New England Focus i145

St Mary of the Angels School

June 2019. issue 145

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2 New England focus.

focus_ team.

team From the

W

Welcome to the June edition of New England FOCUS.

elcome to winter in the New England.

Time to rug up, take in the brisk mornings and enjoy the ambience of being curled up in front of the fire! Along with the change in season, June brings the welcome opportunity of a long weekend getaway, which for some, is the last chance to escape to warmth for a few days until the next long weekend in October! The Coffs Coast, as you will see in this edition of FOCUS, would make the perfect destination for your winter long weekend; be sure to check it out!

There’s great excitement in the team this month, as we launch into Tamworth with our beautiful publication. We’ve been hitting the pavement in Tamworth,

contacts.

ADDRESS 3/164 Beardy Street, Armidale NSW 2350 PHONE (02) 6771 5551 WEB www.focusmag.com.au FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ne.focus IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

talking to local businesses, and we’re excited to have our glossy mag on the coffee tables of homes and businesses in and around Tamworth. We thank the Tamworth businesses that have already jumped on board with us, and we look forward to becoming a household name in the area, as we already are in Armidale, Guyra, Uralla and Walcha. If you have a story worth sharing or are a business that would like to advertise with us, please get in touch!

Tamworth is the backdrop of our team photo this month, taken this week from Oxley Lookout - what a view!

This month we are showcasing the Arts and Culture of our region and with the Melbourne City Ballet’s adaptation of Alice in Wonderland coming our way,

we couldn’t go past this as a quirky and eye-catching cover! With a performance in Armidale this month and Tamworth early next month, along with a myriad of other shows around our region, be sure to get your tickets now for what is guaranteed to be a comical and colourful performance of a well known favourite, for the young and old alike.

Final Say: “An ideal culture is one in which there is a place for every human gift” - Margaret Mead.

EDITION CO-ORDINATOR ADVERTISING SALES

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone

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amber@focusmag.com.au

SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

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

SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Jo Robinson

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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.

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New England focus. 3

focusinterview.

Renew Armidale

Renew Armidale aims to restore confidence and activity in Armidale’s CBD … in a way that can BENEFIT BOTH LANDLORDS WHO CURRENTLY HAVE SHOPS SITTING VACANT AND UNLEASED, AND START-UP BUSINESSES WHO NEED A CHANCE TO ESTABLISH THEMSELVES. Aileen MacDonald, President of Renew Armidale, tells us more about the project … i Aileen. What is Renew Armidale?

Renew Armidale is a group of us who aren’t satisfied with the state of the CBD. We looked around the country, to see how other cities are responding.

We invited the founders of Renew Newcastle to come and talk to us about 18 months ago. They explained their experiences and their model for bringing life back into the city centre. It planted a seed in our minds, and we have spent the last year building a similar organisation to tackle this issue. We are excited with the feedback and aim to have results soon.

What are the aims of Renew Armidale?

Renew Armidale is about using the template of Renew Newcastle to restore confidence and activity back into the city centre. Most towns around the world are feeling the impact of technology and changed retail behaviour.

We are shopping online and in the shopping centres. We need the CBD to be reborn with new businesses and activities - more creative and innovation in the heart of our beautiful city. We don’t want empty shops and an empty heart in the centre of town. It can be turned around.

What's your position with Renew Armidale 4 New England focus.

- and what's involved with this role? continue being positive about our region.

I am the President of the Renew Armidale Why do you feel Renew Armidale is Inc. Assoc, for want of a better word. The first necessary? thing was to get sponsors, and I have to say we Renew is a response to the community’s are so pleased that Regional Australia Bank and concern about unoccupied shops in the city Armidale Guyra Business Alliance have come CBD and lack of vibrancy in Armidale’s central on board as sponsors, district. but with everything to How was the really kick it off and make concept of “Renew” it work, we would love developed? more sponsors or to Renew was conceived We need the CBD to be reborn access grants.

by Marcus Westbury in with new businesses and The main thing is to 2008. He returned to his activities - more creative get it going, working home city of Newcastle and innovation in the with people who know and was disheartened heart of our beautiful that Armidale and Guyra about the decline of city. We don’t want empty shops have the potential to be the CBD and frustrated and an empty heart in the centre vibrant, liveable spaces trying to find commercial of town. It can be turned around. and making that happen property owners willing by coordinating with to give short term landlords and creative tenants a go. entrepreneurs or start-ups to fill the empty Marcus was inspired to bring creative and spaces with something different, as well as innovative businesses into the city centre and making it easy for them to get in and use those fill the empty shops. He didn’t want long term spaces. leases or heavy financial commitments for his Whilst doing this, our towns become more budding entrepreneurs. lively, and the good feeling about being active Renew developed a boutique lease and having a go rubs off - we again become arrangement, to give these start-ups a go, proud of where we live and want to contribute while allowing the landlord the flexibility to to the success and build on it. take back the premises if they found a long The role is to facilitate the change and term leasee.

How can property owners in Armidale become involved - and what are the benefits they can potentially receive?

The benefit for the property owner is to have their premises occupied. The Renew tenant must keep the premises in good condition.

Additionally, the owner and everyone benefits from maintaining a busy, active CBD. For those creative/entrepreneurial types in the area, how can Renew Armidale help?

This is their chance to come out from their garage and show their goods or services to the real world. Online business is great, but a shop front will help to engage and meet customers.

Ideas are exchanged and tested. Networks and commercial skills are developed. Renew Newcastle showed about one fifth of the businesses they helped into a store front went on to become commercial. It is worth a try.

What are Renew Armidale's plans/goals for 2019?

We want the community to give this a go. It succeeded in Newcastle, and that city is now booming. Renew was part of that journey.

Where can we find out further info?

You can email info@renewarmidale.org or contact me via mobile: 0417 079 307, visit the website: renewarmidale.org or Facebook page.

Thanks Aileen.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

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contents Issue 145 - June 2019

focusinterviews

14

Mark and Linda Floyd Volcania Art Glass Glass.

feature a special

ARTS AND CULTURE

Mark and Linda Floyd have captured the process of turning glass into art … the vibrancy and colour of their work is completely eye-catching!

16

feature

12

ABBA-solutely Fabulous.

Rhonda Burchmore and Lara Mulcahy tell the story of their lives growing up as obsessed ABBA fans in the '70s - perfect timing, as it’s been 40 years since ABBA came down under for their major tour!

36

Usual Suspects

Kentucky Tree Nursery.

the

Chris and Maria Eveleigh have called the small village of Kentucky home since 1976, and the origins of their nursery stem back to the early ’80s.

10. WHAT’S ON JUNE

26. TOURISM WITH KATRINA GEORGE 30. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE

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32. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN 32. MINDING YOUR BUSINESS WITH ANTHONY FOX 38. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI

Two Tails Wines Nana Glen.

It’s been a flourishing couple of years for Madonna and Barry Bannerman, owners of Two Tails Winery in Nana Glen. Two years ago they opened the doors to Velvets Restaurant, producing fine quality paddock to plate dishes, as well as exceptional customer service.

FOCUS had a chat with Madonna, to find out more about their story and the success …

6 New England focus.

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www.facebook.com/ne.focus/

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

focusinterview.

It’s Alice in Wonderland … but not … quite … as you know it! Melbourne City Ballet will present this enchanting not-to-bemissed production (with a completely Aussie spin) at multiple venues around the New England and further afield on their huge tour. We were able to chat with the Mad Hatter for a few minutes between performances … Meet Tristan Gross, who explains just how much fun it is to dance on the beach - with teabags!

I enjoy the humour - there are a lot of little quirky bits in this production, which make it

i Tristan. Please share a little of your career background, and explain how you became involved with the Melbourne City Ballet.

I was introduced to Melbourne City Ballet around when it first started, back in 2014 - I went and did a few classes there while I was still training. Between then and now, I did an apprenticeship with the West Australian Ballet, and I went to work for the Royal New Zealand Ballet.

I’m back in Melbourne now, and I messaged Michael Pappalardo [Artistic Director] and asked if I could come and work for him. So, here I am now!

What do you most enjoy about being a part of the Alice in Wonderland production?

I enjoy the humour - there are a lot of little quirky bits in this production, which make it enjoyable to perform. This ballet is for kids to enjoy - but there’s a lot of humour and jokes which I find quite funny too!

How much fun is it to play the "Mad Hatter" - and what do you appreciate most about this character?

The Mad Hatter has his own little “thing” going on … I can be dancing, and then I might find something on one of the props and go, “Ohhhh … I really like this!” I can actually take this character and interpret him differently every time, which is always good fun!

There’s so much room to build on this character … I mean, the Hatter is mad! I feel like I need to change my performance each time, otherwise it could all get a bit stale. It always

keeps things interesting and new!

This must be a bit of a laugh for the other performers at times too?

(Laughs.) Yes! I may suddenly pop up behind one of them, with a “Helllooo!” and they’ll have a bit of a jump fright and wonder where on Earth I came from!

How technically difficult is your role to dance in this production?

I think it’s difficult, because even though I’m having to goof around - it’s still ballet, with its patterns and correct technique, being conscious of your hands and feet … whilst trying to be silly! That’s actually quite challenging sometimes.

The costumes look fabulous. What are yours like to wear and perform in?

The opening costume is quite easy; it’s rather traditional, with a shirt, tie and vest … but when I have to put on what almost looks like a ‘20s swimsuit, it really changes everything!

The hat really gets me (laughs). It’s a normal wide-brimmed hat, but because this production is set in Australia on the beach, we’ve done a take on the cork hat. But, instead of corks, there are teabags! They always make me laugh, because there’s so much I can do with them. I can make a cup of tea with my hat! But those teabags flying around … they sometimes hit me in the face! It’s all fun though.

How closely does the story line for this production resemble Lewis Carroll's original book?

The production starts as the normal “Alice” story, with a garden party and everyone having a dance and a picnic, Alice sees the white rabbit, goes down the rabbit hole, there’s the doorway scene … but instead of finding gloves and a fan,

enjoyable to perform.

This ballet is for kids to enjoy - but there’s a lot of

she finds a pair of sunnies! alike - everyone laughs humour and jokes which I find This leads her on to the and enjoys it. People are quite funny too! beach. allowed to laugh at this Once at the beach, it production. On stage becomes very different. we’ve heard a few in the We wanted to keep this a audience say, “Shhhh shorter ballet for the kids, … don’t laugh!” But, as longer productions can become a bit tiresome we want everyone to laugh - it’s supposed to be for the younger ones - so there are a few funny! characters we don’t have due to time constraints It’s also an opportunity to get out, experience - like the Caterpillar. the arts, and there’s always that idea that when At the beach, instead of flowers we have you go to the ballet, you have the chance to synchronised swimmers, and the knave (who’s dress up, enjoy a meal before or after the show; actually a lifeguard) has to come and save Alice it’s always nice to make a proper night of it! from a rip in the water.

Thanks Tristan.

It’s very comical and quirky, and a whole lot Interview: Jo Robinson. of fun.

We’ve managed to keep the essence of the story, though - just minus a few characters. The moral of the story is very much the same - just Alice in Wonderland will be performed at told a different way! various venues around the New England.

"Alice" will be travelling to both Armidale Please contact the relevant venues, or visit and Tamworth over the next month or two. www.melbournecityballet.com.au How familiar are you with the New England TAS Hoskins Armidale area?

28th June, 7:30pm Not particularly, but I believe I do have relatives Inverell Town Hall, Inverell in Armidale and Tamworth … which, I just 5th July, 7:30pm happened to find out when I mentioned to my Civic Hall, Gunnedah mum I’d be touring in these places (laughs).

6th July, 7:30pm It’s certainly going to be a big change for The Capitol Theatre, Tamworth us to visit up there, as last week we were in 7th July, 2pm Townsville!

The Crossing Theatre, Narrabri Yes, I think you’d better pack some winter 10th July, 7:30pm woollies! Why would you encourage School of Arts, Tenterfield New England locals to come and see the 12th July, 7:30pm performances?

The Chapel Theatre, Glen Innes It’s just a lot of fun … it’s for kids and adults 13th July, 1:30 and 7:30pm New England focus. 7

ST MARY OF THE ANGELS / 100TH ANNIVERSARY

focusinterview.

With a rich, cultural history, St Mary of the Angels School has been an important part of the educational landscape in Guyra for one hundred years.

PRINCIPAL SHARON WITTIG IS JUSTIFIABLY PROUD OF THE SCHOOL, ITS STAFF AND STUDENTS, and shares with us the special centenary celebrations planned for June 22nd and 23rd …

S

t Mary of the Angels school in Guyra was established in 1919. Could you briefly tell us a bit about the history of the school - and how/why it came to be?

St Mary of the Angels School was established by the Ursuline Sisters. They arrived in Guyra on a cold winter’s day in June 1919. The school building was not complete, so classes commenced in the little convent known as “The Retreat”. The Parochial School building was completed late that year. We can find no clear record of how many students attended the school in those first years.

In 1921, a small building was added to serve as a high school. It accepted both Catholic and non-Catholic students, and at the time was the only local venue in the area offering secondary schooling. It closed in 1958, when daily bus services allowed students to attend St Ursula’s or De La Salle College in Armidale.

The primary school flourished, with the nuns contributing greatly to the community through support of music and the arts. The Ursuline sisters left Guyra in 1969 and were replaced by the Sisters of Mercy. After the withdrawal of the Mercy Sisters in 1979, the school was then associated with the Dominican Sisters, so St Mary of the Angels

8 New England focus.

has a rich and varied Catholic history.

Over time, many additions and modifications were made to the buildings, until plans began to build a new school designed to meet the needs of modern education. This beautiful new building was opened in 2009. Since then, our enrolments have continued to grow, and we have already had to convert our new library into a classroom.

In this, our hundredth AFTER THE member of our Catholic year, we are so proud to WITHDRAWAL OF THE Education system and be continuing the legacy MERCY SISTERS IN 1979, a parishioner, so I still that was established by THE SCHOOL WAS THEN have the joy of working those brave nuns who ASSOCIATED WITH THE with her in a different first established Catholic DOMINICAN SISTERS, SO capacity. education in Guyra.

ST MARY OF THE ANGELS What are some How long have you HAS A RICH AND VARIED of the changes/ been the principal CATHOLIC HISTORY. developments you've at the school ... and experienced at St where did you work/ Mary of the Angels live prior to relocating during your time as principal? to Guyra?

The biggest development has obviously I have been in my current role as Principal been overseeing the building of our new since 2003. I did have the privilege of school.

This was an enormous project, which working at St Mary of the Angels when I was required a lot of planning and confi dence in my twenties. that a Catholic school in Guyra would Anne Finlayson was the Principal at the continue to grow and thrive into the future. time, and I learnt so much from her that has At the time, our total enrolment was around helped shape the way I go about my fulfilling forty students. That confidence by the my duties as a Principal. Anne is still an active

Catholic Schools Office and our Parish was well founded, as our current enrolment is over ninety students, and we expect this to push over the one hundred mark in 2020.

Another huge change has been the continual increase in the use of technology over time. We have moved from simple computers to interactive promethean boards, chrome books and individual iPads. We are now experimenting with robots, coding and augmented reality. Our students were amazed when they could point their iPads at someone wearing a special T-shirt and see what was happing inside the human body.

This is an unbelievable contrast to 1919, when slates and chalk were used for writing and maths.

How many staff/students (and what grades) does the school currently support?

focusinterview.

Today we have thirteen very dedicated staff members covering our five classes. We have 90 students from Kindergarten to Year 6.

We also have a brilliant Transition class that operates each Wednesday. This allows our littlest students to arrive on the first day of Kindergarten knowing all about the school, having solid foundations to begin learning and full of confidence, with friends from Kindy all the way to Year 6.

What do you feel are some of the school's greatest strengths?

People who visit our school often notice that there is something special about the way that people interact with each other. There is a warmth that is clearly visible. St Mary of the Angels School is all about relationships modelled on the Core Catholic Principles and Values, which are based on the dignity of the human person and respect and fidelity in relationships.

These relationships are what make our school special. The care and consideration

ST MARY OF THE ANGELS / 100TH ANNIVERSARY

visiting workshops and performances that are WE HAVE MOVED FROM not available in other SIMPLE COMPUTERS that our older students schools. These cover TO INTERACTIVE show for our younger content in literacy, PROMETHEAN BOARDS, children, and the love science, geography CHROME BOOKS AND and dedication that and maths, as well as INDIVIDUAL IPADS. WE ARE the staff show towards the usual creative arts NOW EXPERIMENTING all students, is one of performances. We are WITH ROBOTS, CODING constantly updating our the greatest strengths AND AUGMENTED REALITY. resources to provide the in our school. There is latest in technology. also a love of learning Our greatest resource which radiates from our is our staff; they are classrooms. It is a great highly competent, professional people who place to come to work each day! are constantly participating in professional As a school in a smaller, more development to build their teaching skills. geographically isolated town, what are Our school invests in additional support staff some of the challenges you face - and in our classrooms, to make sure that our how do you overcome these? younger students build a strong foundation Current educational data would clearly to support their future learning. outline that rural and remote students are Most of our families are closely tied to life at a disadvantage compared with their city on the land. With the ongoing drought we counterparts. We are constantly aware of notice that our families are under pressure, this and work very hard to overcome these and this is a considerable challenge that is differences. We try to offer our students a unique to the country. As a school we try wide range of extra-curricular activities. to be aware of the additional workload and Our P & F is very active and often subsidise pressure being faced by our farming parents and the flow on effect on their children.

We just try hard to be aware and provide whatever support and care we can.

June 22nd and 23rd marks the centenary of the school with some special celebrations. What activities are planned?

We have a weekend of exciting things planned. The celebrations kick off with the Centenary Dinner on the Saturday night, a chance for people to mingle over nibbles, drinks and a three course meal. There will be music for dancing and lots of time to talk.

Sunday morning begins with Mass, a few formalities and morning tea. We are hoping

to plant some trees to create a garden space to remember this special occasion.

There will be viewing of memorabilia in our Parochial School Building, games from yesteryear and kite flying. Celebrations will finish with a BBQ lunch.

What are some of the upcoming projects/activities planned for the rest of the school year?

A centenary is a very special landmark in the life of any school, and preparations are consuming a lot of our energy at the present.

Early next term we have a full school audit, designed to ensure that we are compliant across all aspects of school management and student learning. That will keep us on our toes!

We have some exciting events on the horizon, with visits by the UNE Voyager Science Team and a Gala Sports day coming up.

We also have some students representing our school at inter-diocesan sporting events.

We look forward to some great results from these students.

Where can we find out more information about the school, or book for centenary celebrations?

Our fabulous school secretary is able to provide information about our school, or she can arrange an appointment with the Principal. She is also the friendly face who can help with all enquiries and booking of tickets for the Centenary. If you have not already booked your tickets, please get in contact and come along to make this celebration worthy of one hundred years of Catholic Education in Guyra. www.stmarysguyra.catholic.edu.au Thanks Sharon.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

New England focus. 9

focus_What’s On New England

First Saturday chats

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J U N E

2 0 1 9

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

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 1st June 2019. As this is a popular programme, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

Looking for a laugh? Forget I-Spy, spotto and stale servo snacks; this road trip is jam-packed with a crew of fantastically funny comedians, specially selected to bring the fun of the festival to towns and cities nationwide. With a line-up of artists sure to tickle anyone’s funny bone, the Roadshow has something for everyone. Grab a mate, grab a date … grab a ticket to the Roadshow! Show running time is approximately two hourrs 15 mins, including 20 minute interval.

1

When Friday, June 14. Venue Hoskins Centre, The Armidale School, Barney Street (enter from Chapel Street).

Time 7:30pm. Cost $35 (adult), $30 (concession) - available at www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=476267& (50¢ booking fee applies). For more information, phone (02) 6776 5800.

The Collective Exhibition Night Out Is Here !

A collaboration evening showcasing the local talents of Australian contemporary artist Tony La Chiusa, fashion designer/stylist and fashion retailer Eifla Hardman from The Other Shop Clothing Boutique, and award winning winemaker Mark Kirkby from Topper’s Mountain Wines.

What Art + fashion + wine! When Saturday, June 1st.

Entry Free entry; all welcome from 6pm.

Where The Powerhouse, Tamworth.

12 ADFAS

Archaeologists investigate the material remains of human culture in order to understand the evolving human story.

This lecture, an account of Pam’s experience working at the source of this pottery, the Roman city of Jerash and other major sites in Jordan, particularly Pella, provides glimpses into a society undergoing major religious and political developments which still influence us today.

What ADFAS Armidale lecture - An Archaeologist in Jordan Discovering Local Images of Late Antique Society in Broken Pottery. Who Pamela Watson. When 6pm, Wednesday 12th June. Where Michael Hoskins Centre, TAS. Cost Guests are most welcome, and a $25 fee applies per lecture. Trybooking: https://www.trybooking.com/book/ event?eid=467341&

10 New England focus.

Kitty Flanagan Smashing

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Algorithms, footy players, harbour porpoises - everything is getting “smashed”. Leave the kids at home, unless you want them getting a Kitty Flanagan style education.

One of Australia’s best known and loved comedians, Kitty appears regularly on the comedy/quiz show, Have You Been Paying Attention? She’s also known for her segments on The Project and The Weekly with Charlie Pickering, as well as for playing the role of Rhonda on the award-winning ABC show Utopia.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see Kitty Flanagan smashing it. Now TWO smashing shows in Tamworth!

When Saturday 8th June, 5pm and 8pm.

Where Capitol Theatre, Tamworth Tickets https://sa2.seatadvisor.com/sabo/servlets/ TicketRequest?&presenter=TAMWORTH &venue=&event=KITSMA19&tck=true Web www.capitoltheatretamworth.com.au

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Australian Native Florals Workshop with Peta Moore Artist.

Just released are the June workshops being held at Uralla that we have to share with you! Join the lovely Peta Moore, who is a local from Armidale and learn to paint Australian natives. Peta’s tuition is a truly liberating experience, as she enables workshop participants to just “let it flow”, with often surprising results.

When and where You can attend the one day workshop on either Saturday, June 15th or Sunday, June 16th at the beautiful and lovely McCrossin’s Mill Museum, Salisbury St, Uralla.

Time Kick off the day at 10am with some morning tea, and then get stuck into your workshop. A lovely lunch is included, and afternoon tea will have a sneaky glass of wine thrown in.

Finish time is around 4pm.

Booking Spaces are limited to 12 people per class, so if you want to join the day, book in fast ... Maybe grab some friends too? Bookings are still available for saturday 15th June. Please call Sonia on 0419 411 957.

Cost $190.00 p.p and you will take home your masterpiece and a new skill you can continue to develop and enjoy.

New England focus. 11

feature

Photo of Laura courtesy of Craig Pevitt, Illumination Photography.

12 New England focus.

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FEATHERDALE EARRINGS

LAURA

Barben.

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Meet Laura Barben … the wonderfully talented creative behind FEATHERDALE EARRINGS. LAURA’S LOVE FOR NATURE AND AWARENESS OF LIVING SUSTAINABLY has led her to produce a range of stunning jewellery, that anyone would be proud to wear … i Laura. What's your background in the New England area ... and which part of it do you call home?

I moved to the New England area 11 months ago with my partner, Aaron. We live on the Madgwick fringe, but only a stone’s throw from town, where we house our menagerie of farm animals!

Tell us a bit about your day to day life and job, and how this influences you and your creativity.

I work full-time as an environmental planner and a spend a fair amount of time outdoors in my spare time, so our environment and the landscape is something that inspires me every day.

My partner is a farmer, and we have more than 40 birds, 16 dogs and two horses at home.

Ever since I was a child, I have always had an affinity with nature, and this was influenced by the many bush walks and camping trips my parents took my brother and I on. As kids, we were taught to appreciate and respect the environment and the landscape.

Another passion of mine is making people feel and look their best, so making natural feather earrings was a way I could share my love of nature, raise awareness about the environment, and make people look and feel great about themselves.

We live quite sustainably at home. We grow all our own vegetables and farm our own meat.

Every night I look at my dinner plate, and I am so grateful to be eating the whole meal from our own backyard. I haven’t done a proper super-

market shop for months. I have been asking if we can get a dairy cow, so I can milk it and make our own dairy products - but that’s a work of negotiation in progress with Aaron.

So, my upbringing and the lifestyle we lead on the farm all serve as inspiration for my designs.

When/how did you come up with the concept for Featherdale Earrings?

I started Featherdale in November last year; my mum came up with the name. It started out as a hobby. I loved that I could make sustainable jewellery and the main resources were found right in my backyard.

My clay work is inspired by my Aunty Robbie, who is an incredible clay artist. From a young age she always had us working with clay, so I tried mixing clay with the natural feathers and was able to create jewellery that people seem to love.

Still, my most popular are the guinea fowl feather earrings.

Where do you source the products you use for your jewellery line?

All my feathers are naturally fallen and either collected at home, or when I am out bushwalking. Sustainably sourcing my feathers can make it difficult to keep up with the demand for certain earrings - such as kookaburra feather earrings; they are rare to find and make such stand out pieces.

I don’t buy any of my feathers, because I like to know where they come from, and I am able to give that assurance to my customers that their feathers were ethically sourced and collected my me personally.

I buy all the jewellery findings from Australian businesses, and all of the backing cards are recy-

Another passion of mine is making people feel and look their best, so making natural

cled cardboard. married later this My cousin year! When will you feather earrings was a @alisonsherlockstudio hand be tying the knot? way I could share my love drew my logo and I had Yes, that’s right! I am of nature, raise awareness it made into a stamp, so I marrying the love of my about the environment, and don’t have to continually life, Aaron. We moved make people look and feel great use extra resources for my here together to the about themselves. backing cards.

New England to start How long would it typa life together, and I ically take you to create couldn’t be happier. He a new piece of jewellery got down on one knee ... and what are some of the processes inon Valentine’s Day, and we are getting hitched at volved in its creation?

Booloominbah in November.

On average to make the actual pieces, it takes Where can we find out more info/purchase me about an hour. But, a lot goes into it before Featherdale Earrings? actually putting the earring together. It starts I sell online through Facebook and Instagram with the feathers; the process begins by freezing @Featherdale_Earrings but you can also email them for 24 hours, then individually washing me at earringsfeatherdale@gmail.com and blow drying them. This ensures they are all I am hoping to have enough stock made up to hygienic. attend our local market soon.

Securing the feathers to the clay can be fiddly Final say … business, but it basically involves shaping the Every few months I like to fundraise; I sell a clay piece, baking the clay, and then affixing the specific range of earrings, with 100 per cent of feather to the clay. The other styles of earrings in- proceeds going to the charity of choice. volve a wire wrapping method, which is similar to In January, I ran a breast cancer awareness a lashing technique used to make whip handles. campaign and raised more than $1,000 for CanWhat's your primary focus/mantra as a cer Council Pink Ribbon. designer and creator?

This month, I am supporting #teamphoenix in Creating quality designs which are ethically their Kiss Goodbye to MS campaign. I am open produced and have purpose. I like to raise awareto suggestions from the public for any charity ness of environmental issues and feel I can do causes they would like earrings made, so feel free this through showcasing our beautiful Australian to get in touch with me. birdlife and nature through my designs.

Thanks Laura.

Something I have in the pipeline is a threatInterview: Jo Robinson. ened bird species awareness range.

Pics courtesy of Craig Pevitt, Illumination A little birdie told me that you're getting Photography.

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MARK AND LINDA FLOYD

VOLCANIA

Art Glass

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Mark and Linda Floyd have captured the process of turning glass into art … THE VIBRANCY AND COLOUR OF THEIR WORK IS COMPLETELY EYE-CATCHING! BASED IN OGUNBIL, 50 KM SOUTHEAST OF TAMWORTH, Volcania Art Glass has been a finalist in the Tamworth Quality Business Awards every year since 2012 ... i Mark and Linda. What Edelweiss Productions/Gallery, after having to can you tell us about make some life changing decisions. In 2013 we Ogunbil, and how you changed our name to Volcania Art Glass. came to settle there?

We specialise in mainly copperfoil leadlighting, In the early 1990s, Mark fusing and slumping of glass and doing many and I wanted to leave Sydney commissioned pieces of work. behind and move to the country - but where?

Our most notable commission was for the Mark, a commercial pilot/flying instructor, Australian Federal Police to commemorate its received a posting to the flying academy in Tamcentenary. We were asked to create a piece to worth, so our house hunting began. We came symbolise the beginning of the AFP. across a beautiful locality approximately 50 km What processes do you use in the creation of south-east of Tamworth called Ogunbil. It had your products? what we wanted - mountains, trees, plenty of All our products are created at home in our birds and wildlife. workshop by Mark and me. However, we do In April 1994, we moved the family of three purchase the sheets of glass required. children and many pets to our 10 acre property.

The processes we use are: How did your interest • Copperfoil method leadin working with glass lighting - cutting and grinding begin? the glass, applying the copper After the move to foil, We create many and varied Ogunbil, Mark was soldering, patina, polishing products. Small leadlight working long hours as finishing touches. windows/panels, lamps, a flying instructor, and I • Traditional method leadvases, bowls, plates and was having a break from light - cutting, platters, sculptural pieces, grinding, putting together with being a registered nurse. suncatchers, jewellery, A neighbour suggestlead cames, soldering, puttying candleholders and coasters, ed I attend one of her and polishing. to name a few. leadlight classes, as a way • Fusing, slumping and of meeting new people draping - this work is created and being creative too. in a kiln. We fuse layers of This was the beginning of glass, then on future firings we the Volcania Art Glass journey … Little did I know slump or drape the glass to give shape and form. where that day would lead!

What types of products do you create - and That day has led to a love of working and what are some of your best-sellers? being creative with glass in more ways than just We create many and varied products. Small leadlight and also, many long-lasting friendships leadlight windows/panels, lamps, vases, bowls, have been formed. plates and platters, sculptural pieces, suncatchers, How long has your business, Volcania Art jewellery, candle holders and coasters, to name a Glass, been in existence ... and what does it few. Our best sellers are our lamps, one of a kind specialise in? creations and suncatchers.

Our business began back in the year 2000 as You've received a lot of acknowledgement 14 New England focus.

for your work ... including recognition in the Tamworth Quality Business Awards as a finalist for Excellence in Customer Service Tourism, Sport and Entertainment. What achievements are you most proud of?

We have been finalists at the Tamworth Quality Business Awards every year since 2012, and we have been awarded four TQBAs. They all mean a lot to us, but especially receiving the August 2017 Excellence in Customer service Retail - small, at the Tamworth Business Chamber Quality Business Awards. We know there are many great small businesses in our region, and to be judged and awarded this honour just exceeded our expectations.

You offer workshops too! What can you teach participants in these sessions?

We can teach participants how to cut glass, grind, copper foil and solder to make a copper foiled leadlight suncatcher, all in a one-day workshop.

Participants will complete their first project on the day and have something they have created to take home. No experience is necessary.

We will travel all over the region, bringing all materials and tools required. All we need is a location and people eager to have a try at something new. The classes are kept small (three - six participants only) with two tutors, so there is plenty of one on one time.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS TAMWORTH WESWAL GALLERY, 192 Brisbane St, Tamworth - 6766 5847. To book, please contact WESWAL Gallery. SEPTEMBER 28th, 10am - 3pm.

GUNNEDAH 4 EVA KEEPSAKES, 38 Barber St (next to Holden dealership), Gunnedah, NSW 2380. To book, please contact Jo at 4 Eva Keepsakes. Phone 0427 425 911.

JUNE 15th, 10am - 3pm,

JULY 20th, 10am - 3pm, AUGUST 17th, 10am - 3pm, SEPTEMBER 21st, 10am - 3pm, NOVEMBER 16th, 10am - 3pm.

BARRABA FULLERS GALLERY. Barraba contact person: Bronwyn Clinch: email barrabacoord@communitycollegeni.nsw.edu.au or call 0447 165 008 / (02)6782 1662.

Payment will be required on booking.

AUGUST 30th, 10am - 3pm, AUGUST 31st, 10am - 3pm.

What do you love most about working with glass?

The challenges and the delights of creating something unique; the range of colours and textures; the excitement of opening the kiln (like a child opening a gift on Christmas Day) and seeing your crazy ideas coming to fruition; the smile of your customers when you have interpreted their ideas and made them a reality.

What are your goals for the rest of 2019?

Business-wise: to see our online business grow; to continue to make our customers happy; to do more workshops throughout the New England, so we can travel, meet new people and pass on the knowledge we have to others.

Personally: take some time to look after each other; see more of family and friends; travel.

Where can we contact you?

We can be contacted via our website www.volcaniaartglass.com.au / phone (02) 6769 0250 or email info@volcaniaartglass.com.au Or, visit some of the galleries and shops that stock our glassware. There is a list on our website.

Thanks Mark and Linda.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Pic of Mark and Linda courtesy of Emma Steed, Rebel Heart Photography.

Glassworks pics courtesy of Hayden Pannell.

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After Maralinga, Alex Asch

Run Off, Alex Asch

Melting Ice, Alex Asch

A

lex has previously shown his work at Gallery 126 in an exhibition with his mother, local photographer Patsy Asch in November 2017.

His landscapes are primarily constructed of two materials: galvanised steel and formply, iconic materials used to create our rural buildings and our concrete cities. He reinterprets found objects in the construction of his unique assemblages, presenting new ways to examine our environment. Discarded materials are favoured, as they reveal remnants of a past life, often weathered by the elements of nature, as well as altered or marked by tools and fittings.

Alex is interested in the capabilities of association between object and form, deconstructing elements to create simple and symbolic representations of the world around him.

Eminent art critic and historian, Professor Sasha Grishin, says of Alex, “His work is quirky,

THE GALLERY SPACE HAS BEEN RE-HUNG WITH ARTWORKS

BY TWO VERY DIFFERENT ARTISTS. Canberra based artist Alex Asch uses discarded materials to construct his landscapes.

And local landscape artist, Stuart Boggs has produced three new paintings for this exhibition. yet tough, humorous yet serious, brilliantly crafted, but also naïve and understated in its use of stylistic conventions … Alex Asch has become an original and distinctive voice in Australian Art.” Alex has exhibited extensively in solo and group exhibitions throughout Australia. His work has recently been collected by the National Gallery of Australia and is also included in the collections of Artbank, ACT Legislative Assembly and Canberra Museum and Gallery, as well as corporate collections in Australia, USA, UK and the Netherlands.

Stuart Boggs is a local contemporary landscape painter who has exhibited extensively, both in this region, Sydney and overseas. He paints mainly with acrylics, occasionally with oils and usually incorporates other mediums such as charcoal, carbon, and oil sticks. His style is very loose and is an interpretation and

emotional response to the landscape, rather than a snapshot of the environment.

His background of science and geology provides an insight into the depths of the landscape, and he captures this with the wide marks and layering of paint as in Black Landscape, a work on canvas. Whereas in Blue Hole Dry II, a work on paper, the colours, textures and marks of the rocks are represented in the painting. Stuart uses sensitive, intuitive and confident brush strokes and palette knife scrapings to capture the essence of the Australian landscape.

The front gallery has also undergone a rehang, with new works from local artists Isabelle Devos and Kris Jackson. The gallery is always warm and inviting, with plenty to see and appreciate. Gallery 126 is open Tuesday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm and Saturday, 9:15am to 1pm @ 126 Jessie Street, Armidale.

Blue Hole Dry II, Stuart Boggs

Black Landscape, Stuart Boggs

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P H O T O

J O H N

M C R A E

ABBA

solutely FABULOUS

Rhonda Burchmore and Lara Mulcahy tell the story of their lives GROWING UP AS OBSESSED ABBA FANS IN THE 70S - PERFECT TIMING, AS IT’S BEEN 40 YEARS SINCE ABBA CAME DOWN UNDER FOR THEIR MAJOR TOUR! Big hair, lycra jumpsuits and the smash hits from ABBA make this show something truly special. It’s funny, heart-warming, and a true blast from the past …

i Rhonda. Forty years ago, ABBA toured Australia. Can you remember that time, and what you were doing?

I didn’t ever get to that concert, and I was absolutely devastated. My father had told me there was no future in show business - I needd a “real job” - so I was studying to be a school teacher in Armidale at the University of New England.

So a) - I couldn’t afford to get to that concert and (b) I was stuck studying!

How did ABBA-solutely Fabulous develop?

The 40th anniversary was obviously an incentive to create the show?

Lara Mulcahy and I were in the original Mamma Mia, many moons ago - in 2001.

It was a big deal, because we actually got the show here in Australia before it went to Broadway. There have been a million productions of it and obviously the film since then, but we had to audition for Benny and Bjorn from ABBA, which was such a big thing auditioning for two of the people who actually wrote the songs! So, we did that show for two years, and it was a smash hit.

Lara and I were cast as best friends in the musical, and in real life we were besties and we have remained besties, which is just beautiful! She’s one of my dearest friends.

In the meantime I’ve done shows here and abroad, while Lara was involved with a zillion other projects too, like Les Misèrables.

Over a couple of drinks, we thought about what a great time we’d had back then in 16 New England focus.

feature You know, there are many

Mamma Mia. We love - we don’t try to be Frida ABBA tribute shows, and we’re the music - we’re both and Anna; we’re Rhonda certainly not a tribute obsessed ABBA fans and Lara, who enjoy the show - we don’t try to be and I said, it’s perfect music of ABBA and we Frida and Anna; we’re timing, 40 years since tell our story … Which Rhonda and Lara, who enjoy ABBA came down just happens to fit in with the music of ABBA and we tell our under - why don’t we around 22 ABBA classics. story … Which just happens to fit in pick a different story?

What are a couple of with around 22 ABBA classics.

So, we chose our own your favourite ABBA story - the story of two songs? obsessed ABBA fans We do quite a few growing up in Australia, who didn’t get to that duets, but one of my favourite numbers is the concert; she grew up in Perth and I grew up ballad The Winner Takes it All, which I get to in Sydney. We wrote the story in two days! It’s do. It’s very different to a lot of the “poppy” about growing up in Australia in the '70s and kind of ABBA songs. In terms of songs that just all the things that went with that. And this was make the audience go wild and for us to have the birth of ABBA-solutely Fabulous! a ball on stage, I can’t go past Dancing Queen In the show - hence the title - there’s and Waterloo. You can’t really top those certainly a large dose of Patsy and Eddie from numbers - and of course, Waterloo is what Absolutely Fabulous … I’m far more Patsy to started the whole group off at Eurovision! her Eddie! We’re completely opposite, but the We have a young boy band with us who chemistry is just amazing between the two of are just getting into the swing of ABBA; they us. certainly weren’t born when ABBA was around The costumes in the show are out of this - their average age is 22. I’m sure half of them world. What does it feel like to wear are still on their P plates - it’s hysterical! them?

What are some of your favourite things (Laughs.) Lara and I are a certain age - we’re from the '70s that have found their way not Beyoncé or J-Lo, and we’re at completely into the show? opposite physical sides of the spectrum; Lara is In the show we talk about whether we’re short and round and I’m tall and … ummm …

Frida or Anna, and we sing in front of the whatever! It is like a “girl power” thing - life mirror with hairbrushes … can be incredibly unforgiving, but we just get In those times, Countdown was an absolute out there and do our stuff and belt out these MUST - you’d sit in front of the TV on Sunday songs. It’s a very strong message - it’s a body nights and watch Molly Meldrum - even when image thing.

Fernando remained in the charts for 14 weeks!

You know, there are many ABBA tribute We collected all the memorabilia - the socks, shows, and we’re certainly not a tribute show the cushions, and we still have some of that

stuff - including the original 45 records. We talk about that on stage. Oh … and the big hair, the platform boots - we have authentic platform boots …

It was a really good time; I have so many fond memories of the 70s, with the music and the fashion.

Final say …

The main thing about the show is it’s not a tribute - it’s about friendship, girl power …

When we do the songs, they slot into our story perfectly. Lara and I were both dancing school kids, so an obvious segue is Thank You for the Music.

Ring Ring - we talk about having boyfriends in the '70s, and we lament that back in those days we used to have handwritten letters and phone calls, instead of everything being on Facebook and Twitter. The dating situation was very different back then, and people often used to pick up the phone!

It’s a hilarious show - Lara and I are like Arnie and Danny De Vito out there. I think the audience walks away with the feeling of what it’s like to have that sense of love for your bestie, and to enjoy the good times singing and dancing along to all of the old songs.

Thanks Rhonda.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

See ABBA-solutely Fabulous at Capitol Theatre, Tamworth on Saturday 15th June, 8pm or Sunday 16th June, 2pm. www.capitoltheatretamworth.com.au

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the

ASCENTGroup.

A R T S

P R O G R A M M E S

The Ascent Group’s Arts Programme Facilitator, Linda Frame explains how the arts bring people of all abilities together …

H

i Linda. What’s your current role with The Ascent Group?

I am the Arts Programme Facilitator. Ascent conduct art classes at NERAM, The Studio on Beardy Street and at Ascent’s day programme centres around Armidale. My role includes leading the art classes, developing and adapting the

programme to suit individual artists, organising exhibitions and opportunities for our students to develop themselves as acknowledged artists and gain exposure within the wider community.

How have The Ascent Group’s Art Programmes evolved?

Ascent has been committed to increasing the representation of artists with disability in the

community, and we’ve been able to build a programme which brings people together to nurture creativity and open the students’ eyes to see a world of possibility. We really just started with one class held at our day centre and have grown to holding several classes weekly, including one in the Packsaddle Studio at NERAM. Ascent now offer a range of supported art classes, for every ability, and have expanded the arts programmes to include dance, theatre and music for people with disability.

How was a need for these types of programmes identified?

The art programmes at Ascent offer a fun way to learn some serious skills. I see the students in our classes develop in surprising ways through their time pursuing creative endeavours - as people begin building self-esteem, they become confident in exerting their agency and making choices, friendships develop, and people learn social skills and how to be a good friend. There are lots of ways for people to develop these sorts of capacities, and the arts provide an avenue that is very accessible to people with disability.

What are some of the techniques taught in these programmes?

Often for people it’s about participating in the creative experience. As people move through the programme, they’ll be working on completing major artworks. Along the way they learn about different art making methods and materials, painting, collage, sculpture, printing, 3D, etc. Students learn about the history of art and different

artists, we do research projects about different art making methods and get students journalling, documenting and sourcing ideas. We work towards exhibiting often, and artists typically enter competitions a few times each year.

Whom would you like to thank for supporting the programmes?

Well of course, our artists - they work so hard at their art making process and have been really committed to the programme. Also, Ascent’s support staff; their dedication and commitment in supporting the artists and myself. We’ve also had great support from NERAM in supporting our programme at Packsaddle Studio and also with various exhibitions. Armidale Framing has also been a terrific supporter from the beginning, helping us source the supplies and make professional presentations of final works.

What are your dreams for the future?

It’s my dream to one day create a shared studio where artists can co-habit a magnificently creative space together. At Ascent, we are working towards this vision by inviting other artists to interact with the art programme, whether they have a disability or not, so that we can continue to share and evolve our creative natures. The artists in the Ascent programme are also working towards an exhibition in the next 12 months.

Where can we find out further information?

Visit the Ascent website at ascentgroup.org.au or phone 6776 8977. Linda can also be contacted directly on 0407 664 601.

Be creative with us … it’s your choice

13-19 MYRTLE DRIVE ARMIDALE | 6776 8977 | ASCENTGROUP.ORG.AU

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Pat Tooth was the founding Chairman of ADFAS Armidale and led ADFAS Armidale from 1997 to 2006, providing illustrated lectures on decorative and fine arts topics by overseas and Australian lecturers

ARTSGrants 2019 NEW ENGLAND

F O R

Y O U N G

P E O P L E

The Rotary Club of Armidale Central and the Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Society [ADFAS] Armidale are proud to announce the recipients of the 2019 Young Arts Grants and the Tertiary Music Scholarship. THE PARTNERSHIP OF THESE TWO ORGANISATIONS HAS BEEN ABLE TO ALLOCATE $8,000 IN GRANTS TO SUPPORT YOUNG PEOPLE IN NEW ENGLAND TO PURSUE ARTS RELATED ACTIVITIES.

H

ow are grants decided?

Early each year we advertise through print and social media, as well as on billboards and by direct canvassing of schools in New England. The applications are vetted by a committee whose members come from both organisations, and we decide on the suitability of the applicants against a set of grant criteria.

What is a Tertiary Music Scholarship?

This scholarship was developed to support a young person who has worked towards a musical career through school and has gone on to study music at a tertiary level. The aim is to recognise the special challenges that rural students from the New England face as a result of their geographic isolation. Representatives from ADFAS, the Rotary Club of Armidale Central and the New England Conservatorium of Music deliberate on possible recipients.

How are the grants funded?

Each year the Rotary Club of Armidale Central conducts its major fundraiser, the Armidale Rotary Book Fair. The funds raised are distributed to the community and to broader Australian and overseas projects. The Young Arts Grants and the Tertiary Music Scholarship are supported through these funds.

ADFAS Armidale membership fees and the book raffle held each meeting support their contribution to the Young Arts Grants.

Tell us about the grants for 2019.

This year we have had three successful grants.

18 New England focus.

The New England Conservatorium of Music has received a grant to support their Chamber Music in Schools Program.

In this program, members of the NECOM staff travel to small and remote schools in New England and deliver a program of music to students who are unlikely to have the opportunity to hear chamber music. The program is supported by teacher education and pre and post visit lessons to consolidate the experience.

We are proud to be associated with this established and successful program that enhances the lives of so many young people in New England.

The TAS Hoskins Centre is hosting the New England Theatresports Schools Challenge at the Hoskins Centre in Armidale on a weekend in August. The Armidale School, in association with Impro Australia, will hold a two day workshop open to all high school children in New England. Previously, to be involved in this sort of improvised theatre, students would have had to travel to Newcastle. Once again the tyranny of distance can be reduced by our support, and we look forward to feedback about this innovative event.

Kira Dooner is a local student who has studied voice and opera and who is taking a gap year before attending tertiary studies. She is keen to receive tuition in Sydney from an accomplished opera singer and also to attend as many competitions and eisteddfods during the year as possible. The grant will help with the associated costs of her endeavours.

The 2019 recipient of the Tertiary

Music Award is Jonathan Bruhl. He is an exceptional viola player and singer who also has all round music skills and was the outstanding candidate in the category, despite an exceptionally strong field of applicants. He has an A.Mus.A on Viola with Distinction. He had a perfect score of 50/50 in HSC Music Extension.

He is indeed a worthy recipient of this scholarship, which recognises and promotes excellence in the field of music.

Gerry De Gabriele [New England Arts Grants for Young People] 0402 469 160.

Email: gdegabriele@gmail.com

ADFAS Armidale Pat Tooth Young Arts Scholarship The ADFAS Armidale Pat Tooth Young Arts Scholarship will be launched at the June ADFAS lecture.

ADFAS Armidale will be offering a $10,000 scholarship to help kick start the career of a young person post-secondary who has demonstrated exceptional talent in their chosen genre, but may be lacking the financial support they need to further their career.

Applications will be invited and, if a suitable person is identified, the successful applicant will be announced at our AGM in November.

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HOWARD Hinton’s

H

i Rachael. Many of us are familiar with Howard Hinton, the generous art patron who donated so many fabulous artworks first to the Art Gallery of NSW, and also what was formerly known as the Armidale Teachers’ College. NERAM now houses the Hinton Collection of some 1000-plus artworks, 132 of which are on permanent display in HINTON: Treasures of Australian Art. How does it feel to be able to view/work with this collection on a daily basis?

It is a remarkable privilege to work with and interpret this nationally significant collection that includes leading artists from Australia’s art history. I remember studying many of these artists at university in my Australian art theory subjects, so to be able to now peruse their work in the art store, exhibit them and to share them with our visitors is an immensely exciting part of our work here at NERAM. You have a new and exciting addition to the Hinton Archive; can you tell us about it?

Recently we received a wonderful donation of a hand-written volume of Howard Hinton’s diary for the period of 1904 to 1928, from the Estate of James Eric Bolton. The diary was found by the donor’s son amongst his father’s books. Having recently seen a touring exhibition of the Hinton Collection at Hazlehurst Regional Gallery, Bolton recognised its importance to us. It is a mystery how the diary came to be in James Bolton’s possession, but we are so grateful that it has made its way back to the collection here at NERAM. We believe that there may be a second volume out there somewhere that covered the years after 1929, which is when he was amassing his collection; we would love to see this volume also come back to the archive.

What is the significance of the diary?

We didn't really know that much about Howard Hinton beyond his great act of artistic philanthropy, and his ongoing support of artists during his lifetime. We only have limited details about his life. So this diary has caused tremendous excitement amongst our community at NERAM, who are eager to learn more about our enigmatic patron from its pages. The diary includes letters, clippings from newspapers, and photographs, as well as details of artwork that he was seeing, buying and selling at the time and some day to day details.

We have had a wonderful team of volunteers who have spent countless hours transcribing, photographing, proofreading, designing a layout and sourcing transcripts for the newspaper articles. This work has led to an accessible digital reproduction of the diary that will allow visitors to explore its contents, without

having to disturb the original document. We are so grateful for the generosity of these volunteers, whose work will ensure that the diary’s contents are able to be read by our researchers and visitors.

The excitement caused by the donation of the diary has led to the development of a Hinton research group, who have been searching for more information about Hinton, so that we can more fully know and understand the man and his collection.

What do you think motivated Hinton to purchase and donate so many artworks over the course of his life ... and do you think we can find some clues about his thought processes in his journals?

There are some clues as to what kind of art he appreciated, in the clippings he kept and some brief comments. The diary ends in 1928, a year before he made his first donation to the Armidale Teachers’ College, so we don’t see the big moment when he conceives of his vision for his great collection.

We do already have some understanding of his motivations from his letters, also in the archive, and from the accounts of people who knew him. I think the crux of it was that he loved art and understood the many benefits (educational, cultural, social and wellbeing) that come from having access to cultural works. He wanted to share that access with people who otherwise would not have had it. What an extraordinary idea, to build a truly great and expansive collection of artworks to be publicly exhibited in a teachers’ college in regional NSW. It is a wonderful story, and we continue to benefit from Hinton’s generosity and legacy today.

What important dates/events does NERAM have coming up that you’d like to share with us?

The Hinton Diary, as well as a small exhibition of ephemeral and archive items will be on display in HINTON: Treasures of Australian Art starting June 4th. We also currently have ARTEXPRESS, showcasing the considerable creative talent and technical skills of 2018’s HSC Visual Arts students at NERAM until 30th June, as well as a range of other exhibitions and events.

Visit www.neram.com.au to find out more.

New England focus. 19

NECOM

feature

NEW ENGLAND CONSERVATORIUM

The New England Conservatorium of Music (NECOM) was established in 2003 as a result of the work carried out by a planning committee led by the late Dr Arthur Rickards OAM.

P

rograms commenced from 2004, with studio teaching and choral ensembles as the initial focus. Now in its 15th year, NECOM is ranked as one of the state’s most important regional centres for music education, with outstanding records of achievement across many of its key areas. From the nationally-recognised New England Sings! choral events to the support NECOM offers HSC students and teachers through workshops and trial exams, the Conservatorium is committed to its primary role of serving the New England community.

Over the last 12 months there were more than 120 student-based performances, 5,500 hours of lessons delivered, and combined audience numbers at all concerts reached almost 22,000.

NECOM’s newest project has been the introduction of a Piano Studio in late 2018, and this gives the community the opportunity to find out more about the current piano teacher, Sheila Guymer.

20 New England focus.

Why is the piano such a great instrument for students?

There are so many wonderful pieces written for solo piano, it’s easy to find pieces students like to play. I’m keen to foster piano duos at NECOM too, and to encourage students to perform with their friends as chamber musicians and accompanists.

Tell us about your teaching background.

I’ve been teaching for over 30 years. My youngest student was five when she started, and my eldest is in his eighties. At the moment, I’m focusing on teaching beginner students in the local primary schools, but I’ve also taught at Sydney Conservatorium, Melbourne University, and the University of Cambridge (UK).

You’ve recently completed some study overseas. Could you tell us about that?

I was fortunate to be able to study for a PhD in Music at the University of Cambridge. I’m interested in how elite performers decide how they’ll interpret a piece. It was a great reason to have lesson-interviews with four of my favourite concert pianists!

While Cambridge is one of the leading universities in the world, many don’t realise it has an extraordinarily rich musical culture. There is a host of musical societies, with chamber music groups, orchestras, choirs, jazz bands, period instrument ensembles, folk groups … you name it! Most of this is organised by the students themselves. You could go to a musical performance almost every day, and often the standard is very high.

Cambridge was amazing for another reason: I was incredibly lucky to be a member of a five-year international research project in performance. In addition to the professors and students who lived in Cambridge, over 80 researchers would turn up regularly to the Music Faculty for workshops, seminars, and confer-

ences.

What brings you to Armidale?

I grew up in Dorrigo, so I appreciate how important it is for children in rural areas to have access to quality music teaching. Armidale has an exceptional community of music educators (both at NECOM and in the wider community), and I really enjoy the collaborative way music is taught here.

What motivates you to teach music?

Performing music is great fun! Learning an instrument doesn’t just teach children how to play beautiful music; it also teaches them about things like cultural history and aesthetics, empathy, resilience, and self-responsibility. It helps to build their confidence and social skills, coordination, problem-solving, and reading skills too.

New England focus. 25

focusinterview.

Tamworth

REGIONAL

Gallery

feature

The Tamworth Regional Gallery will celebrate its centenary on June 1st … That’s one hundred years of sharing art with the New England and wider community! s the second oldest regional art gallery in New South Wales, Tamworth Regional Gallery has been at the forefront of arts education for a long time, but the staff and volunteers constantly embrace new technology. Gallery Director Bridget Guthrie fills us in about what’s planned to mark the centenary of this wonderful institution …

Hi Bridget. What’s a little of the history behind the Tamworth Regional Gallery?

On 1st June 2019, the gallery will be 100 years old! The gallery came about through our founder, John Salvana. He was an amazing individual, because he had a vision that art should be accessible in the country. He deliberately included works for the gallery that were also an educational tool - so there are unfinished works in the collection, which can be used to train students and teach them how to create works of art.

John’s view was: “This collection of small pictures, studies, sketches etc. in the various media - oils, water colours, pastel, charcoal, pencil, crayon, pen and ink - which this catalogue represents and explains, has been placed here in Tamworth for all time for your benefit, your guidance, your instruction.”

The current building where the gallery is located was built in 2004. It’s a purpose-built building invested in by our Council and the community to house our amazing collection and to promote the arts.

What’s your background with the gallery?

In June, I will have been with the gallery for four years. The role involves working as a team with our gallery staff to care for and promote our collection, and to generate public programmes for all of our audiences. We 22 New England focus.

believe the arts are for everyone; that’s our value and what we aim to achieve.

What activities are planned to commemorate the gallery’s centenary?

We have a wonderful exhibition, The View from 1919, that we’ve been working very hard on; it represents 100 years of the Tamworth Regional Gallery’s collection. The exhibition explores the view form the year 1919 in the art world in Australia; it examines the different styles, themes, media and diversity of art making in this period.

If you look at the different styles around 1919, it’s fascinating. There are some amazing landscapes that John Salvana and his contemporaries generated; there’s a very painterly feel to them, and they’ve often been completed en plein air.

But, there was also a beautiful Art Nouveau movement that was happening at the time, and artists like Sydney Long and Elioth Gruner had this influence in their work.

And yet another chapter were the black and white illustrations. With the invention of print making - and newspapers were very strong in this era - there were a lot of black and white print making works that have been used in a wide diversity of forms … in books, on paper.

The last element - which is just so interesting - is that the Modernist movement began to evolve after World War I. After the war ended, there was a wonderful freshness in the art world - particularly with women!

Women generated some amazing works during this period, with print makers such as Margaret Preston and Thea Proctor … And, Thea was actually born in Armidale.

Grace Crowley, who was also a local and born in Barraba, was an artist who really worked with that Modernist feel, and we’ve

been able to secure some of her works from the Art Gallery of New South Wales for this particular exhibition.

How long will the exhibition be on display?

It will run from Saturday 1st June, the 100-year anniversary date, and it will close on Sunday, 28th July. The exhibition opening is on Friday 31st May at 6pm.

How many staff/volunteers are currently involved with the gallery?

We have approximately five - six staff, including a couple of casual staff members, and around 60 volunteers. We also have the wonderful Friends of the Gallery, who do such an amazing job and support us constantly. The Friends are such an integral part of what we do - they’re here for every exhibition opening!

We’re indebted to the support of all of our volunteers.

What are some of the things about the gallery you’re most proud of?

I’m very proud that we’re the second oldest regional gallery in New South Wales; this shows the progressiveness of our region from a very early time period.

I’m also very proud of the strengths of our collection. We have a very strong landscape collection, but we also have a superb textile collection. We’re quite renowned for the Tamworth Textile Triennial; we generate a textile exhibition every three years, that travels nationally.

What are some upcoming projects in the gallery you’re particularly excited about?

We’re going to be launching a series of public programmes to coincide with the 100year anniversary, and the highlight for me is TRANSMIT. With funding from the State Government’s

Regional Cultural Fund, we’ve been able to install large-scale portable and permanent digital screen/s, software and equipment.

TRANSMIT will support wide community access to live events that take place at state galleries or universities and provide education programmes for all ages and abilities, including artists’ talks and virtual tours. The digital screens will be located both inside the Tamworth Regional Gallery and externally, to expand public reach in regional Australia.

TRANSMIT is about the transmission of education, knowledge and ideas through digital technology.

This leads us to work on other ways that will keep the gallery progressive in 2019 as well! We have a full-time education officer; education is a huge part of what we do at the gallery, so the continual access to information we can provide to the community is really important.

We’re doing a “virtual tour” with the National Portrait Gallery as a part of our centenary celebrations, because they’re loaning some artworks to us as well.

Where can readers find out more information about the gallery and upcoming events?

Visit the website: www. tamworthregionalgallery.com.au There’s so much information there! We have upcoming life drawing classes, school holiday programmes, some plein air workshops and masterclasses associated with our centenary celebrations - and particularly programmes associated with TRANSMIT and the wonderful information the community can access.

Thanks Bridget.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

16 New England focus.

SEASONAL

stack New season dining at Azka Restaurant, Wine & Tapas Bar at The Powerhouse Azka Restaurant at The Powerhouse offers a delicious new winter menu to help you through the chilly season! We’ve got tasty seasonal comfort food and some old favourites to warm you from the inside out.

Our new "go to" favourites are: • New England pork belly, grilled scallops, Asian greens, kimchi, chilli aioli • Seasonal vegetable stack, chargrilled spiced winter vegetables, sweet soy sauce • Grilled tuna, pickled kohlrabi, radish, rice noodles, smoked soy, ginger, spring onion • Masala potato and tomato baked eggplant,

coriander, onion, mint dressing Escape the everyday at Azka Wine & Tapas Bar, one of Armidale’s most intimate and cosy bars. Relax by the fireplace with seriously good wine, craft beer and cocktails, accompanied by tapas share plates and warm service. Perfect for casual and social dining with friends, family or colleagues.

Azka Restaurant, Wine & Tapas Bar is open every day until late for your convenience at 31 Marsh Street, Armidale. To book, call 6772 7788, email dining@qhparm.com.au or visit qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au

INGREDIENTS (SERVES 4)

2 red capsicums 2 zucchinis 1 eggplant 1 sweet potato 1 butternut squash Garlic infused olive oil Fresh thyme sprigs, salt and pepper to taste Sweet soy sauce Fresh roquette to garnish

Chef Lusyianna Setra

Azka Restaurant, Wine and Tapas Bar Quality Hotel Powerhouse 31 Marsh Street, Armidale NSW 2350 Phone (02) 6772 7788

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees. Prepare the ingredients by cutting the eggplant, sweet potato and butternut squash into 1 cm thick rounds and the zucchini into 5 mm thick ribbons. Quarter and de-seed the capsicum.

2. Lay the vegetable slices across two oven trays. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic infused olive oil, thyme, salt and pepper and brush over the vegetable slices.

24 New England focus.

3. Cook in oven for 30 - 35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Then transfer to a grill pan for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they have nice grill marks.

4. Starting with the butternut squash, layer the eggplant, sweet potato, capsicum and zucchini. Garnish with roquette, then drizzle with garlic infused olive oil and sweet soy sauce. Enjoy!

QHP0323_Focus_Azka Winter 156x125_Final.indd 1

15/5/19 12:07 pm

Met

TH IS

IS

CO OL

focusinterview.

Mall

in the

A3 Armidale Poster and cards Available from the Reader’s Companion in the Armidale Beardy Street Mall.

A3 poster $19.99 - Cards $5.99.

focuscontributor W I T H 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

James

Brooks

This month we meet James Brooks, a freelance photographer, the photographer for New England FOCUS and business owner of Superbooth Australia Photo Booth Hire.

H

ow long have you lived in New England?

I have lived in New England for the past 14 years, in which time I have mainly worked in

have a chat about things.

What’s a typical day in the life of James?

Tricky ... As I’m the photographer at New England FOCUS, my days are never the same.

One day I’ll be in Tamworth, while the next day I may be in Uralla covering an event, the Armidale Beardy or otherwise I’m in Street Mall. I’ve seen the Armidale being sent here Mall change in many there and everywhere ways, seen new shops to get imagery for the come and go and have magazine. It’s a great I also enjoy all the always enjoyed meeting job, with every day unlike people you meet; being the new faces that come the last. from the city, it’s a along with it!

Where’s your choice welcome change to see What’s the best part for a bite to eat or the same smiling faces about working in the some great coffee? willing to have a chat Mall?

Well, there are so about things.

Convenience! many choices; to be Everything is just a hop, honest, anywhere has its skip and a jump away! pros. Courthouse Coffee Great food choices, for your coffee hit, Paper easy retail and fantastic Tiger for some interesting watering holes. I also enjoy all the people food choices, The Social Salad Co for a meal you meet; being from the city, it’s a welcome on the run, or even the newly refurbished Tatts change to see the same smiling faces willing to for a liquid lunch! You can’t really go wrong.

Assam tea

Blend

month of the

A type of black tea, Assam tea is known for its tart, malty flavour, vigorous body and bright colour.

I

t is more commonly known as have backfiring effects and cause insomnia. breakfast tea, or Irish breakfast tea.

Because Assam tea contains Vitamin B1 The name of Assam tea comes from (thiamine) it enables the body to use its the area of which it originated in carbohydrate intake for energy-use, thus India, close to the borders of Bangladesh also enhancing blood circulation. and Burma, along the When wanting to Brahmaputra River. invest in a tea for The Assam region is both your body and known as the largest drinking pleasure, tea growing region in it is of uttermost Packed full of the world, with a very importance to choose antioxidants, Assam long season. a tea of high quality tea not only wins on Packed full of that will bring you taste, but also on health antioxidants, Assam the best satisfaction. benefits. It’s not quite as tea not only wins on Luckily, Daily Ritual loaded with antioxidants taste, but also on has the solution. Our as green and white tea. health benefits. It’s not Assam tea is sourced quite as loaded with from only the most antioxidants as green exotic and sought and white tea. after places, ensuring the highest of quality Assam tea contains a very good amount not only in raw product, but throughout the of caffeine and has far greater health whole manufacturing process. We guide our benefits than that morning coffee you’re tea with care and consistency, ensuring you guilty of drinking every morning, in order only get the very best of nature. “to just stay awake”. Many are unaware At Daily Ritual we have several blends that excessive consumption of caffeine can available.

Where

Find out more about other quality blends at www.dailyritual.com.au New England focus. 25

focus_contributor

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

tourism UPDATE

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

A

utumn has once again not disappointed, with its beautiful colours, temperature and myriad of events. The autumn colours have once again drawn in coach tours, and visitors from all around Australia. The autumn colours were a bit late this year; however, once they arrived, they

26 New England focus.

certainly didn’t disappoint.

Our autumn colours were featured in this Media Release below from the Minister for Tourism, Stuart Ayers - Wednesday, 15th May 2019.

NEW ENGLAND BATHED IN GOLDEN GLOW THIS AUTUMN Golden sunsets, picturesque vistas and hearty local produce feature at the core of a

new highlights package, designed to showcase the rich and unique experiences that make the NSW New England region the perfect autumn escape.

The series of sensational videos and photographs focus on the key attractions on offer in the regional towns of Armidale and Glen Innes during the cooler months.

Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres said this region of NSW is particularly beautiful at this time of year and ripe for a visit.

“From poplar tree-lined streets bathed in warm golden hues, to cosy country hotels offering delicious rustic dishes and local wines, NSW’s New England region absolutely thrives in Autumn,” Mr Ayres said.

“This new contents package shows why we continue to invest record funding in rural and regional NSW. “Tourism in regional areas contributes a massive $19.5 billion to the NSW economy, and directly employs 90,400 people. Aside from the major economic benefits, we are also determined to share the best of the bush with the world because of the unique and unbeatable experiences on offer.”

Highlights of the new Armidale and Glen Innes content include: 1. Armidale town centre - Admire colonial heritage buildings in pretty tree-lined streets, explore fine museums and galleries and enjoy delicious food and wine in this elegant regional city. You can join Armidale Heritage Tours for a guided bus tour, or take a self-guided heritage walk.

2. Saumarez Homestead - Be transported back to 19th century pastoral life by visiting this ten-hectare grazing property, which features a two-storey, 30 room Edwardian mansion, several farm buildings and extensive gardens.

3. Welder’s Dog Brewery - Run by three New England region locals, the owners are passionate about sharing quality craft beer with the world. The Welder’s Dog Brewery has been brewing a range of exciting, unique beers and beverages since opening in 2017.

4. Australian Standing Stones - Created in the early 1990s, the Australian Standing Stones in Glen Innes pay tribute to the Celtic heritage of the early European settlers to the district.

5. NERAM - The New England Regional Art Museum is a leading cultural and arts tourism destination, which is home to one of the nation’s most significant art collections outside the capital cities. NERAM holds a collection of over 5,000 works of historical, modern and contemporary art.

6. Tourist Drive 19 - Pack a picnic, hop in the car at Armidale and take an easy country drive south through some of the most picturesque areas of the New England Highway. Be sure to stop by the photogenic vine-covered Gostwyck Chapel, as well as Dangar’s Gorge for spectacular views of the waterfalls.

Images can be found in the Destination NSW Content Library and can be utilised by businesses in the area to promote our region. If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact Katrina George on kgeorge@armidale. nsw.gov.au or (02) 6770 3906.

focusinterview.

B E F O R E

A F T E R

Chelsea curry

Deciding she wanted to help people with cancer, 10 YEAR OLD CHELSEA CURRY HAS NOT ONLY SET UP A GOFUNDME PAGE TO RAISE FUNDS, but has recently donated 30 cm of her beautiful hair to make a wig for someone in need …

H

i Chelsea. Tell us affected by cancer. My hair has been sent a little bit about off to make a wig. When you go through yourself and your chemotherapy, you can lose your hair - and family ... lots of people always comment about my red Hi, I am 10 years old. hair, so I thought it would make a nice wig for I have two sisters, Jorja someone. and Maeve. I am in Grade Five at St Mary’s How long had you been growing your school. hair prior to the haircut?

I compete in many sports, like swimming, I think I have been growing my hair all my gymnastics, and I am life to get it this long. in the 11s Armidale How did you feel when netball rep team. you were sitting in the How has cancer hairdresser's chair? affected you/your I was nervous at the When you go through family? start but when I saw my chemotherapy, you can Well, we have had new hairstyle, I felt more lose your hair - and many friends and family confident with it. lots of people always affected by cancer …

You and your mum, comment about my like a friend of Jorja’s; Kristy, have established red hair, so I thought it her dad passed away a GoFundMe page to would make a nice wig from cancer. And on raise money for cancer for someone.

Christmas Day last research. How much year, we had a very have you raised so far? close family friend pass I have raised around away from cancer; he $1,240. was only 31 and just Where/how can we married to a beautiful girl. donate to your chosen charity?

Why did you decide to raise funds for You can donate to https://www.gofundme. cancer research? com/sva82-cancer-fundraiser which is my So money could go off and help all those GoFundMe page. people in need, and I raised money to have When you're not busy fundraising, what more research done to stop this terrible are some of your favourite pastimes/ disease. hobbies?

On April 24, you visited Cooper and I love sport such as gymnastics, netball and Co hairdressing and had 30 cm of hair swimming. I love playing with my dog Nelly, chopped off. Why did you do this - and guinea pig Snickers, and spending time with how will your hair be used to help friends and family. others?

Thanks Chelsea.

I did it to help those people who are Interview: Jo Robinson.

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. 27

focusinterview.

Tanja Van Der Walt

Ultrasound WE ARE VERY PROUD TO INTRODUCE ARMIDALE ULTRASOUND TO THE COMMUNITY AND TO LET THE PUBLIC KNOW THEY NOW HAVE A CHOICE ABOUT WHERE THEY CAN HAVE THEIR MEDICAL ULTR ASOUND COMPLETED.

H

i Tanja. What's your background in the medical imaging industry?

My initial training in Diagnostic Radiography was completed with an Honours Degree in the Free State in South Africa. As a family we emigrated to Dublin, Ireland in 2002, where I was part of a large team of Radiographers in the great St Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin.

In 2008 we emigrated to Australia, where I was offered a post of Sole Radiographer of a small rural hospital in Bowen, North Qld. I worked in Bowen and saw the need for a diagnostic ultrasound clinic (previously there had been none), so I initiated an ultrasound service there whilst completing my Post Graduate qualification in Diagnostic Ultrasound.

In 2012 we moved south for a change, and now the beautiful city of Armidale is our home.

Why have you started Armidale Ultrasound?

I worked at Armidale Radiology for a period of almost five years when we moved to Armidale, both as a Radiographer and a Sonographer. As life happens and people change, I left there in May 2017 to work as a Sonographer full-time for Alpenglow at their clinic in Tamworth - Tamworth Medical Imaging. I travelled to and from work daily from Armidale but after two years of this, my husband and I realised something needed to change.

We started in-depth market research in Armidale amongst the public and the GPs, and we reached the conclusion that a second private ultrasound practice in town would be of great benefit to the Armidale community. We are a small practice who strive for absolute excellence in what we do, and we want to offer this excellent service in ultrasound to the Armidale community and the referrers in Armidale.

28 New England focus.

Who are your team, There are many studies We offer ALL diagnostic and what do you each that suggest that 3D and ultrasounds at Armidale specialise in?

4D ultrasound can assist Ultrasound, including As mentioned mothers during their pregscans patients are previously, we are a nancy and help them feel currently travelling family owned and opcloser to the new life they out of town for, such as erated practice, and we are creating. varicose vein ultrasounds believe in supporting our That is the aim of 3D and leg artery scans with the community and keeping Baby - to offer expecting ABI measurements required by things local wherever couples a chance to bond vascular surgeons. possible. I'm the with their unborn baby.

Diagnostic Medical What services does ArmiSonographer, and our dale Ultrasound offer? friendly receptionist is We offer ALL diagnostic Cara. ultrasounds at Armidale Ultrasound, including We are a small practice, with two distinct scans patients are currently services to offer. Foremost is our Diagnostic travelling out of town for, such as varicose vein Ultrasound service, where all ultrasounds can be ultrasounds and leg artery scans with the ABI performed. I have a passion for ultrasound, and measurements required by vascular surgeons. We I am qualified to perform ALL ultrasounds and also offer nuchal ultrasounds, with the associated scans that have not been available in town but risk of an expecting mother to develop pre-ecare now offered at Armidale Ultrasound. lampsia.

We also have a 3D/4D Ultrasound service called All obstetric clients who have two of their 3D Baby Bonding, where expecting couples can ultrasounds with us, will receive a free 15-minute book in to have a bonding experience with their 3D scan to see their baby. little one in our 3D Theatre room. These non-diALL referrals are accepted, and we ask the agnostic scans are performed by Cara, who was public to remember that they have a CHOICE of trained by me. where to go - receiving a specific referral from Can you tell us more about 3D Baby your GP does NOT mean you have to go to that Bonding? specific centre for your ultrasound. If you have 3D Baby was started in May 2017. Our questions or queries for us, we are more than daughter, Cara, was expecting her first child and happy to answer them. went through a very difficult period of ante-natal We offer 3D/4D ultrasound in our 3D Theatre depression.

Room, which has a 75” television set with It was probably one of the toughest things we comfortable chairs and couches for families or as a family ever went through, and when our couples to enjoy together or just for yourself as a darling Lily was born and things settled down, treat. It is always amazing to see and be a part of we realised that if a 3D scan was available for her someone’s bonding experience here at Armidale during her depression, it could have made things Ultrasound. much easier for her, by assisting her in bonding What are some of the things in your busiwith her baby. ness that you are especially proud of?

There are many things we are proud of here at Armidale Ultrasound, but specifically we have worked hard to create a faster, more affordable and more accessible ultrasound service.

We are very good at what we do, and we pride ourselves on excellent community service. We have nine Australian based Radiologists who will do our reporting.

We guarantee: You will be scanned on the day you present, unless preparation is needed, and then you will be scanned the next day.

Your referrer will have your report back in under 23 hours - our average turnaround time is eight hours!

Urgent scans will have the report back to your referrer within one hour!

We offer a mobile ultrasound service for clients in the community who have difficulty with transport or who are bed-bound.

We understand that times are tough, and everyone goes through hardship. With that in mind, we are very proud to have also incorporated a payment plan system through "PayRight". Now having an ultrasound done is more affordable than ever.

If I'm a patient needing your services, what is the process? Do I need a referral?

For a medical ultrasound you will need a referral from your GP or treating Physiotherapist etc. You don’t need a referral for our 3D/4D ultrasound, as these scans are non-diagnostic.

What's the best way to get in touch with you and find out further information?

We are located at 210b Rusden Street.

Telephone (02) 5795 1155 or our mobile 0457 223 360.

Our office hours are from 7:30am - 5pm Mon Thur, 7:30am - 4pm Fri, with opening times on a Saturday by appointment only.

Thanks Tanja.

New England focus. 33

Business Minds

with Ingrid Rothe of VIVID Thinking

Mandy Walker Focus First Business Coaching

THIS MONTH BUSINESS MINDS INTERVIEWS ITS FIRST TAMWORTH-BASED BUSINESS OWNER, MANDY WALKER OF FOCUS FIRST BUSINESS COACHING. FOCUS FIRST SERVICES THE NEW ENGLAND AND NORTH WEST.

T

ell us a little bit about yourself.

I grew up on the land in Glen Innes. My background is in engineering and maintenance, with 10 years’ experience in heavy industry, with organisations including BlueScope Steel, Cargill, Ford Motor Company, and Rio Tinto. I transitioned into business coaching in 2010.

What brought you to Tamworth?

I originally wanted to move back to the New England for the regional lifestyle and to be closer to family. I was fortunate enough to get that opportunity while with Cargill. I really enjoy the mix of business opportunity, access to an airport, and the local country feel that Tamworth has to offer. It’s what drew me in, and what keeps me here. I love its unique mix of dirt, dust, dogs and opportunity.

What does Focus First do?

I work with entrepreneurial mid-sized business owners who are growth-oriented.

They’re wanting some change in their business, but are caught up in the day-to-day running and need help focusing strategically.

At the end of the day, my role is to help business owners or leaders to identify problems in their business, help them solve them, and hold them accountable for getting the work done.

Why work with Focus First?

30 New England focus.

At the end of the day, my role is to help business owners or leaders to identify problems in their business, help them solve them, and hold them accountable for getting the work done.

I work with business owners of already successful and mature businesses who are frustrated with growth that has stalled, or they need to kick it off, or they’re dealing with the consequences of rapid growth. They are not getting as much profit or cash from the business as they want and need, and it’s sucking the life out of them.

Different break points happen in the natural growth of a business, and rapid growth can be a huge stressor. I work with business owners on their strategy and execution, people, cash flow, and even on the owner themselves.

Anyone who has ever worked with me knows that I have a bias towards practicality and good decision-making processes. I don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach; my process considers the nature of the individual business, the industry, its market, its culture, and perhaps most importantly, its clients.

I help businesses in a way that is natural for them and their business, in a way that is fulfilling to them.

What would you advise a business just starting out?

I’d tell them a story about Pi, the rule of three. That it will take three times as long as you think it will, three times as much cash, and will be three times harder than you

think it will be. But it doesn’t have to be true for them. If they are prepared for that environment or reality, they are much more likely to be around for five years, and better positioned to have more fun along the way.

I would also encourage them to spend a lot of time thinking about how they are different and what the true value they provide to their customer is.

What inspires you?

I believe that regional businesses are the engines of our economy and the source of our freedom. I am inspired by helping build local businesses, working with them, their teams and the families that support them.

I also encourage my clients to put “skin in the game” to give their clients confidence in their offer. In turn, I offer the opportunity for any business owner to sit with me and discuss their business and offer advice, on a no obligation, no fee basis. It’s my way of adding value back to the community.

What’s next for Focus First?

I am getting ready to launch an interactive app for business owners. It’s designed to help clients run the business end of their business - a business owner’s scoreboard, not an accounting dashboard. It

gives business owners the tools to understand exactly where the problems are and the cost to their business, so they can focus on solving the right problems.

It was born out of my frustration with clients not having financial literacy around their business. When clients have better optics around their business performance, they can make better decisions - and more money.

The app can do everything from financial modelling, where it pulls live data such as your Xero files or regional weather data. It’s easy to use and features easily understood visuals. Users don’t need to have a head for maths, as the heavy lifting is done for you.

You can immediately apply the analytics to your decision-making process.

How will you support the app?

Focus First can provide different levels of support. Some users will just want their dashboard set up, while others might want to work with me for advice and coaching around strategies they can apply to deal with the problems in their business.

The app will sit alongside two other programs: Focus on Action, providing an accountability framework; and Focused Boards for clients who don’t need weekly coaching, but need a sounding board and different perspectives from six other business owners.

Sounds exciting! Thanks Mandy.

thinking family law

WITH CHRISTOPHER SEROW AND KIRK BURTON

thinking

Family Law Property Settlement

W

hen people separate, they usually need to sort out how they will divide their assets and debts. A property settlement is a final resolution of the ownership of property held by parties as a consequence of their marriage or de-facto relationship breakdown.

The Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) provides for property settlements between couples who are, or have been, married and couples who have been in a de-facto relationship. Under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) a de-facto relationship includes a relationship between two people of the same sex. Generally, when the Court embarks upon the task of determining the proper division of property, it will apply what is commonly known as the four-step approach.

Step 1: The first step involves identifying the net asset pool between the parties. The net asset pool includes all assets or liabilities acquired before, during and after the relationship. Property includes assets and liabilities of either or both the parties. This can include: real estate; household goods; vehicles; bank accounts; investments; jewellery; family trusts; mortgages; loans; credit cards; and, personal debts. The Court will also have regard to other financial resources over which a party has influence, control, or prospective entitlements.

Pursuant to the Rule 13 of the Family Law Rules 2004 (Cth), parties have a clear obligation to make full and frank disclosure about their respective financial circumstances and each party has to provide to the other party all of their supporting financial documents.

Step 2: The second step requires the Court to assess the contributions made by both parties to the relationship. This includes both financial and non-financial contributions to the acquisition, conservation or improvement of the matrimonial pool. Financial contributions may include: property owned at the commencement of the relationship; money put towards a purchase price; loan or mortgage; money spent on household goods; groceries; and, utilities. Non-financial contributions include: cleaning; cooking; and, completing maintenance or renovations to property. Section 79(4) of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) also includes consideration of any

contribution made by a party to the welfare of the family in their capacity as homemaker, parent or otherwise.

Step 3: The third step requires the Court to consider factors relevant to the future needs of the parties and to make an adjustment accordingly. Section 75(2) of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) identifies matters to be taken into consideration. These include: the age and health of the parties; their mental and physical capacity to obtain future employment; and, their future responsibilities to care for any children or other people.

Step 4: The final step is to consider the practical effect of any proposed settlement and to achieve a result that is just and equitable in all the circumstances.

If possible, parties should first attempt to reach their own agreement about the division of property and consider mediation before initiating Court proceedings. If an our come can be settled by consent, there are two options to formalise an agreement. Consent orders are orders entered into by agreement and filed in the Court. The Court will only make the orders if it is satisfied that the order would be considered just and equitable.

In the alternative to filing for Consent Orders, a Binding Financial Agreement may be considered.

This is essentially a private contract between you and your partner, without the need for a third party such as the Court to approve the agreement. A Binding Financial Agreement requires legal advice and should be considered with caution to ensure compliance with the law as if the proper process is not applied the BFA may be deemed invalid and could, on application, be set aside by the Court.

Matrimonial and de facto property settlements can be a stressful and sometimes a complex process. Acquiring professional legal and financial advice will ensure that you are informed and if necessary represented fairly to determine a proper outcome.

Talk to us, you’ll be inspired!

Christopher K C Serow Principal, Solicitor Director, Notary Public Migration Agent (MARN 0854319) Kirk Burton Senior Paralegal New England focus. 31

focus_contributor

ANTHONY FOX - PRESIDENT, ARMIDALE BUSINESS CHAMBER

focus_contributor

WITH SUSIE DUNN

Icing

CAKE ON

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

Minding your Congratulations to Barnaby Joyce on his strong win. We look forward to what he, and the Morrison Government, propose to do for regional Australia, particularly in the light of the continuing drought and the issue of water.

W

ater As you all will know, climate change has been a topic that was much discussed during the lead up to the election. People will continue to argue about whether it has caused or contributed to the present drought. Whatever the case, more needs to be done in terms of future proofing agriculture against the hazards of weather.

Critical to the future of regional towns and cities is water supply. Armidale is now on level 4 water restrictions, Guyra is slowly running out of water until the Malpas pipeline is completed, and Tamworth always seems to be on water restrictions. Should individuals and towns do more to capture and store their own water?

It may not make a monumental difference, but it will help. It would also contribute to a change in attitude and behaviour to water.

Let us be prudent and look to the future, first in consulting experts and others, and then in any action that may be required. We need to analyse and work on the problem, while still looking to the future in trying to attract people and businesses to the Armidale region.

WiNG Another successful breakfast took place on 11th April 2019, with Vanessa Whittaker SC and Maria O’Brien, founders of WomenVote, speaking to a highly engaged audience. Our next breakfast takes place on Tuesday 11th June 2019 and will feature a panel of Business Award winners, Irene Lemon of Magical Electricity Box (Start Up Superstar - ABC 2018), Tracy Wright of Raw Fibre (Excellence in Sustainability, New England North West - 2018), and Bronwyn Pearson of Pinnacle People Solutions (Outstanding Business Leader - New England North West 2018).

32 New England focus.

Awards Night The Armidale Region Business Awards night is to be held on Friday 16th August 2019. All businesses are encouraged to enter. Last year was pretty impressive in terms of the number of businesses entering and people attending on the night. This year we hope to jazz it up a bit more and improve on the smooth running of the evening. Additionally, as with last year, we will maintain independent judging. In terms of the award structure provided by the NSW Chamber, there are a couple of changes.

The definition of young has been redefined as 18 - 30 year olds. Previously, the upper age limit was 35. Additionally, there has been a redefining of business classes: Micro (less than five FTE - full-time equivalent), Small (five - 20 FTE), Business 21+ FTE). The introduction of “Micro” should encourage startups to enter.

Details of the Awards and requirements can be found on the Chamber website.

Governor of the Reserve Bank The Governor of the Reserve Bank, Philip Lowe, has agreed to speak at a dinner the Chamber has organised for Tuesday 24th September 2019. This event will be open to all Chamber members, Guyra Chamber members, Locals 4 Locals, members of Chambers in surrounding cities/towns and the wider public.

This promises to be a very interesting night, given what are described as the uncertainties concerning the future Australian and world economy. He may also have a perspective on regional Australia, as he was born and educated in Wagga.

Development of Armidale Region and Airport I will report further on this next month.

I

Spreading the news

t’s been a strangely difficult time, this political year. Simultaneously nothing matters, and everything matters. And, I’m submitting this column on May 17, totally in the dark about what will happen on the 18th, and what you will all know when it’s published. So, I’m going to talk about other things, and look for some icing on the cake, while remembering drought is still with us.

For anyone with rather a weakness for French cooking, Armidale is a great place to be. The very smart new Tatts Hotel has brought us the delicious menus of Jean-Luc Morcellet, who puts his own modern, international spin on his native French cooking - definitely addictive!

And in Taylor Street, Nathan Walker and Enora Chanteperdrix have a devoted following for whatever Nathan bakes or produces through his passion for food. They’ve also taken this passion into opening their hearts and Café Patisserie to other cultures in Armidale, beginning with a special Tuesday, when new Ezidi citizens cooked for appreciative diners. This has led to them considering further nights reflecting, says Nathan, the “multicultural soup” in our community.

UNE has appointed Professor Brigid Heywood as the next Vice-Chancellor. This position is not only important for the university, but for the region as well, and we hope to see beneficial engagement for both, each actively reinforcing the other. The Professor commences her role in July.

In the framing of the Armidale Central Mall as a recreational public space, two bookshops feature. The Readers’ Companion’s Michelle Wheatley has just been awarded Best Business Idea 2019 by the Australian Independent Booksellers’ National Conference. She packages a book with its filmed adaptation, followed by a glass of wine at Charlie’s Last Stand to discuss the preferred version. A constant stream of book launches (tonight it’s UNE’s thoughtful Anne Pender on the greats of Australian comedy), plus other events, ensures the shop hums with people.

Across the Mall, last minute purchasers saved Boobooks, relieving locals and visitors, and I hear events are planned there too. I remember when eight shops sold books in the Central

Mall, so we treasure those keeping the flame.

And books are showing a revival, instead of extinction as forecast.

There’s considerable sadness as the drought has finally forced the closure of the quirky, lovable Things with a Difference. Thanks for the memories, Jane, Greg and staff!

New group Renew Armidale says their plans to reinvigorate the Mall are advancing.

It’d be wonderful if new food outlets could offer choices at different times, increasing viable destination making. Surely these would help: weather protected seating areas (with locally made cast pub-style verandah posts and adjustable side curtains); clear, attractive signage pointing to the multitude of parking options; varying opening hours to match when people can congregate, signboarded event programmes; music; films. Embrace viable solutions, instead of talking in expensive circles!

We owe it to the gallant retailers and indeed, to the community. Again, development of attractive apartments in the East Mall would revitalise the city centre, helping bring the heart of the city back to life as more people stayed closer to home and foot traffic improved, with rising café culture and mixed use requirements.

Everyone has a value in this community of ours. Some people quietly make extraordinary contributions, and Arthur Rickards was one of those. Not only did he orchestrate international beef programmes from ABRI, but also drove the establishment of the Conservatorium and was NECOM’s first Chair, until ill health meant he stood down. His wife Deidre, with her passionate musical involvement in the region, and their talented children, Alice and Gareth, are supported by many who valued and miss him.

NECOM’s Man from Snowy River Concert Event will be “one of the largest orchestral events in years”, accompanying the soundtrack to the screening of the film. It’ll take place at the Armidale Exhibition Centre on October 11 sounds a diary must!

Let’s hope whatever the election result we’ll have a strong voice to fight for us in coping with the grave realities of species extinction, pollution and climate change.

Susie Dunn.

New England focus. 19

Easter's

& HOME DECOR SUPPLIES

H

Celebrating 45 years in business.

ow did Easter's come to be established in Tamworth? Easter's started in Tamworth in 1974 with just one truck and two products. Trevor and I are the third generation of the family to be operating the business with a couple of our five children (fourth generation) coming through the ranks working in the business. We are now operating a fleet of eight trucks and have expanded to a massive range of products, with two landscaping yards and a 1000 sqm display area in Hume street, Taminda, of which 500 sqm is indoor, for that cold or rainy day. Why not grab a complimentary coffee and have a

34 New England focus.

wander and let your imagination run wild.

Your business has been around for some 45 years; what would you say has attributed to this? Building a relationship with our customers, providing the best quality service we can offer and being honest and loyal to our customers. We have tried to cater for our customers' demand and as a result, our product range has grown. We originally catered for the tradesman and the home handyman, and then we developed our home décor centre and landscape yard in Hume Street, Taminda, with our products in display areas, so customers can get an idea of what our products could look like in their home or business - with that water feature and table setting out in a

paved or pebbled area surrounded by some plant life or garden statue. The biggest thing is picking which one is right for you.

What does your business specialise in? Trained staff to help you with your selection, ranging from giftware, wall art, garden ornaments, water features, outdoor furniture, pots, fairy houses, Woodwick candles and various home décor items, outdoor items like mailboxes, Hills clotheslines, gardening tools, wheelbarrows, raised garden beds, rainwater tanks, and firewood. We also have a large range of landscaping products, including retaining wall blocks and pavers, concrete sleepers, garden edging, decorative stone, roadbases, sands, soils and a large range of woodchips and mulches to retain moisture in your garden.

What are some of your best selling products, and why do you think they are so popular? Statues, wall art, pots, planters, cushions, candles, clocks, garden signs, animals, fairy garden décor, outdoor settings, bird baths, Buddahs and much, much more. We try to provide a point of difference with our items.

What do you feel your points of difference are in the landscape industry? We try to offer a one stop shop for our customer for all their home and garden requirements and to help our customers and advise them with our trained staff and give them some inspiration to complete their project, no matter how big or small. We can even deliver, if you don’t have a ute or trailer.

What's the best way to get in touch with you and find out further information? The easiest way is to jump in your vehicle and come for a visit to our home décor centre, which opens at 9am daily and landscape yard, Monday to Friday, 7am - 5pm, Saturday 8am - 2pm, Sunday 9am - 2pm, at 45 Hume Street, Tamworth (Taminda). Our website is www.easters.com.au follow us on Facebook, send us an email info@easters.com.au or call one of our friendly team seven days a week: (02) 6762 0650.

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BABIES, BLACKBOARDS and BANDAGES at the

Three new exhibitions at the Armidale Folk Museum are celebrating some very wise and healthy themes.

R

oyal babies, education from a chalk boards and slates were the main tools previous era and the dedication used for teaching, and classes of all ages were of New England nurses are all held in a single room. explored by the displays, which Relive those early years as the New England will feature at the museum region was being established and parents until the end of July. strove to give their children a decent education To celebrate the upcoming birth of a new for a brighter future. royal, the museum has a lovely display of Courage & Devotion: New England nurses in babies’ clothes and accessories dating from WW2 tells the stories of three local nurses who the mid 1880s to the signed up to save lives, 1950s. Every baby’s a not to end them. royal baby recalls the “People often focus on time when babies were male troops, but what of WE HAVE A LARGE often dressed in lovingly the women who nursed COLLECTION OF handmade gowns them?” Ms Ward said.

BABIES’ CHRISTENING featuring lace, frills and Courage & Devotion GOWNS AND BABY pleats aplenty. highlights the “We have a large commitment and sacrifice DRESSES FROM THE collection of babies’ of young women who END OF THE 19TH Christening gowns and volunteered to nurse the CENTURY UP TO THE baby dresses from the wounded and dying in 1940S ... end of the 19th Century exceptionally difficult up to the 1940s,” circumstances.

Museum Team Leader The Armidale Folk Hayley Ward said.

Museum is on the corner “These types of clothes are often in good of Faulkner and Rusden Streets and is open condition, as they weren’t used often enough daily from 11am to 2pm. Entry is by gold coin to wear out.” donation.

An early 20th Century classroom has For more information, visits the Museums been created for the Schools in! exhibition, and Galleries page on Council’s website. including items borrowed from the Museum of Education. Schools in! recalls a time when

It’s me to lean back.

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New England focus. 35

focusinterview.

T R E E

Chris and Maria Eveleigh have called the small village of Kentucky home since 1976, and the origins of their nursery stem back to the early ’80s. HELPING LANDHOLDERS REPROPAGATE THEIR LAND WITH NATIVE SPECIES IS A PASSION FOR THE EVELEIGHS, who have seen over one million native trees and shrubs planted during the past few decades … i Chris. What brought you and Maria to beautiful Kentucky?

Maria and I came to Kentucky in 1976. We purchased a 40 hectare soldier settler block with an original soldier settler house and began our life together here in Kentucky. At the time for us, the property was affordable, the climate was reliable, and the soil was fertile. Our thoughts turned to sheep and cattle, and we purchased a few head relevant to our small farm. In addition, we joined a wonderful, vibrant community.

What are the origins of Kentucky Tree Nursery - when/why was it established?

It became obvious to us that it was difficult to make a living off 40 hectares of cleared orchard land and thus, a few casual jobs were needed to get by.

In the early 1980s, the landholder mantra at the time was dieback of the existing remaining native vegetation on New England Tablelands farms. One local landholder had for some time started replanting to provide shade and shelter for livestock and pasture. A movement was started, which caught on, and Landcare was born. In fact, this was the origins of one of the first Landcare groups in the New England, namely the Harnham Landcare Group.

There became an opportunity to help plant trees at that time and also to start propagating trees to plant back on farms. In essence, this was the start of The Kentucky Tree Nursery.

A most important part of the origins of our nursery is Maria.

Maria was very much (and still is) a gardening enthusiast and in the early years, set about to 36 New England focus.

plant and thus protect our home environment.

Starting from a bare and exposed home garden area, her success with moderating conditions were legendary.

There have been many open garden functions that Maria has been involved with. Whilst raising our three children, tending her own garden, time was also devoted to the nursery.

Testament to her skills, we now have three very successful and independent young families with six grandchildren.

The emphasis with your business is providing large numbers of native plants that provide substantial environmental benefits, at a cost-effective price. Who are your typical types of customers?

Our main nursery customers are New England Tablelands landholders. They see the important need to plant trees and shrubs back on to their properties for shade and shelter and to improve their environment. It goes without saying that planting back trees on exposed land can only improve the value of your asset.

How do you also cater for home gardeners - people who may want fewer plants for smaller areas?

We have, for many years, taken our plants to Farmers Markets and various special local events. This has been a wonderful opportunity for us to make our plants available to the home gardener, socialise and support very important community organisations.

What are the main species of plants you grow/sell?

We are a native nursery supplying trees and shrubs that grow naturally on the New England Tablelands and Slopes.

They include the local Eucalypts, Acacia,

Callistemon, Hakea, Leptospermum.

This is a tough question ... but if you had to estimate roughly how many seedlings you'd produced and seen planted over the years, what do you reckon the number would be?

Each season is different. We rely on orders every year, and we are governed by the prevailing climate and thus landholders’ preparation for the tree planting.

We have definitely produced and seen planted over a million trees and shrubs. It is a great joy to us to see the efforts of dedicated landholders and home gardeners that take pleasure in planting and growing our plants.

Tell us a bit about your nursery operation and how it works ...

Our nursery operation can be described as “Team Chris and Maria”. From time to time we have wonderful people come to operate the nursery while we have a break. All our plants are grown in our nursery from seed. Each season’s crop of trees and shrubs are sown in December and January. Such is the potential growth of native plants, a crop can be ready for sale mid-autumn.

From then on, the nursery can supply plants throughout the year. Seed is collected by us from the local area, or purchased from reputable suppliers such as CSIRO Australian Tree Seed Centre or from the Northern Tablelands Local Land Services native seed storage facility. NTLLS has become an excellent supplier of native tree and shrub seed to the local native nurseries.

How important is to you both to live a sustainable life and protect our native environment?

Over the many years Kentucky Tree Nursery

has operated, we have been indebted to Southern New England Landcare, Glen Innes Natural Resources Advisory Committee, Gwydir and Macintyre Management Committee Landcare and Northern Tablelands Local Land Services.

These organisations as a base, have encouraged landholders to be very mindful of improving their environment, whilst operating profitably and sustainably.

While working very hard in our nursery, we have been the beneficiary of these very important agencies. We attempt to live by the aims of these organisations and give back as much as we can, to make landholder projects we are involved in successful.

What are some projects you have planned for the nursery for the rest of this year?

This year there will be a good number of landholder tree/shrub plantings under preparation. Autumn and winter is an excellent time of the year to cultivate and fallow sites to be ready for a spring planting. Success of tree planting on farm is very much dependent on preparation well in advance of planting.

Whilst this ground work is being done, plants in our nursery are slowing down in growth and hardening up, to be ready to plant when required. Overall, for all involved, it is a very satisfying and important activity.

Where can we contact you?

Kentucky Tree Nursery can be contacted (02) 6778 7342, 0457 787 342, cs.ma.eveleigh@bigpond.com or www.kentuckytreenursery.com Please contact us prior to a nursery visit, located at 24 Plug Street, Kentucky NSW. Thanks Chris.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Finishing Image by Rachel Deane

Insurance

N E W

E N G L A N D

Servicing the New England/North West since 2000. lease tell us a bit about yourself and your staff.

Whilst Elders has been providing insurance to rural Australia for over 100 years, Elders Insurance New England has been servicing the New England/North West since 2000. We have three offices in Tamworth, Armidale and Gunnedah. Our business is locally owned and operated and features close to 100 years of industry experience collectively. In our Tamworth office, we have Operations Manager Nathan Henderson: Nathan has been with our business for over five years and prior to that had 20+ years within the finance industry, spending a large part of that time working in Armidale, Inverell and Tamworth. Nathan knows the region extremely well and understands the needs of our customers, whether they be on the land or business owners in town. Account Manager Mandy French: Mandy brings a wealth of experience to our team. With over 20 years’ industry experience, she takes great pride in getting to know her clients very well and goes into every detail when coming up with solutions for their insurance requirements. Claims Officer Louise Baker: Lou is a vastly experienced claims officer, who also had previous experience as loss assessor prior to coming to Elders Insurance. As a result, Lou has the knowledge to manage our customers’ claims throughout the whole process. Sales Support Officer Jess Sharp: Jess is the newest member of our team, who came on board approximately 18 months ago as a trainee. After starting her career with us as a trainee, her willingness to learn and exceptional customer service saw her complete her traineeship well ahead of schedule, to become a valuable full-time member of our Tamworth team.

What areas do you service in the New England?

Through our three offices we service a large area, including from Scone in the south through to Ben Lomond and Llangothlin in the north, across to Dorrigo and Gloucester in the east and south/east and over to Coonabarabran in the west.

What insurance products do you specialise in?

As a general insurance agency we offer the same sort of products that all mainstream insurers do, including Farm, Business, Home and Contents, Landlords, Professional Indemnity, Commercial and Private Motor as well as many other specialist products, such as Marine Transit, Management Liability and Compulsory Third Party (CTP).

Is the drought affecting your business?

It is obviously having a great effect on many of our customers, in particular our farming clients.

A lot of our customers are struggling as a result of the drought, so it is more important than ever that they have an insurance provider that they can trust and have an informed discussion with regarding the protection of their assets. We are certainly empathetic to the situation many of our clients are in and are very mindful of this when discussing how best to protect their assets in these tough economic times.

How can we contact you?

Our Tamworth office is located at 423 Peel Street, and our office number is (02) 6767 3577, or we can be contacted by email on InsuranceNE@Elders.com.au - alternatively our customers or potential clients can contact any of our three offices on the details listed in the advertisement on this page.

New England focus. 37

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

June 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

You are about to tumble into a new experience, filled with passion and natural talent. Listen to your intuition, as you will be divinely guided along the way. You are being given an opportunity to strengthen your self-worth and your self-confidence, which will enable you to receive bigger and better things out of life.

Carnelian is a very powerful motivating crystal.

Your attention is being called to your appreciation this month. You have been too caught up in life’s challenges to recognise the things in life that make your heart sing. Try keeping a gratitude diary for several weeks, where you write down three things daily you are thankful for, as this will establish new patterns of gratitude. Turquoise is great for expression.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You need to make a choice. There are beautiful gifts coming into your reality, but you need to know you deserve these things.

Sit quietly somewhere in nature and state (even to yourself) what your heart desires, then give yourself permission to receive it.

Aventurine is great to carry for changes.

Listen to your inner voice. Your restlessness is quieting, and change is imminent. Pay attention to cycle’s endings and know when to move ahead. Opportunity to express your creative self is approaching, so remain focused until the task is complete. Citrine connects our imagination to our intellect, resulting in new ideas.

Life has felt challenging to say the least recently, but try to re-connect with your laughter to ease your fears of the unknown.

You have a brilliant sense of humour, and this aspect of your nature will keep you excited about the future.

Ruby shatters fears and rejuvenates a love of life.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Celebrations are on their way, so don’t give up your dream. You have needed to recognise your own strength and independence, so you can succeed. Don’t allow the frustration of feeling suspended to spoil your passion or focus.

Ruby worn daily energises the aura with passion and persistence.

You have answers to other people’s dilemmas. This is because you have a cosmic understanding of life. You are a natural teacher and other people are drawn to you, because they know you have their answers. Don’t be afraid to speak; just be aware of your motive.

Sugilite helps us to connect to our dreams for understanding life from different perspectives.

The world is your oyster. You will soon be finishing off old business ties and making ways for new opportunities so be prepared.

Some new friends are entering the picture, which is why old relationships are fading away. Words need to be spoken to clear some old issues. Speak your truth from your heart. Zincite helps creation of new ideas.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Love life and relationships should be lifting your mood. Enjoy the little things in life, to realign your energy with joy that can be lasting. Don’t be afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love; wear it.

38 New England focus.

Don’t get caught up in holding on to garbage or things that are not a priority; this takes your confidence out of the picture, leaving you wondering where to go next. Set some fresh goals and enjoy!

Selenite is great for an abundance of crystal-clear energy.

“Enjoy the moment” is this month’s lesson.

You have the chance to soul search and look deeply within. Treat your discoveries with respect, as this will help you to grow at a tremendous pace. Self-appraisal should be an honouring process Kunzite and Hiddenite give us inner balance and harmony. Try wearing some.

Make a wish, but be aware of WHY you want what you are asking for. The universe is calling for your attention to your personal needs. Release fears of being proficiently able to support yourself.

Larimar enables us to nurture ourselves.

ON THE COFFS COAST

New England focus. 39

eat , stay, play

Whale watching T H E

ON THE COFFS COAST

B E S T

E N CO U N T E R S

Coffs Coast is known for its gorgeous beaches, fantastic surfing, incredible marine park and warm all year round sub-tropical weather.

The region offers endless days discovering wildlife adventures in pristine landscapes, days filled with warm blue skies by the sea, and the ultimate nature experience - whale watching!

F

rom May to October, Humpback Whales habitually turn on a show of spectacular surfacing behaviours, from slapping their fins and tails, to spy-hopping and breaching.

Occasionally they are accompanied by their rarer relatives, including Southern Right, Sperm and Minke Whales, creating a once in a lifetime experience for keen-eyed whale watchers.

There are a myriad of stunning elevated vantage spots that are ideal for watching acrobatic breaches from dry land, as whales frolic out to sea or in the protected inlets.

The famous Muttonbird Island in Coffs Harbour, reached from the marina walking paths, offer spectacular 360 degree panorama views of beach and hinterland, when you’ll suddenly glimpse the dorsal fins of a pod of whales cruising by.

You can get up-close with the majestic giants on a whale watching tour, or for the ultimate nature encounter, book a Whale Swim with Jetty Dive Centre.

40 New England focus.

Mornings prove to be prime time for viewing the inquisitive giants; the first glimpses of morning sun kiss the ocean as local fishing boats crawl back to the harbour after a long night.

There is a refreshing chill in the salty air, as resident seagulls guard their domain in hungry anticipation.

This is “magic hour” for Mike Davey (Jetty Dive), as he heads out into the deeper waters that have been his playground for more than 20 years. Davey knows the ocean landscape intimately and expertly navigates his vessel past Muttonbird Island and into the blue of the Solitary Islands Marine Park. He cuts the outboard motor and waits. Solitary. Silence.

Not long after, the quiet is broken by the familiar blow of a lone Humpback Whale porpoising nearby. Casting an eye on the horizon of the pristine Pacific Ocean, you see tell-tale sprays of migratory whales, as they signal their arrival to the Coffs Coast enroute to North Queensland.

Experiencing this display in person is one of the most profound of all wildlife experiences, and the Coffs Coast is fast becoming a renowned destination for its world-class whale interaction experiences.

Whales have a way of connecting us to nature.

When you watch a whale leaping from the pristine waters of the Coffs Coast and slowly spiral in joy, remember to put down the camera for just a moment and immerse yourself in this truly transformative experience.

For more information visit www.coffscoast.com.au #coffs4whales #coffscoast #naturallyconnected

Best land viewing locations on the Coffs Coast • Woolgoolga Headland • Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, adjacent to the Coffs Harbour Marina • Boambee Headland and Boambee Beach • Sawtell Headland and Bongil Bongil National Park • Moonee Beach Nature Reserve and Look At Me Now Headland near Emerald Beach • Arrawarra Headland • Hungry Head Headland Coffs Coast Whale Watching Tour Operators Jetty Dive* - P: (02) 6651 1611 Pacific Explorer - P: 0422 210 338 *Jetty Dive also offers Swim with the Humpback Whales Tour

focusinterview.

ON THE COFFS COAST

W

hat drew you into the music industry? Were you singing from a young age?

I started singing in the church choir when I was three years old, so I’ve been singing all my life. But as I got older, I still sang a little, but it wasn’t something I was really serious about until recently. It wasn’t until 2014 that I started singing professionally.

Before I would sing for church, weddings, talent shows for fun, things like that, but it wasn’t anything serious I was trying to pursue. I started out doing backup singing first, and then that just sort of led in to me singing lead. But, I’m really enjoying it; I love it!

How did you and Chris cross paths?

So, I was actually singing backup with a band that I’m a part of called Lance Lapinski and the Lovers, and he was a sub on guitar for our show, and we met then. But then afterwards he had a show of his own; I was actually out with my husband on his birthday and Chris was performing, and he asked me to sit in on a song. We did Jim Dandy, because that was one of the songs that I sang in the show that he subbed in, so we both knew that one - but we didn’t have any other songs. Everybody was like, “Encore! Encore!” and we were like, “We don’t have anything else though!”

After that we talked. I told him I wanted to come out with a 45, and he said he could help me with that. We started rehearsing and we recorded some things in his basement, and now those songs we recorded are on our EP. From there we just started doing shows together, and we’ve been doing that ever since.

So how long have you been working together now?

We started rehearsing last October/ November I think, but our first actual show

Tammi Savoy and the Chris Casello Combo are going to be PLAYING AT THE BELLO WINTER MUSIC FESTIVAL THIS YEAR, COMING ALL THE WAY FROM CHICAGO IN THE U.S. THEIR MUSIC TAKES YOU TO ANOTHER ERA, and they’re sure to be a stand out at the festival with their unique style. We spoke to Tammi about the show, how she and Chris came together to form the band, and what we can expect to see. together was last year at the Nashville Boogie. That was at the end of May last year.

What have been some of your favourite venues or shows so far?

Oh my goodness! That’s kinda hard, because there have been a lot of good ones!

But I would say, we did a show that was at the Arcada Theatre; we opened for Tommy James, and then we also had our own set after that at the speak-easy they have upstairs.

I really enjoyed that, being able to play at both venues at the Arcada Theatre. And I really like the Arcada Theatre,because it’s really fancy and it has that old-school feel to it! It’s a very historic place; I think it was built in the early 1900s, and they kept the old decor and everything. I just love being there.

Listening to your music, you get taken back to another time almost. What era of music are you most inspired by?

What I do in my set is music from the '50s, mostly. But, I sing all kinds of music from all different eras, and I feel like they all influence my sound. When I was younger, my best memories are of being in the car with the family and listening to old-school music - things like Motown, old soul music, jazz, just everything from every decade! But in my set I do mostly '50s songs by artists whose songs were more obscure, maybe that a lot of people don’t really know much about, and I want to bring attention back to those songs.

Can you tell us a bit about your wardrobe? You often seem to be wearing these amazing, old style dresses. How extensive is your wardrobe, and where does it all come from?

The funny thing is that people often think that they are stage costumes, and they’re actually just clothes that are in my closet already! I’ve always loved vintage style since I was younger. I would look at old Hollywood films from the '30s, '40s

and '50s and also the women who used to sing back in the day, like Ella Fitzgerald and Peggy Lee, and they all dress like that on stage with the big band behind them - and that just stuck with me! I always liked that style, and I just wanted it for myself!

So, even before I started singing professionally, I already had a lot of these outfits in my closet! It’s a style I love, and at first I started dressing up for special occasions, but then after a while I was like, “This is me; this is what I do!” and I figured I might as well just dress like this all the time!

I’ve noticed that Chris and the band get all kitted up too. It makes it quite a show - not just about the music.

And the crazy thing is, I don’t ever tell them what to wear - they pick their own clothes. I know a lot of times with bands they want to coordinate and make sure everybody looks the same, but I’ve never told them what to wear - and I’m fine with whatever they choose! And it’s funny, because with Chris Casello, it seems like his clothes always seem to end up coordinating with mine, even though we don’t talk about it beforehand or plan it; it just works out that way!

Is this your first time to Australia?

What are you looking forward to?

Yes, it is! And it’s Chris’ first time to Australia as well. It’s very exciting. Having never been there, I don’t really know what to expect, but I know that people have told me that it’s nice there even in the winter so I’m looking forward to nice weather! I’m sure it’s nothing like winter in Chicago!

Thanks Tammi.

Tammi Savoy and the Chis Casello Combo playing at Bello Winter Music on July 11th until 14th. Tickets available from www.bellowintermusic.com New England focus. 41

ON THE COFFS COAST

Apartments H O L I D AY

The Observatory Holiday Apartments commenced in December 2000. It is a family-owned business with proactive members involved in the community. Friendly Managers Daniel and Emily will gladly greet you on arrival, and we sat down with them to find out more …

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here are The Observatory Apartments in Coffs Harbour, and why is their position so unique?

The Observatory Holiday Apartments are surrounded by the unique atmosphere and vibrance of the Coffs Harbour’s popular Jetty area. Our apartments are centrally located, with an easy walk to the beach, marina, markets, restaurants and shopping. We have fabulous views of the foreshore and Jetty Harbour. All our rooms have balconies and kitchens.

Why are the cooler months such a great time to travel to Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour has plenty of sunshine in winter and not much rain. Our average temperatures in winter are 22 degrees.

During June to September we have whales visit the area, and there are plenty of opportunities to see them either by taking a whale watching charter boat, or hiring one of our telescopes and viewing from your balcony.

Tell us about all the activities and dining that is within walking distance ...

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We have 14 cafés and restaurants, "Observatory Cash" was created as an We have 14 cafés all within walking distance of our incentive to encourage customers to book direct. and restaurants, apartments. There is plenty of choice to We offer a percentage of each direct booking all within walking suit all tastes. back to the guest in “Observatory Cash”, distance of our A short stroll is the marina, beach and which can be redeemed at a number of local apartments. There Mutton-bird Island, which has a viewing outlets. This is a great way to build community is plenty of choice to platform to sit and relax and watch for awareness and rapport with local outlets. When suit all tastes. birds and whales. booking, just mention “Armidale” on the phone Dolphin Marine Magic is a 10-minute or in the booking notes, and we will give you walk. They run two shows a day. There’s 10% of your booking in "Observatory Cash". penguin feeding, a turtle talk, fish feeding and even seal hugs How can people get in touch? and dolphin kisses.

Phone us on 1300 302 776 or (02) 6650 0462.

Every Sunday on the foreshores is the Harbour Markets, which Bookings via our website - www.theobservatory.com.au have an array of food, produce and handmade goods.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for special deals and What is "Observatory Cash"? upcoming events in Coffs Harbour. We also offer gift vouchers.

ON THE COFFS COAST

Questacon's

BY T E

FREE IS

ON

AT

PARK

W I S E

BEACH

PLAZA

T

These school holidays, Park Beach Plaza, Coffs Harbour will be hosting the Questacon’s "Byte Wise" Exhibition from 29th June to 21st July.

he Questacon's travelling strives to bring regional kids opportunities exhibition Byte Wise engages they may not otherwise be able to visit or see. visitors with challenges Following the success of our last Questacon drawn from mathematics and exhibition, Science On The Move, we hope computer science. The Byte Byte Wise will be equally as popular with the Wise young and young at heart, exhibition can be enjoyed by because you’re never visitors of all ages. too old for the magic of Byte Wise contains 24 Questacon.”

'Byte Wise' contains exhibits that offer a range To ensure everyone has 24 exhibits that offer of experiences to challenge the opportunity to enjoy a range of experiences and intrigue visitors, from Questacon, Park Beach to challenge and logic puzzles and code Plaza are also hosting intrigue visitors, from breaking to geometry. Play Sensory Sensitive Sessions logic puzzles and code noughts-and-crosses against for children/people with breaking to geometry. nothing but cards, challenge additional or special a non-electric computer to needs. These sessions are a game, and discover how scheduled from 9am to images are represented on digital displays.

10am on July 8 and 16. Bookings for these The Questacon travelling exhibition Byte Wise sessions are essential and can be made by calling is targeted at visitors aged 10 to 15 years, but is 6652 4366 during business hours. also accessible to the broader public.

The exhibition is open to the public daily in Park Beach Plaza’s Group Marketing Manager, the Promotions Court, and guess what - it’s Caroline Bleechmore said, “Park Beach Plaza FREE, thanks to Park Beach Plaza.

NE U J 29 O T LY U J 21 MON - WED THURS FRI - SAT SUNDAY

FREE

Interact ive Exhibiti on

10AM - 4PM 10AM - 7PM 10AM - 4PM 10AM - 3PM

LOCATED IN THE PROMOTIONS COURT

New England focus. 43

ON THE COFFS COAST

S H O P

is coming!

A T

VA S T

FOCUS had a chat with Heidi Brett, owner of Vast Interior Coffs Harbour, to find out more about style trends for winter …

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inter is coming, and it can’t come quick enough for me! I love the switch to the cooler months and the chance to indulge in some cozy textures,from warm woollen throws to faux fur cushions. So instead of turning on the heater this year, why not visit Vast and let us help you create your perfect cosy winter home? Here are my tips for taking the chill out of this winter and for enjoying those wintery days and nights; whether it’s curling up in that cozy chair reading a good book, or making a love nest and binging on Netflix, it’s time to start shopping.

GORGEOUS RUGS FOR THE FLOORS Those cool tiles, bare floor boards and polished concrete floors are great through the summer months for keeping us cool, but in winter they can be a bit chilly.

Adding a lovely new rug to your living areas won’t only keep your feet warm, but is an easy and affordable way to change your home or office décor to reflect the change in seasons and to bring in some colour and texture in the cooler months.

We have a huge range of rugs in store, from

44 New England focus.

beautiful natural jute, original Indian dhurries in cotton and wool blends and soft viscose chenilles.

If we don’t have what you’re after, we are more than happy to try and source the perfect rug for you.

THE BEAUTY OF NATURAL TIMBER Wood has an undeniable natural warmth, and adding some wooden accessories to your interior will create an inviting look this winter. Maybe a new stylish dining table, or one of our gorgeous coffee tables in our natural hardwood ranges could do the trick to add some warmth to your home this year.

COZY WINTER THROWS My favourite way to take the chill out of winter (and it’s my sneaky self indulgence) is to buy a new throw for winter. So, why not pamper yourself with a soft, cozy and oh so affordable throw this year, from gorgeous linens, chunky knits, faux fur, velour or even our gorgeous Indian cotton kantha throws. A lot of people confine their new throw to the bedroom, but adding them to your lounge or daybed with some additional cushions will ensure that your home exudes the visual warmth that we all crave through winter.

My favourite way to CUSHIONS extra bit of warmth and to create take the chill out of A girl can never have a welcoming cocoon on your winter (and it’s my too many cushions, and lounge that you won’t want to sneaky self indulgence) leave. they are an easy way to is to buy a new throw add some lux-inspired, ADD SOME GREENERY for winter. deeper coloured tones Not everyone is a green thumb to your home to bring (certainly not me) and I love a in some warmth during little bit of greenery in my home, the cooler months. Try to so I am a huge fan of the artificial inject rich tones like rust, browns and mustard, plant. Today’s artificial greenery is so much better or maybe some soft linens or faux fur for a bit than my days at Copper Art (no more silk flowers) of texture. Add these to your favourite throw to and bring on the real touch plants; you will be layer your textures and fabrics, to provide that astounded at how amazing they look.

ON THE COFFS COAST

R

E

Cove S

O

R

T

Opal Cove Resort, situated just north of Coffs Harbour, is the perfect winter getaway. We chatted with Tanya from the Opal Cove team, to find out more …

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hat are the top five reasons why winter is a fabulous time to escape to Opal Cove Resort?

1. The Best Value Winter Escape Package on the Coffs Coast has just been released, at only $160 per night, including accommodation, a complimentary bottle of wine and buffet breakfast for two!

2. Kids stay for free in winter when the Winter

Escape Package is booked! You only have to pay for their meals! (Max of four people per room, using existing bedding).

3. Whale Watching season is here - you can watch the whales from the comfort of your room, the Oceanview foyer or the beach, which is a short stroll through the resort gardens!

4. Perfect weather to enjoy outdoor and indoor activities, with average temperature between 8 - 20 degrees. You can relax poolside, enjoy the heated spa or sauna, be pampered at the Day

Spa, or have fun with a Segway adventure, mini Retreats? golf or a game of tennis!

We certainly do! Pamper packages with 5. Horizons Restaurant & Bar is open seven days Dreamtime Day Spa at Opal Cove, along with a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Happy accommodation and dining options are our Hour is every day from 5 - 6pm in the bar, and specialty! on Sunday nights the Winter Roast deal is back, Happy Hour is from 5 - 6pm every day and due to popular demand from locals and visitors! we can tailor a package for your needs!

Opal Cove is well known for its beautiful What makes the Coffs Coast the perfect weddings; what makes escape for our readers this place so special? from the New England Weddings at Opal Cove region? are popular with couples We love our visitors from We are finding that from around Australia. the New England region, couples are looking We are finding that who find that the Coffs for ‘Destination couples are looking for Coast is their “home away Weddings’, where their “Destination Weddings”, from home”. It is such an family where their family and easy destination to reach and friends can escape friends can escape for for a quick break! for a weekend together a weekend together, to The Coffs Coast region to celebrate their celebrate their special day. is blessed with spectacular special day.

Opal Cove is able to offer beaches, amazing multiple natural backdrops hinterland experiences and for Wedding Ceremonies, it is also become a foodie including the lagoon with ocean views, the paradise with awesome cafés, restaurants, beach, bush and the rainforest. markets and food festivals!

Featuring stunning scenery, Opal Cove is How can people get in touch? perfect for capturing lasting photographs and Call us on (02) 6651 0510 videos of your wedding day!

Email: res@opalcove.com or The passionate chefs at Opal Cove love to weddings@opalcove.com work with clients to create the perfect menu for Follow us on social media through Facebook their wedding reception. and Instagram. Check out our website: Do you offer Hens’ Weekends and www.opalcove.com.au

New England focus. 45

ON THE COFFS COAST

focusinterview.

Two W I N E S

NANA GLEN

It’s been a flourishing couple of years for Madonna and Barry Bannerman, owners of Two Tails Winery in Nana Glen. Two years ago they opened the doors to Velvets Restaurant, producing fine quality paddock to plate dishes, as well as exceptional customer service.

FOCUS had a chat with Madonna, to find out more about their story and the success …

H

ow did your Two Tails Wines story begin?

I’ve always enjoyed wine, and had toyed with the idea of opening a restaurant for years. I saw the business for sale on the internet one day and kept coming back to see if it was still there. After about 12 months, I convinced my husband, Barry, that we should come down from Ballina and have a look. After seeing the property and realising its potential, we made an offer - and haven’t looked back.

Tell us about Velvets Restaurant. Why did you decide to open a restaurant, and how has the business grown since inception?

I wanted to offer something unique to the area, and the restaurant was the obvious natural progression from the cellar door. The success of Velvets has undoubtedly been our greatest achievement since we came to the business. I couldn’t have dreamed that it would be so warmly embraced by the local community. We are just about to celebrate our second birthday, and I’m amazed that we’re still booked out almost every weekend (hint ... book in advance!) We’ve also started opening for breakfasts on weekends, which is proving very popular.

Who makes up your team, and what are

46 New England focus.

their roles?

Our food preparation team is led by an amazing female chef in Jodie, who comes with 28 years of experience working in different kitchens throughout the world. She is a passionate local who loves to give back to the community. Jodie prides herself on creating unique dishes that are all made fresh on the premises using local ingredients from the Orara Valley and surrounding areas, some which are even grown on site.

Jodie is supported by a wonderful sous chef in Siobhan, who after completing her apprenticeship on the Coffs Coast made a move to New Zealand to further her passion for food. She creates our beautiful desserts and assists Jodie in all aspects of the kitchen operation. We consider ourselves very lucky to have snapped her up when she returned to the Valley a short time ago.

Our remaining kitchen "crew" is mostly made up of young local boys who have grown up in Nana Glen and have the opportunity to work right on their doorstep.

Tell us about the process of how you turn the grapes into wine.

Starting in about January, we begin to harvest. We employ local people to help us with the hard job of picking the grapes.

Immediately the grapes are picked, we take them to our winemaker, who begins

the process of turning them into wine. All throughout I have input into the final product, determining flavour, sweetness, depth, and colour, so despite being bottled off site, the wines that come from our grapes are very much ours. Despite the backbreaking work of picking the grapes at the beginning, it’s hugely rewarding to watch them being turned into wines that our customers can enjoy.

What style of wine can people enjoy when the visit?

We offer traditional favourites, such as Chardonnay, Sparkling White and Rosé, along with some less common varieties like Villard Blanc and Chambourcin. These last two are grapes that grow particularly well in our warm, humid climate. We also have on offer a range of fortified wines, such as our port styled Lizards Blood and our unique Blueberries in Wine.

All of our wines are designed to be light, easy drinking styles. We’re more than happy to offer a tasting of our range to not just our restaurant customers, but also to those who might just want to come for a drive on a Sunday afternoon.

How important is wine matching when it comes to dining at Velvets?

Of course there are foods which complement and are complemented by different styles of wines. Our staff are always happy to help

customers with matching specific wines with food if they choose, but I’ve always been a believer that you drink and eat what you enjoy first and foremost.

We’ve recently hosted a wine and cheese appreciation night with the help of our friends at The Provedores. When in doubt, just remember that all wine tastes better with cheese!

Tell us about some of the suppliers you use and how important it is to support local?

All of our suppliers are based right here on the Coffs Coast. We use fresh local ingredients from the Orara Valley, such as Black Standard Beef from just up the road at Nana Glen, free range organic eggs from Waterfall Produce, and fresh fruit and veg from Tutti Fruiti, who source a lot of their range from Dorrigo through to Grafton.

We believe supporting local suppliers allows us to showcase what fabulous produce and entrepreneurs we have right here in the beautiful valley.

Suppliers such as The Provedores and Artisti Coffee go above and beyond to make sure they are providing exceptional products and also delivering a range of knowledge to help us educate and train our staff and customers when it comes to particular styles of coffee and selection of food.

Thanks Madonna.

New England focus. 47

ON THE COFFS COAST

T

Aanuka to

B E AC H

R E S O R T

Escape to the tropical oasis of BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort in Coffs Harbour, located on the Mid North Coast of NSW. Located alongside beautiful Diggers Beach, the resort is ideal for families and couples, with a variety of accommodation styles and recreation and relaxation all rolled into one, making for a delightful sunny escape to the Coffs Coast.

he resort is situated on 15 Take time out for a relaxing beach and acres and nestled amongst headland walk along Diggers Beach; you sub-tropical gardens, ideally may even be lucky enough to spot a whale situated only a short drive breaching out in the Pacific Ocean, all just a from the major attractions short stroll from your accommodation. of the Big Banana, Dolphin When hunger strikes, relax over awardMarine Magic and the Coffs Harbour Jetty. winning food and wine at Casay on the Beach Explore the best of the Coffs Coast hinterland, resorts onsite restaurant, which offers amazing with a drive along the ocean views and is open waterfall way to World daily for lunch and dinner.

Heritage listed forests of End your day by relaxing Dorrigo National Park. into the afternoon beside Your choice of Your choice of the glowing fire pits on the accommodation ranges accommodation ranges lawns over happy from modern Hotel COFFS-hour with from modern Hotel Studio a cocktail, taking in the Studio Rooms and Rooms and Paradise Spa array of colours in the sky Paradise Spa Bures Bures perfect for couples, over Diggers Beach as the perfect for couples, through to spacious Three sun sets.

For the ultimate in through to spacious Bedroom Spa Villas that relaxation, treat yourself to Three Bedroom Spa can sleep up to six guests. a massage or facial at the Villas that can sleep up Start your day energised, Mi-Time Day Spa. to six guests. with a full buffet breakfast For those looking to in the elevated Finz venue celebrate their next event, and watch the sunrise the resort has a dedicated and waves roll in over the sand on picturesque events team, with three function venues, two Diggers Beach. with ocean views and lawns to wow your At BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort you will guests. For those tying the knot, say I do on love the endless recreation facilities, great for the beachside lawns, in the resort's onsite the kids and the big kids at heart. The choices chapel or with the sand between your toes on include an outdoor rock pool with slide, Diggers Beach. children's pool and play area, cave spas, tennis Contact the friendly reservations team courts, mini putt putt golf, beach volleyball and to start planning your weekend escape of the list goes on. relaxation on the beautiful Coffs Coast.

Need a break? Follow the sunshine to the Coffs Coast

$179

per night in a Paradise Spa Bure including buffet breakfast for two.

Complimentary bottle of wine on arrival and a $50.00 dining voucher at Casay on the Beach.

To book, call (02) 66 527 555 or email aanuka.res@breakfree.com.au *Conditions apply. Minimum 2 night stay required. Applies to all new bookings made between 1 May 2019 to 30 September 2019. Made direct when calling the resort on (02) 66 527 555 and mentioning ‘Focus Magazine’ at the time of call. Subject to availability.

48 New England focus.

focus_tourism

WITH FIONA BARDEN

ON THE COFFS COAST

events+ UPDATE

Visitors love the Coffs Coast The spectacular nature based experiences of the Coffs Coast and the passion of our local tourism operators are paying off with increased tourism visitation numbers.

A

fter a wonderful sun abundant array of nature based attractions drenched summer and the and experiences, prioritising these activities to whirl of the recent school markets in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and holidays, the Coffs Coast Regional NSW. can celebrate growing One of the aims of Council’s Industry tourism numbers. Recent and Destination Development section is visitation statistics have shown the Coffs to facilitate the growth of a strong and Coast welcomed almost two million visitors sustainable tourism industry into the future in 2018, a substantial increase from previous through education and support across years. As a multi gateway destination, a 16% all areas of the industry. The industry increase in overnight visitors from other parts “Champions” program fosters a collaborative of Australia and close to industry approach by 100,000 international encouraging operators visitors has driven this to engage and share success. While guests business knowledge are drawn to the region and support. These While guests are drawn to the for a variety of reasons, quarterly Champions region for a variety of reasons, it is the interaction with events provide a time it is the interaction with the the spectacular natural and cost-effective way spectacular natural assets and assets and experiential for businesses to keep experiential opportunities opportunities that their finger on the that have enamoured visitors have enamoured pulse of activities and to the Coffs Coast. visitors to the Coffs experiences available Coast. These natureon the Coffs Coast, to based experiences are share with visitors they consistently rated as a come into contact with. vital part of a destination The team have received great support visit. from businesses across the region for these Coffs Coast boasts protected National Parks, initiatives and have created a calendar of nature reserves and 71,000 ha of marine relevant business workshops to take place park which play host to a number of these over the next 12 months. The next event, experiences and provide a beautiful base for in June, focuses on business marketing in visitors and locals to enjoy. With an estimated the form of creating effective and engaging 150 different species of birds in the hinterland content as a business story. To find out and an extraordinary 550 fish species, along more about what is involved in becoming a with turtles and dolphins just off our shores, Champion or book in to the June workshop, the abundance of flora and fauna adds to the email paradise@coffscoast.com.au delight of visitors to our region.

The ultimate showcase of visitor experience Regional Tourism Organisation, Destination on the Coffs Coast is through the newly North Coast highlight the importance of created destination video produced to activities involving nature and the outdoors highlight the natural connection available on for visitor satisfaction, showcasing that the Coffs Coast - connection with family, with visitors stay on average 18% longer in the nature and with each other. Check it out on region when they participate in these types of www.coffscoast.com activities. The Coffs Coast capitalises on the #coffscoast #naturallyconnected

The Amble Inn Corindi Beach No pub crawl would be complete without a visit to the beautiful Amble Inn Hotel, nestled in the picturesque coastal plains at Corindi Beach. With sweeping ocean views and timber cathedral ceilings, The Amble Inn offers a relaxing place to dine and enjoy a refreshing drink. Catering for all seasons, you can enjoy a cold beer on the verandah in the ocean breeze.

catch the Amble Inn Courtesy Bus and discover what we have to offer. Set amongst landscaped gardens, the hotel has full TAB facilities, Keno, Foxtel and 13 beers on tap, including Matilda Bay Craft Beers. We also have raffles, a members’ draw and live music on Friday nights and trivia nights every second Wednesday.

Enjoy a warm and friendly welcome in our rustic décor, which incorporates Australian Hardwoods throughout the massive 1,100 square metre building. A wander around the hotel will reveal many other local history pieces and local crafts, such as the wagon wheels fitted to the ceiling and the impressive stained glass window.

To make your visit complete, the Top-Knotch Brasserie at the Amble Inn offers a variety of delicious pub classics, including sizzling steaks, gourmet burgers, fresh seafood, pizzas, kids’ meals and blackboard specials. A selection of $12.50 lunch specials is available seven days a week. Overlooking an expansive outdoor beer garden, there is also a jumping castle and

What better way to beat the elements than to

amusements to keep the whole family happy.

New England focus. 49

4D ON THE COFFS COAST

big banana

AT THE BIG BAN ANA FUN PAR K!

T

Triotech, market leaders in design, development and manufacturing of multi-sensory interactive attractions, have completed the installation of a new XD Theatre at The Big Banana Fun Park.

his 4D Ride Simulator is not only a great addition to the variety of attractions the Coffs Coast has to offer for tourism in the area, but it also provides a unique experience for locals, as this 4D Ride Simulator is the only one of its kind between Sydney and the Gold Coast.

The 4D Ride Simulator includes eight mechanical seats with independent movement control, lighting and wind effects, an advanced 3D projection system and the latest 4D Ride Simulator movies available, which makes it one of the most immersive 4D Ride Simulator experiences available. The intimate eight-seat theatre provides a much more realistic experience than other larger installations around the world.

Featuring four of the latest 4D Ride Simulator films in the world, including: MOON THUNDER A routine moon mission turns into crisis when a meteor shower strikes hard. Survival depends on a fast emergency evacuation!

Join our astronaut crew in this thrilling escape from the collapsing surroundings of the moon base. Will you reach the escape pod in time?

D I N O S A FA R I 2 Dino Safari 2 is the thrilling new ride-film from Red Star 3D and the sequel to the smash-hit DINO SAFARI. Simulator riders

50 New England focus.

return to the same dinosaur safari park from The Big Banana Fun Park General Manager the first film, but the tranquillity of the tour Michael Lockman said he had worked on is shattered when a poacher abducts a baby getting a 4D Ride Simulator attraction for five dinosaur and we race off in a high-speed years, before sourcing the right product for pursuit. Will we survive a barrage of deadly the park. dinosaur encounters to “In late 2016, we free the captive creature visited IAAPA in Orlando, and escape?

Florida, which is the CANYON largest amusement COASTER exhibition in the world; These films have been Jump on board this this is where we met the chosen to ensure we are breathtaking roller team from Triotech and catering for the different coaster adventure! This were able to experience age groups that visit the exciting travel will take the simulator first hand,” park; from our younger you in the canyons and Mr Lockman said. visitors through to the caves of the American “Triotech have young at heart, there is South West. Are you installations all over the something for everyone. ready for the ride of world, including Warner your life!?

Brothers, Lego Land, WILD Universal Studios, Heide WEST MINE RIDE Park and many more.

Get ready for an “We were very action-packed ride with a luckless Sheriff impressed with the product and their trackand his trusty steed, as they chase a ruthless record in the industry. bank robber through the Wild West. Will the “We are very excited to be able to bring bungling duo survive the runway mine cart this state-of-the-art experience to the Coffs ride and bring the bandit to justice?

Coast.”

These films have been chosen to ensure The 4D Ride Simulator is the sixth attraction we are catering for the different age groups added to the park in the last five years. that visit the park; from our younger visitors Laserforce Laser Tag Arena was introduced in through to the young at heart, there is 2013, a 36-hole Mini Golf course in 2014, the something for everyone. biggest Water Park between Sydney and the

Gold Coast in 2015, the biggest Giant Slide in the country and Go Bananas Fun Zone in 2017, and now the 4D Ride Simulator.

The Big Banana Fun Park Sales and Events Coordinator Nadia Friend said the 4D Ride Simulator is a unique addition to the park.

“Triotech’s advanced technology makes the ride so realistic, it’s an exhilarating experience like no other,” Miss Friend said. “The chair movement can be compared to that of a roller coaster, and you really do get a sense of speed. The feedback we have received since opening the 4D Ride is outstanding, and it’s a must-try!”

These great attractions complement the existing ones, including the Ice Skating Rink, Toboggan Ride and World of Bananas Theatre & Tour Experience and the existing facilities such as Going Bananas Café, our Gift and Souvenir Shop, Candy Making Kitchen, Opal Centre and Cheesemaking Workshop.

In 2019, we will welcome a whole new experience to the Fun Park, Steve McEwan’s Reptile World!

For more information on all of the exciting rides and attractions that The Big Banana Fun Park has to offer, visit www.bigbanana.com or drop in at any time to check it out for yourself.

1 LASER T AG MISSI ON PLUS 2 TOBOG GAN RID ES PLUS 2 GIANT SLIDES P 18 HOLES LUS OF MINI GOLF 1 ICE SKA PLUS TING SES SION 1 THEATR PLUS E EXPERI ENCE P L U S 1 4D RIDE SIMULAT OR

K NA FUN PAR A N A B IG B E TH

201

ONLY

29

$

.90

*Name and age required for Big Day Out pass. 10% discount applies to one transaction per specialty shop.

Must be used on the one day and tickets cannot be shared. $29.90 per person, valid from 27th April - 27th Sept 2019.

Not valid with any other discount or offer. Must be purchased from the Main Ticket Office (next to Gift Shop).

WWW.BIGBANANA.COM | PH: 02 6652 4355 | 351 PACIFIC HWY, COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 New England focus. 51

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