dates we'll be able to view the exhibition … They are mainly works from the last four - five years, so they are a bit varied. However, the main link with most of them is that they are low relief - hence the title of the exhibition, Relievo. They are basically landscapes, but some are more abstracted or stylised than others. I have always been attracted to relief work from all periods of history, whether on ceramic pieces, in tombs and on walls, carved into stone, or assembled from found objects. I love the way light picks up the edges of the shapes and casts a shadow. While a lot of the works are purely from my imagination, some are inspired by my environment and the coastal areas around Port Macquarie. The exhibition opens at NERAM on Friday 7th December, 6pm - 8pm and will go for two months, until early February 2019. Where can we see more of your works, or find out more about you? I have a website: kerrygulliver.com where you can view a lot of my works from the last 10 to 15 years. Please come to the exhibition. Thanks Kerry. Interview: Jo Robinson. New England focus. 11

focus_What’s On New England

D E C E M B E R

Winner Packing Room Prize 2018 Jamie Preisz "Jimmy (title fight)" oil on canvas 153 x 116.5 cm © the artist Photo: AGNSW, Jenni Carter

2018 Archibald Prize Regional Tour

It’s one of Australia’s most prestigious art awards, it’s a who’s who of Australian culture - and it’s coming to regional NSW audiences this summer. Visit Tamworth Regional Gallery to see finalist portraits with subjects including Jimmy Barnes, Guy Pearce and NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, all free of charge. Where Tamworth Regional Gallery, 466 Peel Street, Tamworth. When Saturday 1st December 2018 to Sunday 27 January 2019.

First Saturday chats

What’s

13 Summer graduation at UNE When 13th - 15th December. A new event for the annual December calendar will be the summer graduation ceremony at the University of New England, which is expected to attract hundreds of people to visit Armidale.

Guyra Christmas Party

The weekend will include three early evening graduation ceremonies, and local UNE Alumni are invited to join new graduates for a special Sunday morning brunch on Sunday 16th December at Booloominbah Collection bistro. Further details at www.une.edu.au

On the 7th Dec 2018, join in the Christmas festivities with markets and much more at the Guyra Rotary Christmas Party in Bradley St. Market stalls, shops/cafés will be encouraged to stay open, 5:30pm start, with schools marching down Bradley St from the Council building to the Christmas tree. Santa arrives at 6pm, Christmas tree lighting, dancing in the street, community groups encouraged to participate! Lots of other activities and children’s entertainment.

Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Elizabeth Stahlut (Solicitor) from 10am to 1pm at the Legal Minds office, 157 Beardy Street, The Mall, Armidale, on Saturday 1st December 2018. As this is a popular programme, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

Culture Fest

Thunderbolt Cup

Join us for the Join us for the 2018 Culture Fest. An evening filled with FREE International food, performances and kids activities.

Full contact medieval fighting - consisting of single fights, pro fights and group fights, all under lights. Full bar and BBQ When Saturday, December 8, 7am - 10pm. Tickets FREE ADMISSION For info Uralla Bowling Club 6778 4192. Where Corner Queen and Hill Streets, Uralla.

When 6th December 5:00—8:30pm in The Beardy Street Mall, Armidale. Come and celebrate the many cultures from around the globe! For More Info Contact Dunya Alruhaimi at the International Hub 0484 595 457

12 New England focus.

Markets in the Mall

It’s the end of another busy year, and the Markets in the Mall is on again, this time on Saturday 22nd December for our Christmas Market. Be sure to come down to the Mall to get that last minute Christmas gift and catch up with friends and family at our much loved community event, before heading off to enjoy the Christmas break. There’s lots of great gifts and fantastic food available. So, come down and experience the December Markets in the Mall!

FEST

The Culture Fest is about to hit town again! Join us on Thursday 6th December from 5pm - 8:30pm in the Beardy Street Mall, Armidale. You won’t want to miss it!

he event is hosted by the International Hub, Premier The evening will be bursting and Cabinet with interactive activities, Study NSW, including face painting, Bupa and UNE. It follows the cultural music, Diwali, successful launch of last year’s and international - all this topped off event, with over 1,000 people performances of dance. with FREE and delicious in attendance indulging in international street cultural delights. The Culture food. There really will Fest boasts an array of mouthbe something for watering international foods all ages to enjoy. This vibrant event is totally FREE from countries including Nepal, Indonesia, for everyone in the community - it’s all about Iraq, China, Mexico, South Korea, Saudi sharing, connecting and experiencing a few Arabia, Bangladesh, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, cultural delights that shine and make Armidale so Pakistan, Vietnam, Ethiopia, Kenya, Yazidi incredibly diverse and inclusive. (Iraq), Philippines, and that’s just naming a Come and join in with the festivities, meet both few! The evening will be bursting with interactive international students and the new arrivals to activities, including face painting, cultural music, Armidale, who will be operating the free BBQ.  Diwali, and international performances of dance

NEW ENGLAND ART SOCIETY GALLERY

members

Summer

hristmas present inspiration - local artists on display! The Armidale Art Gallery in the Mall is hosting the annual summer exhibition of its members’ most recent works. The official opening of this exhibition is at 6pm on Saturday 1st December. This date and time is a must for every art lover’s calendar. We are fortunate in the North West to be home to a host of talented artists, from traditional watercolourists to post modernists and three-dimensional artists. The exhibition will have something for

EXHIBITION

everyone, including the possibility to broaden your own artistic horizons. Christmas is rapidly approaching, and this is an opportunity to purchase that original artwork for that important gift. That gift could be for a significant other or even for you. You will be buying an artwork that will bring with it lasting visual pleasure, as well as supporting your local community of artists. A framed print from a commercial gallery will often be more expensive than an original work. The exhibition will be on display until the 22nd January.

New England focus. 13

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Photos this page: Dallas Olsen Photography.

Fresh from competing at the WBFF Fitness and Fashion Show on the Gold Coast, local lass Karen Lawlor shares what she learned from the whole experience. She says she wouldn’t change a thing - despite suffering more than her fair share of costume hiccups on the day! We also found out what Karen has planned for 2019 …

i Karen. FOCUS last interviewed you late last year, and at that time you were prepping for your appearance at the WBFF Fitness and Fashion Show in October 2018. What were your results from this event? The WBFF only hold three competitions in Australia annually, and this one was at Star Casino on the Gold Coast. It was also the first Pro/AM to ever be held in Australia (where professional and amateur athletes compete). In the past, professional athletes would have to compete overseas. There was a morning show consisting of two bikini rounds, where the judging takes place, and then a break mid-day followed by a night show for an evening gown and a theme wear round! In total, there were 162 bikini competitors and 51 Bikini Divas in my “short division”. There were girls who had travelled from overseas just to compete in the show. With a strong line-up of ladies, I did not earn a place on the day. However, the experience leading up to the show and the day itself was priceless. I walked away extremely happy and proud! You’ve had to overcome some health issues since last year ... How are you doing now, and what’s your health prognosis moving forward? Since last year, things have been up and 14 New England focus.

down and my progress has not been without difficulty, however; that’s life, and as of today I AM GREAT! Due to family history and the last few years, I am still a high-risk patient and require regular check-ups. I cannot thank the Armidale Hospital, especially my specialist and my nurse Kate, for always being amazing and having a laugh with me, particularly in difficult times. You’ve had some photoshoots/WBFF Snapchat Takeover/and entered the Oxygen Mag Cover Girl Competitions. Tell us more about these events and why you decided to do them … This year my motto was “it’s the year to be brave”, so I’ve attempted, and successfully, stepped outside of my comfort zone. I wanted to put myself out there and grow and learn from all my experiences. I decided this year (after many years of thinking about it) to enter the Oxygen Mag Cover Girl Competition. It involved sending through a RAW, UNEDITED image of yourself with specific requirements, writing a bit about yourself and circulating that image on social media. They then opened the voting, where anyone could vote for the “people’s choice” on who they wanted to see as a finalist. I felt REALLY silly to begin with, asking people to “vote for me” (if they wanted to). I thought, “Why would any vote for me?” I am just a normal person and there are so many amazing and beautiful women out there who have overcome so much or are incredible role models. However, I still

This year my motto was ‘it’s the year to be brave’, so I’ve attempted, and successfully, stepped outside of my comfort zone. I wanted to put myself

What’s your next goal/ put myself out there … ambition? because “this is the year Living life to the fullest to be brave”; plus, I had and being happy at every already entered, so why stage of that journey! I am not go all the way? out there and grow and learn pretty keen to compete I posted the link to from all my experiences. with the WBFF next year the voting page on in October. This will give my Facebook and was me plenty of time to train OVERWHELEMD with consistently, allowing for how many people liked, some changes I want to make. commented, encouraged and voted for me. I love being social, we are currently underMore than 300 incredible and inspiring ladies taking major renovations on our house, I work entered, and I was lucky enough to make it full-time and I plan on going overseas next year through to the semi-finals - just missing out on (for the first time). I plan to simply enjoy life and the finals. all my adventures WHILE still working towards You can imagine I was on cloud nine when my fitness goals and the WBFF in October 2019. I found out I had made it as a semi-finalist. I still prep my meals for work, attempting WHAT! HOW DID THAT EVEN HAPPEN? I had to eat the same types of food (just more of it absolutely no expectations, and I already felt now). But I’ve gone out for dinner, I’ve had incredible from the support of my friends and the community who had voted for me. I was ec- lunch with friends, and I’ve had some birthday cake without feeling like I’m doing something static to make the semi-finals and overwhelmed wrong or failing. with pride and happiness for putting myself out I think for competitors it can be difficult to there - as we all know, that can be pretty scary. find that balance, especially mentally postI continued with this go-getter mentality comp; it’s something I continue to work on to do a “WBFF Snapchat Takeover” on the every day and remind myself it is OK. Like all Thursday before my competition. The WBFF great things, it takes time, trial and error, pergives their competitors the chance to take over severance, not being too hard on yourself and the official WBFF Australia Snapchat to show always, always, trying your best and showing up people their day. It’s a chance for competitors every day. to promote themselves and tell people their How do you juggle your work with Pathbackground and story. finders, family and fitness commitments, Sometimes incredible things happen when and what have you taken away from the you put yourself out there!

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Post comp meal with partner Carl Hardman.

onstage performance experience you’d like to share with others? I LOVE my job with Pathfinders! My work-family have become accustomed to me always having kitchen scales on my desk, weighing my walnuts, bringing my prepped meals and saying no to cake at morning tea, without it being a big deal. Everyone is SO supportive, encouraging and accepting. In life, you always find a way! You get the workouts in when you can (6am before work, 6pm after work and even lunch breaks). I made time for my steps, and I prepped my meals so I was prepared! For me, competing is purely about growth, pushing my limits, and being better than my previous self - physically and mentally. Competing is such a journey of self-discovery; you always learn new methods, things that work better or don’t work as well FOR YOU, you understand your body better each time and, mentally, there is so much growth that occurs. You are forever growing, changing and learning on this remarkable journey. Comp prep can be tough in general, but without the right support, it’s even tougher! Having the right people around you, friends reaching out and seeing how you are going or even feeling comfortable enough to reach out to other competitors can be the glue that holds everything together some days (thank you amazing people - you know who you are). There is a lot of self-accountability and discipline; you can really surprise yourself with your capabilities when you really want something! A major, major lesson is not to compare yourself to others (I know it’s difficult) but literally every girl (and guy) who stood on that stage was completely incredible and amazing IN THEIR OWN WAY. Everyone has a different shape, trains differently, responds different to certain methods; some people have been training consistently for years, some are first timers, some have lost over 50 kg to make it to stage, some are fighting battles no one knows about. We are all unique,

I would not change a thing!

we all bring something Everything could break different to the stage, so again or not go to plan, and comparing yourself to it wouldn’t matter, because others is not helpful. the experience was just You are you, and there that the WBFF Beauty bloody incredible! I am is only one of you, and team had worked their so happy and grateful I that is your strength. magic, which they did! was able to do everything Taking on feedback, • My bikini fit perfectly I did, meet the amazing people both positive and critical, five days out and then was I did and collaborate with some regarding changes or too big on-stage day and of the best in the industry. growth is part of the barley stayed on my hips sport - realising you can (it’s crazy how much your never be someone else body can change). but you is pretty incredible. Bringing YOUR BEST • Lining up back stage with the 51 “short” is the main goal, not looking like or trying to be Bikini Divas was amazing, with so many laughs, someone else. dance-offs and cheering for each other! I wasn’t I am also a strong believer in mindset, and nervous at all! how you choose to look at situations, which • Most Bikini Divas walked down the runway brings me to the fun facts of my comp day: for their final round in the Night Show, being • IT WAS BLOODY AMAZING! the Evening Gown round, with bellies full of • My shoe strap broke before I went on pizza and donuts that the WBFF had catered for stage. back stage. • My wings broke (straps that go around your I would not change a thing! Everything could arms to hold the wings up) before I went on break again or not go to plan, and it wouldn’t stage. matter, because the experience was just bloody • I had not even seen my stage makeup, as incredible! I am so happy and grateful I was there were so many girls backstage I just trusted able to do everything I did, meet the amazing

people I did and collaborate with some of the best in the industry. Everything is a learning curve and I now have more understanding about my body, what works, what I might do differently next time and a huge increase in the belief of my capabilities - still cannot believe I did it! In a roundabout non-perfect way, the day was absolutely perfect. There is no lesson in giving up; everything comes from just trying! Where can we follow your journey - or find out more about you? You can find me on Facebook “KaZa Lawlor” and you can also find me on Instagram “wbff_ diva_kaz_theproject” - from there you will be able to find my Snapchat. Thanks Karen. Interview: Jo Robinson.

New England focus. 15

2018 Archibald Prize regional tour is heading to Tamworth

Archibald Prize 2018 finalist David Darcy “Charlotte”, oil on canvas 200 x 150 cm © the artist Photo: AGNSW, Felicity Jenkins.

F F O 0 $ 50 RY EVE

D ASE H C PUR T A SE

For art fans across the region, the wait’s been long, but now for the first time in many years, the Archibald Prize is heading back to Tamworth Regional Gallery and best of all, you can see it for free! This year’s exhibition offers a diverse line-up of subjects, including some famous faces - rocker Jimmy Barnes, actor Guy Pearce and NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian. Ms Bridget Guthrie, Director of Tamworth Regional Gallery: “It’s enormously exciting to have the Archibald Prize coming to Tamworth. It’s a showcase of some of Australia’s finest artists, and I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to see the incredible works on display.” Thanks to the support of the University of New England, the exhibition will be offered free of charge. Robert Heather, Director, Office of Advancement, Communications and Events: “We are pleased that our sponsorship of the exhibition will enable the whole community to attend the exhibition free of charge, and we hope that they find inspiration in these wonderful portraits of talented and creative Australians.” This year’s finalist line-up has even greater relevance to the region, with local artist David Darcy

named as one the finalists, with his painting of local resident Charlotte Drake-Brockman. The exhibition is open Saturday 1st December 2018 until Sunday 27th January 2019. Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm and weekends 10am to 4pm. The 2018 Archibald Prize Regional Tour is an Art Gallery of New South Wales touring exhibition. Presenting partner ANZ. The regional tour is supported by Tamworth Regional Council and the University of New England.

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PLUS! $50 from every seat sold during this period will be donated to the Clown Doctors Humour Foundation. Using humour therapy Clown Doctors lighten the hospital environment, helping parents, family members, hospital staff and most importantly – patients!

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Celia Pavy aka Vera Blue is bringing her lady powers to Port Macquarie this month to headline Festival of the Sun. FOCUS chatted with the softly spoken yet fierce woman about life and her album, “Perennial”.

VeraBlue

VEra Blue

After I started delving into electronic music, I totally i Celia. How did music all start for you? When did you discover it as a passion and a talent? Music was always in our family, so I couldn’t really avoid it - which is really lovely. It’s a nice thing to have. My older sister, Emily, sings as well, so I was always doing harmonies with her. My mum played the organ at church. I started to teach myself guitar when I was 15, which inspired me to want to sing while playing the guitar as well. I started writing my own songs when I was 16 … What does your stage name, “Vera Blue” mean to you? Well, before the project Vera Blue was born, I was writing music under my real name and the style of the music was very folky, very stripped back. At the time I was really inspired by Joni Mitchell, Angus and Julia Stone, early Taylor Swift - so it was all very acoustic and organic. After I started delving into electronic music, I totally fell in love with the sound and how folk and electronic blended together; so that for me felt like it needed to have its

own project name, and that’s where Vera Blue came from. It’s a different way I can express myself, by dancing onstage and through feeling way more emotion; it’s kind of like electronica brings a heavier, darker feel to the music, which I really love and it definitely makes me feel more … Would you say Vera Blue is a bit of an alter-ego? Yeah, when I’m on stage doing the Vera Blue stuff I am feeling completely different things to what I would feel if I was playing folk music with my guitar. Folk music brings me back to my roots and brings me back to where I grew up and what I was going through as a teen. Vera Blue is inspired by who I became when I moved to the city and the relationships I fell into and what I’m going through now … What space were you at when you were writing Perennial? Tell us about the process from writing to to production. I met my producer at a writing camp, and we wrote the first EP together. That was when I really started to love the electronic music and that’s when the project started. When I started writing the album I had just come out

fell in love with the sound and how folk and electronic blended together; so that for me felt

of a heavy break up; the and girls who have been album was inspired by through s***ty relationships, or if you feel overcoming heartbreak like it needed to have its own disrespected in a situaand figuring out myself project name, and that’s where tion - it’s a song to make and learning things. It Vera Blue came from. people feel strong, and was written over the it makes me feel strong course of two years, so whenever I perform it. it was a time frame of You’re headlining FOTSUN this year. What nurturing and learning and discovering who I can your fans expect and most importantam, and I guess that’s what life is all about. ly, what are you looking forward to? A lot of the production came from feeling, Festivals are one of my favourite things to or whatever the song was about; for example, Private, which is quite an angsty song, is about do, I think because there is so much positive energy in the air and everyone’s there to have frustration, the production was very heavy. But a really good time. I’m looking forward to then a song like Mended, when you’re feeling connecting to the audience and having a great pain but there’s also a light shining through time. - it’s almost triumphant, like you’re getting Thanks Celia. through something. So, the production was always heavily connected to the lyrics. Tell us about the single Lady Powers; what inspired you to write this powerful song in particular? This song was one of the more recent songs written for Perennial, and it was from a phase Catch Vera Blue at FOTSUN 2018, “The Roll on where I had developed more of a sense of Up Edition!” 13th / 14th and 15th December. self. It is an empowerment song for women New England focus. 17

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Sunhill Dairy Goats

do it well, was the idea. We have found them to be well suited to the New England climate and they produce the most delicious milk, which is always consistent in flavour. How does the day to day operation of your farm work? The whole Sunhill ethos is about trying to be as sensible and sustainable as possible. We milk in the morning, with the routine taking around 2.5 hours. All of our products are made onsite. I (Richard) am the soap maker, and Corinne is the mastermind behind the skincare and cheese. We share the milking evenly with our children (not kids) helping us out on weekends. We organise a block kidding each year, usually from late August/early September. This allows the does to have a break over winter and allows us as a family to get away too. In 2012 we built our dairy, cheese factory, It’s a very clean looking white soap factory and farm cheese with fresh, tart flavours. shop. This is where all

On a beautiful property at Salisbury Plains (near Uralla), you’ll find a couple busy raising their children (and kids … of the goat variety!) Corinne Annetts, Richard Downes and children Zebedee, Toby and April own and operate Sunhill Dairy Goats … a property that not only produces delicious goat’s milk and cheese, but also a range of goat’s milk skincare.

heir farm shop stocks a wonderful array of products, and you can also book ahead to organise a tour! What’s the history behind your property and businesses at Uralla, Sunhill Dairy Goats and Sunhill Skin Essentials? Our journey with goats started in southern Tasmania in 2000, where Corinne and I were looking for a lifestyle change and some level of self-sufficiency - having decided to leave the rat race of inner city Sydney. A love of a certain British police drama and a hillside property with an unfettered view of Bruny Island and beyond led to the establishment of Sunhill. Unfortunately, a large section of our sunny hillside decided to let loose and knock our dwelling over at 2am one morning in 2003. Gotta love Tassie weather. How rude! It was at this time we decided to relocate back to our home state of NSW. Goodness! How did you recover from this disaster? Where is your current property? 18 New England focus.

After a little looking around, we stumbled upon Uralla and soon after, Sunhill - take 2. It was flat, gave the same sense of open space as we’d had in Tassie, offered As the cheesemaker, I lovely grazing land, (Corinne) make cheese schools, employment and about three times a week and have a high a very friendly community. turnover in both the local and Sunhill is located on boutique market . Salisbury Plains, just east of Uralla - 5 hectares surrounded by several hundreds of hectares of open grazing land. It is a very beautiful spot, and you can pick us out by the pocket of large Elm trees. What breed/s of goats do you run on your property - and why have you chosen these breeds specifically? After having many breeds of goats (both dairy and meat) we finally settled on the Saanen, a Swiss dairy breed. Do one breed and

the magic happens. It was very important for us to keep everything on farm. We wanted to be able to show people the happy goats and their beautiful products, all in the one place. What’s involved in making a quality goat’s cheese? Happy goats means good milk, which in turn makes good cheese. Goat’s milk is naturally homogenised, which allows for easier digestion. It’s a very clean looking white cheese with fresh, tart flavours. As the cheesemaker, I (Corinne) make cheese about three times a week and have a high turnover in both the local and boutique market . I concentrate mainly on fresh cheeses with short maturing time. Six core cheeses are produced here at Sunhill: Traditional Feta, Marinated Feta, Goat Camembert, Chevre, Chevre rolled in Ash, and Chevrotin. This month we hope to be releasing unpasteurised goat’s milk as a new product. The demand from our customers has been overwhelming, and we can’t wait for you all to taste the beautiful milk our gorgeous girls

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produce. and leaving it overnight removed that dry, What are some of the most popular goat’s irritating patch. I am glad to say she now has a milk items you produce, and what are beautiful scalp. their benefits? The Sunhill Skin Essentials range is great for I first dabbled with making my own moisthe whole family, from baby to teen to uncle turiser when I became unsatisfied with what to pop, as well as making wonderful gifts. was available in shops and the ingredients that You offer farm tours too. When/how can were being used. With people come and visit excess goat’s milk (they - and what will their produce a lot!) I decided on-farm experience I could make my own. involve? The first was Sunhill Our farm shop is open This month we hope to be Skin Essentials Hy10 - 4, Wed - Sun. Tours releasing unpasteurised drating Day and Night are by appointment and goat’s milk as a new Cream. The recipe has happen at 10:30am, product. The demand not changed from my Wed - Sun. We always from our customers has been original, and it is still the recommend calling overwhelming, and we can’t wait one I use every day. It’s ahead to avoid disapfor you all to taste the beautiful my favourite, as well as pointment; you know milk our gorgeous girls produce. many of our customers’. how it is with children All natural ingredients, (not kids). with 80% fresh goat’s I’m not sure how milk - that’s the secret. the tours came about, Goat’s milk shares the but we love to share our story, and the girls same pH as human skin, so it does a natural always love having visitors. On the tour you rebalancing, as well as helping to benefit any get to meet our bucks, does and kids. We skin irritations. walk through the dairy and then finish with Goat’s milk is a great natural solution, benea cheese and milk tasting in the farm shop, fitting those with eczema, dermatitis, rosacea, where all our other products are also available. psoriasis and other skin complaints. It’s just a The tour goes for approximately one hour, lovely natural moisturiser! and the cost is $20 adults, $10 children, $50 From the Day and Night Cream I then family and depending on the time of year, you delved into making soaps, lotions, eye creams, may get a kiss and cuddle from the kids (not scrubs, body washes, shaving soap (for the children). buck in your life) and a Bub Rub. This was Coaches and groups are also welcome, and developed for our daughter (April) who these groups have increased significantly over suffered from cradle cap as a young child (not the past two years. kid). I found that rubbing this into her scalp What are your future plans for Sunhill?

Sunhill’s future is a little uncertain at the moment, with a large scale solar farm being proposed in very close proximity. We are advocates for renewable energy, but need to see how the development is handled. We would like to think we will still be operating Sunhill in years to come and are also looking at the potential to expand our skincare line to overseas markets. Where can we contact you/find out more info? You can find us online, through our website www.sunhillskin.com.au on Facebook and

Instagram, at the Armidale Farmers’ Markets, DJ’s Foodie Bliss Armidale, Dale’s Downtown Meats Uralla, Armidale Information Centre, Uralla Information Centre, Uralla Wellness Centre and of course, at our farm shop, or more usually out in the paddock playing with the kids (and children). Sunhill Dairy Goats, 645 The Gap Road, Uralla NSW. Phone 6778 4505 M 0416 509 295. Thanks guys. Interview: Jo Robinson.

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D E A N O'S

trout Springwater Smoked

hat are the origins of Deano’s Springwater Smoked Trout? The trout farm was first established in 1999. I grew an interest in fish as I worked on fishing and prawn boats when I was younger in Northern Queensland. I came back home and started it as a hobby and eventually turned it into a full-time business, when I started smoking my product five years ago. What products are you most renowned for? Our smoked trout dip was awarded a bronze medal at the 2016 Royal Easter Show, and our smoked fillet received a silver medal. Our traditional wood smoked fillets are available in many different flavours, including: plain, bush lemon, sumac and dill, cracked pepper, uluru almond, garlic aromatic, and sweet chilli. The smoked trout dip and our smoked fillets are in high demand across NSW. Describe your beautiful property at Black Mountain. What facilities are available to visitors? The farm is on 300 acres in Black Mountain, seven km south of Guyra on the Northern

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Tablelands, where the cold climate and the conditions are perfect for Rainbow Trout. We have eight spring water ponds we use for growing trout, yabbies and Atlantic Salmon. We have recently completed our shower/ toilet block and barbecue areas for day trippers and offer powered sites for caravans and tents at a reasonable fee. With lush, green grass, a beautiful view, a fountain and plenty of fish to catch, our recreational dam is the perfect outing for everyone. Our rec dam is teaming with Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Silver Perch, and Atlantic Salmon. We charge a small fee of $20 per adult and $10 per child for those wanting to wet a line … and there’s a good chance you’ll catch the big one! We offer rod and lure hire at $10 for the day, so you don’t have to worry about getting your gear ready or packing it up at the end of the day. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. We are very passionate about our work, and want to give you the best experience possible. In order to achieve this, we offer fully guided tours around the property on our CanAm buggie. There is a lot to learn about farming trout, so tours take roughly an hour to complete, and we show you our fish growing

ponds and how we make our award winning products. The cost of a tour is $10 per person. There are some big plans in the pipeline for your business, including the establishment of a new restaurant! Tell us a little about this and when you hope to have the restaurant up and running ... We have plans to build a restaurant on the farm, hopefully in the next year or two, to showcase both our products and other local produce from Guyra and surrounding areas. Watch this space! In the meantime, our products can be purchased at the Armidale Farmers' Markets, Armidale Market Fresh in Armidale and Kirks IGA in Guyra, as well as here on farm.

focustourism

tourism

Armidale Golf Club Six months have seen impressive changes at the Armidale Golf Club, thanks to collaboration between its Executive Board and Management, Adam Marshall MP and Armidale Regional Council. Proudly funded by a grant from the NSW Government, the clubhouse has been transformed into a superb New England amenity. The refurbished function areas are now accessible via wide bi-fold doors to a spacious deck with glorious views of the established course and over Armidale. The kitchen is now a commercial facility vastly improving options for catering on a large scale. The golf club’s enviable position boasts many advantages, including ample car parking, views and an isolated situation to minimise noise disturbance. As a wedding, birthday or conference venue, AGC is incomparable. Arrangements can be made for photographs among the exotic trees, and blushing brides can be delivered by golf cart. There are many places where ceremonies can be held. Staff are willing to be flexible and work with clients to ensure they have a wedding day to fit their dreams, a

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perfect birthday, a nostalgic wake or a quiet and smoothly run conference. Free wi-fi is an added bonus. The Club is open from 10am Tuesday - Sunday. The Sandwedge Bistro operates from 11:30 3pm Tuesday - Saturday, with the extra option of booking on Sunday by prior reservation. On offer are options like Homemade Pies and Greek Style Slow Cooked Lamb, but staff can tailor menus to suit your function. With a permanent stage, the Clubhouse can accommodate live music options. Opening Night featured Goldheist. The Bowden Brothers and Terra Firma have performed in recent months. Forward events include Musicians Of Armidale Showcase 15th Dec and Carols on the Deck 23rd Dec 2018. Golf packages are available for 9 - 18 holes with lunch and carts for hire, and there are mid conference break out packages for a game to reinspire participants. Make a date to enjoy the Armidale Golf Club soon!

Tourism in December The Christmas School Holidays present a great opportunity to take the children and explore some of the unique experiences in the region.

Additionally, these areas also provide natural he National Parks offer some wonderful family friendly walks, and swimming holes for children to enjoy in the one of the best is the Weeping Rock warmer weather. Walk in New England National Park. All Armidale households need a copy of Native wildlife - especially echidnas - are out “Out and About with Kids”, so please drop into and about, and Gara Gorge is a fabulous area the Visitor Information Centre to collect any for paddling in the fresh water, having a picnic information on these activities and find out about or BBQ and if you are lucky, maybe experience the many other treasures in New England High Platypus playing in the water. The Armidale Country. Visitor Information Centre has a comprehensive Whilst many businesses choose to have a list of bushwalks in the region, detailing distance, holiday between Christmas and New Year, the difficulty level and expected completion time. Visitor Information Centre, Heritage Bus Tour The New England High Country region has and Saumarez Homestead will be very busy some wonderful natural looking after our visitors (except swimming holes to Christmas Day). The Visitor escape the summer Information Centre will have a list heat. Some of these of retail businesses, coffee shops, Please contact the Visitor include The Blue restaurants and wineries etc. that Information Centre if Hole at Gara Gorge, are open between Christmas and you are holding a Georges Junction on New Year, so call in and grab Christmas concert, the Old Kempsey Road, a copy. If you would like your play or event and we Dumaresq Dam, Mount business included in the listing, will promote this on our Yarrowyck, Wooldridge please contact Katrina George on Armidale Tourism Events Recreation Reserve near 6770 3906 or kgeorge@armidale. Calendar. Uralla, and Wattle Flat nsw.gov.au in the Styx River State This month we kick of the Forest. So, why don’t Christmas festivities with the you grab some friends UNE International Culture Festival and pack a picnic and explore one of these on Thursday 6th December. Come along and picturesque swimming holes! celebrate with band performances, singing, The Dutton Trout Hatchery has aquarium dancing and food stalls. displays, guided tours, fish feeding, educational Guyra Christmas Party will be held on the 7th tours and an audio visual show. They are located December. The fun will commence at 4:30pm, on Point Look Out road near the New England with shopping and dancing until 9pm and a visit National Park. from Santa at 6pm. Greenhill Orchard in Arding produce luscious Carols @ Booloominbah will be held on Sunday summer fruits, such as cherries, apricots, peaches, 9th December from 4pm - 9pm. There will be plenty of fun for the kids, including face painting, plums and nectarines, followed by a large harvest petting zoo, jumping castle and stalls. At 5:30pm, of apples and pears in autumn. They offer a farm a BBQ dinner will be available for a gold coin gate experience, with an opportunity to source donation, or BYO dinner. Don’t forget your chairs the fruit directly from the grower and visit a or picnic rugs. Carols commence at 6:30pm. working family orchard. The farm gate is open Wednesday 12th December, Carols by Monday to Saturday 9am - 5pm. Candlelight will be held in Central Park from 6pm Fossicking for gold is a great activity for until 9:30pm. Entertainment from the Armidale children (and adults) of all ages. Fossicking pans Pipe Band, Armidale City Band, St Peter’s Bell can be hired from the Uralla Visitor Information Ringers, and of course, Christmas Carols and a Centre, and from there you can visit either Rocky visit from Santa. River or the Wooldridge Recreation Reserve. New England focus. 21

focus_editorial.

Met

Mall in the

FOCUS INTRODUCES DEBBIE GOOS FROM MINNIE & LUCILLE

ow long have you been in Armidale? I have lived in Armidale way too long, but I love it. We hear you are quite the creative - tell us about your business and hobbies? Yes, I am quite creative - and have been since I was a small child. Hair, art, decorating ... it all goes together, which is why I love my new shop, as I can do all these things. How long have you been in the Mall? I moved by business to the Mall at the beginning of March last year, which enabled me to create a new space with lots of different products for all to enjoy. Like a lot of others, I am waiting for the Mall to restart. It was such a vibrant and busy place in past years. It will happen; everyone loves the Mall - especially when the weather is right. What can we find in your new shop? New in my shop is UPPERCUT men’s products. I am now the authorised dealer

focuscontributor

The Royal Hotel of this great company in Armidale; otherwise, you could only purchase this product online. I am almost ready to launch Minnie & Lucille day/night face cream. These products are handmade and organic. My aim is to keep the salon sulphate and paraben free. What are your plans for the summer? I will be focused on great weather and atmosphere for the Mall.

R O S S F R O M D A I LY R I T U A L A R M I D A L E

tea

Christmas

Blend

month of the

‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, all the creatures were stirring a lovely cup of tea.

hristmas Eve. It’s the biggest night of the year for Santa and with all the travelling he has to do, it’s nice to come down the chimney to a welcome treat. But if we stopped to consider how much milk, fruit juice, and the odd tipple that Santa must consume, not to mention all the biscuits, cakes, and slices he must eat in that one evening, you could imagine he’d be feeling pretty bloated by the morning. So instead of the usual Christmas Eve

Where

spread, why not put out a steaming pot of Christmas Tea! Fruity, spicy, and sweet, this blend is reminiscent of a traditional Christmas fruit cake with marzipan icing. DESCRIPTION The scent of cloves, vanilla, and cardamom break through the flavoursome black tea base. A must have for the Christmas season, but still tastes great all year round. BREWING TIP Pre-heat a cup or teapot. Use 1 tsp per cup or 1 rounded tsp per person for a

teapot. Pour freshly boiled water over the leaves and infuse for 3 - 5 minutes. Add milk or sweetener as desired. INGREDIENTS Black Tea, Orange Peels, Chopped Almonds, Cloves, Flavouring, Vanilla Pieces, Cardamom. CONTAINS ALMONDS. Our Christmas Tea is quality tested to comply with strict European standards for any chemical or pesticide residues. Uniquely, the teas are then air freighted to Australia to maintain the finest quality and freshness for your enjoyment.

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

22 New England focus.

The Royal Hotel has launched its all new summer menu, which hosts some exciting fresh new meals for you to enjoy over the warmer summer months. Our new menu offers a generous variety, from fresh salads, hearty steaks, delicious burgers, and we can’t forget our famous pub classics like the chicken schnitzel and parmigiana. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, with an ever changing daily specials board, ten $10 lunch feeds to choose from and our dinner meal deal specials to get you through your working week. On Monday night, take advantage of our $10 chicken schnitzel meal; Tuesday night enjoy our $10 rump steak meal. Wednesday night is Tight-Arse Wednesday, where you can enjoy any of our ten $10 lunch feeds for dinner. On Cutlet Thursday you can grab our lamb cutlets and a free drink for only $15. And on Sunday night we now have our ten $10 lunch feeds available at dinner time too! And if rump steak is your thing, then be sure to take advantage of our Rump Rewards special - buy nine rump steaks and receive your 10th rump steak for FREE! Be sure to stop on in and enjoy the fresh tastes of summer at The Royal Hotel Armidale.

A NEW DIRECTION

Wicklow for the

Hotel

NEW

OWN ER

A NTH O NY

GRAY

ow long have you lived Armidale ... replacing carpet. We will then be adding some furnishings to and tell us a bit about yourself? I am complement the new look. an Armidale boy, born and bred. I lived We will also freshen up the courtyard, which is one of our away from Armidale for about 17 years biggest assets. and returned about two years ago with my What can diners expect to find on your new menu? wife, Heidi and three young kids, Emily (10), We are working towards a new menu in the New Year. We will Maggie (7) and Archer (5). What better place to be to raise a keep some trusted favourites on the menu, some pub classics family! and we will complement this with some fresh new ideas and I have a strong connection with Armidale, with multiple look to source local ingredients for some signature dishes. generations of family in town. I have We already have a good mix of all of this; a large family who are mostly still all it just needs a little tweak. in town. Can we expect more live I have a strong background in entertainment at the Wicklow? For We are working towards hospitality, but also have many other the rest of November, December and a new menu in the new experiences across other industries, January we have our popular Sunday year. We will keep some which I believe will help me be Sessions back. These are every Sunday, trusted favourites on the menu, successful. 4pm ‘til 8pm. It’s a great way to finish the some pub classics and we will I am an honest and hardworking weekend with a lazy Sunday afternoon, complement this with some person who believes in treating soaking up the sun in the courtyard. fresh new ideas and look to everyone fairly and equally. I am Throughout December we will be having source local ingredients for some aware of too many times where live music every Friday afternoon from signature dishes. businesses lose these basic values, so 5pm ‘til 9pm. It’s the perfect time of year, I want to make sure that not only do as workplaces start to finish up for the the customers feel welcome, but also Christmas break. What better way to our employees feel valued. finish the working week and enjoy the What prompted you to become the new owner of the festive season than sipping a cold beverage in the courtyard Wicklow? My background predominantly has been in the with some great food and live music! The Wicklow Hotel is club industry but when I saw the Wicklow become available, a great venue for live music, and we will look at how we can I thought it would be a good fit for my skills and experience. develop and grow the music industry in the region. The Wicklow is an icon of Armidale and is deserving of some Plans for the future? I will be looking to continue to grow TLC. It was really a no brainer, although I do have my work cut the Wicklow and the facilities it has. I want to support the out for me restoring it to its former glory. I think that, in itself, community, and I will look to do this throughout my time at will be very rewarding. the pub. We have some great relationships already, and we There are big changes happening at the Wicklow; tell will look to grow and foster those. We also have a few quirky us about this? The Wicklow is undergoing refurbishments. surprises in store in the future, but I won’t give it all away just We will be painting the inside and outside of the building and yet!

New England focus. 23

Can Assist Melbourne Cup Luncheon

Photo: Finishing Image Photography by Rachel Deane

Can Assist Melbourne Cup Luncheon

Wedding: James Brooks and Shannan Bourke

Social / Scene Armidale Pipe Band, Remembrance Day Service (photo Darrell Whan)

Glen Gallop event

Armidale Pipe Band, Remembrance Day Service (photo Darrell Whan)

Roberts & Morrow Armidale Fun Run

24 New England focus.

Glen Gallop event

Roberts & Morrow Armidale Fun Run

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WITH SUSIE DUNN

Icing

CAKE ON

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

LOUIS ARMSTRONG

summer

Celebrate

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | Tapas | Coffee

OPEN EVERY DAY UNTIL LATE

QHP0215

31 Marsh Street, Armidale | T 6772 7788 | qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au

/AzkaRestaurant

QHP0294_Azka_Nov Focus 2018_v1.indd 1

@qualityhotelpowerhouse #QHPG

21/11/18 12:57 pm

When I heard Louis Armstrong singing, “I said to myself … what a wonderful world …” I thought, “It’s sentimental, but I like this man”.

t the end of our year, at Christmas-time, our lives adjust another notch. I can’t say they pause, because we often seem in a state of panic - not how it should be. It’s a time we come together, with special services, concerts and parties and contact people we haven’t seen for a while. And overall there is the core message of Christmas that has to do with simplicity, hope and goodwill - not trees, sleighs and red-faced old gentlemen. We all look forward to different things. I’m pretty much Armidale land-locked, but I know on December 15 I’ll be listening to an Operatic Recital by our own Hannah Fraser and friends at St. Peter’s Centre. Home from successful engagements in Italy, it’s great to hear her again, however fleetingly. I’ll also at some stage be watching the sun set from the new deck at the refurbished golf club, thinking about our region. And I’ll pop out to that elegant powerhouse, the National Trust’s Saumarez homestead, fizzing with activity and planned tourism. I’ll visit its Heritage Rose Garden, where the Northern Group of the Australian Garden History Society has created a landmark through their dedication … and check the gift shop. I’ll also check the gift shop at the Aboriginal Keeping Place and see their long-awaited additions to the building, sadly missing their 30th anniversary celebrations. I’ll visit the Fairy Lady’s Christmas Adventure in Kmart Plaza. I’ll take in some Live Music - popping up everywhere around town including the first Welder’s Dog Craft Beer and Music headliners, ForageFest, December 8. And I’ll enjoy Christmas spirit in the Mall, seeing people and finishing my Christmas shopping. Don’t forget we have a thriving “publishing hotspot” in Armidale, and Readers’ Companion stocks lots of their children’s books. So sad we’re losing Boobooks from the Mall. The ARC website has a “What’s On”. And the new ARM/EVENTS website, brainchild of Helen Fraser, is another useful tool for knowing “What’s On”. To join, go https://armevents. groups.io - with the calendar very handy.

Spread the word - sample what’s on offer. It’s good Servies’ long awaited $7million motel has the go-ahead, adding another option for visitors. Before opening, I hope they reconsider their misguided ban on women’s headwear - it‘s appalling that a 40-year member on chemotherapy was ordered to remove her turban. A Christmas present for the environment, please: commercialised fads can appear normal so quickly now, with plastic water bottles everywhere. Undoubtedly we need water to live, but only a few years ago people didn’t clutch water bottles wherever they went. And they lived! Australians are lucky generally to be able to drink from the tap. But when often less pure water in our dry continent can be commercially pumped from our precious groundwater - thousands of years old - into plastic bottles destined for global waste, and we PAY … illogical, to say the least! Mahalath Halperin’s first in the national 2018 Sustainability Awards for a New Single Dwelling stated the “humanity of the work” as well as the design “tipped it over the edge, validating her architectural approach”. Our region has opportunities and values to be proud of, and I was appalled to hear on the ABC a speaker’s confident statement that e-sports would overtake actual sports this decade! Are we all to turn into obese, tickshaped creatures clutching our fizzy drinks and takeaway as we stare into our devices? How absurd! Hurray for NECOM’S Corinne Arter, who made New England Sings happen again. We have access to much that many believe is only confined to big cities. Remember the facilities and museums at UNE ... indeed, let’s thank ALL the galleries, museums, businesses, teams, musicians, clubs and groups that make up the total on offer. I’ll be enjoying the company of old and new friends this Christmas, and I hope the same for you - pick up that phone and make a date … Remember “what a wonderful world” it is. Let’s try hard to keep it that way. Susie Dunn. New England focus. 25

26 New England focus.

focusinterview.

Bridget Doran is a young entrepreneur with a vision … HAVING DREAMED OF OWNING HER OWN CAFÉ AND SEEING A GAP IN THE MARKET, BRIDGET HAS STARTED HER OWN MOBILE CATERING BUSINESS, supplying excellent coffee, scrumptious treats and a bar service around the New England area. Keep an eye out for the very stylish Herd Bar caravan …

Herd BAR

Bridget Doran

i Bridget. What's your background in the New England area? I am a local girl - always have been. I grew up in Uralla with my family and have worked in the area since completing school in 2011 and have no plan on leaving anytime soon. I love the Uralla/Armidale community. Please explain the concept behind "The Herd Bar" and the services it offers ... My vision was to create a really fun atmosphere around the region and after months of research, I settled on the “Herd”, with the aim of bringing the community together and supplying great coffee and service across the New England region. The services we offer are unlimited! We launched in July 2018 and are growing our offering each month. Our current services by day are specialty coffee and homemade snacks, expanding to gelato over the summer, and by night we are a bar service for weddings and functions. How did you come up with the idea for this business? I had been dreaming about owning my own café/restaurant since I was about 14, when I started my first job in hospitality. I saw a gap in the local market for weekend opening hours of cafés, and I wanted to give the community an option. The idea of a mobile business was

thrown around in my I am all about helping each household for years, other out; as a new business before I finally bit the I WOULD LOVE TO bullet and did it. COLLABORATE I knew I could only MORE WITH run this business on OTHER LOCAL weekends to start with, BUSINESS to make painted my logo, menu as I still currently work Armidale and surrounds a and A-frame sign. in a full-time position, more attractive place to live. What are some of with the desire to run your favourite foods/ the Herd six - seven days beverages to supply a week in 2019. For the through The Herd Bar? wedding/function side of Do you make all of your own products, or the Herd Bar, most country weddings have to outsource? construct their own bar; whereas I offer a full My coffee blend was most important to me; bar experience. I use St. Ali Specialty coffee from Melbourne. I I knew there was nothing like this in the have recently partnered with local cake creator New England region! Baked By Amy to supply me with only the best Tell us a bit about the caravan itself. How sweets. old is it - and how have you remodelled it I have big plans for the future of the Herd to suit your needs? Bar, which I won’t give away at this time - but My 1950s inspired vintage caravan is brand keep posted via my social media profile. new, custom built in June 2018 by Woody What types of functions/events can we Caravans in Nerang. I had been searching for hire you for? months to find an old caravan to remodel; The Herd Bar can be hired for all types however, I could not find the perfect van. I of functions, including weddings, festivals, stumbled across Woody’s, who have built this markets, sporting carnivals, corporate events van to suit my needs. etc. … almost anything, so get in touch now! I have been fortunate to have such great How far and wide will you travel for an people around me to add the extra detail. event? A special mention to Nikki, a local graphic So far since we launched, we have travelled designer from Niknee Designs, who hand

to Walcha, Tamworth, Armidale and Uralla, and I am willing to travel across the New England region and beyond. Considering you're a relatively new business, what's some advice you could give to other new business owners? I am all about helping each other out; as a new business I would love to collaborate more with other local business to make Armidale and surrounds a more attractive place to live. My advice is to feel free to reach out to other local businesses, because you never know how much you can support each other. It’s also an opportunity to share ideas and innovate. Where can we contact you, or find out more about what you do? You can contact me via email events@ herdbar.com or keep posted on my social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram @ theherdbar Thanks Bridget. Interview: Jo Robinson. Photo left page courtesy of Edwina Robertson Photography.

New England focus. 27

42 New England focus.

New England focus. 43

The

Christmas

A special focus feature

30 New England focus.

A special focus feature

Things With a Difference CHRISTMA S SNOW GLOBES ADOR ABLE TOYS

The

Christmas

Deanoâ€™s Springwater Smoked Trout SMOKED TROUT DIP

Brisk Trading E ACH TO OWN HANDMADE E ARRINGS T H E L I T T L E V E G G I E PAT C H C O S E E D K I T S

Armidale Golf Club Pro Shop NICKENT 4 DX PA C K A G E

Johnson & Kennedy BAMBOO WORK SOCKS

Djs Foodie Bliss

Irresistible Style QUALIT Y HANDKERCHIEFS

AN E X TENSIVE R ANGE OF HAMPERS FOR CHRISTMA S

Skin & Tonic I N I K A F L AW L E S S FAV O U R I T E S A N D L I P C R AY O N S

Bicycle Central On Marsh BAL ANCE BIKE AND M U C - O F F WA S H P R O T E C T I O N A N D L U B E K I T

New England focus. 31

A special focus feature

Brisk Trading Bicycle Central on Marsh Bicycle Central on Marsh is the bike shop for cyclists run by cyclists. We cater for everyone - from your elite racers to complete beginners. We provide professional advice, quality servicing and carry a wide range of parts and accessories. BCM is geared up ready for Christmas, with loads of gift ideas and gift vouchers for those people who already have everything! We hold a huge variety of bike brands, including Norco, Merida, Specialized, Santa Cruz and TREK. BCM also provides quality coaching and tours around the New England region. We have qualified coaches who are able to give you quality instructions, whether you are just starting out on the bike or you are at the pointy end of racing! We offer coaching for groups or individuals looking to sharpen their skills or learn new ones. We currently have 2019 Dual Suspension eBikes ready to demo in a range of sizes ... the perfect Christmas present to treat yourself. Don’t forget we run a shop ride every Saturday morning at 7am from the store; all riders welcome! We are open Monday to Friday, 8:30am ‘til 5pm and Saturdays 9am ‘til 1pm. We also offer priority repairs if you call in advance.

32 New England focus.

Located in Guyra, Brisk Trading is the region’s newest home and lifestyle store. Owner Bronwyn Grills has created a collection of beautiful things for your home, a large selection of accessories and jewellery, and an eclectic range of gifts - from the traditional to the quirky. Bronwyn describes herself as a lover of nice things! She has worked as a graphic designer for over 20 years and is enjoying the transition to a new creative career. The range of goods at Brisk Trading has been sourced from near and far, and will constantly change and evolve, but always with an emphasis on quality, unique items that can’t be found in large mainstream stores. A few of the brands to be currently found at Brisk Trading include Batch Ceramics, Bek & Meri Artisan woven wares, Each to Own earrings, Juju & Co leather bags, Little Veggie Patch Co Garden products, Marmoset Found ceramics, Rohr Remedy skincare, Ruby Olive jewellery, Salus body products, The Society Inc hardware, Walter G textiles, and much more. Brisk Trading is open Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, Saturdays from 10am to 2pm, and Sundays during December from 10am to 2pm. Come visit; it’s worth the trip!

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The

Christmas

Christmas from

Daily

Ritual A tempting array of quality gifts and tasty treats is on offer at the Daily Ritual, just in time for Christmas! Whether you are a coffee or tea connoisseur, we are sure to have something to delight.

ur New England Tea range Don’t be disappointed and shop local. A gift offers a real treat for the box selection of four 140 g puddings is sure tea aficionado. The New to delight. England Breakfast took We have introduced stunning new cast out the bronze at the iron tea sets to our range, and we proudly International Golden Leaf stock Nina’s handmade chocolates and the Awards. The range features Thunderbolt’s delightfully quirky Cecily giftware. Available Campfire, a traditional blend with a smokey all year round is an array of quality coffee and campfire tea taste, the award-winning tea making accessories. Saumerez Soothe, a refreshing zingy green Our extensive range of Keep Cups in a tea with a refreshing soothing after taste, variety of sizes and colours is the perfect gift Heritage Rose, a naturally flavoured black tea for those with an interest in sustainability with heritage rose petals, and rounding out and like their coffee on the run. We are our locally blended teas is the Glencoe Green, a responsible café, offering a discount to an Australian grown customers bringing their Sencha green tea with own cups to take away. full-bodied flavour and Looking for a sweetness. respite from Christmas As a special treat we will This Christmas we shopping? Take a break have introduced some from the stresses of be serving pudding and lovely new products. holiday preparation custard right up until The Hunter Valley and treat yourself to an Christmas. Now, if that Olive Co features the award-winning coffee, doesn’t get you into the highest quality olives, our vast array of loose Christmas spirit, nothing capturing and preserving leaf teas, handmade will! the natural goodness chocolates, light meals, and flavours of the or choose from our fruit. Our range includes selection of great cakes Lemon and Pepper, and tempting gluten Garlic and Herb, Lime and Ginger, and free offerings. Caramelised Balsamic Vinegar. We will be serving pudding and custard in The Ruby Red Shoes bone china and store right up until Christmas. Now, if that melamine range based on the gorgeous little doesn’t get you into the Christmas spirit, series of early readers of the same name nothing will! is sure to please. This year Ruby goes to Offering Armidale’s only multi-awardLondon, where perhaps she will meet the winning coffee, as well as an extensive Queen and take tea. selection of over 200 finest loose-leaf teas, The Daily Ritual is also introducing for the Daily Ritual is the New England’s most Christmas only a selection of Christmas tea awarded tea and coffee exhibitor, and all our blends. products are of the highest quality. New in 2019 is mango and brandy, and Pop into the Daily Ritual in-store or online; rum and plum ... Once again, available you are sure to find something to delight at exclusively in Armidale are Pudding Lane’s our great new location. high quality, traditional handmade puddings. Shop 52 Armidale Plaza, 195 Beardy St. New England focus. 33

34 New England focus.

A special focus feature

The

Christmas

Celebrate In Style This Festive Season With Ella Baché To celebrate our favourite time of year - Ella Baché have partnered with Melbourne-based artist Kerry Armstrong to create a limited- edition collection of Christmas Skin Solutions worth highlighting on your wish list. Ella Baché’s Hydra, Spirulines and Eternal+ Skin Solution gift boxes alongside celebratory bon-bons, containing Ella Baché’s cult favourite products, offer a Skin Solution for everyone from your grandma to your best friend. The collection is packaged in Armstrong’s beautiful, bespoke artwork - offering the gift of art with no wrapping required. Armstrong’s colourful, abstract paintings capture the spirit of Christmas with a youthful playfulness and bold splashes of colour.

Armstrong said she “created the prints by painting directly onto Belgian linen, treating the canvas like a second skin to express the beauty and festive energy of the holiday season”. Ella Baché’s Christmas Special Treatment Packages are another way to treat the ones you love and put your best face forward. Whether you’re after vitality, relaxation or just looking to "Reveal Your Good Side" at your next family function - we have a unique treatment created to get results that will keep you glowing throughout the holidays. The salon will be closed between Christmas and New Year, but we will be offering extended trading hours in the lead up to Christmas!

The Art of Gift Giving Gift Vouchers Available Radiance

Signature Facial Honey Almond Décolletage Treatment Hand or Foot Exfoliation 1h I $99

Relaxation

Signature Facial Hand Treatment 30min Relaxation Massage 1h 30min I $149

Rejuvenation

Signature Facial Full Body Exfoliation 30min Relaxation Massage Foot Treatment Mask 2h I $199

Ella Baché Armidale 5/111 Danger Street, Armidale NSW 2350 armidale.ellabache.com.au | 02 6772 7089 T&Cs apply. Available in participating salons. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offers available until 24 December 2018.

New England focus. 35

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The

Christmas

Irresistible Style Christmas and Irresistible Style - what a combination â€Ś With Christmas around the corner, what are your favourite items this year for the New England shoppers? As always, we do all things underneath to make women feel super special this Christmas; we also have a large range of gorgeous sleepwear. If you are after beautiful pure cotton nightwear, you must have a look at the fantastic French Country range that we have in stock, including girls ages 4 to 14. The other lovely nightwear labels are from Yuu, Givoni and Schrank, that have a large range of styles, colours and fabrics in nighties, pyjamas and

36 New England focus.

brunchcoats. If you are after underwear sets as gifts, you cannot go past ranges from Heidi Klum, Bendon, Berlei, Fayreform and the sporty selection from Calvin Klein, plus our extensive range of camisoles and matching briefs from Essence and Jockey, and also boxed hankies for men and women, and socks. If you are still unable to choose, of course we have gift vouchers available for those who may be a little difficult to buy for. Come in and see us at Irresistible Style; we would love to help you shop this Christmas. And remember, we will wrap your purchases so they are ready to pop under the Christmas tree.

A special focus feature

Elaine’s If you’re looking for a canvas painting to light up your living room, or as a Christmas gift for a friend or family member, look no further than one of our great stallholders, Elaine’s Art.

laine and Keith Nicholson have been attending our Markets in the Mall for many years and are valued members of our community. Hailing from Barraba, Elaine loves coming to the Armidale Mall Markets and selling her prized artworks to our thriving community. Elaine has

focus_editorial.

been an artist for many years and travels around Australia and abroad to seek out picturesque locations as inspiration for her artwork. The attention to detail that Elaine’s paintings provide are what attracts people to purchase them. Elaine and Keith find that the Armidale community is the perfect environment to market their artworks, as our community is

LOCALS 4 LOCALS

he lucky winners include Cameron Dalgleish winning from shopping at MyCar Sound & Communications, Tara Whitton fuelled up at Beardy Street Servo, Diane Westaway got some delicious bakery treats from Moxons Marsh St, and Lina Swilks shopped at Jackson Quality Meats. 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 lucky winners.

thriving with art and culture. Elaine loves to meet new people at the markets and is more than willing to take orders for paintings. If you have a place you would like to see transformed into a painting, bring a photo down to the Mall Markets and talk to Elaine. Come down to the Markets on 22nd December and find Elaine’s Art!

Winners every month! It’s easy to see Locals 4 Locals love giving cash and prizes to you and me December 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.

With so many Locals 4 Locals members located in town, you’d be hard pressed to shop anywhere else! Not only does it boost our local economy, but 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 price pool. The more times you shop at participating businesses, the higher your chances to win! New England focus. 37

A special focus feature

Elders Insurance New England The Christmas period is more often than not a time filled with fun, family and much deserved over-indulgence. However, whilst these things are all well and good, making sure your home insurance policy is up to date over the holidays is crucial if you want to really relax and enjoy the festivities. Here are some things to keep in mind during the Christmas period: • After you’ve put in the time and effort to find the policy that’s right for you, it can be incredibly easy to file away the paperwork and dismiss it. However, one key thing that people tend to forget is that your home and contents cover may need to be amended if you have continually gathered more items of value over the Christmas period. • If you’re hosting the entire family over the Christmas period, chances are that space will be at a premium. If you have recently undertaken renovations or added an extension to your property, informing us is vital. • Ensuring your home and contents cover is at its most competitive is key at any time, but it’s only amplified over Christmas. Elders Insurance can offer both accidental damage and defined events cover, which could well be perfect for those with ever-changing needs. Call us for a policy review today: 6775 4577.

38 New England focus.

The Beardy Street Servo… Little in Stature, Big on Service Here at the Beardy Street Servo our main focus is on providing great customer service and honest pricing. We offer full driveway service, where we will fuel your vehicle for you, we will even check your tyres, wash your windscreen, and whatever you want - all you have to do is ask. We stock Unleaded 91, Premium 95, and Diesel. In store we stock a great range of cold drinks, ice creams, chips and lollies, some every day grocery lines, papers and magazines, Moxon’s fresh pies and sandwiches daily. Poultry and dog feed in bags, as well as Highland Pet Foods in fresh and frozen, Guyra tomatoes, and a range of Shell oils. We accept cash, eftpos, credit cards, Shell, Fleet, Motorpass, and Motorcharge fuel cards. We are also your Local Uhaul Trailer Agent. We are open seven days a week, Mon To Fri 7am - 6pm, Sat and Sun 7am - 1pm. 1/351 Beardy Street West Armidale, 6772 9355. See you soon at The Beardy Street Servo. Your Local Independent Fuel Retailer.

New England focus. 39

focusinterview.

Domestic Violence

FOCUS chats with the ARMIDALE DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE STEERING COMMITTEE ... CAROLYN, TERRI AND CECILY fill us in about the local services for women who may be experiencing domestic and family violence.

lease introduce yourself to our readers. I’m Carolyn Burgess, and I am the manager at Women’s Shelter Armidale Inc. We provide a wide range of services to women and children affected by homelessness or domestic and family Violence (DFV) in Armidale, Walcha, Uralla and Guyra and the surrounding areas. My name is Terri King; I am the Principal Solicitor at the North and North West Community Legal Service. We provide free and confidential legal advice and assistance to everyone living in the North and North West regions of NSW. We also deliver community legal education seminars and free mediation, to assist people in resolving disputes. My name is Cecily Cromie. I am Housing Manager for Homes North Armidale. Homes

40 New England focus.

North helps people on behaviours and social low to medium incomes norms, reject violence acquire access to safe and engage local Due to increased alcohol and affordable homes. organisations, groups consumption, feelings I have a special interest and schools, in leading of isolation and that is close to my heart efforts for change. mounting stressors that in helping people who are • Increase awareness in Christmas holidays affected by domestic and the local community of can occasionally bring, family violence. services and assistance survivors of previous What is the ADFVSC available for those violence may experience a Steering Committee? experiencing domestic higher risk. The Armidale Domestic and family violence or and Family Violence responsible for it. Steering Committee To achieve this, (ADFVSC) is a Coalition of local services and ADFVSC provides a forum for its members to community members who work to: contribute to the reduction of Domestic and • Raise awareness in the community of the Family Violence in Armidale and surrounding destructive impacts of domestic and family regions. We gather on a regular basis to violence. share information and to plan and implement • Reinforce messages about positive projects.

Christmas can traditionally be a difficult time for some families. In your experience, what are some of the issues you may see affecting communities? Christmas can be a difficult time for separated families. It may cause added tension, as separated parents attempt to negotiate where children will spend their time over the holiday period. For those parents who can’t be with their children, it’s important to maintain self-care and support networks. For those who have left a violent (physical and psychological) relationship, they should consider and implement a safety plan. A safety plan is a useful tool that can be used to help achieve a safe and happy holiday, for themselves and their family. Due to increased alcohol consumption, feelings of isolation and mounting stressors that Christmas holidays can occasionally bring, survivors of previous

focusinterview.

Domestic Violence

violence may experience a higher risk. The continuing drought is putting people on the land under extreme pressures, financially and emotionally. Christmas expectations will add to this pressure also. For those families that may be going through a difficult period, what support services are available locally to assist them? For those experiencing immediate danger, contact Police by calling 000. There are many support services in Armidale, providing support to women, men and children. These services include homelessness and housing support, legal assistance, counselling, medical assistance, psychological services, social work and more. The Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service is very efficient in connecting women experiencing DFV with

If requiring secure accommodation or housing support, contact Women’s Shelter Armidale on 1800 005 352.

appropriate support For women who are not services. Generally, ready to contact a service if you contact one may also assist a person yet, the family doctor organisation, they experiencing DFV to can be a good starting will happily refer you connect to support point. Also, there are on to other supports, services, including a range of excellent in order to meet counselling and to resources online the range of needs accommodation. gather information and plan presented. If requiring secure before taking action. If you're currently accommodation or facing challenging housing support, contact circumstances such Women’s Shelter Armidale as domestic violence, on 1800 005 352. The Women’s Shelter or you suspect someone you know may Armidale operates 365 days a year, 24 hours be facing issues like these, what advice a day. would you give? For women who are not ready to contact If someone is experiencing an immediate a service yet, the family doctor can be a threat, again we encourage them to call Police good starting point. Also, there are a range on 000. Police are able to provide immediate of excellent resources online to gather assistance at the time of an assault, but

information and plan before taking action. Firstly, make sure you understand online safety - www.esafety.gov.au is a good starting place. For information I recommend 1800RESPECT and there are apps such as Aurora, PENDA and DAISY that can let women explore options and plan to be safe. To friends and family, I’d say believe a woman when she tells you DFV is happening and take their fears seriously, regardless of what you think of the person or people who hurt them. Listen without interrupting, judging, blaming or making excuses for the person who has hurt them. Support your friend or family member with practical assistance and always keep yourself safe. Thanks ladies.

New England focus. 41

A TRIumph Ali’s remarkable

On a spring day in Armidale in 2014, 30-year-old Ali Flynn was getting ready for work as a fitness instructor when she suddenly experienced a severe headache that brought her to her knees and pins and needles down the right side of her body. Recognising the signs, her husband rushed her to hospital. From there, she was airlifted to RPA in Sydney and placed in ICU. Ali had suffered a stroke.

42 New England focus.

li was young, fit and healthy, running her own personal training business, married with three young daughters and there had been absolutely no warning. Ali spent six weeks in hospital, six months at rehab and endured three years of short-term memory loss. A milestone in Ali’s recovery came when she was lying in a hospital bed in ICU and decided she would feel “normal” again the day she crossed an Olympic Distance Triathlon finish line (1.5 km swim, 40 km cycle, 10 km run). “I have no idea where that came from,” she said, “but I had for some reason come up with that goal and I was determined to see it through.” Just over two years later, in March 2017, Ali did in fact achieve her goal, crossing the finish line of the bcu Coffs Tri in 3 hours and 22 minutes. “I still remember someone saying to me the week of the event, ‘Are you sure you’re ready?’ Maybe they were thinking I was crazy, because I had never done an ocean swim before, had only owned a road bike for five months and was recovering from a broken ankle. What they didn’t know was how determined I can be once I decide to do something. “Running across the finish line at the Coffs Tri was the most exhilarating feeling - it’s not about whether you come first, 21st or last; the sense of pride that you get from completing something like that is indescribable and I was

hooked. “The bcu Tri was one of the most therapeutic things I have ever done. I’m sure I cried for the best part of the 10 km run. I was crying for myself, for my children (to show them you can always fight the fight, you just have to keep trying) and I was running for everyone lying in a hospital bed around the world wondering how they will ever get their life back.” Ali didn’t stop there, completing the Pottsville Half Ironman event in February 2018, followed by the Coffs Tri in March, slashing almost 20 minutes off her previous time. She also ran the Gold Coast half marathon in July with fourteen of her clients. Ali plans to return to Coffs Harbour in March 2019 for her third Olympic Distance triathlon and will take a large contingent of clients from Armidale with her. Ali is the owner of Altitude Fitness, as well as the Director of Altitude Health, a multidisciplinary centre offering nutrition, fitness, psychology, pilates and yoga, where staff work together to help individual clients believe in themselves, reach new heights and find their inner strength. The bcu Coffs Tri on 2 - 3 March is for ages six and over, with events for individuals and teams, novices and seasoned triathletes. Hopefully Ali’s story may inspire others to give it a go too. “I would encourage anyone out there thinking about doing their first triathlon to find the courage to say yes,” said Ali. Enter now at villagesports.com.au

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

December 2018

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

A fresh start is about yo be yours. You are about tumble into an experience filled with such happiness that you will probably pinch yourself regularly, to see if it is real. Passion will be high on your list of priorities. Finding new gifts and talents will also bring an air of excitement. Tourmaline brings an inner peace, which helps us receive our true reward.

You don’t need to worry as much as you do. You are currently being given the opportunity to find your inner strength. You are much more capable than you realise. Work with your self-esteem by thinking three compliments to yourself three times a day for three weeks and marvel at the difference. Chrysocolla is wonderful for new discoveries. Wear it on your being whilst thinking about what you want.

The world is your oyster. Set some goals to aid your availability to what the universe is trying to bring into the picture. A journey will help settle your itchy feet/restless energy and when you return home, you will be positively focused and ready to succeed. Sodalite enables our imagination to take us journeying into alternate realities, so we can realize what we desire.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You deserve to have far more happiness than your current circumstance allows. Set some new goals and KNOW you deserve these things. Some outer influence has taught you to believe this is as good as it gets for you. This belief is not accurate. Pyrite will strengthen your self-beliefs and alter your reality.

Your thought processes are at times your own worst enemy. Take some time to reassess where and how you would like to be living in the future and pay attention to the beliefs which hinder this. Then, you will be able to bring forth change. Hematite will aid in goal setting, as it shifts negative thought processes.

Total change to your current circumstance can be expected. The new beginnings will bring such a difference to your attitudes, emotions and intellect, that at times you may feel you don’t know yourself. Travel plans may be on the agenda, as a means of dissipating some restlessness. Rhodochrosite connects us to our inner child energy. This will help you through change easily.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

The feeling of being suspended won’t last much longer. New growth awaits. Justice will be granted, bringing a sense of inner peace. Training or learning something new will align you with exciting opportunities, while travel with educational benefits are also on the horizon. Amethyst brings a sense of calm. Sit by the water and hold a piece while stilling your mind.

This feeling of suspension is not going to last much longer. Look for any tendrils of unsolved emotions, and work through them. You cannot take these hurtful things into the future, so be kind to yourself. Labradorite helps with new experiences. Carry it with you for a couple of weeks to set new patterns.

Your leadership skills are about to be tested in the work place. Keep your “win/win mentality” strong, as this will guide you toward further success. Avoid listening to other people’s fears, as these could hinder your progress should you take them on. Selenite strengthens our connection to our higher consciousness. Carry some on your being for a couple of weeks.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Find your inner harmony by breathing slow deep breaths, then set some goals (short term, and some further in the distance), change some stubborn thought processes and enjoy the experience you’re about to tumble into. Herkimer Diamonds are great for initiating change.

Discovering your motive behind your current actions will free you from your torment; all you need to do is be totally honest with yourself. You may not like what you discover, but simply remove your judgement and change the pattern and motive. Rhodonite helps us to free binding circumstances from our reality.

The universe is trying to herald you with an answer to a prayer. All you have to do to receive this blessing is know you are deserving of the reward. Angels will help you every step of the way. You will be looked after if you get out of the way and let Heaven help you. Malachite helps bring past hurts to the surface for releasing. Enjoy the newfound changes.

New England focus. 43

Newling Top of the Class

In a year of many achievements, Newling has been selected in Australia’s Top 40 Innovative Schools list, proving Newling’s unique approach to learning is achieving educational excellence.

he creative team at Newling is ensuring that every student is given every opportunity to succeed. The collaborative teaching structure employed by the school has created a new culture of learning and teaching innovation and is bringing great success. Having two teachers in every classroom has increased the focus on each child’s needs as identified through achievement data analysis between teachers and the Instructional Leadership team. Team teachers for each class share the workload, providing more time to develop higher quality learning experiences. In addition, the students receive more oneto-one attention, feedback on achievements, affirmation and recognition of successes. “Our performance in English and Mathematics is trending consistently upwards. Our value added results against NAPLAN see us growing student performance between Year 3 and Year 5 at nearly twice the national rate,” says Principal, Murray Cox. “We expect each child to reach their full potential and provide the

44 New England focus.

individualised learning for them to do so.” All staff work closely with the school’s two Instructional Leaders, sharing teaching of classes and joint planning the curriculum. Together they push the boundaries of TEAM TEACHING GIVES teaching, exploring new TEACHERS AND STUDENTS ways of delivering the THE FLEXIBILITY TO curriculum and showing CATER FOR A VARIETY OF the students that learning LEARNING STYLES AND walk into a classroom.” can occur in many different PROVIDES PERSONALISED Along with innovative ways. EDUCATION FOR EVERY instructional practices, “Team teaching gives STUDENT. Newling are leading teachers and students the the way in technology flexibility to cater for a innovation. Newling variety of learning styles Public School was and provides personalised previously selected to be a pilot school for the education for every student. This is something Microsoft Partners in Learning program and the rigidity of the traditional one teacher, one is now part of the national ACARA Digital classroom can never cater for,” says Instructional Technologies in Focus project. Leader Jenelle Williams. “The classrooms buzz The school has invested in a comprehensive with the energy of eager students. That buzz wireless network, a computer for every child and is an indicator that there’s a sizeable amount a colour laser and 3D printer in every classroom of learning occurring. You can feel it when you

the latest technology in every learning space to provide the best possible learning experiences. The school’s senior students have access to an extensive range of drone and robotics technology in their classroom and a maker-space for integrated project based learning. Newling provides every child with the opportunity and skills to prepare them for the future, and the school’s technology gives students unprecedented access to learning opportunities. “Quality Education in a Caring Environment” is the school motto, and the school is delivering this for every child.

Business Minds with Ingrid Rothe

of VIVID Thinking

Leigh

McLennan HELLO WORLD ARMIDALE

This month FOCUS introduces the well-travelled LEIGH MCLENNAN, CO-OWNER AND MANAGER OF HELLO WORLD ARMIDALE, A LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED TRAVEL AGENCY. Hello World Armidale is an active supporter of its hometown, a member of Locals 4 Locals, and proudly supports numerous local community and charitable causes.

business minds

ell us a little about yourself. I was born and bred in Armidale. I went to Armidale High School and married a local boy, with whom I’ve just celebrated 25 years of marriage and raised two beautiful children. We opened the business in 2003 and since then have been pedalling flat out. Time has flown since then! I spent some time working outside of Armidale, spending 12 months in Lismore in the ‘80s working at Westpac and then 12 months relieving around the region, working in towns including Walcha, Mungindi and Moree. It was a fabulous experience and great fun. I met a lot of people and made lifelong friends. Although I spent a lot of time travelling, I kept coming home. What brought you home for good? I came back for love! This was where Paul was, and here I am today. When I reflect on it, it was one of those sliding door moments. And of course, it has proven to be the right move. What led you to start Hello World? I was an employee of the franchisee of Harvey World Travel, which led to an opportunity for us to own our own travel agency. We’d been considering opening our own business for some time and, thinking this would be the way to fulfil our travel dreams, we didn’t hesitate! Five years ago,

the brand had a name change. Becoming a fully branded Hello World Travel has proven to be a positive move, and our valued clients continue to support us! What does Hello World do? We are in the business of making people’s dreams come true, helping them to tick off their bucket lists. It’s a really rewarding thing to do. We can arrange travel to anywhere in the world. A destination we are particularly knowledgeable about is Europe. In the last 18 months I’ve spent four months in Europe over several trips, so I know it well. All our staff have also been on several occasions, and Paul escorts groups to the UK and the Isle of Man every year. Along with leisure travel, we can also arrange corporate and group travel. What is the most exciting trip you’ve organised? Honestly, any trip is a good trip, as far as I’m concerned. I have to say my favourite trip is always the last one I’ve been on. So, as we speak, it was an active adventure in Italy, France and Switzerland - a trip where I not only got to share with friends, but also to be active, which I love to do! Different places are amazing for different reasons: Africa is about the animals; Canada is about the scenic beauty; and Europe is about the history. Myanmar was really interesting. Watching the sun set over the temples spread across Bagan was one of

WE DO A LOT OF TRAVEL

those "pinch yourself" challenge as a business OURSELVES. EXPERIENCE moments, as was owner, especially when VISITING A DESTINATION walking into Vernazza travel is part of the job. GIVES US A MUCH BETTER after a day hiking the Even now while the UNDERSTANDING Cinque Terre in Italy! I’m children are leaving the OF A COUNTRY AND a lucky girl! nest, getting the balance ENABLES US TO PROVIDE How do you fare with right is a constant battle INFORMATION THAT the rise of online and requires getting YOU CAN’T READ IN A booking, where your BROCHURE. priorities in order. clients can just go What’s next for Hello online and book their World? trip themselves? Now our children are Our clients are grown up, our plan is to increase our escorted looking for more than just the cheapest group business. Both Paul and I have escorted airfare. They come to us to assist in arranging several groups over the last few years. We the perfect holiday. have a few in the pipeline, including South A computer is not going to ask you probing Africa, Canada, South America, and possibly questions, to really find out what your perfect Oktoberfest. holiday looks like. We have the personal We’ll be here for a while yet, because there experience and ask you the right questions to are a lot of places to tick off the bucket list! tailor your trip to match your vision. What inspires you? And, we do a lot of travel ourselves. Travel! It is so much more than sightseeing! Experience visiting a destination gives us Meeting people and sharing amazing a much better understanding of a country experiences truly inspires me. It’s my favourite and enables us to provide information that thing. you can’t read in a brochure. And this is Any advice for a business just starting what we do all day, every day. We can make out? suggestions that will enhance your trip plans and come up with interesting add-ons or It will be a lot harder work than you are approaches that will smooth your way. probably anticipating and a lot more hours What has been most challenging for you than being an employee, but the rewards are as a business owner? worth it. Balancing work and family is always a Thanks Leigh. New England focus. 45

10BANKING YEARS of

N E W C A S T L E

better

P E R M A N E N T

Ian Forrester started his haulage business in Armidale in the 1940s with a horse and cart and sold out at age 78 with 28 trucks and six loaders in his ﬂeet.

an was also one of the first customers to join Newcastle Permanent’s Armidale branch, opening savings and cheque accounts, as well as a Gold Term Deposit, when it opened its doors 10 years ago in 2008. On joining Newcastle Permanent from another bank, the difference in service was stark, he said. “I get very good service at Newcastle Permanent; they’re very helpful. Banks are only as good as the people who work in them, and they’re a wonderful bunch of people up there. They treat me like royalty.” Lu Danieli, of Danieli Studios, is another local customer who switched to Newcastle Permanent when the branch opened in town. “I think we were some of the first customers to move our accounts over to Newcastle Permanent when they came to town. Their staff is always friendly and helpful, and we’re really satisfied with the

accounts we have with them.” Lu said the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation had also been of great benefit to the community. “The Foundation’s grants to the hospital and disability sector in particular have been a godsend,” he said. As Newcastle Permanent celebrates 10 years in the Armidale community, its local mobile lending manager Sara Maria said the personal service like that experienced by Ian and Lu was what she loved about her job. “I love being able to meet different people from diverse backgrounds and help them reach their goals, whether it’s buying a first home, a new home, or an investment,” she said. “We really put our customers first at Newcastle Permanent. We can offer flexibility when it comes to scheduling appointments to meet people after business hours or in their homes, or a café or business, if necessary.”

Long serving Armidale Branch Manager Judi Hansen with Mobile Lending Manager Sara Maria, who joined the local team in June this year.

Branch manager Judi Hansen, who has 30 years’ experience in banking and finance, said that customer service and Newcastle Permanent’s community involvement set it apart. “We try to identify each person’s banking needs and find the service or product that’s best for them,” Judi said. “And we offer friendly, helpful service to everyone.” “Our ownership model is different to that of the big four banks. We’re 100% owned by our customers, not shareholders. So we’re

not in the business of maximising profits for shareholders. Instead, we reinvest back into the business for the benefit of our customers and the local community. “We do this by keeping our loan and deposit rates very competitive and through supporting community events, programs, and initiatives such as Cinema Under the Stars, the Armidale Regional Sports Awards, the 12 Hours in the Piney mountain bike race, Get Active activities, the primary schools maths comp, and Northern NSW Football.”

Don’t wait for a sign Discover the way banking should be

When you settle for one of the big four banks, it can feel like you’re going nowhere. But you always have a choice. A choice to save money, get ahead and support your local community at the same time. So leave your bank behind and enjoy a better banking experience. Come and meet Sara and the team at 111 Dangar Street, Armidale.

newcastlepermanent.com.au/discover

Newcastle Permanent Building Society Limited ACN 087 651 992, Australian Financial Services Licence/Australian Credit Licence 238273. 1323_1118_255x156

46 New England focus.

Martin’s Gully Public School 2018: LOOKING BACK ON ANOTHER GREAT YEAR AT

At Martin’s Gully WE ARE OFFERED A BROAD RANGE OF EXPERIENCES FROM MUSIC TO SPORT, EXCURSIONS AND MUCH MORE. Leadership opportunities were on oﬀer again for us. Our year started with the new school captains, vice captains and sports captains being presented with their badges. Year 6 then attended the GRIP leadership conference, which gave us a great foundation for our peer support roles. We also organised and managed lunchtime activities for K - 6 and led our weekly assemblies. We were all members of the SRC, and everyone in Year 6 always enjoyed helping out our Kindergarten buddies. Sport featured strongly again this year. Our annual swimming carnival was held at the town pool, and this year we tried a twilight carnival. Students also competed in the cross country event and athletics carnival. There were also lots of PSSA knockouts and trials. Many of our students also went on to represent our school at Zone and North West events in swimming, athletics, gymnastics, cross country, cricket and soccer. This term we have started our in-school House Cup, where we compete against each other in our houses in kick ball, Oz tag and soccer. Thalgarrah Environmental Education Centre featured strongly on the Martin’s Gully calendar this year. Stage 3 thoroughly enjoyed our camp

at Thalgarrah, where Matt MacKenzie taught us so many different things in so many areas - it was great! Some of our Stage 3 students also attended a two-day arts camp at Thalgarrah. The students accessed the expertise of the Artists in Residence, where art activities included digital photography and tonal illustrations of skulls, landscape printing with glass, cartooning workshop with Australian animals, and much more. Other Stage 3 students were selected to participate in the eGATS program, also held at Thalgarrah, where they participated in an online learning program that provided them with a range of extensive and challenging tasks across a ten week period. We were lucky to receive a visit from the Taronga Zoo Mobile, organised by Matt MacKenzie. Workshops were held for K - 2 and 3 - 6 students, where hands-on opportunities took place. This year choir and orchestra were taught and conducted by specialist teachers from the New England Conservatorium of Music, where they prepared our students for a range of performances, including the Eisteddfod and New England Sings. We really appreciated the teachers

sharing their expertise and knowledge of music with us. Library lessons have included more opportunities this year. We have worked on a range of handson STEM activities, ranging from parachute making to origami. Students have been having lots of fun with creative and critical thinking too and being able to “think outside the square”. Our You Can Do It! Rewards Day involved a STEM activities day, where students participated in hands-on Science Technology Engineering and Maths activities. Our community was joined by some Yazidi families from Iraq, and our school has thoroughly enjoyed getting to know another culture and another language. Education Week Fun Day was an activities day we held for Education Week at Martin’s Gully. All students were given the opportunity to be involved in a large range of activities organised by the school staff and members of the Armidale community. Our focus was a multicultural theme, providing opportunities for students to participate in activities to learn about different countries around the world.

This year our Book Week celebration included the Book Fair, Book Week dress-up day and Grandparents Day. We invited grandparents to help celebrate Book Week with their grandchildren in their classrooms. Some grandparents brought along their favourite picture book to share with the class and stayed to help with our art and craft activities. We are unable to mention everything here, but some of the other opportunities experienced by our school were the “Let’s Hang It!” art exhibition, an out-of-uniform day for droughtstricken farmers, the Autumn Festival Parade, a Pirate Day, school discos, and the Gully Dance Crew. As the year draws to a close, we are all excited about the MGPS Talent Show and our end of year Pool Party. Finally, a big thank you to our teachers and supportive staff, who are always there for us. Another big thanks to our parents, the P&C and our local community for all the help they have given our school. Year 6, Class of 2018.

New England focus. 47

focusinterview.

eidi McElnea, Communications Manager and Trainer, Primary Ethics and Denise Palmer, volunteer Regional Coordinator and ethics teacher at Armidale City Public School tell us more about the Primary Ethics Programme and how it works … Please explain the principles behind the Primary Ethics programme … The programme provides public primary school students from Kindergarten to Year 6 with a space to discuss ethical issues with their peers, facilitated by a trained volunteer ethics teacher. All classes follow a set curriculum and support children to develop their moral reasoning capabilities. In each class, the focus is on skills development, rather than the promotion of any particular view. Children develop the skills to identify ethical issues, a willingness to engage in respectful discussion with their families and friends about a range of complex topics and the ability to think widely and critically in exploring reasons and developing arguments. A typical class involves children exploring a range of stories and scenarios, discussing what we ought to do, how we ought to live, the kind of society we should have and what kind of person each of us should strive to be. Primary Ethics teachers undergo training in behaviour management, and each ethics class adheres to six principles, called “Ethics Class Rules”. In ethics classes, children learn that their opinion is respected, it’s OK to have a different opinion from their classmates, and that it’s also OK to sometimes change your mind. Students learn how to disagree respectfully, to build on each other’s ideas, and to make their own decisions based on ethical reflection, instead of peer pressure or habit. What schools in the New England currently offer this programme? The two schools in the region to offer Primary Ethics are Armidale City Public School 48 New England focus.

Five hundred primary schools across New South Wales currently offer ethics classes, which are an alternative for those students who choose not to attend weekly special religious education sessions. and Kellys Plains Public School. We would love There are currently 500 primary schools to have more schools and volunteers involved across NSW offering the programme, with across the New England region. 40,000 children attending ethics classes each In the past, new volunteers have travelled week, delivered by 2,500 trained volunteers. Of to the Coffs Coast to attend the free, two-day these, around 1,700 are ethics teachers, with training course. We're planning to hold the other volunteers supporting the programme in first New England training session in Armidale the roles of coordinators, or by offering classroom support to ethics in February next year, to teachers. make it easier for people All classes are based to become involved as on the approach where volunteers and for more students are encouraged schools to be able to Students love to talk - recently and supported to make offer the programme. Stage 2 were discussing how their own judgments Volunteers don't need we treat living things. They’re about whether somea teaching background, continuously bouncing thing is right or wrong, as training in classroom ideas off one another - our good or bad and to exmanagement and facilrole is to facilitate the discussion itation skills is provided. plain why, using evidence and let them develop their Anyone with an interest and reason. Volunteer listening and reasoning skills. in lifelong learning and teachers do not teach in supporting children their own personal ethics to think things through, and values. express their opinions How is this programme and make well-reasoned decisions will find the implemented? experience fascinating. Sometimes it gets you Apart from a handful of staff in Head Office, thinking in new ways about your old ideas, too. Primary Ethics is run completely by trained How was a need for this type of provolunteers who are often parents, grandparents gramme identified? and other community-minded locals who have Parents, the Federation of P&C Associations an hour a week to spare and an interest in of NSW and The Ethics Centre recognised an helping children to make better decisions. opportunity to provide philosophical ethics Ethics teachers use detailed lesson materials classes to primary school students who have to deliver a curriculum of 79 topics. The curriculum has been designed by Dr Sue Knight, a opted out of weekly special religious education distinguished academic in the field of philoclasses (SRE) at their primary school. Each week sophical education for children, with each topic in NSW, over 100,000 students do not attend reviewed by an expert panel, chaired by Dr SRE. In 2010, after eight years of lobbying, Simon Longstaff of The Ethics Centre. Parliament amended the NSW Education Act Who are some of the friendly volunteer to allow schools to offer ethics classes as an faces implementing this program we may option. The NSW Government then tasked The Ethics meet at our various schools? Denise Palmer and Therese Suddaby from Centre to develop and deliver ethics education Armidale City Public School and Lisa Johnson classes in urban, regional and rural primary and Amanda Forrest from Kellys Plains Public schools. A new not-for-profit organisation, School. Primary Ethics, was established to take on the Typically, what are some of the topics covtask.

ered in class? Infants’ ethics classes are focused on developing core skills such as listening to others, taking turns to speak and giving reasons. Topics have a largely practical focus, such as asking and answering questions, disagreeing, changing your mind, working out what is true, giving and evaluating reasons, as well as giving examples and counter examples. Classes for children in Years 3 - 6 include stories, contemporary issues and real life scenarios which form the basis of discussions on ethical issues such as selfishness, how we should treat living things, promises, greed, friendship, cheating, voting, punishment, homelessness, teasing and fairness in society. What's been the feedback received from parents/students about the programme? The programme’s been very well received by both parents and students. Parents have expressed how their children come home with an increased curiosity about the world. Students love to talk - recently Stage 2 were discussing how we treat living things. They’re continuously bouncing ideas off one another - our role is to facilitate the discussion and let them develop their listening and reasoning skills. Where can we find out more info? The Primary Ethics website (www.primaryethics.com.au) provides a wealth of information about the Primary Ethics programme and details on how to become a volunteer teacher. Due to teachers leaving the area, we’d love to have more people come on board and help out for an hour a week. An information session is being held at the Armidale War Memorial Library on Monday 10th December at 5:15pm for people interested in learning more about Primary Ethics classes or becoming a volunteer teacher. For more information about the session, visit primaryethics.com.au/new-england Thanks Heidi and Denise. Interview: Jo Robinson.

focusinterview.

Bus 1940

Digging Trenches 1942

The College oﬃcially opened in Booloominbah Homestead on a hillside near Armidale, with

When the New England University College opened eighty years ago, it was the ﬁrst regional university in Australia; today it is known as UNE and has students around the world.

hroughout 2018, the University of New England has been celebrating its establishment eighty years ago as the New England University College (NEUC). The College officially opened in Booloominbah Homestead on a hillside near Armidale, with only 24 students and five teaching staff. The College ran as a college of the University of Sydney from 1938 and was known as “the University of the North”, because it took in students from across the whole of Northern New South Wales, from Maitland to Tweed Heads. The students and staff of this time lived and studied within the rooms of Booloominbah and developed close friendships while studying university subjects that included the arts, classics, agriculture, sciences and mathematics. Students also had to deal with the advent of the Second World War, college food, cold weather and isolation from the main campus down in Sydney. Despite all of this, they performed extremely well in all aspects of their studies and established the reputation for excellence which is still a hallmark of a

50 New England focus.

University of New England education. “For a new student coming to the university college in the 1930s or the early 1940s, it would have been a long arduous journey to even make it to the campus in Armidale,” said Bill Oates, University Archivist. “You would have been travelling by coach, maybe a hired car, certainly by train. Then when you got to the railway station at the edge of town, you then have to make your way across the paddocks through a very narrow road up to a building that was a considerable distance from town. “Then suddenly you are confronted with Booloominbah, which is just sitting out there in the middle of nowhere. Booloominbah was the place of teaching, it was the major piece of accommodation and administration as well, and when you arrived there you joined this very, very small community. “The anniversary has been a wonderful opportunity for me to meet some of the people who are a living part of the university’s history and put a face and a personality to some of the names that I have known for years from old photographs and documents.” The experience of living and studying

on campus was “This remarkable only 24 students and ﬁve one which had a group of people were teaching staﬀ. The College lasting impact upon inspiring in their ran as a college of the the students who enthusiasm about University of Sydney from attended the university their time here in 1938 and was known as ‘the in those days. Armidale, sharing University of the North’ ... “It was very exciting recollections about and glamorous to live living in Booloominbah, at Booloominbah,” their lecturers, fellow said Marjorie Jones, students and some of NEUC Alumnus who the high jinks that they studied Arts from 1944 - 46. “For instance, got up to,” said Robert Heather, Director of when we had our matriculation ball, you came Advancement, Communications and Events. down that beautiful big staircase and you felt “Some of them were as young as 16 years old very romantic. when they arrived at the college, and it was “It was always very friendly and people their first time living outside their local town or really made good relationships and had a lot farm in places like Casino, Moree and Grafton, of fun, went for picnics out in the bush and which were then quite small and remote so on. Some of us would go and babysit for communities. the lecturers in Armidale and we’d ride on “The University of New England owes these our bicycles on a cold winter’s night, but it early students and staff a great debt of thanks was fun. There was a very happy relationship for their efforts towards establishing a new between the men and women of the university with a commitment to providing university, and the women were never made educational opportunities to everyone, to feel second class citizens. There was a real wherever they may live. sense of equality and comradeship and lots “We are very proud of what our alumni of very close friendships, as well as the odd have done, right from the times of NEUC. We romance here and there.” like to keep in touch with them and hear their The establishment of the University of stories, as we consider them as part of the New England as an independent university in UNE family and we hope they still consider 1954 brought this pioneering era to a close, themselves to be part of our family.” and the students from NEUC are now a part If you want to find out more about the New of the UNE Alumni body and proud of their England University College era at UNE, then association with the university. visit the UNE website at https://www.une. In 2018 the UNE Alumni Program held a edu.au/alumni and watch the NEUC 80th number of activities to celebrate the 80th anniversary video on YouTube at https://www. anniversary of the New England University youtube.com/watch?v=iUtRwDhsmw0 College, including a special reunion for some Black and white photos courtesy of UNE of the remaining NEUC Alumni in Canberra in Archive. May and in Sydney in November, where they Inset (colour) photo of Marjorie Jones met Professor Annabelle Duncan, UNE Vice and Professor Annabelle Duncan courtesy of Chancellor and CEO. Yumiko Coffey.

New England focus. 51

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52 New England focus.

Thinking Local Court Process –with Elizabeth Stahlut (Solicitor)

THINKING

LOCAL COURT PROCESS Traffic offences are common ways to end up in court. It’s therefore useful to know about the law relating to traffic offences.

or most people, a court room can be an alien and intimidating environment, especially if you have been charged with a criminal offence. Whilst a lawyer can certainly assist you, it can be helpful to have an understanding of how matters generally progress through the local court, when it comes to criminal matters. In most cases, you will be served a Court Attendance Notice (CAN), which will have information about when you have to attend court, as well as what you have been charged with, and the facts that the police will be relying on. It is very important that you go to court on the date written on the CAN. If you don’t, the court would then be relying only on the information contained in the CAN and Police Facts Sheet, and you can then be found Guilty, in your absence. The court can also determine sentence in your absence, and if the magistrate is contemplating a custodial sentence, a warrant will often be issued for your arrest, so that you can be brought before the court, to be sentenced. In other cases, where the court chooses a non-custodial penalty, the court registry will generally inform you in writing. This first court date is called a mention, and this is your first opportunity to let the court know if you want to plead Guilty or Not Guilty to the offence charged. If you are not able to retain a private lawyer, it is possible to approach the duty lawyer, either to seek an adjournment to another court date (usually, this will be for Not Guilty pleas, however it may also be needed, to get further information for a Guilty plea, that might help to get a better deal on sentence) or to present a plea of Guilty on your behalf. It is strongly advised that you take a copy of your CAN, to show the lawyer, as this will assist them in providing you with appropriate information and advice, that will help you get a better outcome for your case. It is often possible to deal with Guilty pleas on this first court date, however there are times when it may be appropriate to adjourn the matter,

often to gather further information to help with the plea, or for a report to be prepared by Community Corrections, which can also help to get a better sentence outcome, if your matter is more serious. Your lawyer will be able to advise you on the best option for you to pursue. If you decide to plead Not Guilty, the court will usually adjourn the matter to another date, so as to give the police time to gather the evidence on which they would seek to rely, in prosecuting you. There will often be a date given by the court, by which the police must serve on you a copy of this evidence, which is called a Brief of Evidence (BOE), so that you will have an opportunity to look at the evidence and decide whether you will change your plea to Guilty or defend the charge. This second court date is usually called a Reply to Brief and it is your second opportunity to let the court know whether you want to plead Guilty or Not Guilty. Sometimes, a court may set a hearing date at the first mention. Again, a lawyer can help you make the decision that is best for you, by providing appropriate information and advice. If you continue with a plea of Not Guilty, the next court date will be the hearing date. If you are found Guilty, the matter will sometimes be further adjourned for sentence, which will allow an opportunity for your lawyer to gather more information if necessary, and make submissions, to try and get the best sentence outcome for you. A plea of Guilty can sometimes be finalised at the second court date, though it may sometimes be appropriate to further adjourn a matter, either to get a report from Community Corrections or to gather further information, to assist with your plea. Your lawyer will advise you about what options will help you to get the best possible outcomes, for your matter, as well as providing you with all necessary assistance. Talk to us. You’ll be inspired! Elizabeth D. Stahlut Solicitor New England focus. 53

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ANTHONY FOX - PRESIDENT, ARMIDALE BUSINESS CHAMBER

THE ALL GLOSS, ALL FREE GUIDE TO LOCAL LIVING.

F E AT U R E S Upcoming 2019 JANUARY EDITION THEME

Minding your The NSW Business Chamber Business Award finals took place on Friday 23rd November 2018.

F Image by James Russell

FEBRUARY EDITION THEME

Contact the Armidale team on 6771 5551 NEW ENGL AND AND SURROUNDING AREAS

54 New England focus.

During the first half of next year, we will have inalists from Armidale Region are two elections, State and Federal. A forum for Bronwyn Pearson (Outstanding Business the candidates for each election is also on our Leader), UGoose (Excellence in Small agenda. Business), Raw Fibre (Excellence Fundamental to the successful operation of in Sustainability), Back Track Youth Works the Chamber are the views of its members. A (Excellence in Workplace Inclusion), HealthWISE survey is being prepared to obtain those views. (Excellence in Workplace Inclusion) and Invest Your input would be greatly appreciated. Blue Support (Outstanding Employer of Choice). This year we have also moved into more Good luck to them all. By the time this Focus of an advocacy role, both in respect of issues edition is published, we will know how they on Council Committees went! such as the Business The Chamber is Advisory Committee and looking at making some the Regional Growth changes to our programs Advisory Committee and and yearly calendar, as The Chamber’s annual generally. Issues such well as our strategy for Christmas Bash will as adequate parking the next three years. be held at Saumarez for people working in We are very mindful of Homestead on 7th Armidale’s CBD, parking the different types of December 2018 from at the airport, the Mall businesses that exist in 5pm - 8pm. This event development and the the Armidale region, as is for Chamber members, Rail Trail, for example, well as the age and stage new people to Armidale, and have been areas of of businesses and their members of Locals4Locals concern. The Chamber’s owners and employees. and Guyra Business Chamber. Management Committee We are also conscious has resolved to support that different forums the Rail Trail from should exist for different Armidale to Glen Innes and to urge members, groups. The New England Women’s Enterprising and others, to “crowdfund” up to $25,000 Breakfasts, for example, were successful both in for the next phase of the process, obtaining a terms of content and popularity. We are looking Business Case. Council does not have the funds at having similar events next year. to support this step. I think it is up to us, the We would also like to offer events with businesses and private citizens, to now move to high profile speakers. Qantas agreeing to be a financially support the Rail Trail development. sponsor for the Chamber has made such events This is a development which will seriously that much easier to organise. We will produce a improve the economics of Armidale and other calendar of events for these speakers next year. communities located along the Rail Trail. Start-ups and keeping them alive and well REMEMBER - the Chamber’s annual Christmas always needs attention. We are looking at Bash will be held at Saumarez Homestead on a mentoring program to help both young 7th December 2018 from 5pm - 8pm. This businesses and young people in business. Our event is for Chamber members, new people to relationship with UNE has always been strong. Armidale, and members of Locals4Locals and Its involvement in these programs is very Guyra Business Chamber. Children are welcome. important and is only to be welcomed. We will We’d love to see you there. continue our collaboration with UNE. As you can see, there is a lot to do.

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GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE 2019

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