Issuu

Cleo Alexandra

February 2019. issue 141

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Rebel Heart offers fun, stress free, personalised and professional wedding photography. With twelve years’ photography experience, Emma has photographed hundreds of weddings across the country and received countless 5 star reviews. Rebel Heart Photography is Tamworth-based servicing all of the greater New England area and beyond. We will follow your love story anywhere! Drone Aerial Photography (CASA Licensed and certified operator - RePL & ReOC). For natural, romantic and affordable wedding photography, contact us today!

BOUDOIR & GLAMOUR STUDIO

Ladies, when was the last time you felt beautiful, confident and courageous? Rebel Heart Photography offers tasteful boudoir and glamour portrait sessions at our private studio. Perfect as a gift for yourself or your partner. Let’s find the inner Rebel in you! GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE - Spoil the special lady in your life with this unique gift!

Emma Steed APP M: 0427 622 386 E: emma@rebelheartphotography.com.au

www.rebelheartphotography.com.au A.B.N. 71 729 705 703

2 New England focus.

focus_ team.

team From the

Welcome to the February edition of New England FOCUS.

ur February edition is one of our favourites of the year ... Bring on all things love, romance and weddings! We’ve put together a showcase of some of New England’s best wedding suppliers, so if you’re thinking about popping that very important question this year, or you’re currently in the throes of organising your big day - this is the edition you should keep on your coffee table for inspiration! On the Cover We’ve been following the romance of James Brooks (FOCUS’ photographer extraordinaire) and his lovely partner Shannan Bourke for quite a while now! Many readers may remember when James very publicly proposed to Shannan in FOCUS ... and of course, she said, “Yes!”

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

We had to showcase their wedding in this issue. Don’t they make the most gorgeous couple? Their wedding pics are full of love, humour and their own quirky character ... captured expertly by photographer Rachel Deane of Finishing Image Photography. Congrats, guys! In this Issue It happened back in July 2018, but we also felt we needed to feature the engagement of local couple Lucy Haddon and Dan O’Brien. Dan’s proposal took place in a very special location ... and let’s just say it came as a total surprise for Lucy! We’ll check back in with this pair of lovebirds when they tie the knot. Apart from weddings, we also shone the spotlight on some other inspiring locals! Nicki Scholes-Roberston shares her

journey with chronic renal disease - she’s a passionate advocate for organ donation and funding for research into kidney disease ... and we meet Danijela Krha Purssey, Editor-in-Chief of Beautiful Bizarre Magazine - a contemporary art publication providing a platform for artists of all kinds. Final Say No relationship is all sunshine, but two people can share an umbrella and weather the storm together.

Tracy Le Messurier

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone

louise@focusmag.com.au

jeff@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Phiranno Chuon

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul

COPY EDITING Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services

dylan@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Jo Robinson

Ascent can provide support with daily life and activities designed around your NDIS plan. Support can be provided on an outreach basis, where staff can assist you in your own home. Higher intensity accommodation support can be provided for up to 24 hours per day within small group home residences.

kyle@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES Amber McFarlane amber@focusmag.com.au



GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jeff Cowan

SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont

Ascent provides general assistance with daily life and activities to enable you to live inclusively within your local community. Our support is designed to meet your individual needs and to maximise your independence.



EDITION CO-ORDINATOR ADVERTISING SALES tracy@focusmag.com.au

Housing and Supported Living

phi@focusmag.com.au 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 141 - February 2019

focusinterviews

Cleo Alexandra.

feature a special

THE NEW ENGLAND WEDDING GUIDE

Stephanie Alexandra Murat grew up in Armidale, has some extremely fond memories of the area, and she’s also used local locations as the backdrop for her latest music singles.

Danijela Krha Purssey.

Editor-in-Chief of contemporary arts publication Beautiful Bizarre Magazine, Danijela Krha Purssey and her husband, Richard, recently made the tree change to Armidale. Danijela is an entrepreneur with a vision...

Armidale Motor Extravaganza.

If you’re a motor enthusiast, there’s no better chance to see a huge array of hot rods, motorcycles, trucks and caravans in the one place than at the 2019 Armidale Motor extravaganza ...

the Usual

Nicki ScholesRobertson.

Nicki Scholes-Robertson is an inspiration … Diagnosed with chronic renal disease in 2009, she was the fortunate recipient of a kidney transplant in 2014.

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Suspects

10. WHAT’S ON FEBRUARY 24. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN 43. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI 46. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE 47. MINDING YOUR BUSINESS WITH ANTHONY FOX

www.facebook.com/ne.focus/

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

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OPEN HOUSE & SAUSAGE SIZZLE Saturday 16th Feb, 11am to 1pm 173 Taylor Street, Armidale Come along and:

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• Meet our friendly staff and residents • Enjoy a delicious lunch Complimentary and fun – all welcome!

$385,000 Prices correct at time of printing

Newling Gardens RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Call 1300 68 77 38 to book your exclusive tour or drop in Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm 173 Taylor Street, Armidale | retireaustralia.com.au/newlinggardens New England focus. 5

focusinterview.

Stephanie Alexandra Murat grew up in Armidale, has some extremely fond memories of the area, and she’s also used local locations as the backdrop for her latest music singles. Recording and performing under the name Cleo Alexandra, this star on the rise shares some more in depth details about her music - where it all began, and where she hopes to travel next …

Cleo

cleo alexandra

i Cleo. What are some of your best memories of growing up in the Armidale area? I’ve always been a very outdoorsy, adventurous country girl at heart, so my best memories would easily have to be with friends and family out at places like Dangars Falls, Point Lookout, or the Blue Hole and Apsley Falls. A day trip to places like these always rejuvenate me when I feel like I need some time out and want to be amongst nature. You started to sing and write songs when you were young, but describe yourself as a bit of a shy person in your earlier years. How have you progressed as a performer and overcome the nerves when you’re on stage? I was definitely very shy, to the point where many of my family and friends were unaware I sang and wrote music until into my mid-teens, which is crazy to me now! I only really sang in front of a particular group of friends at school, and at home when I was younger I would often sing in my parents’ walk-in closet, as it was closed off from the rest of the house, so I felt like no-one could hear me. Turns out my voice is so loud, they could hear me anyway ha ha. However, working within the music industry has definitely given me thicker skin, and in turn I have developed an inner confidence I certainly did not have in my teens. This newfound confidence has also started to translate into my performances, and I hope to perform more frequently in the future, to keep developing that confidence on stage. 2018/2019 have been/are big years for 6 New England focus.

you musically! Some may know you from the release of your first single, Criminal, but recently you've been working on two new singles and your self-titled EP. Firstly, tell us a bit about the single Who Can It Be Now, which features Rick Springfield. Where was this filmed ... and why did you choose to cover this particular song? When rummaging through old records, I rediscovered Who Can It Be Now. I remembered it being played around the house when I was younger and always loved knowing it was performed by an Australian band. The song was originally written and performed by Colin Hay from the legendary Aussie band Men At Work. When listening to the song again, the lyrics really struck me. I never noticed how dark and haunting they are. I knew straight away doing a cover of the song to emphasise the eeriness of the lyrics would be really cool, and with Rick’s vocals adding another dimension to the track, it has turned out even better than I could have ever possibly dreamed. I wanted the accompanying music video to have the same mysterious, moody vibe, so my Videographer Tom Bishop and I chose to film the video in Armidale out at Petersons Winery Guest-house, which has turned out perfectly - especially with Rick making a cameo in the video. I couldn’t be more thrilled with it! What was it like working with Rick? Rick is such a generous guy! He recorded the vocals for us when he was busy on a tour in the US. He also filmed footage of himself singing the song for Tom and I to incorporate into the music video, even when dealing with the aftermath of the Californian fires late last year. His vocals work so perfectly with the

THIS NEWFOUND CONFIDENCE HAS ALSO STARTED TO TRANSLATE INTO MY PERFORMANCES, AND I HOPE TO PERFORM MORE FREQUENTLY IN THE FUTURE, TO KEEP DEVELOPING THAT CONFIDENCE ON STAGE.

song, that it’s now hard to imagine them not being there. This experience is definitely something I’ll never forget. Your second single was also filmed in Armidale. Please share a little about this track with us. My second single, I’ll Explain Later is an original song I wrote. The music video for this track was filmed out at the local Pine Forest, which sets the scene perfectly for the themes explored in the song. Some really great footage came out of the shoot, and I’m beyond excited for when it will be released later this year. A huge amount of heart and soul has gone into recording your new EP, which was released late January 2019. What was the process behind the songs you personally penned for this recording? My melodies come to me very spontaneously, and from there the lyrics form around the melody. The lyrics for these particular songs were taken from my personal note books, where I write down what I call my “mind mess”. It’s where I write down all my unfiltered thoughts, draw images that relate to my music and sometimes also write poetry. I’ve always been inspired by poets like Sappho and Charles Bukowski or writers like Clarissa Pinkola Estes. Getting everything out of me through music was very powerful in

starting to overcome particular struggles I was experiencing at the time. These songs truly helped me to understand emotions I needed to sift through in order to mature and grow. When you're dealing with some kind of struggle, I know how much of an escape music can be, and to know these songs could be a few minutes of escape for someone else in which they can feel like they are not alone in what they are feeling or thinking - well, to me, that is everything. That is why I write music. Where next for Cleo Alexandra - what are your future plans? Gigging more both locally and in Sydney. I’m also hoping to travel to America and start learning more about the music industry. Where can we follow your musical journey and purchase your music? My EP is a digital release, so it’s available on all streaming and online music platforms, all of which can be found here: https://www.cleoalexandra.com/musiclinks You can also find me on all social media and my website: www.cleoalexandra.com The music video for my single Who Can It Be Now Feat. Rick Springfield can be found on YouTube. Thanks Cleo. Interview: Jo Robinson.

focus_editorial.

Heidi Melamed, Strange Realities: Constellation 2018 Wendy Miller, Bleaching #2 2018

NERAM PRESENTS

ell us about NERAM’s latest exhibition, EMANATE. EMANATE showcases the work of ten recent graduates from the National Art School, Sydney. The exhibition illuminates the conceptual and material investigation of a new generation of artists as they transition from being students to independent creative professionals. The artworks are highly contemporary and experimental and represent the energy and innovation that emanates from tertiary arts education in Australia. The National Art School is Australia’s leading independent fine art school, and its students are encouraged to think creatively across creative disciplines, which allows for broad experimentation and innovative work to be developed.

What other exhibitions are running or upcoming at NERAM? NERAM have two new exhibitions by local regional NSW artists. Christina Porter: The Hundredth Shearing Shed explores the iconic Australian shearing shed in exceptional watercolors and Margaret Brooks: Thistles displays beautiful and delicate objects and handmade paper made from the nodding thistle. The Black Gully Printmakers have been working with Brisbane based artist Glen Skein to make new work for MATERIAL THNKING: The Poetics of Process. We also have the ongoing exhibition HINTON: Treasures of Australian Art and a new display of works from the NERAM Collection On Paper. And of EMANATE INCLUDES course, there is our beautiful art inspired A WIDE RANGE gift shop and the fabulous NERAM café OF NEW WORKS, open for breakfast, lunch and all your INCLUDING: coffee and cake needs. VIDEO, CERAMICS,

PRINTMAKING, PAINTING, DRAWING AND NEONS.

So what kind of artwork will we see? EMANATE includes a wide range of new works, including: video, ceramics, printmaking, painting, drawing and neons. Works, such as Alkex Moulis’ Overboard, are responsive to current political and social narratives, whereas an artist like Louise Allerton pushes our understanding of certain mediums. Working in photo media and installation, Allerton also creates anaglyphs which require the viewer to wear 3D glasses to perceive depth. Likewise, Wendy Miller expands her sculptural practice to include video and photography to allow a temporal element to shift the viewers’ perception of sculpture, which is usually static. Collectively, these artists show current ideas and ways of making, while also proposing a future direction for art in Australia.

If the community want to find out more, what should they do? Check out our newly re-launched website www.neram.com.au or visit us at NERAM.

What audience is this exhibition for? Anyone interested in art will enjoy this exhibition; it is fresh, dynamic and engaging. In particular, this exhibition would be of interest to young and inspiring artists in the region who may be studying art in high school and are considering further studies at a tertiary level. The works in EMANATE will give these students inspiration and some insight into the kind of artistic journey their own work may take. How long will this exhibition last? The exhibition opens Friday, February 8th and will continue until Sunday, April 7th.

Louise Allerton, In Flux 2018

New England focus. 7

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The New England area is home to the most amazing variety of birdlife - some species of which are shy and not often seen. Local Ben MacDougall explains that it takes considerable patience to capture photographs of our diverse birdlife … but when you see his beautiful photos, you can see that patience is definitely worth the effort!

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BEN MacDougall

i Ben. What’s your background in the New England area and which part of it do you call home? I have lived in the Armidale region for just under 20 years. As a 21-year-old, I most definitely call Armidale and the New England home for me. How did you develop an interest in photography? My interest in photography came second to my interest in wildlife. In primary school I would love reading through Steve Parish books. Then, when I was around 10 years old, my old man bought himself a fixed-lens digital camera, which I would borrow to photograph scorpions, bees and other bugs around the house. Throughout high school I didn’t do much photography, until around four years ago, when Dad rekindled my interest. As a keen

photographer himself, Dad has played a huge role in inspiring me to get out and shoot. Whenever I am unsure whether to go out, he will always reply, “Do it, or you’ll regret it”. The biggest lesson I have learnt in photography is that each great photograph starts with getting off your backside and going to a location to make it work. What do you find particularly interesting about birds ... and what do you most like about photographing them? Although all birds have a beak and two wings, they are so incredibly diverse. Different shapes, sizes, colours, calls and behaviours all make each species unique. I believe photographing a bird allows you to stop and take a moment to fully appreciate it for what it is - whether that be the brilliant colours of a rosella, or the powerful stare of a raptor - they’re all interesting in their own way.

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Photographing wildlife that is often quite small - and can move very quickly! - must be fraught with a few challenges. How do you overcome this? There is a lot of patience required, that’s for sure. Each time I go to a location, I spend a lot of time studying different species’ behaviour and where they like to hang out or where they are nesting. Learning different bird calls has also helped me identify what birds may be around without seeing them. I’ll then set up my tripod, sit down, and wait patiently for that perfect moment. It can be very frustrating when it doesn’t work out. However, whenever I spend time in the bush, even if I don’t get a good shot, I always come home wiser - whether it be finding a new spot to return to later, or expanding my understanding of a species’ behaviour - so I can position myself better next time. Other times it comes down to pure luck and being in the right spot at the right time - planned or not. Having said this, you make your own luck by making the effort to get out into the bush and spend time with a camera in-hand. Because wildlife subjects do move very quickly, being able to capture those fleeting moments on camera is extremely rewarding and makes it all worthwhile. Having moved to the New England area recently myself, I’ve noticed what

an enormous variety of bird life we have here. Many species are similar to what I experienced on the coast, but there are so many different types too! What are some the more unusual or rarer birds you’ve been able to photography locally? In the New England region we are lucky I try to do a bushwalk once a to have a few inland week, photographing birds lagoons, which attract along the way, or go to a to the subject to get a huge diversity of location to sit and photograph a good shot. Today’s interesting and peculiar birds for a few hours. I find DSLRs have incredible species of birds. I have there is something autofocus, fast shutter photographed Redtherapeutic about being speeds and low-light Necked Avocets locally. in the bush without performance, which These are by no means other human contact. all contribute to being rare, but do have an able to get a great amazing and unusual shot. beak. What are some of I was also lucky enough to photograph a the other subjects/places you like to family of Superb Fairywrens last year with shoot (and why)? chicks that had only just left their nest. This I enjoy visiting Dangars Lagoon and was definitely a rare experience. Little Lllangothlin Lagoon to photograph What do you find are the best types of water birds. Both locations are important camera/lens combos to use when you’re breeding sites for inland water birds and out and about photographing? can be teeming with wildlife when full I use a Nikon D7200 with a Nikkor 200- unfortunately, the current drought has 500mm f/5.6 lens when photographing hindered this. wildlife. The long focal length lens is I also love visiting national parks in the beneficial, as I don’t have to be too close New England - particularly Oxley Wild Rivers National Park and New England National Park. Not only are they home to many bird species, but they also offer spectacular vistas of gorge country and waterfalls that I love photographing too. When I contacted you about this interview, you were out camping. How often do you escape to the bush or coast for adventures like this - and what do you most enjoy about leaving civilisation

behind? Not often enough! I try to do a bushwalk once a week, photographing birds along the way, or go to a location to sit and photograph birds for a few hours. I find there is something therapeutic about being in the bush without other human contact. Watching wildlife go about their day-to-day business undisturbed by my presence or visiting lookouts over vast gorge country puts life back into perspective a bit. What’s something you’d like to achieve with your photography over the next 12 months? I would really like to tick more species off my “to photograph” list; in particular, the rare and elusive Rose Robin (found in New England National Park), as well as Australia’s largest bird of prey, the Wedge-Tailed Eagle. It is one feat to spot a bird, but to take a great photo is an enormous challenge. Where can we see more examples of your photographic work? I regularly post photographs of birds on my Instagram @ben__macdougall. I also regularly post photographs of wildlife and landscapes on my Flickr account - most of which are all from the New England region. Thanks Ben. Interview: Jo Robinson. New England focus. 9

focus_What’s On New England

F E B R U A R Y

First Saturday chats

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

Walcha Cup

2 0 1 9

When Friday 8th February to Saturday 9th February.

6 Hudsons Circus Hudsons Circus is appearing in Armidale from 6th 'til 10th of February. Australia's Daredevil Circus, Hudsons Circus, after a successful five year national tour, is coming back to Armidale bigger and better! Hudsons Circus' fast moving, captivating two hour show is an experience that will leave you spellbound, showcasing traditional circus acts with an action packed twist, including international and world class Australian performers! Hudsons Circus has the largest performing mixed animal act, including camels, llamas, and Water Buffalo! Other animal acts include Brazilian Macaws and Liberty Ponies. Enjoy the death-defying motorbike globe riders, including Australia’s youngest globe rider at only seven years old, full flying trapeze troupe, acrobats, aerial artists, the famous Goldie the Clown, and much, much more! Showtimes and bookings online: www.hudsonscircus.com.au or phone 0458 HUDSON (0458 483 766).

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At the Walcha Cup, enjoy a fabulous day of racing, dressing up and socialising at one of the most popular events on the New South Wales regional race calendar. The Walcha Cup draws a large crowd year after year, both locally and further afield. Walcha is a fabulous community, and this is always a fun few days out.

111th Annual Guyra Show When 22nd and 23rd February.

Friday - cattle junior judging, horse events, pavilion, junior sheep judging + more. Friday - the official opening + entertainment. Saturday - shearing, cattle events, horse events, dog trials, pavilion + lots more. Saturday night - lots of ring entertainment, including The Rooftop Express. Bring the whole family along for a great weekend; membership packages are available for entry to the show. For any more information, contact GALA 6779 2132.

Following on from the Walcha Cup, at the Walcha Races on Saturday there is a continuation of Friday's fun, with a more casual and family feel to the day, offering children’s activities, jumping castle, bucking bull and face painting. There is also children’s Fashions of the Field awards for several different age groups, which is always popular. TAB, bookmakers, bar, barbecue, coffee and ice creams are available on both days. For more information: http://www.walchansw.com.au

Newcastle Permanent’s Cinema Under the Stars Newcastle Permanent’s Cinema Under the Stars is Australia’s largest, free regional outdoor cinema programme, and we’re back in Armidale! This season we’re bringing the magical feel-good flick, The Greatest Showman, to our outdoor cinema. 5:30pm, Saturday 9th February, Civic Park, Armidale. Free! Before the sun sets and the movie gets underway, enjoy a great line up of free entertainment, including circus workshops by Circus in Education, football (soccer) activities and live music by talented acts. Don’t forget to bring your cameras to get a photo with a character from the film. The movie will start once the sun has set.

Markets in the Mall The year’s already getting well underway, and the markets team are excited to showcase our wonderful region. Come down to enjoy our stallholders' homemade gifts and delicacies, as well as enjoying the great community feel. Come on down this Sunday 24th February!

focusinterview.

Danijela Krha Purssey

Beautiful Bizarre Magazine

Editor-in-Chief of contemporary arts publication Beautiful Bizarre Magazine, DANIJELA KRHA PURSSEY AND HER HUSBAND, RICHARD, RECENTLY MADE THE TREE CHANGE TO ARMIDALE. Danijela is an entrepreneur with a vision … she shares her passion for all things art …

i Danijela. Please share with us a little of your career background and interest in the arts. For the first part of my working life I was an Executive Personal Assistant. I really just fell into this career path, and by the age of 37 I was completely bored with the role. My career saw a critical change just over six years ago. This was the point when I finally found what I wanted to do with my life and started to pursue my true passion. I founded Beautiful Bizarre Magazine in July 2013 and have since been on an incredible journey of learning, growth and evolution, both in a business and personal sense. I feel so incredibly grateful to be living an authentic life - one that is in line with my passion. I also feel very fortunate that my husband, Richard Purssey, shares my passion for the arts and has supported me throughout my journey. You and Richard recently moved to Armidale. What brought about the tree change? We moved from Sydney to Armidale in November last year, and I couldn’t be happier with our decision. We plan to make Armidale our forever home! The tree change was inspired by my husband getting a new job; when he received the offer, we both knew right away it was the right decision. I am fortunate to work from home, so the transition was easy. What was the idea behind establishing Beautiful Bizarre Magazine? Richard and I started Beautiful Bizarre Magazine because we, like many artists, collectors and art lovers in Australia and around the world were bored of conceptual and abstract art - sick of walking into galleries and looking at walls and rooms filled with

work that doesn’t create any sort of personal connection to the viewer. Excitingly, I had tapped into a new movement of art that once again embraces technical mastery, where the viewer can once again appreciate the skill and many hours of practice that go into creating true works of art. The nomenclature of this movement is up for debate, but for now let’s call it “New Contemporary Art”. At its core, it is a resurgence of representational art across all styles and mediums. The internet and particularly social media have enabled this, allowing artists, collectors and art lovers to have their own voice - to say, “This is what we want to see on our feeds, in our galleries, and on our walls”! It has taken many years, but museum galleries and commercial fine art galleries around the world are finally beginning to listen to this collective voice. Art is very much in the eye of the beholder. How important is to you to provide a platform for all creatives to share their work? Indeed, art is very subjective, which in my opinion allows for many different styles and mediums to flourish and find an audience in the current digital world. Beautiful Bizarre Magazine’s “VISION” is to help shift the paradigm in the global contemporary arts industry regarding what is defined and accepted as contemporary art. I am proud to say that Beautiful Bizarre Magazine has indeed become a voice, a tribe, and a platform for creatives whose work is under represented, and doesn’t always fit neatly into the traditional Fine Art “box”. What do you personally consider to be “art”? I think anything that is created with creative intent, to share the artist’s voice/experience with the audience through an artistic medium is “art”. This, however, doesn’t mean that

the end product is good “art”. I personally feel that a painter must learn to paint - this learning how to work with and master a chosen medium is a vital step, as is practice, experimentation and a unique vision. What was your biggest learning curve of 2018? 2018 saw the re-launch of Beautiful Bizarre Magazine. Issue 20 [March 2018] was our 5th anniversary issue and saw the next evolution of the brand, which included wearable art designers for the first time. We also transformed the format and stock, enabling us to bring down the price of each issue to $19.99, therefore growing our readership. Beautiful Bizarre launched its inaugural Art Prize last year. What was the overall response? The Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize celebrates excellence in the representational visual arts, in all mediums and genres, from Realism and Hyper-realism, to Pop Surrealism and Lowbrow. The overall quality of last year’s entries was exceptional! We also received many enquiries from digital artists and photographers wishing to enter. This year the Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize welcomes entries from traditional and digital 2D + 3D artists and photographers. The Beautiful Bizarre Magazine Art Prize is an international non-acquisitive art prize, which provides artists with the opportunity to receive global exposure, participate in the prestigious Beautiful Bizarre Magazine curated exhibition in New York alongside the world’s best contemporary artists, and win cash and product prizes worth over US$18,500! You can find out all about the 2019 Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize on the new Art Prize website: beautifulbizarreartprize.art - entries open 1st February. You also curate exhibitions both in Australia and overseas. What’s on the

exhibition agenda for 2019? This year is particularly exciting! I will be travelling to Berlin for the opening of Beautiful Bizarre Magazine’s first museum exhibition. After curating seven exhibitions in Australia, Japan, and the USA, I am thrilled to be working with the Urban Nation Museum for Urban Art. This exhibition will include the work of over 50 of the world’s best contemporary figurative artists, working across genres and mediums, who will individually and collectively bring to life an incredibly important theme - the conservation of our planet. We are currently living through a new mass extinction event, the “Holocene Extinction”, which tragically is entirely due to humanity’s effect on the earth and environment. The exhibition’s theme, “Gaia Reborn: A Future Utopia”, aims to inspire society to once again see, appreciate, and care for the natural world. The time for change is now - before it is too late! Artists are society’s visionaries, so it is our hope that through this collection of work we can inspire thought, discussion, and a deeper connection with the Earth. Only if we as a society once again truly value and respect Gaia, our Mother Earth, can we create a future Utopia - one in which all of her creatures can survive, and even thrive. Where can we find out more/subscribe to Beautiful Bizarre Magazine? You can find more information about Beautiful Bizarre Magazine and projects on beautifulbizarre.net or our social media network, that is currently 900,000 followers strong! @beautifulbizarremagazine Readers can subscribe through the shop page on our website beautifulbizarre.net/shop or contact one of our Australian stockists listed on the Stockist page of our website. Thanks Danijela. Interview: Jo Robinson. New England focus. 11

focusinterview.

McPhillips 800 km Camino de Santiago

Doug McPhillips has WALKED THE EPIC 800 KM CAMINO DE SANTIAGO NOT ONCE, BUT THREE TIMES. His pilgrimages have been in response to tragedies and hardships he’s personally experienced, and he credits the Camino for changing his perspective on life.

oug hopes many others will follow in his footsteps and unlock their own voyage of self-discovery … Hi Doug. What’s your relationship with both the Port Macquarie and New England areas? My career after leaving school was with the Commonwealth Bank from 1963 to 1968, during which time I was stationed in Macksville, Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie. I played some football for the local side but mainly, being young, just had a good time. I was moved to Inverell on the tablelands for a year, but eventually moved to Sydney and transferred to the old PMG (now Telstra) for three years, before joining AMP in sales for six years in Sydney, eventually being appointed Regional Manager AMP based in Tamworth and later Inverell. After 13 years I resigned and purchased the Walcha Newsagency in 1980 and sold it in 1987. During this time, I returned to Port Macquarie once a month to help establish business and tourist interests there. In conjunction with local businesses, we had Port local business guest speakers at our monthly meetings. This was my day of escaping the seven day a week grind of a busy newsagency business. It re-established my business contact with Port, and I still have administrative business interests there since those days. My vision is to return to Port and the Mid North Coast, where I still belong to a bush 12 New England focus.

walking club which has links from Taree to Port and inland to Armidale! I still do the occasional weekend walks and camp outs with the local members and friends when I find time to head north and out of the big smoke “rat race” of Sydney. As a side interest, my ancestors on my father’s side come from Tamworth and Gunnedah and my mum’s from the Clarence. My great aunt was the first Matron of Tamworth Base Hospital and my grandfather was a teamster who drove cattle and sheep across the Liverpool Plains for a living. My Boundary Rider song is centred around his exploits and mine up there in the New England. Many readers may not have heard of the Camino de Santiago ... Tell us a bit about the route and the countryside. The Camino de Santiago traditional French route follows the route taken by Charlemagne, the French General, and his army in the 8th Century. It was the route taken by Napoleon Bonaparte when he marched his army there in the 1800s and conquered Spain and Portugal during the French - Spanish war(s). There are nine routes in all, including the route from Paris, France; Lisbon, Portugal; Munich, Germany, etc. All nine believe theirs is the “traditional” way. The French Way was (and still is) the most popular during medieval times, and pilgrims have walked the way now for over 1,000 years. Back then it attracted over 5,000 pilgrims a week, but slowly lost its appeal as a

way of pilgrimage due to wars between Spain and its neighbours, including the Spanish American war of course. Today, due too much promotion in the 1950s and a resurgence of pilgrimages to “holy” places, it has revived. In 2017, some 250,000 pilgrims descended on the Cathedral for the Pilgrims’ Mass at the end of the pilgrimage. It is probably more I LET GO OF A LOT OF of a spectacle of PAIN AND SUFFERING entertainment than a AND THROUGH IT WAS spiritual experience. Of INSPIRED TO WRITE A those who attend the BOOK OF POEMS AND MY service in the summer wars with the Moors FIRST ALBUM OF SONGS. months, only 20% (Muslims) on the Iberian IT MAY NEVER HAVE are Catholic and most peninsula; the Christians HAPPENED HAD I NOT attend the service out and the Moors wanting WALKED THE WAY. of respect, curiosity, or the territory for its rich just because it is the harvest of silver, bronze done thing. and other precious metals. This year in Pilgrims consisted of priests, prisoners, summer it is expected to record over slaves and those who got paid to walk for the 300,000 attendees to the daily midday Mass wealthy, so that they would receive grace and celebration. This does not count those who penance for their “sins” in the next life. Other do not attend the Mass service or those who free souls walked for their own reasons and a walk in the colder months. So, the real figure sense of freedom, as happens today. of how many “pilgrims” actually do the walk The traditional French way follows the route is an unknown. over the Pyrenees Mountains in Northern The Way first attracted attentions as a path Spain, through ancient cities and villages, of pilgrimage after the reported finding of St. across desert plains, on cobblestone streets James' bones in 810 - declared and identified of small hamlets once frequented by Roman as “fact” as his bones by the local bishop, to chariots, French armies and the great soldier of help bolster financial support for the ongoing

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THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT THAT WALK THAT DRAWS YOU BACK - IT INSPIRES CREATIVITY. IT’S A REAL JOURNEY OF AWAKENING AND ENLIGHTENMENT. WHAT SEEMS IMPORTANT IN OUR THREE-DIMENSIONAL WORLD DOESN’T SEEM IMPORTANT WHEN YOU’RE WALKING THE CAMINO.

Saladin of the Moors, to Germanic tribesmen, earliest European man and every nationality of the known ancient world. Any small village church displays the architecture of Greek, Roman, Gothic, Muslim and Christian architecture and the ornate influence of the Spanish themselves. One may sit at the end of the day in a small church to unwind, having dispensed with backpack and boots, and be captured by the architecture alone, without consideration of the spirituality which seems to flow through the veins in such places. The way stretches over hill and dale to Santiago, some 800 km away, to the Cathedral’s Christian celebration. Some pilgrims then venture on to “Finisterre”, to the “end of the Earth” to throw away or burn some item of clothing or boots as an acceptance that less is more and letting go of needed possessions is an ultimate sacrifice. (I did not do this, as I needed my boots and my gear for future walks, I figured!) In your view, what’s the historical significance of the Camino? The influence and experience of understanding the hunter-gatherers

(and others) on this first trek? I discovered a new THE TRAVELLER, THE sense of freedom and PILGRIM, CANNOT FIND that what I thought I DEEP MEANING ON needed from a material THEIR JOURNEY (LIFE) perspective was not UNTIL THEY ENCOUNTER essential in reality. “Less WHAT IS TRULY SACRED. is more”, so to speak, although in truth I still don’t live that way but am conscious of the fact conversion to community that in a changing world, materialism is a puff and village life over the centuries; the myths of smoke in the scheme of things. that developed since the time of Christ, I also learnt that other needs are somewhat which are still believed throughout Northern more important than my own - in a sense, life Spain today in small insular hamlets. The still is not all about Doug. existing influences of the occult, witchcraft The Camino must have left a lasting and Christianity in Spain today. The variety impression on you, as you’ve now of architecture that exists throughout. completed it three times. When did you Celebrations like the “running of the bulls” complete your second and third walk ... and the link with the killing of saints. The link and did these differ greatly from your first with Christ and St. James in Spain, the arts, experience? music and economic changes influenced me I returned to the Camino on the Portuguese on my journey, which I have documented in route in 2015, as I already had a template in my story of The Way in my writings. my head for another book. What resulted was When did you first walk this route - and research on the miracles of Fatima, a journey why did you decide to commit to this down the path of the Templar Knights, a brief initial journey? romance that caused me to write in my next My first Camino was in 2013 and was a book about the differences between lust and letting go of much grief and personal baggage love and the lessons one must undertake as a when my ex-wife left me after 28 years of consequence. marriage and my second eldest son committed I returned in 2017 to recover after a long suicide. I let go of a lot of pain and suffering bout of depression and anxiety in 2016. I did and through it was inspired to write a book that journey for me i.e. my recovery back of poems and my first album of songs. It may to mental health. It has resulted in another never have happened had I not walked The book, Santiago Traveller, which is my journey Way. of The Way, looking back on the first and second Camino and the benefit and lessons What did you discover about yourself

learnt therein. It has led me to appreciate life in the now, friendships, family and the love of oneself and the so called spirit that exists within us all. You’ve written several books, poems and songs about your Camino experiences, which are available to purchase on your website: caminoway.com.au - what do you most hope listeners and readers will learn/experience through your words and music? There’s something about that walk that draws you back - it inspires creativity. It’s a real journey of awakening and enlightenment. What seems important in our three-dimensional world doesn’t seem important when you’re walking the Camino. There’s a sense of freedom that you don’t normally strike in the modern world. I’m not necessarily suggesting people do the actual Camino de Santiago, but to step out there and do something different, to think about where they’re at, and how their life is. Why would you encourage others to complete their own pilgrimage? I believe all peoples should get away from the known and step out into the unknown at some point in their lives. As stated by Phil Cousineau, “The traveller, the pilgrim, cannot find deep meaning on their journey (life) until they encounter what is truly sacred”. In truth, I see the doorway, but I am still climbing the mountain in that regard. Perhaps another Camino; what do you reckon? Thanks Doug. Visit: www.caminoway.com.au to contact Doug or to purchase his books and music. New England focus. 13

Gallery 126 The 2019 exhibition calendar at Gallery 126 launches on Friday 15th February, with new paintings by Walcha based artist Terry Welsh.

umps, Bumps & Sticks is Terry’s first exhibition at Gallery126, although as he says, he is no stranger to this area. “I spent my primary school days in Walcha and was drawing and painting from an early age. I did my secondary schooling in Tamworth and then teachers’ college in Armidale. “Two years later I did my formal art training at the National Art School (East Sydney Tech). From there, over the next two years, I developed a style of super-realist painting of the human figure and faces, on a large scale in oils. One of these won first prize in the Tweed Heads Art Prize in 1978. The judge was Sir William Peasecod. “I have been a practising artist all my life and have exhibited on the North and South Coast (my then ‘day job’ being a secondary head art teacher). My painting style has varied over the years, as I responded to different environments. Nine years ago, on a short holiday to Walcha, I

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felt the pull as the effect of the bush came back to me. I moved back to Walcha. “This collection of paintings is inspired by a stand of grand old trees near Walcha. Working in acrylics, my style has become more graphic as I created the series over the last two years. “The trees: monolithic trunks with lumps and bumps and broken sticks ... mysterious cavities, gnarly deformities, intricate patterns and striking colours. “I then began to see the trunks as totems; pillars of the past ... a journey which then took me to placing totems in mysterious, imaginative landscapes. “This stand of grand old trees has stood the test of time.” The exhibition opens on Friday 15th February, 5 - 7pm, and the public is very welcome to come and meet the artist and view the works. The exhibition will be on view during business hours until Saturday 23rd March.

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JOANNA DOLAN IS ONE MEMBER OF OUR LOCAL PASSIONATE RELAY FOR LIFE COMMITTEE, AND SHE’S KEEN TO SHARE MORE DETAILS IN THE LEAD UP TO THIS YEAR’S EVENT ON FEBRUARY 23 - 24.

ommitted to raising funds for cancer research and for remembering and honouring those who have lived with the disease, scores of people will attend the Relay For Life at Armidale Showground - and you, too, can get involved! What’s your role with the Armidale Relay for Life committee? Each Relay For Life event in Australia is organised, on behalf of Cancer Council, by a local volunteer committee. I’ve participated in Armidale Relay For Life for many years now and have been a member of the committee for about six years. Currently my role is, in part, to assist with the mission elements of the event; but taking a broader view, we are a team and work together to organise an event that will generate a lot of local support and participation. It’s a massive job to draw it all together; without the committee’s dedication, it would be tough going. They are all amazing! What’s the history of the event locally? Armidale Relay has been running biennially for over 20 years now. Most of the Relays have been 24-hour events (as is this year’s), but a few were shortened to 18 hours. Possibly the most memorable Armidale Relay was in 2010, when a huge storm struck. There were 83 tents set up at the start of the event, and by 5am on the Sunday morning, only one was left standing. But, having said that, we Relay rain, hail or shine! Relay For Life is an event that provides the community with an opportunity to recognise and celebrate those who have overcome cancer or are undergoing treatment, as well

Most people have been touched by cancer in some way, so this

as those who care for them along the way. As we’ve noted already, most people have been touched by cancer in some way, so this is an opportunity to celebrate not only those lost to cancer, but those who have been affected in some way by cancer. Most people have a cancer experience to share. What encouraged your involvement with the Relay For Life? You’re right; most people have encountered cancer in some way over the years. For example, our longest serving committee member, Grant Clark, started helping Armidale Relay after his mother passed away as a result of cancer. Grant has been an amazing advocate over the years. My participation in Armidale Relay was originally based on friends’ and acquaintances’ experiences - both as carers and as people diagnosed with some form of cancer. My involvement become more personal in 2010 when my eldest daughter, Kate, died of melanoma. That inspired me to become more involved and help in any way I could. It doesn’t matter what form of cancer; we need to raise the level of awareness, support and research funding for every type, and Relay is a great way of doing this. When and where will the Relay take place this year? Armidale Relay For Life will be held over the weekend of 23 - 24 February at the Armidale Showground, starting at 10am on the Saturday. What is required of relay participants, before and including the 24-hour event? There’s not really that much required of participants: just register either as a member

is an opportunity to of a team or individually the entire community celebrate not only those (or ask one of the together for a common lost to cancer, but those committee members to cause. As cancer is who have been affected in put you in touch with a something that, in some some way by cancer. team), then go out and way, affects almost start raising funds for every member of our your team - trivia nights, community, participating morning teas, guessing in Relay For Life is a way competitions … and then show up on the day, of giving AND receiving support. But, even participate in the activities - and walk a few more than that, it is an event that raises funds laps, of course! to support those in our own community who What facilities are available for relay are affected by cancer - a win-win situation! entrants on the day? What items should Relay participants As usual, there will be a lot happening over bring with them on the day? the course of the Relay. Events include the The most important thing to bring on the more formal RFL activities, such as the opening day is a sense of fun. On a more practical and closing ceremonies, the Survivors and level, we’ll have plenty of water and sunscreen Carers Lap and the Candlelight Ceremony. As available, but it’s always a good idea to bring usual, we’ll have lots of live music from many your own as well. Make sure you have suitable walking shoes, clothing that will protect you local bands and musicians, there’ll be head from the sun and (possibly) something to keep shaving as a fundraising activity (how much the cooler night temperatures at bay. would you pay to see your best friend have all There will be plenty of food stalls, so their hair shaved off for cancer?), a pet photo everyone will be well-catered for! Most teams booth, a box car rally and a second-hand set up a marquee or tent for shelter when not clothes market, and life-size games (such as out on the track - chairs and sleeping bags or Jenga) to name a few. swags are also useful. Don’t forget to bring And, we are still working on the logistics dollars to contribute to teams’ fundraising involved in five or six more activities. Some efforts over the course of the event, such as of the teams will also have activities planned. Miss Relay and other fun activities. It’s always action-packed from the start to the How can we register for the Relay/find out finish! more info? As far as amenities go, the Showground’s All the information about Armidale Relay rest rooms will be available to participants For Life, including how to register or donate, and, of course, all teams will be able to set up can be found at www.cancercouncil.org.au/ “camp” around the track. relayforlife/Events/IT0000762 Why would you encourage everyone to Thanks Jo. get involved with this event? Interview: Jo Robinson. Relay For Life is an event that can draw New England focus. 15

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Belinda Heﬀernan. BRENNAN & SMITH OPTOMETRISTS

ow long have you worked in the Armidale Mall? I have worked in this part of the Mall for almost a year; prior to that I worked in the East Mall for about two years. What is your favourite part about working in the Mall? I really love being able to have some lunch in the sun every day; even in winter you can sit out and look at the beautiful trees. In summer you can get some shade underneath them, and in winter you can bask in the sun! Where is your go to place for lunch? I do like Caffiends for some lunch; they do some really great meals every time, there are always great specials and as I’m not a coffee drinker, they have heaps of other options for me. What do you do in your spare time? Sleep! (Laughs.) I have an interest in MotoGP, although it’s off season at the moment. Spending time with my niece and nephew and family and my hubby too; we love getting out and doing/ seeing all the great things the New England has to offer!

Met

Mall in the

If there’s any story to tell about hard working people creating an inspirational product from doing something they love, then LOOK NO FURTHER THAN BUDDHA BELLY KITCHEN.

Buddha

Belly kitchen

elissa Hobbs and her partner, Shane Kleindienst began their journey with a goal to create delicious food for everyone, but in particular those with special dietary needs, cultural, and

personal beliefs.

That’s why the food that Buddha Belly Kitchen markets is able to be made vegan, dairy free and gluten free friendly. Their most revered dish is the famous Vegetarian Buddha Balls, jammed packed full of super foods, tofu and more.

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You can find Buddha Belly Kitchen at more than just our Markets in the Mall. Mel and Shane come to the Farmers Markets, as well as travelling around NSW to cultural and food festivals to bring their fabulous foods to their customers. Buddha Belly Kitchen also cater for all seasons, so there’s something for everyone in all months of the year. This makes their stall unique and very exciting. Make sure you come down to the Armidale Markets in the Mall on Sunday 24th February to get a taster of Buddha Belly Kitchen and see what’s on offer for you!

Gerry Wedd, Studio, 2016, photography by Andrew Cowen. Gerry Wedd, “Midget” jar, 2016, coil built, Terracotta, coloured slip, decoration, 1120oC, 420 x 270 mm, photograph by Andrew Cowen.

COFFS HARBOUR

John Witzig, Fresh mullet v.2 - Angourie 1972

REGIONAL GALLERY The draw of the ocean and the free-spirit of surfing, particularly in the 1960s and ’70s, underlies the two exhibitions coming up at Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery - Gerry Wedd: Kitschen Man and Ripped Off: Gerry’s been doing it for years … it’s about time someone else got in on the act.

n these exhibitions, some of Australia’s leading artists - who also happen to surf - play with the imagery and folklore of surf culture, at the same time “taking the piss” and highlighting the humour, irreverence and anarchy that pervades the scene. You’ve probably seen Gerry Wedd’s art, even if you’re not aware of it. In the late 1980s, as a young surfer (fivetime South Australian surf champion) and artist, Wedd came to the attention of Mambo Graphics, the iconoclastic surf-wear company. With his sense of humour, subject matter, encyclopaedic knowledge of surfing culture and distinctive “scratch board” style of drawing, Wedd found a spiritual home at Mambo and helped create its unique ethic. Working for Mambo until 2006, Wedd designed T-shirts and other clothing, posters, ceramics, metalwork and surfboards. Choosing ceramics as his predominant artistic vehicle, Wedd draws his craft out of his personal inspirations, interest and experiences. It seems fitting (or is it ironic?) that Wedd’s two predominant pastimes are elementally different, yet perfectly paired in the complexity vs. simplicity that nature present us with. Drawn to the ocean and the unpredictability of the sea, Gerry surfs almost every

day, while his craft-practice gives him for a free-wheeling and subversive ride a grounded space (working literally through surfing’s “golden age”. with earth) calling for more measured February is also the time that decisions and outcomes. Still: National Still Life Award opens Kitschen Man includes new works for entries. Coffs Harbour Regional influenced by the ceramics collection at Gallery’s signature program, Still has the V&A museum in London, studied established itself as one of Australia’s by Wedd on a recent Australia Council most exciting contemporary art prizes Residency, as well as quintessentially by opening the award to artworks in “Gerry” pieces from a career spanning all mediums. 2017 judge Lisa Slade, close to 40 Assistant Director years. The of the Art Gallery exhibition of South Australia, also features described Still as Coffs Harbour Regional works from his “a game changer Gallery’s signature ever-changing … Still has placed program, Still, has personal the still life genre established itself as one of collection of at the heart of Australia’s most exciting inspirations: contemporary art contemporary art prizes work made by practice. There is by opening the award to family, friends, a real sense that artworks in all mediums. colleagues and something new is mentors. happening here”. Surfing Over $20,000 is magazines offered in prize and particularly the images of iconic money, and the award is open to artists surf photographer John Witzig are at all stages of their careers. For more key inspirations of Gerry’s. In the information and to enter online, visit accompanying exhibition Ripped Off, coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/still Gerry and fellow Mambo artist Robert Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery is Moore, along with Jon Campbell, Ozzie located on the corner of Coff and Wrong and John Witzig himself, delve Dukes Streets and is open from into Witzig’s extraordinarily rich archive Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to to create new artworks exclusively for 4pm. Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery. Prepare Free admission. New England focus. 17

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armidale

If you’re a motor enthusiast, there’s no better chance to see a huge array of hot rods, motorcycles, trucks and caravans in the one place than at the 2019 Armidale Motor extravaganza. David Boundy explains that the event is not only a must-do activity on the local calendar, but that it raises funds for Tour De Rocks …

i Dave. What’s your involvement with the Armidale Motor Extravaganza? A friend of mine, Jason Tracey and his family are the spearhead behind the event. Jason came and spoke with me last year and wanted to run an event to raise funds for cancer research. With his involvement with Tour De Rocks (having ridden the event several times) it was logical for the funds to be donated to Tour De Rocks. I was on the Board of TDR and knew that we would support Jason in whatever way possible to make this event happen. With Jason being an avid motoring enthusiast, the support of his family and friends and the backup of a fantastic organisation, TDR, the inaugural Armidale Motor Extravaganza was born. This year’s extravaganza will be held on March 17. What’s the venue, and what time will the action take place? This year’s event will again be staged at the Armidale Racecourse. Jimmy Deedes, the Racecourse Manager, was a great supporter of the event last year and kindly donated the facilities to us once he knew all funds raised were being donated to a charity. The event is held on Sunday 17th March; this gives time for people to travel on the Saturday. We will be holding a BBQ on the Saturday night

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for early arrivals, and the main show opens on the donation of this amount from a group of the Sunday morning at 10am. hardworking, like-minded individuals. What types/how many vehicles are you Whom would you like to thank for hoping to attract this year? supporting the event? Last year we had in excess of 220 cars, Crikey, I don’t think I have enough ink to write bikes, trucks, caravans and even some antique them all down! For fear of missing someone, I machinery. This year will be even bigger, with the will just say that they know who they are. These talk around town since last year. There will be people don’t do this for the kudos and to publicly hot rods, muscle cars - both Australian and USA be thanked; they do it in an attempt to support - custom trucks, the latest model motorbikes, less fortunate people than themselves and to antique motorbikes, drag one day know that they cars, new cars and yes, ultimately contributed to sorry to the Holden fans, finding a cure for cancer. but there will be Fords Without the dollars being THERE’LL BE COFFEE allowed as well! donated, the hard work VANS, A BBQ, FACE What entertainment/ of the cancer researchers PAINTING, JUMPING refreshments are would stop. CASTLE, ICE CREAM planned for the day? How much will it cost to TRUCK, RAFFLES, There’ll be coffee vans, TROPHY PRESENTATIONS, a BBQ, face painting, AND A LIVE BAND. jumping castle, ice cream truck, raffles, trophy presentations, and a live band. Funds raised from the day go to the Tour de Rocks, supporting cancer research. How much did the extravaganza raise last year ... and what are your fundraising goals for this year? We were overwhelmed with the response last year. The extravaganza committee raised in excess of $10,000 from the day. TDR was humbled by

enter a car or come and view all the vehicles on display? It’s $10 to enter a car or if you are lucky enough to own more than one, it’s still only $10 total for multiple entries. Entry fee for the general public is $10 per adult and for a family of four it is $22. Children under 12 are free. Very cheap - especially seeing all monies raised goes to charity and the fact that there will be in excess of 10 million dollars of machinery on display. Where can we register or find out more info? Armidale Motor Extravaganza Facebook page or www.tourderocks.com Or ring Jason Tracey on 0412 182 269 or David Boundy on 0409 325 238. Thanks David. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Motor mouth rating

The New Mercedes-Benz

Motormouth with Carl Bennett from Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast

-Class Range

NGINE & PERFORMANCE The new C 200 boasts a 135 kW/280 Nm 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol with what Benz calls a “mild hybrid” function. This isn’t a hybrid with an electric motor driving the wheels; it’s an electrical system which is able to provide an additional 10 kW/160 Nm when accelerating. Known as the “EQ Boost”, the system also allows the C 200 to coast at a constant speed if the driver takes their foot off the accelerator. The battery is then re-charged when braking. The C 220 d offers a diesel alternative, and its new 2.0-litre engine now makes 18 kW more power at 143 kW and the same 400 Nm of torque. The C 300’s 2.0-litre turbo four has had a 10 kW increase, taking power to 190 kW, while peak torque is still 370 Nm. Also getting a power bump is the C 43, and its 3.0-litre V6 petrol is now good for 287 kW (up from 270 kW) while torque stays at 520 Nm. The C 43 uses Mercedes-Benz’s “4Matic” all-wheel drive system, while every other grade, including the C 63 S, is rear-wheel drive. The C 63 S still makes an impressive 375 kW and 700 Nm. The C 200, C 220 d, C 300 and C 43 all use the same nine-speed automatic transmission, while the C 63 S uses an “AMG Speedshift 9G”, which is a nine-speed dual-clutch auto. FEATURES Pride of place in the new C’s cabin is a significant upgrade in displays - the combination of a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and 10.25inch media display with Apple CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto are included. Touch-sensitive controls are used on the steering wheel for the first time. These “allow the driver to navigate

9.5/10

Australia’s favourite mid-size luxury car, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan, wagon, coupe and cabriolet range, have now arrived at Mercedes Benz Coffs Coast with a range of improvements and features.

both digital displays using similar swiping gestures to a smartphone, encouraging the driver to keep both hands on the wheel at all times”. Standard features, starting with the C 200 and C 220 d, include “Artico” upholstery, reversing camera, shifting paddles, dual-zone climate control, aluminium roof rails on the Estate, LED headlights, 64-colour ambient lighting and 18-inch alloy wheels. The C 300 has the C 200’s features and adds leather upholstery, privacy glass (coupé only), proximity key and 19-inch alloys. The C 300 also gains the “Driving Assistance Package”. The C 43 picks up the C 300’s equipment and adds an enormous list of its own gear, including a new AMG steering wheel, brushed stainless steel pedals, Burmester 13-speaker stereo, heated sports front seats, head-up display, wireless charging, intelligent LED headlights, panoramic sunroof, black roof racks on the Estate, analogue clock and 19-inch AMG alloy wheels. Metallic paintwork is also part of the C 43’s standard features list, which includes “Obsidian Black”, “Iridium Silver”, “Mojave Silver”, “Cavansite Blue”, “Emerald Green” and “Brilliant Blue”, but you’ll have to pay for “Hyacinth Red”, which is a sort of candy apple red. Noncost colours for the lower grades are non-metallic black and “Polar White” non-metallic. The C 63 S adds to the C 43’s equipment list with its own AMG steering wheel, illuminated door sills, digital TV tuner, nappa leather upholstery, an electronic rear differential lock, 19-inch alloys in matte black with high-sheen rim, plus high-performance brakes with red calipers. WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE: Starting off in the C 200, the steering is well weighted and accurate, offering a better sense of connection to the road compared to some of its prestige rivals. The steering wheel itself feels good to hold, too - and this is on the base car. Driver and passenger seats have multiple ad-

justments to get the fussiest of drivers comfortable, the vision all-around is excellent and then there’s the engine, which is perfectly adequate. 1.5 litres sounds small, but the output is almost the same as the previous 2.0-litre and the 48 Volt EQ Boost hybrid system does provide just enough of a kick to get you away from the traffic lights or overtake without any lag. The hybrid system’s coasting function is excellent - take your foot off the accelerator and your revs drop to zero, but the car will maintain its speed. When you brake, the battery is recharged, so you’ll have the extra grunt again when you need it. Next up, my favourite - the C 43. Sitting just idling, the C 43 sounds sedate, but that’s with the exhaust note and engine in the Comfort setting. It means you can pull into your street at night or start it up early in the morning without waking up the entire neighbourhood. Put it in Sport, and the twin-turbo petrol V6 snarls and crackles as you shift through the gears. It’s not as vicious as the V8 C 63 S, but that’s the appeal of the C 43 - it’s a milder form of the C 63. With fantastic turn-in, all-wheel drive offering superb traction and great grip from the Continental ContiSportContact rubber (225/40 R19s front, 255/35 R19 at the back), a smooth-shifting nine-speed, impressive brakes and that turbo V6, which pulls the car heroically out of corners. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST (excludes on roads and options)

C 220 d Estate - $67,800

Mercedes-Benz C 300 range 190 kW/370 Nm C 300 Sedan - $71,800 C 300 Estate - $74,300 C 300 Coupé - $85,800 C 300 Cabriolet - $102,600

Mercedes-AMG C 43 range 287 kW/520Nm C 43 4MATIC Sedan - $108,600 C 43 4MATIC Estate - $111,100 C 43 4MATIC Coupé - $112,600 C 43 4MATIC Cabriolet - $125,700

Mercedes-AMG C 63 S range 375 kW/700 Nm C 63 S Sedan - $160,900 C 63 S Estate - $163,400 C 63 S Coupé - $165,900 C 63 S Cabriolet - $184,000 WARRANTY The all new C-Class range comes with a 3 year unlimited km warranty and 3 years roadside assistance. C-Class Power Up Promotion. From now until the 28th February 2019, the C-Class Power Up Promotion will be offered byMercedes Benz Coffs Coast. We are offering a complimentary upgrade from a C200 Sedan to a C300 Sedan - a massive saving of $8,000. Mercedes Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour Phone 6648 3577.

Mercedes Benz C 200 Range

135 kW/280 Nm (EQ Boost 10 kW/160 Nm) C 200 Sedan - $63,700 C 200 Estate - $66,200 C 200 Coupé - $68,300 C 200 Cabriolet - $88,900

Mercedes-Benz C 220 d range 143 kW/400 Nm C 220 d Sedan - $65,200

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Josper Grilled Swordfish with sweet potato puree from Tattersalls Hotel. 20 New England focus.

CO OL IS TH IS

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focuscontributor

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

discovery the

Blend

month of the

For nearly five thousand years, people have been enjoying tea. Discovered in China, it is currently one of the most popular beverages worldwide, second to coffee.

ometimes it’s sipped on the go, and other times it’s prepared in traditional ways with great ceremony. There are many different varieties to choose from, and there is a lot of history behind this beloved drink as well - much of which you may not know. Originally used for medicinal purposes such as detoxification, it was often chewed rather than being drunk from pretty, painted china cups. According to folklore, the beverage was first discovered when the leaves from some tea bushes blew into the water that servants were boiling, to purify it for Emperor Shen Nong to drink. The leaves went unnoticed and the water was served to the emperor, who was also an herbalist. Upon drinking this accidental brew, which he very much enjoyed, the concept of drinking tea was born. THEY ARE ALL ONE There are several different types, including black, oolong, green, and white. They all come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, but the

Where

difference lies in how the leaves are treated after they are harvested. All tea leaves are withered, rolled, and heated. Different varieties are created depending on the additional steps, or in the timing of the steps, that are taken before the leaves are packaged. Black - the most commonly consumed (about 84 percent of totals worldwide), it is also the most processed - but this doesn’t refer to the use of unhealthy sugary or artificial additives. Rather, the leaves are left to ferment until they turn black, then dried and packaged. Oolong - follows a similar process to black tea; however, each individual stage is not as long. Green - not put through any sort of fermentation process; it is either steamed or pan fried. White - the least processed of the four. Picked earlier in the season and made from younger leaves, white tea leaves are typically only left to dry briefly in the sun before being prepared for packaging. It’s also important to properly store your teas to avoid degradation by heat, moisture, and light.

Find out more about other quality blends at www.dailyritual.com.au New England focus. 21

Armidale Regional Council Family Fun Day

Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival

Social / Scene Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival

Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival

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Pathfinders Movie Fundraiser: Adam, Rose, Alan

Pathfinders Movie Fundraiser

8 Ball Aitken @ McCrossins Mill

22 New England focus.

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focus_contributor

WITH SUSIE DUNN

Australia n the

HAYDN Ensemble P R E S E N T S

Icing ON

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

Haydn, Mozart & Boccherini String Quartets

CAKE

Is 2019 a watershed year? And can we be The Little Region That Could in 2019?

In January, Australia seems to gather itself together again. But this February will see electioneering increasingly dominate our attitudes to the future, as two of them are coming our way - ready or not.

B Well-known as one of AUSTRALIA’S LEADING EARLY MUSIC ENSEMBLES, AHE HAVE BEEN ACCLAIMED BY LIMELIGHT MAGAZINE AS "WORLD-CLASS". Their innovative programming explores both loved and lesser known repertoire of the late baroque and early classical periods on period instruments.

hey present a tour featuring the music of Haydn and his contemporaries throughout Northern NSW and a performance in Armidale on Wednesday, February 27, 7pm, at the New England Conservatorium of Music. “We are delighted to be able to return to Armidale to perform and work with local students,” says Artistic Director McIntosh. The group will also be working with local string students throughout the tour, presenting a number of workshops in collaboration with local string teachers.

The program concludes with one of Haydn’s indisputable works of genius, the String Quartet Op. 76 No. 4 (Sunrise). Although it was not nicknamed by Haydn himself, the opening bars of the They present a tour quartet clearly evoke the featuring the music of Haydn image of daybreak. and his contemporaries

throughout Northern NSW and a performance in

Armidale on Wednesday, February 27, 7pm, at the New England Conservatorium of Music.

The concert program includes Mozart’s beautiful and dark D minor string quartet. 24 New England focus.

The work is one of his most famous and loved quartets. It is the second set of six quartets he dedicated to Haydn, who was at the time his best friend.

Join The Australian Haydn Ensemble as they explore the virtuosic capabilities of period instruments through the music of the late baroque and early classical eras.

For tickets and more information, visit www. australianhaydn.com.au/events/regional-nswtour or phone 1800 334 388.

ut, everyday life doesn’t stop. We need our local retail growing its viability, capitalising on offering service and informed advice - plus immediate inspection of purchases. However "online" may tempt, nothing competes with eye-balling. If you’re one of those rude, short-sighted people who looks in a shop and orders online - that’s not smart. If your local stores disappear, your people-focused community unravels. Good, well-run shops, cafés, restaurants and bars, available when you want them, are integral, as well as agreed strategies between tenants and landlords. Local Government keeps the wheels turning. But please, ARC, no more consultants, no more whiteboards with the same SWAT analyses. Definitely been there! Instead, more listening to experts here first - particularly those with a fresh ear for future needs and wants, which may be very different. Then action. It’s guaranteed technologies will change constantly. ARC ratepayers await the promised integrated plan - desirably sensible and financially do-able. Basic problems must be recognised and addressed, but let’s hope there’s a "sprinkle of stardust", underlining our differences from competitors. In fact, inevitably, it’s individual citizens who create successes, hopefully with governments standing ready to facilitate where able and necessary. I’ve always liked the story The Little Engine That Could. Don’t let’s freeze in time - instead, say, "I can" and push up and over that hill. I‘ve great respect for UNE and believe it’s the Little University That Could. Because it’s smaller, regional and currently less noisy than some other universities doesn’t mean it doesn’t perform, and have the capacity to perform, in many acutely important areas. Competition today means sharp-elbowing your way right into the news stream - maybe we’re just too polite. It’s the squeaky wheel that’ll get the grease on our wheels! And sadly, reading some advertisements, you’d be unaware there’s a lively student scene ON campus! And please - do give us a UNE appropriate presence in Armidale’s CBD, to make a mutually beneficial statement as a

University City. Head tenancy in part of the Old Court House would be ideal if/when Adam Marshall finally succeeds in getting that NSW Government tick. Oiling wheels also applies to our tourism message - generally we’re simply not heard enough outside our region. And, we currently have a State Tourism Minister here, keen and ready to help! It’s for us to initiate. Perhaps we’ve so many different things on the agenda, that any overall message loses focus? Tremendous changes are beginning as awareness dawns: when England’s fashion brand Burberry admitted in June to burning 28 million pounds' worth of unsold clothes to "safeguard their brand", other Houses ‘fessed up as well, underlining the terrible top/down waste in the industry. Cheap clothes clog our garbage dumps. It’s ridiculous. Now I see some of the world’s top tennis players in the Australian Open apparently wore an Adidas range of recycled "ocean plastic" - what’s being described as "circularity" in approach - reaction/action. Having written about the U.K’s Marks & Spencers promoting "marinated fake meat", it happens here. I spoke with the CEO of an Australian company specialising in what he called "protein for flexitarians". Here we’re in the heart of sheep and cattle country, and obviously these trends require serious attention. Meat is essential to the diet of omnivores, and farmers are increasingly on the front line in ethical, sustainable production. Yes, meat three times a day is off most menus, but during their week most choose to include meat with all its benefits. I don’t see that changing easily, but industry bodies must be super alert with health facts and figures. Remember, 6th April, 2 - 10pm for Armidale’s inaugural Colour New England Street Arts Festival. This Mall community festival showcasing local talent aims to connect local creative communities with fun for all, finishing with a lightshow. Cuncil is assisting but not running the festival - so hands up, volunteers! (Hayley 6770 3824). Susie Dunn.

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We have a strong national Ray White database, which is continually updated and identifies a wide range of qualified buying interests. Such interests include parties from the private sector, corporate investors and equity funds, who are represented both at a national and international level. We have utilised this database in recent months to secure some substantial off market transactions of large scale grazing properties. Ray White Rural nationally work exclusively with an advertising agency in Brisbane, who are constantly evolving with new and updated cutting edge marketing which identifies and targets the most effective advertising mediums.

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New England focus. 25

focusinterview.

ARMIDALE AND NEW ENGLAND

SHOw

Noting beats a country show for a weekend of family fun and entertainment! Mark your diaries: March 8 and 9 are the dates set down for the Armidale and New England Show, and Briony Looker tells us there’s a huge variety of entertainment, ring events, food, rides and other attractions on offer!

i Briony. What’s your role with the Armidale & New England Show Society? Hi guys. My role within the Armidale & New England Show Society is the Promotion and Publicity officer. I am also the Stud Beef Cattle Section Secretary, so I wear a few hats. What can you tell us about the history of the show? In 2019 we are celebrating our 144th Armidale & New England Show, which is very exciting. We are one of Australia’s oldest and most important country shows. This year we would like to bring the focus back to the heritage of Armidale, in particular focusing on the showground and buildings that we utilise for our show. The buildings and the grounds are so spectacular in the design and layout, and we are so lucky to have these buildings to bring character and charm to our show. In 2019 we can confirm that we have one main grandstand back in use, and we are very excited about this. What are the date/s set down for the show this year ... and what time do the gates open? The dates for the 2019 Armidale & New England Show are March 8th and 9th. Gates open at 7am both days, and there will be lots of things to see and do for the whole family. We also have the ASC Zone 13 Junior Judging finals, which will run on Sunday, March 10th at the Exhibition Centre commencing at 9am. What are some of the special activities planned for this year’s show? We are very excited about our entertainment and activities at this year’s show. We have Dave Manchon and his Rooftop Express team back in town with a “never-before seen” Brumby Muster show. These shows will be on Friday and Saturday nights. As a part of this, the Friday night will see a stallion shootout event, mule rides and also bucking horse events. We also have two nights of fireworks, the demo derby, a ute show, a huge horse ring program, including horseball events, and we have a new look showjumping program, which will feature a “Hoof and Woof” event, an “Off-the track” class plus many more showjumping events. We also have the regular stud beef exhibits, with the

26 New England focus.

return of stud sheep and poultry, a woodchop competition, like and follow Armidale & New England Show Society on a young farmers’ challenge run by the UNE’s RSUS commitFacebook for updates and announcements. How much does entry to the show cost? tee, plus much more. Memberships are also a great way to have access to the There is sure to be something for the whole family. For a show for the whole weekend. Family memberships of two full list of our attractions and entertainment, please see our adults and three children are just $30, and individual memwebsite. Pavilion entries are available online this year! What are berships are $15. Membership forms can be found on our some of the categories on offer for entrants? website. Yes, we have made the decision to Where can we find out more info? For more information on anything move to an online entry process for relating to the 2019 Armidale & New the 2019 show; this is for all pavilion England Show, please check out our sections. All the regular sections website: www.armidaleshow.org.au or are there, ranging from cookery, our Facebook page: Armidale & New photography, fine arts, knitting and We have a huge array England Show Society. You can also give crochet, right through to the farm of food stalls, as well us a call on: 0413 872 214. produce. as other trade sites WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE! All our section schedules are with plenty of different Thanks Briony. available for FREE download off our things for people to Armidale show website, and entries view and buy. are to be submitted online via a portal link on our website. There will be plenty of show committee members available if anyone requires some assistance. Is there a Showgirl competition this year and if so, will we be able to meet the entrants at the show? Yes, there definitely is a showgirl competition running again this year. After having such an absence of the competition for many years, our Showgirl Coordinator, Miss Brandi Megson, is working hard to get our girls ready for judging. Our 2019 Showgirl winner will be announced on Friday, March 8th during our Grand Opening ceremony, commencing at 6pm. What facilities will be available for those who attend the show? This year we have huge variety of food and rides on offer at the show. We have a huge array of food stalls, as well as other trade sites with plenty of different things for people to view and buy. We will be announcing the rides and special attractions on our Facebook page as the show gets closer, so be sure to

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28 New England focus.

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NEW

30 New England focus.

ENGLAND

New England WEDDING Guide Photo by Simon Scott

JEANETTE WELBOURN Registered Celebrant Your wedding day is the most important, special day of your life. With a Marriage Celebrant, a couple has the flexibility to plan their whole wedding day to suit their own personal requirements, including the location, the music and the ceremony. My name is Jeanette Welbourn; I have been a Registered Civil Marriage Celebrant since 2007. I offer a range of services, including weddings, namings and vow renewals. I travel to your chosen destination - a mountain top, waterfall, deep in the bush, your backyard, a park or a wedding venue. My services also include a PA system, signing table and chair. As a professional Celebrant I work with couples to plan a personalised, special, memorable ceremony, so the ceremony is designed the way they want it to be - romantic, sincere, with a bit of fun and of course, stress free. The style of wedding can be fromtraditional to formal, casual to alternate, or themed ... A wedding filled with joy, love and laughter, a wedding ceremony which is yours, reflecting your own values, feelings and beliefs. As your professional Civil Celebrant, we can plan the ceremony together, have some laughs, tears and above all, share a day uniquely yours to always remember.

Say "I do" at the picturesque ARMIDALE GOLF CLUB With the Armidale Golf Club just having completed its renovations to the kitchen and auditorium and the addition of a new deck, this is definitely an awesome place to hold a wedding - ceremony and reception. Where else can your wedding guests sit on a deck overlooking 80 acres of picturesque, immaculately maintained grounds with a glass of bubbles, with only the noise of the birds singing and the occasional "fore" heard in the background! We feel that just because you say "wedding", it doesn’t mean that the price has to rise! Every event at the Armidale Golf Club is treated with the same respect. Having a wedding at the Armidale Golf Club means that the staff get a little more excited for the event. We have reasonably priced packages available to suit all. And if you find you would like something that isn’t in our package, we are happy to discuss your own ideas. From a sit down formal meal to a BBQ fit for a wedding and everything in between, we are happy to make your day as special as you would like it to be. Just think, a ceremony in our gazebo amongst the trees and greenery, while your guests relax on the deck overlooking the countryside, slip away for photos on the golf course, transported by our golf carts. Return to the club’s auditorium, where the lights are set low, ready for your first meal as Mr and Mrs!

New England focus. 31

New England WEDDING Guide

MAKE YOUR WEDDING

MEMORABLE with the

ARMIDALE CITY BOWLING CLUB

The Armidale City Bowling Club is a proud member of ABIA, the Australian Bridal Industry Academy and for several years, we have been a finalist in the New South Wales Australian Bridal Awards.

e have a dedicated in a marquee or in the Jackson Centre. team of event We provide everything from wait staff coordinators who and the set up and pack down, to food have years of and beverages, so you can relax and enjoy experience in helping your day. Our club is the other attractive you plan and execute your dream wedding. reception choice, with multiple rooms With the ability to cater to any style or available with AV equipment, private bars budget, we have options for everyone. and flexible floorplans, meaning we can Whether you are after adapt to your needs. something rustic or Our chefs specialise in modern, we have the banquet food, so you ability to bring your will get delicious, hot vision to life. We are food delivered by our able to cater for a wait staff to your entire WHETHER YOU ARE vast array of tastes function in a matter of AFTER SOMETHING and often the best minutes. RUSTIC OR MODERN, place to start when Don’t just read about WE HAVE THE ABILITY planning any function, what we can do; give TO BRING YOUR especially weddings, us a call to make an VISION TO LIFE. WE is the old “inspiration appointment with ARE ABLE TO CATER board”, or what is Natalie, Millie or Karla FOR A VAST ARRAY OF commonly used these to see how we can TASTES ... days, Pinterest. From tailor your wedding to there, we can tailor suit your needs. your function to suit Armidale City Bowling your style and create Club: Making Occasions something spectacular Memories. within your price range. Our ability to hold ceremonies with the beautiful Saumarez Homestead allows for breathtaking photos to be caught amongst a timeless backdrop. There is no better way to capture the moment you say your vows than to be surrounded by friends and family in an iconic Armidale landmark. We can also cater for receptions to be held at the Saumarez grounds, whether that be 32 New England focus.

New England WEDDING Guide

Engagement our

LUCY HADDON AND DAN O’BRIEN

he setting, as Lucy explains, was also extra special … the couple couldn’t have travelled any further north, without Dan’s knees getting very wet! Hi Lucy. What part of the New England do you call home ... and how long have you lived there? I have lived in Armidale all of my life, apart from a four month stint in Longreach, Queensland, where I worked as a nanny. When and where did you and Dan first meet? I first met Dan about four years ago, when I joined some friends at a camp fire gettogether out of town. What were your first impressions? My first impression of Dan was that he seemed like a nice chap and that he had a lot of knowledge about four wheel driving, bikes and cars! What interests do you both have in common/what activities do you enjoy doing together? We both really enjoy camping and spending time together with our children in the outdoors. Dan taught me how to drive his manual 4WD vehicle, as we had plans to drive to Cape York many, many months before we headed off on our adventure - and

this meant me driving To begin with, I couldn’t part of the way. comprehend what Dan Where/how did Dan had just said, but when propose? he took a square The road trip to the jewellery box out of tip of Cape York was his pocket and opened it to reveal the most a long and interesting it to reveal the most stunning ring I could journey that took us to stunning ring I could ever imagine, it hit me some pretty unique parts ever imagine, it hit me that the man I love had of Queensland, like Fruit that the man I love had just just asked me to marry Bat/Elliot Falls on the asked me to marry him. him. Telegraph Track. After the initial shock We finally reached and tears of sheer our destination of happiness, I said, “Yes” Cape York, and it to his proposal and said I would love to marry was everything we hoped it would be. It him. was absolutely fantastic - so beautiful and So, the proposal was a complete picturesque. surprise! How did it make you feel? On the morning of July 12, 2018, we Dan really did surprise me with his romantic trekked to the northernmost point of the proposal, that is for sure. It was very a special Australian continent together with our moment being ask to marry my true love on friends, whom we had been travelling with. the northernmost tip of Queensland. It’s a It was there that Dan got down on one memory that will stay with me forever. knee, looked me in the eyes and asked me I later found out that my parents, Dan’s to marry him. I honestly had no idea - it was parents, and a few friends knew of Dan’s completely out of the blue when I heard the intention to propose to me at Cape York, question that most girls want to hear at some many weeks prior to us leaving on our trip stage of their lives, “Will you marry me?” with friends. To begin with, I couldn’t comprehend what Describe your ring ... Dan had just said, but when he took a square I couldn’t have selected a nicer jewellery box out of his pocket and opened engagement ring if I tried. Dan was very

It came as a complete surprise to local Lucy Haddon when Dan O’Brien DROPPED DOWN ON BENDED KNEE AND PROPOSED LAST YEAR … but it turns out a few family members and friends were in on the plan!

clever in not only choosing a ring that I adore, but also picking the correct size. My engagement ring is a single diamond set in white gold. It’s absolutely beautiful, and I love it. What wedding pans have you made already (if any)? We haven’t made any wedding plans yet, but we have talked about what we like and dislike in regards to weddings. We both agree that a simplistic wedding is what will suit us best. What are your biggest hopes/dreams for the future? Our plans for the future are to continue to enjoy each other’s company every minute of every day and to ensure that we build a truly wonderful, happy, loving and fun-filled life together for our beautiful children. Hopefully we will buy a house on a few acres in the future for our little family and continue to have many more adventures with our children. Thanks Lucy. Interview: Jo Robinson. New England focus. 33

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New England WEDDING Guide

TIE THE KNOT

ON THE IR 1 0TH A N N IV E R S A RY

Shannan

WEDDINGS, Parties, Anything! Meet Cameleon Three, a charming and stylish vintage caravan mobile bar ready to hire for your special day. Let Cameleon Three impress your guests and transform your special occasion into an event to remember.

James and Shannan were MARRIED AT THE DANGARSLEIGH SCHOOL OF ARTS HALL IN NOVEMBER 2018, ON THEIR TENTH ANNIVERSARY. They tell us about their not-so-traditional romance and their selfappointed Wedding of the Year.

little bit about the while all those papers were due. couple … About those wedding plans … Shannan is a local girl James and Shannan set a date and a who met James when he budget between uni trimesters, and six moved to New England months later they were married. Having from the city. Shannan is photographed hundreds of weddings and a nurse and diabetes educator at Armidale events, James and Shannan had a clear Community Health, while James is our view of want they did (and didn’t) want resident photographer at FOCUS. Together, for their own. With an unspeakably tight they own and direct Superbooth Australia, budget of 5K, they chose Dangarsleigh Hall a photo booth and as their venue and event hire company, blank canvas, opand in their spare shopped furiously for time are often seen glass and tableware with a Smithfield and formed a Shannan said yes, of course, Blue Cattle dog guest list. This list and the engagement named Nip. proved to be the lasted two years, It’s been quite most difficult part during which time the public love of a small-budget they gathered wedding story… wedding, for their tips, tricks and good Yes! For those list of precious loved advice from friends, blogs who don’t know, ones is expansive. and social media. James proposed in James revealed the most public and his inner carpenter, spectacular way, constructing a 6 ft setting the romance marquee, L.O.V.E. bar impossibly high for the region. Shannan letters, lawn games, and a bar, using upsaid yes, of course, and the engagement cycled wood and a fair bit of grunt. lasted two years, during which time they It all came together … gathered wedding tips, tricks and good The day was filled with music and art, advice from friends, blogs and social media. while guests were filled with grazing platter Meanwhile, Shannan completed postgoodies, slow-cooked meats and salad, and graduate study and James held the fort a steady flow of bubbles, craft brews and and position as executive Wedding Planner cider. 36 New England focus.

The touching ceremony was performed by Belluca Civil Celebrant and the couple’s dear friend Jobi Strike in the quaint CWA Hall adjacent to the reception. The music began with the dreamy acoustic melodies of “Yhan Leal Music”, followed by the first dance to the effervescent “Matt, Dave and the Other Guy”, transitioning to the smooth and oh-so-funky sounds of “The Gravy”. Guests were treated to a live art installation by “Silly Pear”, who created an epic triptych from scratch for the day (and now for James and Shannans’ home). A good time had by all was captured by the incredible photography of Rachel Deane, who pulled out all the stops for every angle. The couple also has to give a shout out to Sam from Loose Lighting for all his hard work. Advice for those planning right now: Prioritise the things you love and question the status quo. James and Shannan love music and art, therefore their budget leant heavily towards those parts of the day. They were not so much into traditional formal meals or cakes; therefore, the food was casual and the dessert table was handmade by friends and family. Be true to yourself and your guests and most of all … have fun! To quote anyone ever married: “It all goes so quickly!”

This beautiful, unique bar is designed to serve bottled alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and barista coffee by our friendly RSA certified bar staff. The team at Cameleon Three appreciate all the little things that go into making a wedding day that extra special, and our vintage bar Cameleon Three is sure to add to those. As every occasion is so unique, we would love you to get in touch with us to discuss what you desire on 0411 881 282 or cameleonthree@gmail.com - like us on Facebook & Instagram. If you can imagine it, we can achieve it!

New England WEDDING Guide

NEW

ENGLAND

Country Wedding SAUMAREZ HOMESTEAD

Saumarez Homestead is a UNIQUE COUNTRY SETTING FOR WEDDING CEREMONIES, wedding receptions and wedding photos.

ith glorious venue. Saumarez Homestead has many formal options, and the staff are only too gardens willing to help couples explore and surrounding understand the many options. the main With over 10 hectares of grounds, homestead, including the formal gardens, Maryâ€™s there are several beautiful options for garden, the Heritage Rose Garden outdoor wedding and the historic ceremonies, and homestead and the Saumarez farm area, with Centre, Jackson its collection Flexibility is the key to a Centre or Stables of buildings great wedding ceremony provide great wet of differing and / or reception venue. weather indoor architecture as Saumarez Homestead alternatives. well as many rural has many options, and The Jackson vistas, Saumarez the staff are only too Centre Homestead willing to help couples previously the provides a dream explore and understand the heavy horse canvas for wedding many options. stables, carriage photographers area and to do their magic workshop - is to capture every the most popular highlight of what is indoor venue for wedding receptions, a very special day. with the more formal Saumarez Centre There are a few dates still available and the intimate Stables providing for weddings at Saumarez Homestead other options. There are also several in the spring of 2019, but they are powered sites for marquees adjacent to filling fast. the main homestead, Saumarez Centre In 2020, weddings at Saumarez and in the Farm Area. Homestead will be even better than Flexibility is the key to a great before. wedding ceremony and / or reception During the winter of 2019, we

will be refurbishing the Saumarez Centre and doubling the size of the commercial kitchen. More exciting will be the developments in the Farm Area, where we will be creating onsite luxurious accommodation for up to 40 guests, plus a honeymoon suite hidden in among the elm trees. There will also be a separate private function room near the accommodation for activities such as indoor/outdoor barbecues and rehearsal dinners, hair and makeup and recovery brunches. The Jackson Centre will also get an upgrade, including its own kitchen and bar, as well as new toilet facilities next door in the old brick Garage. Upgraded facilities will bring on some price increases, but all bookings confirmed for 2020 at current prices will be honoured. All in all, Saumarez Homestead is already a very popular wedding venue, and this yearâ€™s improvements will make it a sought after country wedding experience. Book now. Les Davis, Property Manager, Saumarez Homestead. saumarez@nationaltrust.com.au (02) 6772 3616 0488 199 361 New England focus. 37

New England WEDDING Guide

Tattersalls Hotel NEW ENGLAND’S PREMIER VENUE

The Tattersalls Hotel are proud to announce that we are taking bookings for 2019! Elegantly finished and tailored to suit your every need ... FOCUS meets the Hotel Services Manager, Kiera Morcellet, who’ll help you along your journey to making your special day unforgettable.

ooking your wedding at the newly refurbished Art Deco Tattersalls Hotel will be just the start of the planning for your special day, that will give you some of the best memories for the rest of your life. Ideally located a short walking distance from both the Anglican and Catholic Cathedrals on Dangar Street and only a short distance from many other religious and sectarian venues in Armidale, Tattersalls Hotel offers a premier venue to hold your celebration. Arrive a day or two early to take advantage of all the other specialists in town; host your wedding breakfast or dinner with the two families. Choose to hold your event in one of the several areas

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of the hotel - from the top floor function room, through to the fine-dining restaurant and outdoor garden just off Cinders Lane, to mention a few. The style you want to create can be easily catered for with enough planning. The second floor of the hotel offers a light and bright view over the rooftops of Beardy Street towards the leafy greens of North Hill. Like other areas of the hotel, this spacious room has been lovingly refurbished beyond its old glory, with herring-bone Tasmanian oak parquetry, a scenic open-air balcony and a dedicated bar to serve some of the best beverages in the region. Reserving the Governor or Chancellor’s Suite will give you the extra room to prepare for your big day and allow you to have

your wedding party and family spend those last single moments with you, then the groom will just have a few steps to carry you over the threshold for your first night. Wake up the next morning to a sumptuous honeymoon breakfast, before you move on and start the rest of your lives together. Looking after your family and your guests couldn’t be easier than booking one of our 22 beautifully appointed rooms, ensuring that you have the run of the hotel and making the logistics of getting everyone to the church on time as simple as walking around the corner - no hassle with finding more parking or how many will fit in the car. Come in and we’ll show you around the venue and discuss the options that will suit your moment. Your imagination is your

limit. Speak to our Executive Chef Jean Luc and discuss tantalising options for either a seated or standing occasion. Whether you go all out for an eight-course menu or decide to have a less formal affair with tasty nibbles passed around, you can be sure that the food will be delicious. Chat with our wonderful Restaurant Manager Rorani Gilchrist about pairing your menu with French Champagne or any variation of local and international sparkling wines, reds or whites, beers and spirits, and you will be set to ensure your guests are well looked after and everything is taken care of with seamless service. Give us a call and we’ll put you in contact with Kiera Morcellet, who will assist you in planning your big day.

ARMIDALE

Physie is for girls and women looking for a positive, healthy activity!

hysie (also known as Physical Culture), is a unique dance sport where girls and women come together to dance their way to confidence. Armidale Physie Club is proudly affiliated with Bjelke-Petersen School of Physical Culture (BJP). With over 130 clubs, BJP Physie is Australia’s longest running and premier Physie organisation. Founded over 126 years ago, BJP has proudly inspired generations of Australians to exercise both body and mind through this remarkable sport. Who does Physie? Girls and women looking for a positive, healthy activity! Physie isn’t just about dancing or competitions; Physie is about empowering girls with skills to become confident, strong women. It’s about getting fit and healthy and having a place where you feel encouraged, supported and valued. Fun, upbeat, pop music is the soundtrack to our sport that fuses dance styles such as jazz, ballet, hip hop, contemporary, aerobic dance and even yoga! Our innovative choreography changes annually and is designed for maximum variety and fun. Physie is the perfect combination of movements designed to increase strength, fitness and flexibility.

Physie also develops muscle control, coordination, strength, balance, good posture, musical interpretation, concentration, listening skills, memory and social skills. Physie focuses on developing the self-esteem of its students by teaching them to have a positive relationship with their bodies; we help students blossom with confidence and selfassurance. With great role models to look up to, Physie girls learn about positive body image from a young age. They’re taught to embrace fitness as a way of life and focus on what their bodies can do, rather than how they look. While Physie takes focus and dedication, girls and ladies are able to enjoy movement and dance surrounded by enthusiastic teammates and encouraging teachers. Armidale Physie club is run by dedicated and accredited teachers who provide classes for all ages and abilities, from pre-schoolers to ladies. Designed with Australian families in mind, classes start from $3.50 with a small annual registration of $122, and our pre-schooler classes are only $5 per lesson, with an annual registration of only $20. Armidale Physie is passionate about nurturing students’ total wellbeing, in both mind and body. Physie is an accepting and encouraging sport,

where every member is abilities, so Physie is an supported and motivated experience you can share Armidale Physie is to be the best they can be. right throughout your life. passionate about Physie is a synchronised, Classes resume the week nurturing students’ team-based sport that’s commencing 4th February, total wellbeing, in both social and fun and an and classes are held at mind and body. excellent low impact dance the Armidale City Public and aerobic activity. School, Faulkner Street There is an aura of Armidale. confidence around For more information, Physie girls of all ages. Taught to stand tall, please visit our website: with strength and pride, they are team players www.armidale.physie.com.au or find us on committed to achieving their goals. Facebook. From ages three to 73, Physie is a sport for Physie empowers girls and women through life! Our Armidale club caters for all ages and the joy of dance and the power of belonging ...

New England focus. 39

focusinterview. PHOTO - JAMES RUSSELL

Nicki

Nicki Scholes-Robertson is an inspiration … DIAGNOSED WITH CHRONIC RENAL DISEASE IN 2009, she was the fortunate recipient of a kidney transplant in 2014.

passionate advocate and speaker about living with chronic kidney disease and the need for further research, Nicki shares her story with FOCUS readers … Hi Nicki. What’s your association with the New England area? My husband, Neil, and I decided to move here in 2005, so that our three children, then aged five, seven and 10, could have access to all the wonderful education options available in Armidale. We had been living in the Pilbara region of WA before this. My dad had grown up here and attended Armidale High School, before moving away to join the Army; he had always talked about how much he loved it, so we came … and, well, we have stayed. When were you diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy (Berger’s Disease) - and what can you tell us about this condition and its causes? I suddenly became quite sick late in 2009 following a sore throat, and after a few days of feeling unwell, saw my GP. After some blood tests showed that my kidney function was very compromised, I was sent to see Dr Steven May in Tamworth. They then performed a kidney biopsy, and I was diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy and acute Streptococcal Nephropathy. IgA is an autoimmune disease that results in inflammation that over time can cause the kidneys to have severe damage. Cause is unknown at this stage. Please share with us your journey to date with chronic renal disease …

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I was sick quite quickly at the start, but the main symptoms where breathlessness and fatigue. Also, for much of my time prior to starting dialysis, I had a very strong metallic taste in my mouth. I started preparation for dialysis in December 2013 and then commenced peritoneal dialysis in the March of 2014. I felt so much better when I started dialysis, and I was lucky enough to get a kidney transplant at the end of 2014. It has been difficult to work full-time since I got sick, but I am still able to work part-time, and this allows time for appointments and staying well. You were the fortunate recipient of a kidney transplant several years ago now. How did this come about, and where/when did the operation take place? Just after I started dialysis and was eligible to go on the transplant list, my little brother, Drew, approached me and was very keen to give me one of his kidneys if that was possible. After a lot of testing with both of us on November 18th 2014 at RPA, I received one of his kidneys - which we have nicknamed “hand me down”. He was in hospital for three days and is doing very well with his one remaining kidney. I was in hospital for six days, but stayed in Sydney for a further nine weeks to attend all the follow up appointments. It’s important to note that there’s no cure for chronic kidney disease - only management and treatment - but how has life been for you since the operation? There is no cure at the moment. Life for me has been pretty amazing, though there are quite a few side effects from my immunosuppression medications, but they are worth it to feel as well

The main causes of kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. It’s

as I get to be. The main about 1,400 people on the important that people side effect that I get are organ transplant waiting list. work closely with skin cancers, so I require You’re a passionate their medical teams regular skin checks and speaker at events to stay well. We also need have to be very careful involving chronic kidney to educate people about it as not to be out in the sun disease. What are some much as possible. too much and definitely of the events/projects to be sun smart when you’ve been involved I am. with in recent times ... It’s rather an alarming statistic, but it’s and what’s on the agenda event-wise for believed as many as one in ten people in 2019? Australia has some form of chronic kidney 2018 was an amazing year for me. We started disease (or indicators of disease). What the Norm Bourke Box for home dialysis patients do you feel we can all do as a community, with the help of the Tamworth Renal outreach whether at individual, corporate or team, and it has been great. I was asked to speak as a patient at the government level, to raise awareness of this Australian and New Zealand Society of issue? Nephrology annual scientific conference on It is alarming the predictions of how many patient involvement in research, which was people have kidney disease. The key is prevention a great experience. Also, as a result of that where possible. The main causes of kidney conference, five of my renal buddies and I made disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. a film with the help of Sarah Watson (little Fish) It’s important that people work closely with to promote patient involvement in research, their medical teams to stay well. We also need #patientsincluded. This has been entered in a film to educate people about it as much as possible. contest at the World conference of Nephrology At a government level we definitely need to in Melbourne in April, where I have also been be advocating for funding for prevention and asked to speak at a Global Health forum education. regarding kidney care. What are your thoughts around organ Further info … donation? Kidney Health Australia - kidney.org.au website I am passionate about organ donation. It has lots of information about all sorts of kidney saves lives. For me and others affected by kidney related issues. failure, transplantation gives us and our families a Donate Life - donatelife.gov.au - information better quality of life and means we can work and re organ donation and registering to be an organ participate in things we love more freely. Families who make the hard decision to donate donor. Thanks Nicki. their loved one’s organs are the true superheroes Interview: Jo Robinson. of our world. In Australia at any time there are

THE C

O N F E R E N C E

Explore innovative, hands-on, practical approaches to living well with dementia. Be inspired by expert and internationally renowned speakers Dr Cameron Camp and Lesley Palmer DSDC; and Australian Professor Joseph Ibrahim and people living with dementia and their carers.

PROUDLY PRESENTED BY

Supported by

Event Strategic Partner

42 New England focus.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

February 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

A nice feeling of personal satisfaction can be anticipated this month. You are very inspirational to others, as when you are confronted with challenge, you have the ability to rise above it and only allow it to make you more powerful. Garnet will enhance your passion for living.

To end a feeling of suspension, try releasing any undigested emotions from last year. You are discovering your role in the bigger scheme of things presently, and for positive change there needs to be a clearing of the old. Selenite releases negative thoughts, patterns and energy.

New career changes are likely to challenge your comfort zone, but will lead to growth in your confidence. Throw yourself into new opportunities, as this will give you positive reflection time. Amethyst is great for connecting to our higher qualities and life’s purpose.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Avoid stressing over finances, as this stress is blocking your ability to create wealth. Look at how money always finds you when you need it and know this will always be the case. Citrine creates an abundance; carry some in your wallet.

Relationship bliss can be anticipated, as your personal confidence reflects your love life. Validate your partner’s strengths and be compassionate toward their weaknesses, as you are both helping each other reach your full potential. Rose Quartz, the crystal of love, will amplify your heart’s contentment.

You have recently been summing up life and have made conscious choices to move into the future with only positive attitudes and influences. Set fresh goals and have fun. Clear Quartz enhances our energy, making choice easy.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Now is a great time to recognise a dream or long term goal and start to plan for it. Have a positive motive for your project and remain connected to your passion. By doing this, you can anticipate great success. Clear Quartz keeps our strengths prominent.

Now is a good time to keep your thoughts productive and positive; find something intellectually challenging and throw yourself into it. A bored mind is a dangerous thing for a fire sign, so have fun learning. Turquoise is great for positive communication.

Your leadership skills are being drawn on for your recognition. Work changes will be requiring these qualities to be practiced more. By seeing what a natural leader you are, so will others, and career advancement will follow. Turquoise assists in recognition of one’s higher qualities.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

If you aim towards improving your self worth, you will notice a shift in receiving your rewards for your efforts. Recognise and release any old beliefs of unworthiness and enjoy the difference. Rose Quartz is the crystal of love; it maintains a healthy self respect.

Avoid being caught up in feelings of abandonment or rejection; you are much loved and appreciated by all who know you. If you experience feelings of being unwanted, connect to your God belief for comfort. Clear Quartz will help maintain strong, positive thoughts.

Adventure is in store for you. You can anticipate finding an opportunity that will benefit you enormously on your return home. To access the best of what this journey will present, set some goals before you go. Herkimer Diamonds help record our joyous experiences for future memories.

New England focus. 43

focus_tech

WITH GAVIN MORONEY

Head

I S C O V E R R E D

strange,

unusual,

BACK TO SCHOOL Tech

GONE ARE THE DAYS OF GETTING THE BUS TO SCHOOL WITH YOUR DISCMAN, A SINGLE HB PENCIL, FRESHLY FILM PROTECTED BOOKS THAT YOU CAN’T HELP BUT GET BUBBLES IN AND IMPRESSING YOUR MATES WITH THE LATEST IN CASIO CALCULATORS. SCHOOL HAS ENTERED THE TECH AGE AND GOING BACK TO SCHOOL CAN BE A LITTLE DAUNTING, BUT I HAVE FOUND SOME HELPFUL AND BUDGET FRIENDLY BACK TO SCHOOL TECH. WD MY PASSPORT HARD DRIVE The WD My Passport lets you store a heck of a lot of data in your pocket, without emptying it of cash. It may not be as fast as some brands like Lacie, but will be plenty fast enough for students on the go. You have the options of 1 TB through to 4 TB, so you will have enough space to be storing files long into your uni days. So not to confuse a single drive, the WD comes in an array of hues, so you can find something to fit your style or to use multiple drives and colour code each subject. You have the option of USB 3 or USB type C, so whether you use PC or Mac, the WD will be the right fit for you.

through high school and uni at a great price.

LAPTOP Now, this can be a very confusing task and with each individual having different budgets, I couldn’t just have a single laptop on this list.

GeForce GTX 1050Ti with 4 GB GDDR5 will

We start off with a very budget friendly option in the Lenovo Ideapad D330 10” 2-in-1 Laptop. It sits somewhere between a laptop and tablet, so you are getting the best of both worlds. You won’t be getting the latest and greatest specs with this one but some of the key features are the Intel Core Celeron (1.10 GHz - 2.60 GHz), 4 GB of RAM and USB-C. This will be more than capable of handling all of the day to day tasks required 44 New England focus.

A step up and mid range laptop would be the 13 inch Apple Macbook Air. The 13-inch MacBook Air features 8 GB of memory, a fifthgeneration Dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, Thunderbolt 2, and an all-day battery life. I think this is the perfect companion for anyone studying and will last you well beyond your uni years. I am currently writing this on my 2010 Macbook Pro, if that’s anything to go by. For those needing some of the best specs on the market, you can’t go past the Dell XPS 15” touchscreen. The 8th Generation Intel® Core i7-8750H Processor, 16 GB of ram and NVIDIA handle almost anything you put it through and would be perfect for any students who are avid gamers in their downtime. With any laptop you choose, it might be a good idea to go and get yourself a bluetooth mouse. They will fit any budget and with most of them being wireless these days, they are super portable and perfect for on the go. My personal favourite is the Logitech M720 Triathlon. It fits nicely in the hand and works exactly how you would expect it to, with a really long battery life.

forgotten

and

ROLL UP, ROLL UP AND WITNESS SOME VERY CURIOUS ODDITIES OF YESTERYEAR. A new display at the Armidale Folk Museum has assembled some long-forgotten devices that have even local history buffs scratching their heads - but fascinated by equal measure.

ddities and Curiosities went Every day I find a new object that tells a on display this week and fascinating story about our past and how we used to live.” will feature until the end of Oddities and Curiosities also has some February. “It is certainly a very unusual interesting medical equipment that was very popular in its day, but has been since been collection - from everyday objects to the shown by science to provide no benefits. wonderful and exotic,” Museum Team Armidale Folk Leader Hayley Ward Museum recently said. changed its opening “Despite being very hours to encourage popular in their time, lunch time shoppers to many of these objects Oddities and Curiosities pop in and reacquaint are no longer used also has some interesting themselves with the today, and their use has medical equipment that wonderful collection on been lost to memory. was very popular in its day, but display. “We’re hoping has been since been shown by “The new hours, some visitors to the science to provide no benefits. from 11am to 2pm, museum will be able to enable people to make identify the particularly the most of their lunch mysterious items and breaks and discover tell us how they were something about their used.” local history,” she said. The more intriguing devices include an Located on the corner of Rusden and unusually designed and unpatented cake Faulkner Streets, the Armidale Folk Museum mixer. “Was this a prototype that never made the is open seven days a week. Entry is by donation. production line?” Ms Ward said. Media Contact: Armidale Regional “Our staff have been unsuccessful at Council Media Team, T: 0448 920 309 or finding information about anything similar. E: media@armidale.nsw.gov.au “The museum is a fascinating place.

NEGS Sport

Photo Credit Simon Scott

Couple goals: THE HUSBAND AND WIFE DUO transforming NEGS sport.

urrent NEGS teacher and Netball coach Kristen Cohen is a former New South Wales Institute of Sport athlete and Australian Indoor Netball representative with a PhD in Education. Husband Josh earned his stripes as an Australian Schoolboys basketball representative, Captain of the Sydney All-Schools' Team and the development officer of the Pirates, the Newcastle based NBL team, while completing his Masters in Teaching. In mid-2016, the couple, along with newborn baby Grace, moved to Armidale, where Josh commenced his new role as Director of Sport at NEGS. Kristen took up her role as teacher and Netball Coordinator in Term 3 of 2018. Josh and Kristen Cohen chat to FOCUS about living and working together and their involvement in one of the most exciting chapters of sporting activity that NEGS has experienced in its 125-year history. Kristen, first things first; how did you meet? We actually met playing netball. We started on opposing teams and then ended up playing on the same team, and the rest, as they say, is history. Josh, what brought you both to Armidale? The challenge of the job and the opportunity to make a change in the lives of regional

students. I am incredibly passionate about changing attitudes to sport. Having previously worked with girls, I have seen first-hand how quickly they can lose interest in PE as they get into their senior years. I am a massive advocate for ensuring that kids outside of metropolitan centres have access to the same opportunities regardless of their location and gender, and it really has been the dream job so far. Josh, in the short period that you have been at NEGS, you have implemented three Talented Athlete Programs with the backing of state sporting bodies and will oversee the building of the Schoolâ€™s state-of-the-art synthetic hockey field, to be ready in time for the 2019 hockey season. What does this mean for the school? Having a focus on Talented Athlete Programs will strengthen our performance as a school and allow those players to develop within the NEGS environment. Additionally, elite players will have access to the best coaching in the state delivered by specialists. Kristen, as a former New South Wales Institute of Sport athlete and Australian Indoor Netball representative, you have been charged with coordinating the new Netball program. What benefits do you think this will have for NEGS? This is a unique

program to our school and to our understanding, the only program supported by Netball New South Wales in a regional area. With so many students with great potential in local areas, I believe this is a fantastic opportunity for me to be able to support those students to a level where they could attend NSW trials and be competitive. Whilst the students who take part in this program will undergo high-level specialist coaching and training and attend a high-performance training camp, I think it is especially important to point out this will filter down to a grassroots level. Itâ€™s not just the talented athletes who will have access to the specialist coaches, and every student who plays netball at NEGS will benefit from the program. Josh, what about the other sports at the school; where do they now fit in? The

Talented Athlete Programs will have a flowthrough effect for everyone at the school. For example, all our students will be included in the strength and conditioning sessions as part of the sporting syllabus. We want all of our girls to understand the importance of work-life balance, and we have built in a nutrition and sports psychology component of the program that will see experts brought in each term to speak to the girls. One of the most important jobs as a coach is to develop and foster a team culture. This culture, or identity, is the foundation of all effective teams, regardless of whether they are high-performance or not. We are lucky to have an amazing existing culture at NEGS, and this will remain at the heart of everything that we strive for across all sports.

S G E

LAUNCHING OUR NEW TALENTED

Athlete Programs IN 2019

For more information visit - www.negs.nsw.edu.au strength and conditioning | high-performance coaching | sports nutrition and psychology | individual development planning

New England focus. 45

Business Minds with Ingrid Rothe

of VIVID Thinking

Todd Lewis TL PLASTERING

This month FOCUS introduces Todd Lewis of TL Plastering. At only 28 years of age, Todd has run his own business for ten years.

business minds

He relocated from the coast in 2014, and now he and his family proudly call Armidale home.

hat does TL Plastering do? We do a variety of internal and external linings for multi residential, residential, commercial and small odd-jobs. We install plasterboard, insulation, external cladding and lightweight construction. What led you to start your own business? I started my apprenticeship when I was 15 with my dad, in Brisbane at first, and then Yamba. When I finished my time as an apprentice at 18, Dad pushed me to broaden my experience, so I went to work for a plasterer in Grafton. I ended up running a lot of his business, including the quoting, so after six months I thought perhaps I should just work for myself, and by 20 I had my own business and had employed my first apprentice. At the time I was a gyprocker working as a subcontractor, operating from Evans Head to Macksville and all the way out to Boggabri. I did that for about three years and then started to do my own contract work, and that just took off. I then operated independently for a couple of years. What led you to relocate to Armidale? I had a guy call me who had a couple of jobs in Armidale, so I drove back and forth for a year. The amount of work was crazy. At the start, it was one house a week, and then it became two or three. After a year of driving back and forth, I moved out here permanently with my wife. How are you finding Armidale? I’ve just had my fourth winter in Armidale, and my little girl, who is almost two, was born here. Armidale is now

46 New England focus.

WE LOVE THE ARMIDALE

home. time, so you need to have systems ENVIRONMENT; WE’VE We love the Armidale in place to manage your cash flow. FOUND IT VERY FRIENDLY environment; we’ve found it very Running your own business is hard AND SUPPORTIVE. WE’RE IN friendly and supportive. We’re in work, but I wouldn’t change anything. THE PROCESS OF BUYING A the process of buying a block of What’s next for TL Plastering? BLOCK OF LAND AND WILL land and will start building this Now I’m focusing on the structure START BUILDING THIS YEAR, year, so we are here to stay. of the business, training staff and SO WE ARE HERE TO STAY. From a business perspective, focusing on systems and efficiencies. Armidale Building Supplies made Up until last year, I worked 70 hours a our entry into a new market really week, six days a week - since I was 15. easy, and they are a great bunch This year my goal is to be off the of people to deal with. tools. I’m still working long hours, but I also want to enjoy How is business in Armidale? life, pick up my daughter after day care and spend time When we moved to Armidale, my Dad and I teamed up with my family. again. He was still doing his own thing, so I brought him I’ve started working with a business coach to help me over and trained him in some of the new skills that I had take the business to the next level. Recently I joined a learnt. He’s now back in Yamba taking care of all our work networking group in Armidale, BNI All Seasons, where on the coast. fellow business owners meet weekly. I wanted to help my Armidale has proven to be a great headquarters for own professional development and get exposure to new us; it’s very central. We operate between 15 to 20 staff ideas. It’s been good so far. across Tamworth, Gunnedah, Moree, Inverell, Glen Innes, If someone was starting a business, what advice Grafton, Yamba and Lismore. And, it is a family affair. My would you give them? brother is the operations manager, Dad covers the work at Just get started - get going. You can adjust as you go the coast, and my mother-in-law is the bookkeeper. We all along; you’re never going to know unless you have a go. work together really well. Get a great accountant and ask questions. Maybe even do You started in business at a very young age; what a short business course if possible. were some of the challenges you faced? What inspires you? Being young, it was hard to convince people that I was I enjoy hearing about other people’s successes and capable and it made getting started hard, as I wasn’t learning from their experiences. Seeing the end product of always given the same opportunity as the older/more a job that we have worked on and our happy customers is experienced tradespeople. Unfortunately, in the building definitely inspiring to keep doing what we do. and construction industry you don’t always get paid on Thanks Todd.

focus_contributor

ANTHONY FOX - PRESIDENT, ARMIDALE BUSINESS CHAMBER

Minding your We have kicked off the year with a Welcome to 2019, WELCOME TO ARMIDALE BARBECUE, HELD AT THE JACKSON CENTRE AT SAUMAREZ on Friday 18th January.

espite the oppressive heat, the event was well attended, with over 70 adults and children. Our thanks to our Armidale guests, both business and the wider community who attended, helping make our newest members feel welcome, Saumarez for providing the venue, and Coopers for their generous provision of beverages. Armidale continues to grow - particularly since the advent of the NBN, which has empowered small business growth - with many people and their families choosing Armidale over the years for the combination of economic opportunity and lifestyle. As well, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), TAFE Digital, and of course the University of New England are all bringing people and their families to Armidale. The Chamber has been working on the development of a three-year business strategy to guide its efforts. We will be consulting with our members more broadly in the nearer future as to what they would like to see the Chamber do and achieve. In the meantime, it is clear we need to expand our range of events to meet the needs of our various members. Each program being developed will be organised by Committee members and supported by our Executive Officer, Tyler McDonald, to ensure individual focus on its success. Our end-of-month Networking Drinks held on the last Friday of the month, sponsored by the Regional Australia Bank, will recommence on Friday 22nd February 2019. We will be holding a speaker program throughout the year and while our full program is still in development, we are really very pleased to advise that the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, Dr Phillip Lowe, will

speak at a dinner on 19th September 2019. More details will follow. Please note your diaries and watch for our member newsletter or Facebook posts for tickets as we get closer to the event. After many expressions of interest, the Chamber is reimaging the New England Enterprising Women’s breakfasts. The idea is that this will become, over time, not just a regular breakfast, but a networking group focused on women’s professional interests. The program will be led by Deborah Hunter, who was the winner of both the New England Enterprising Woman and Business Leader categories of the 2017 Armidale Regional Awards. The Women’s Networking Group (WiNG) will kick off on the morning of 12th February. Our first speaker will be Lucy MacKenzie from UGoose. UGoose won the Excellence in Innovation category at the 2018 Armidale Regional Business Awards. We are also pleased to announce that Meralli Solar, a new business operating out of Uralla, will be the sponsors for this important program. Watch our website and Facebook for booking details. I would like to thank our 2018 sponsors, UNE, Regional Australia Bank, Armidale Regional Council, QANTAS, Nucleo, and Vivid Thinking. Without them, we would not have been able to operate an office three days a week and to offer our programs during the year. We look forward to their continued support. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our members, who are the reason we exist. We intend to build on our efforts to date and create programs that are of interest to our members, promote their interests and encourage economic development in our region.

More MOMENTS at Oak Tree Retirement Villages 89 Martin Street, Armidale 217 Taylor Street, Armidale Many of our residents say they have become more active, confident and social since moving into Oak Tree. Many say they wish they’d made the move sooner.

Display Homes Open Monday to Friday 10am – 2pm

Call 1300 367 155 oaktreegroup.com.au

New England focus. 47

Elders Insurance If you’re a self-employed tradie or a small business owner, we understand that it can be stressful to know what cover you may require for your business, especially when you’re just starting out. If you are looking into working for yourself this year and don’t know where to start when it comes to insurance, or if you already work for yourself but are worried about whether you have adequate cover for yourself and your business, come into our office and talk with us. Our team are experts in tailoring insurance solutions for all businesses, whether they are big or small. We can include cover for your motor vehicle, public liability, tools/equipment and also income protection in the event you get hurt or become ill. We also understand that operating your own business and managing the cashflow can be stressful, so that’s why we allow for you to pay your insurance premium monthly, at no extra cost. No matter what your trade, whether you are a plumber, electrician, carpenter, beauty therapist or a hairdresser, we can assist in providing the right cover to suit your needs.

Insurance made for tradies No matter what your trade, Elders Insurance can help you find the right cover to suit your needs. From vehicles and tools to illness and accidents, we’ll take care of it all. Contact your local agent today. 6775 4577

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48 New England focus.

B U Y I NJane G O R Pfi S E Lster L I N G(Solicitor) PROPERTY – WITH AMELIA BRAYLEY (SOLICITOR) thinkingconveyancing Thinking Conveyancing with Thinking Electronic Conveyancing LE Thinking Conveyancing W I T H E M I L Y SWTIETPHHAEM NE SL O INA (BLRI CAEY N SY E D( SCOOLNI CV IETYOARN) C E R )

Buying What isProperty Pexa? Thinking Conveyancing thinking electronic thinking THINKING conveyancing conveyancing. CONVEYANCING

Buying property is an exciting opportunity in everyone’s life. Although theisprospect ofofbeginning a new chapter intoa Conveyancing the transfer land in writing from onewill party Buying: solicitor for the vendor and exchange ortoofexpanding your portfolio isand purchase theircontract first home. heisrelease the NSW Oncenew a decision made buy a property, your original for the original contract another forhouse the consideration ofState a sum of investment money. The lodgement liberating, it can also be rather stressful. Further, the vendor. SchemeYour also applies towill thethen on 1 Julyyou 2017 came itregistration is important to Budget decide whether are signed by the contract of the transfer of land is completed by NSW Land purchase vacant The from scheme with a welcome change purchasing as a company or individual, asto a “come toof life” and land. be dated theoffers day of Registry Services, formerly known as the Land and Property an exemption from duty on vacant land up existing on joint tenant orgood asthe away tenant in laws common with exchange. Theamount contract will then complete to minimise thisstamp is The deposit is usually required Information office (LPI). The proprietor ofontheexchange. land then holds theandtitle to thepaid purchase price of $350,000.00 a duty. by being mindful of certain equal or unequal shares. to be Exchange is when upon settlement. for the land which is documented on what is called a Certificate of Title. concession on vacant land priced between Stamp duty is one of the requirements and expectations the contract is dated and becomes a formal It is also extremely important to decide Settlement:

T A

F I R S T H O M E B U Y E R S A S S I S TA N C E S C H E M E

additional costs associated withThese buying a when how the purchase ispurchasing. to be funded and to home that is imposed by the State on the EXA, what is it? include considering elements secure adequate funds to cover the deposit transfer of land from one party toContract, another. The acronym PEXA translates such as your financial situation, the (usually 10% of the purchase price), the pest The payment of duty is an obligatory to stamp Property Exchange Australia. loan and having and requirements building reports, and therealistic stamptime duty, the cost in all transfer of land transactions. It is the platform in which It is a expectations. insurance of the property and the balance of purchaser’s responsibility tothe the cost of a conveyance ispay conducted Acquiring property can be most expensive funds that will be required on settlement. stamp duty when a property. electronically aspurchase an buying e-conveyance. and important you’ll ever make. Your solicitor will also ask questions relating So, what areresearch, thethe Changes Stamp Duty? PEXA is not only name oftothe workspace With sensible planning and patience toThe yourState circumstances to establish whether or Government introduced but also the for company itself.has Governed by the it can make a very smooth and stress-free not First you have eligibility to receive Scheme grants from the Home Buyers Assistance Electronic Conveyancing National Law (ECNL) transaction. the Offi ce of State Revenue for the building (“FHBAS”). which is adopted NSW under Before you start,inconsider howthe youElectronic will be of a new home or any applicable stamp duty The FHBAS provides for relief Conveyancing National Law) Act entering in the (Adoption Contract opportunities toofgain ownership of exemptions. from the burden of paying stamp duty by 2012 (NSW). the property. This may be as an individual, a Athome this you should the first buyers. increasing housing PEXA is atime revolutionising thealso wayconsider a conveyance company, trust, byWith a superannuation fund, advantages of an independent pest and prices, idea owning first home is completed. PEXA is designed to streamline as joint the tenants oroftenants in acommon. A was, building report. for many, a distant dream. with or the the settlement procedure of However, a conveyance conversation with your Accountant, Solicitor The Contract: implementation of the FHBAS, to ensure thatwill all determine documents are this lodged Conveyancer what is indream best your may within reach for more families It payments isnow essential that you have aestate clear and are disbursed efficiently. It is interests, asbetax implications and matters and individual home buyers. understanding of contract especially in anticipated that all conveyance matters will take will also need tofirst beyour considered and addressed. Previously, the grants and schemes offered relation to inclusions, off periods, place digitally on PEXA by 1 July 2019. Most people need to cooling borrow finance to to first home buyers were burdened with to inCertificates of Titleinare also transitioning rescission penalties, special conditions purchase a and property today’s market. Before credibly criteria. made itfirst difficult the ItThis is the intention that andelectronic the limiting effects of the special condition and, committing to spectrum. a purchase, you should for first home buyers for paper Certificates of Title willto bequalify phased outthe the some length of the contract. determine your financial situation. Be mindful schemes. The previous schemes applied only and replaced with what is called electronic Your Solicitor will look carefully at theand copy of how you intend to pay for the an property to new homes, being homes that had not Certificate of Tile, or e-CT, by 1 July 2019. how all other related costs will be accounted of the title deed included with the contractfor. previously been lived in, offereda only a How does PEXA improve settlement Prepare yourself for byand arranging meeting and check to see ifthis there are any caveats, discount on the cost or offinancial stamp duty. performance? with your accountant advisor and covenants or other dealings that could impact Now, the incentive behind theeach FHBAS is to conveyance conducted by party’s with lending such as a bank credit onAyour use bodies andisenjoyment of theorproperty invite aBebroader range of people to join the representative, being either an Australian Legal union. honest and direct with how much before you proceed to sign the contract. you residential property owner market. For many, Practitioner or Licenced Conveyancer. are able solicitor to borrow and within what timeframe. Your will conduct searches and the dreamwhat of paying off theirtoown mortgage, Traditionally, each representative manually Calculate you can afford spend by the investigate the council file to ensure that and not someone else’s, is now attainable. completes all forms and liaises with combining therequired amount already with the property you are intending tosaved purchase has The FHBAS abolishes stamp forPEXA proptheir client’s mortgagee independently. borrowed amount and your livingduty expenses. no hidden surprises. erties priced up tofor $650,000.00. The scheme provides anto opportunity for each Remember plan lender fees,representative stamp duty, Exchange: further a and concession stamp duty and theirprovides client’s mortgagees toon collaboratively legal/conveyancing moving costs. When all investigations into $650,000.00 the property forYou properties priced between work together anhave online workspace. may wishin to a valuation done on and contract are concluded, your finance is and $800,000.00. The workspace key of documents such the property if youenables are unsure the appropriate formally and unconditionally approved and The implementation the FHBAS could as thefor Transfer form Discharge ofin.Mortgage price the area youand areof purchasing A your you, deposit paid orand is ready to$25,000.00 be paid, save for example, almost form to bewill prepared signed digitally. valuation help establish a realistic estimated your solicitor organise the exchange when buying ano residential property a Cheques arewill longersales required as with all and value by analysing recent information of contracts. Your solicitor will then purchase ofare $650,000.00 settlement funds administered andgive giving you price and your bank piece ofdelivering mind that the original contract youwish to the substantial forsigned people who to disbursed via theby PEXA workspace. your offer electronically is saving suitable. 46 new england focus.

$350,000.00 $450,000.00. agreement. Thetodeposit amount normally Your contract front page willisspecify the AreaYou Eligible? For purchaser, you may easily transfer 10% however, youthe may have anwill option number of days contract existtofor. The FHBAS for may only be applied to Conyour payment your negotiate theofreduction the into deposit to 5% At the end thisstamp timeofduty period the balance tracts dated from 1 July 2017. This means representative’s trust account for the funds to or amount or and use ayour deposit bond. of some fundsother are to be paid matter is that if your Contract was exchanged before 1 be disbursed directly to Revenue NSW, formerly Ifsettled. borrowing, written unconditional approval The title to your new property will July 2017, then the previous first home buyer Office ofloan State (OSR), on settlement. of willRevenue need be vendor, provided before beyour handed over fromtothe you will be grants and schemes will be applicable On PEXA, documents, suchtoasyou. contracts cansettlement be in possession ofexchanged. the purchased property and Scheme is only applicable to people theThe Transfer form, are lodged instantly with the It istoalso that you have knowledge title thevital newpreviously property willgood transfer to you who have not a home. NSW Land Registry Servicespurchased on settlement. In a of the condition of the property that you intend following registration. The Scheme now applies onlyare to lodged new manual settlement, Transfernot forms to buy before exchanging contracts. The best Selling: homes but to established homes, being older manually, usually by post. PEXA eradicates way to ascertain this information by ordering When sale ofisyour property homes beenthe previously livedin in. the risk that ofconsidering thehave Transfer form being lost ait pest and building inspection report. These is important that you have your contract propertyprocess you areand purchasing must theThe lodgement reduces the time reports consider the quality of the buildings and andintended special such a way be to betoyour primaryinplace taken for theconditions Title be drafted transferred intoof the improvements willand indicate whether as to ensure smooth conveyance residence. Itname. isaand aquick requirement that you there as purchaser’s are any substantial faults or infestations in in the to the purchaser, avoiding unnecessary the purchaser of the property mustworkspace live You may interact with your PEXA property that you may not have previously been the home a period of 6 months within delays. yourself by for creating an account with SettleMe. aware of. Most lending authorities also require theYour firstsolicitor 12 theregister property formally can of also a power SettleMe is amonths website which is integrated with these beforeyours. finance willassist be approved. becoming of Attorney ifbythis will to maximise and powered PEXA and enables you to Theconvenience benefits of having these(New reports are to First Home Owner Grant Homes) receive notifications and checklists regarding your and allow your solicitor knowing in advance what (if any) problems Scheme your settlement. attend to property matters on your behalf there are with the property. may use the Theyour Scheme may also beYou coupled with Confidentiality with written instruction. information to negotiate a lower price or gain the FirstisHome Grant Homes) PEXA bound by the Australian Privacy Whether youOwner are creating a(New new specialist advice about any major problems Scheme. Principles under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).a subdivision, buying, selling, transferring and how it will affect thestrictly property over This scheme applies to new homes This means that only parties relevant totime. your property or adding or removing easements Check that the companies carrying out that have not previously been lived inthese and conveyance are able to view your PEXA or other dealings on your title, a registered inspections indemnity new builds.have The professional New Homes Scheme proworkspace. The other parties privy to your Power of Attorney can allow another insurance. This will cover thetocompany andthe vides workspace a $10,000.00 grant assist with PEXA to view your individual to act are on not yourable behalf for dealings purchase of a costs brandshould newashome pricedaccount up to therefore your any mistakes occur. private information, such your bank with the NSW LPI, Crown Lands, the Local $600,000.00. It is quite prudent to prepare a checklist before details. Council and your Surveyor. home buyers entering that build a new residenyouFirst consider formally into a Contract Procedural Requirements While attending to the change in your tialTosale property on in vacant land will be for or purchase of real estate. It isentitled alsoyour participate the PEXA workspace, financial circumstances created by the to a $10,000 on homes to important to begrant mindful thatfrom theworth preparation, representative must receive you a up signed property transactions, your solicitor can $750,000. negotiation execution a Contract can PEXA Client and Authority. ThisofAuthority permits assist you with attendingpurchasing to any alterations If you are your your representative to sign suchfirst take time. Theconsidering standard timedocuments, period between that may be required to or to the creation home, you should your solicitor as the Transfer form,talk andtoisdistribute funds on exchange and settlement 42 days, but ifto of testamentary documents such as Will, inquire about scheme may be available your behalf. important that thisthis hasa been you wish for Itaniswhich earlier settlement, can be Enduring Power of Attorney orprovide an Enduring to you. The new schemes signifdisclosed to you prior to thecan PEXA workspace discussed with your solicitor or conveyancer and Guardianship. icant benefit to the purchasing your first home. being created. negotiated with other side. Talk be inspired. Talktotous. us.You’ll inspired! You’llbe beinspired! inspired! Jane C. Pfi ster Amelia Brayley Amelia Emily A Brayley N Stephenson Solicitor Conveyancer Solicitor Solicitor Licensed

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focusinterview.

TIANA JAMES Industry Placement Scholarship Program

une GRASS Growing from a demand for motivated, forward thinking students to fill the shortage in science based agricultural careers, to solve issues such as food security and sustainability, the UNE GRASS Industry Placement Scholarship Program (IPS) has been inspiring young leaders into such pathways for over ten years. This year, the program began with school visits across NSW and thirty one talented students being selected to attend an all-expenses paid two day camp at UNE, to gain an insight into a range of careers and tertiary pathways. Sixteen students were then offered the full IPS, to take part in a week’s work placement with an industry host of their choice. The high end point of the program will be the Student Reporting Back Session on the 11th February, when students present their experiences to the UNE Chancellor, Vice Chancellor and Deputy Vice Chancellor, along with parents, industry hosts and program supporters. Tiana James and Safina Ireland, who have recently completed the UNE GRASS Industry Placement Scholarship, share their experiences.

afina, where are you from, and what school do you currently attend to complete your HSC? I am currently attending Calrossy Anglican School and have just started Year 12. You’re currently undertaking a five day industry placement through UNE’s GRASS program. Where are you completing this placement - and why did you choose this particular site? My UNE GRASS Industry Placement is hosted and sponsored by Cotton Australia and supported by the Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association & the Gwydir Valley Cotton Growers Association. I applied to the UNE GRASS Industry Placement Scholarship because I wanted SAFINA IRELAND to broaden my knowledge of the opportunities for careers in this agricultural industry. I selected the cotton placement,

iana, where are you from, and what school do you currently attend to complete your HSC? I am currently at Macintyre High School and have just started Year 12. You’re currently undertaking a five day industry placement through UNE’s GRASS program. Where are you completing this placement - and why did you choose this particular site? I applied to the UNE GRASS Industry placement scholarship, because I wanted to broaden my knowledge about future career opportunities, and I thought it would be a good experience to help me decide what I would like to study at university. My UNE GRASS Industry Placement was hosted by Dr Oliver Knox. I chose this particular placement because I was interested in agronomy, but did not know too much about it. I wanted to learn more about agronomy and what it is all about. What has been the most valuable/rewarding learning experience you’ve taken away from your involvement with the GRASS program? The industry placement camp was a great way to meet new people who have a love and passion for agriculture as I do. Some highlights of the GRASS camp were visiting Sport UNE and the Kirby SMART Farm to learn about all the technology being used in agriculture. The camp was lots of fun and has definitely persuaded me that university is the path I want to take after

as I could see this as a tremendous opportunity for me. I have grown up on a family sheep and cattle property at Walcha. The cotton industry is not so known to me, but I have discovered it’s such a huge part of Australian agriculture, and it’s an exciting and fast moving industry. I study agriculture at school, and cotton is a focus for us in our HSC studies. I was really keen to discover this industry and was excited when it was offered as an option for a placement. What has been the most valuable/ rewarding learning experience you’ve taken away from your involvement with the GRASS program? My highlights from the GRASS camp were seeing such a large scale industry on our tour of the COSTA tomato farm in Guyra. It was interesting to see how they control so many variables. We went to the UNE’s SMART farm, and it was awesome.

More info

50 New England focus.

Tiana James

www.une.edu.au

@unegrass

completing school. My industry placement was an exciting new experience. I was privileged to be able to work alongside Oliver Knox. Oliver and I conducted an experiment which consisted of lots of counting, looking at border cells extracted from the root tips of various seeds. My highlight from the industry placement were using scientific equipment such as microscopes to look at border cells to learn new things about them and what they do. Having the opportunity to perform experimental processes myself was fantastic. Overall, my time with Oliver was an experience I will never forget. What are your future study and career goals ... and how has your GRASS experience affected these? My future study goals are to go to university and study agriculture, potentially agronomy or genetics. My career goals have changed in the last twelve months from agronomy to genetics in livestock, but I am sure I will change my mind again. As long as I’m working outside with animals, I’ll be happy! My placement has shown me all that goes on behind the scenes and how much research affects the end product. I saw the passion that everyone had for their line of work, which has influenced me to follow my heart. My GRASS experience has influenced me to look into all possible career opportunities and has made my love of agriculture stronger. Thanks Tiana.

It was interesting to see this level of technology applied to farming! On the industry placement … well, I am just having so much fun! The highlights have been working with key industry leaders, and the way they have challenged my with my thinking I think has been really good for me. I was also interested and impressed to discover the level of research completed and presented to farmers. What are your future study and career goals ... and how has your GRASS experience affected these? I’m not yet sure what the future holds, but one thing is definite; this GRASS scholarship with the camp and industry placement has confirmed tertiary studies in agricultural science is for me! Thanks Safina.

SAFINA IRELAND

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