New England Focus i148

Much Ado About Nothing

September 2019. issue 148

S T U A R T

H A R R I S

CHOPPER Paramedic

2 New England focus.

focus_ team.

Pic courtesy of Illumination Photography

team From the

W

Welcome to the September edition of New England FOCUS.

elcome to the New England ...

Frosty, cold and fresh.

Sunny, hot and dry ... Dry being the operative word here.

The New England has a new landscape - or moonscape - shall we say. Upon travelling around the New England, there is a new colour mixing in the hills - a mix between the brown dirt, light yellow of dying grasses, the grey of dead twigs and the pale green of leaf litter.

The trees have a new tinge of deep

contacts.

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purple and a new hue of unseen greens. I guess I’m trying to say in the many years I’ve lived here (15 or so years) I’ve not seen it this bad, not experienced such a devastating drought.

But things are not all bad, and the show must go on. This is why we are here - to give you an insight into the New England in all its glory, even if we are having tough times.

Take our cover star, local hero Stuart Harris, a paramedic with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. Stuart helps our community members at their most vulnerable and fragile.

Or take Chloe Hoy, for example,

setting up the Rural Women’s Gathering, connecting women in similar situations to talk, share and workshop over a weekend.

These local champions are making a difference to the community; so many of us are doing our part to help this dire situation. We just need everybody to do their part (and maybe a little extra) - mainly the weather! Let’s hope for some good long lasting soaking rain to give the dry New England a well needed drink.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone

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GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michael Marchment

amber@focusmag.com.au

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SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Jo Robinson

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Finally, we’d like to farewell our friend, and long time “mother” of the FOCUS family, Tracy Le Messurier. We miss you already and forever in our hearts.

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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

contents Issue 148 - September 2019

focusinterviews

9

Much ado about Nothing.

feature a special

HOME AND GARDEN

A timeless tale involving machinations, false accusations, miscommunication and the power of love to potentially overcome it all … Duncan Ragg plays Benedick in Bell Shakespeare’s production of Much Ado About Nothing, which will be visiting Capitol Theatre at Tamworth on September 27 …

15

48

Running in the Rough.

If you’ve ever thought about stepping outside your comfort zone … there’s no better time than NOW! Andrew Purkiss has faced more challenges than most of us, and he’s a keen fan of the Duval Dam Buster event.

40

Usual Suspects

Rural Women’s Gathering.

the

Want to join a network of women in similar rural backgrounds to yourself? Feel like getting away for a weekend and doing something exciting? FOCUS talks with Chloe Hoy about this year’s Rural Women’s Gathering, which will be held in Walcha ...

8. WHAT’S ON SEPTEMBER 22. TOURISM WITH KATRINA GEORGE 32. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI

43

35. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE 37. MINDING YOUR BUSINESS WITH ANTHONY FOX 45. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN

Matilda the Musical.

The Creative Arts and Music staff at PLC Armidale are excited, and for very good reason. PLC Armidale is the first school in the New England / North West region to be granted the rights to perform “Matilda the Musical”, Tim Minchin’s contemporary musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s, “Matilda”.

4 New England focus.

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

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focusinterview. focus

FOR MOST OF US, IT WOULD BE HARD TO IMAGINE GOING TO WORK, WITH NO TWO DAYS EVER THE SAME … AND NOT ONLY THAT, BUT KNOWING THE LIVES OF OTHERS DEPEND ON OUR SKILL, OUR COURAGE, AND OUR QUICK THINKING.

S T U A R T

H A R R I S

CHOPPER

Paramedic

S

tuart Harris is a paramedic … his role with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service based in Tamworth means he’s in constant demand and often placed in high pressure situations. Having personally flown around 500 missions in the chopper, Stuart is part of a vital team of nurses, doctors, engineers, fundraisers and fellow paramedics …

Hi Stuart. What originally brought you to the Tamworth area to live and work?

My fiancée and a dare! My fiancée, Alicia, and I were living in Sydney, both in a bit of a rut. An opportunity presented itself to work in Tamworth, the home of Alicia’s family. I applied, was offered the position - but then got cold feet. After talking to a couple of mates, they effectively dared me to go. Once I moved, I knew it was a good decision.

Why did you decide to train as a paramedic, and where did you complete your studies?

Throughout my schooling, I was hoping to become a veterinarian; however, as it happens, following high school I wasn’t certain I could afford or complete the six year university course.

I was fortunate to play Rugby with a bloke who had become a paramedic, and he convinced me to apply.

How did you first become involved with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service?

Following my transfer to Tamworth in 2004, I was told there was a position for an Intensive Care Paramedic on the helicopter, so I was

6 New England focus.

merely wanted to pass another I personally enjoy working message on to his in a highly skilled, neighbour about multidisciplinary team, feeding the dog. and I have learned so I was also part much working closely of a large team with the various trained and working on it by involved in a terrible professions. The nurses have 2005. incident at Warialda helped me the most in my role.

How many missions have in 2007, which you personally flown with resulted when the service? a utility carrying It would be a guess, but I seven unrestrained would estimate about 500. teenagers rolled.

Obviously we can't go into specific details It was memorable, because of the amazing about patients, but what's a mission or two response launched by the local emergency you've flown that particularly stick in your services and hospital staff to an overwhelming mind due to their complicated nature or incident involving some of their own. mental/physical impact on you?

It is also infamous, because our helicopter Every mission, every patient, and every story suffered engine failure en route, and we ended is unique. up crashing in a field. Fortunately, in our case, One distinctly country mission I recall was no one was injured. an older chap in a rural area who, while felling Run us through some stats for the trees, became trapped under a fallen tree, helicopter service based at Tamworth which broke his lower leg, arm and injured his specifically ... roughly how many missions chest. He was alone, had no phone coverage, would it fly each year? but managed to dig his way out from under the The workload varies seasonally and annually; tree over the next hour or so. however, across the bases we fly approximately He then got in his column shift manual utility, 1,400 missions a year. and drove back to his home (opening and In Tamworth we fly over 400; however, the closing three gates in the journey). He took six distances we travel are greater than the other aspirin (NOT recommended) for the pain. two bases.

Eventually, it was the neighbour who called From the moment a call for help comes in, us, after he had been summonsed to help the how long does it generally take for you injured man feed some livestock. After some and the crew to mobilise and get airborne? convincing, he agreed to go to the hospital We are called for a variety of work, including but just as the aircraft’s skids were about to lift out-of-hospital incidents (primary missions), off, he frantically waved his arms. inter-hospital, and search and rescue missions.

I called an emergency stop to proceedings, in These all have different levels of planning; but, case he was experiencing some life-threatening for the simpler taskings we can be airborne complication or had noticed something within 10 minutes. concerning, like fire in the engine. In fact, he What geographic areas does the Tamworth

service cover?

The key area we operate in is the northwest; however, we are a key part of the State’s Aeromedical Service, so can be tasked anywhere within the state.

Due to interstate agreements, we regularly cross the borders as well. I have flown to patients in Bourke, Goondiwindi, Nyngan and Orange, while we have transferred patients to specialist hospitals in Brisbane and Sydney.

How many team members are on base at Tamworth, and what are their roles?

Thirty-five members of our team work from the base in Tamworth. Twenty four hours a day and seven days a week, you would be lucky not to find some of the hardworking marketing staff, who work tirelessly to raise funds to ensure their goal of no patient having to pay for using the aircraft.

The engineers are available around the clock, to ensure these complex aircraft are airworthy.

In the aircraft, our standard configuration includes a pilot, aircrew officer, doctor and paramedic.

What do you love most about your role with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service?

The most satisfying part of my role is supporting the rural communities, hospitals and paramedics.

I personally enjoy working in a highly skilled, multidisciplinary team, and I have learned so much working closely with the various professions. The nurses have helped me the most in my role.

What's the best way for the general public to find out more about the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, or to make a donation?

The best way is to visit the website at: www.rescuehelicopter.com.au Thanks Stuart.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

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New England focus. 7

focus_What’s On New England

S E P T E M B E R

First Saturday chats

7

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 7th September 2019. As this is a popular program, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

7

Gold Buckle Futurity and Reining Australia National Championships In 2019, Reining Australia celebrates 30 years of the Reining Australia National Championships, and you're invited to join the action with FREE entry for spectators over nine big days!

These National Championships bring out the passion, the emotion and all that goes with the excitement of reining.

The pen's huge, the ground's fast and the big stoppers will get set to post some big scores! Don't miss it!

When Saturday 7th - 15th September 2019.

Where Aelec, Goonoo Goonoo Rd, Tamworth.

Admission FREE for spectators.

8

Women's Health Forum

Tamworth Women’s Health Forum coincides with Women’s Health Week, which focuses on a different aspect of health each day, from movement to reproductive health, chest and mental health. Along with the doctors' talks, the Women’s Health Forum will have a number of exhibitor stalls and services on hand. A great opportunity for women to take some time out for themselves and a chance to get evidence-based information from the right sources.

When Sunday, September 8. Time 9am to 12:30pm.

Where Tamworth Jockey Club. Entry is $15.

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12

ASFAS Colin DAVIES (UK Arts Society Lecturer)

Living without architecture - the story of the prefabricated home. Colin Davies is an architect, a former editor of The Architects’ Journal and a regular contributor to architectural magazines worldwide. He was until recently Professor of Architectural Theory at London Metropolitan University. There was a time in the early Twentieth Century when a group of progressive architects dreamt of changing the world by revolutionising the ordinary house.

They produced many theoretical designs and built many prototypes, but none ever went into production. https://www.trybooking.com/BAQDQ When 6pm, Thursday 12th September.

Where Michael Hoskins Centre, The Armidale School.

How much Guests are most welcome, and a $25 fee applies per lecture.

21

Walcha Farmers Market

The markets include gourmet and organic fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, meat, bread and baked goods, dairy, poultry, condiments, wine, coffee, teas, spices, honey, olive oil, edible by-products, plants and flowers.

Music, entertainment, kids' activities and competitions.

Don’t miss it!

When Saturday 21st September, 8:30am - 12:30pm.

Where McHattan Park, Walcha. www.walchafarmersmarket.org.au

22

Duval Dam Buster

The event, in its second year, is hosted by the Armidale Amateur Athletics Club and consists of four running distances - 30 km, 15 km, 8 km and 3 km. There is something for everyone of all ages and abilities, with the 3 km open to children, adults and families.

The event will start and finish from the picturesque Dumaresq Dam Recreation Area, 12 km from Armidale.

With a starting point at 1,000 m above sea level, the 15 kmand 30 km runners will take on the challenge of a 400 m climb up to Mt Duval to 1,400 m above sea level, the highest peak in the region.

When Sunday, September 22nd.

Where Dumaresq Dam Recreation Reserve.

To register and for further info, visit www.duvaldambuster.com.au

26

Drake White and the Big Fire

Country star Drake White and his band The Big Fire are coming our way whilst they are here for the C2C Music Festival in Sydney and Melbourne.

Joining them will be special guests, also from the US, Eric Paslay, Lacy Cavalier and Reverie Lane, performing together in a very special songwriter round.

When Thursday 26th September.

Where Tamworth Town Hall.

Time 7:30pm.

Tickets $71.75.

focusinterview.

do about a h c u M

nothing A timeless tale involving machinations, false accusations, miscommunication and the power of love to potentially overcome it all … DUNCAN RAGG PLAYS BENEDICK IN BELL SHAKESPEARE’S PRODUCTION OF MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, which will be visiting Capitol Theatre at Tamworth on September 27 …

i Duncan. How did you become involved with Bell Shakespeare?

This is my first show with Bell, who are a wonderful, long-standing pillar of the theatrical community.

I was doing a show with Judy Davis in Adelaide, when I got the call to audition. The people I were working with at the time were Toby Schmitz, who was in a previous iteration of Much Ado About Nothing and Pamela Rabe, who was also involved in an earlier productions, and they were both so excited to work with me on it. Luckily, I manage to avoid their clutches (laughs) and I worked on it myself.

I flew out the next morning for the audition, and ten minutes afterwards I got the call saying they [Bell Shakespeare] would love to have me.

It was a bit of a whirlwind; it all happened within the space of about 40 hours across states, but I’m so very grateful for it.

What can you tell us about your character, Benedick and how much you relate with him?

That’s a tough question! I’ll tell you a bit about Benedick first, and then whether or not I do relate with him (laughs).

Benedick is a soldier returning from war; he’s the offsider to two nobles, Don Pedro and Couunt Claudio. He’s the slightly lesser-born, but jovial friend of the two. He’s renowned throughout Italy for his biting wit and for bringing a lot of joy to the boys, which is why they keep him around. Whether or not he’s a good fighter is never really discussed!

He’s a long-time friend of Messina, which is where the play is set and where the other characters live. He’s visited before and has a history with Beatrice (played by Zindzi Okenyo).

He’s a man who is loquacious and he prizes his

wit the most; however, Despite our bickering It’s so much fun to play, he’s always run away and prizing of jokes, because the audience from a fight where the audience knows we desperately wants you he feels completely should be together - and to keep fighting, and vulnerable. He’s entirely they cheer for us to do so. at the same time they bound to the men in his There’s a W.H. Auden want you to fall in life and how they think quote that Toby told love. It’s really the original of him. me before the play ‘rom-com’, and everyone I think he’s the started. He told me to knows what this dynamic is. character we need for remember that of all the these times. The way I Shakespearean characters, relate to him is because Benedick and Beatrice he prizes intelligence would be the two you’d above all else; he sees everything that’s going most like to have dinner with. These characters on and he’s sometimes afraid of doing what’s kind of sit outside the world of the play, to right - but ultimately in the transformation he a certain extent - Beatrice more so, looking comes to understand the dynamics at play. He at what’s going on, seeing the machinations realises that to be a good person and his true behind everything, and choosing whether or self, he needs to be an ally and stand up for not they want to be a part of it. These are the what’s right - not for what will gain him the types pf people you’d want to have at a dinner most acclaim or the most laughs. party, because they’ll entertain you to the nth I think that as a man in 2019, that’s one of degree - but ultimately, they’re good people the essential realisations we need to come to who make decisions based on what is morally … How has my entire upbringing led me to right. become this person, and can I step outside of Some people may be a little overwhelmed this to understand there are more perspectives

by Shakespeare. How do you feel Bell than the ones I’ve been afforded previously?

Shakespeare has made this production a The relationship between Benedick and little more accessible for people in general?

Beatrice is a complex one. How much are I think we have actors and a director with a you enjoying exploring this on stage? great deal of integrity in this production. When It’s so much fun! Zindzi and I have a we first came together, we had a discussion great chemistry, and her Beatrice is fierce, about how we could make this play feel true determined, and vastly intelligent. My Benedick to now, while staying true to Shakespeare’s occasionally feels a little bit dwarfed by this, so words, in a way people can relate to … We also he needs to always try to get the quick joke in wanted to give Hero’s character a strong voice, then run away while he’s on top. as she can often be overshadowed in the play, It’s so much fun to play, because the and we wanted to hold the boys accountable audience desperately wants you to keep for their actions … fighting, and at the same time they want you We did a whole lot of work on the text, with to fall in love. It’s really the original “rom-com”, small edits, so that it feels fresh and current and everyone knows what this dynamic is. … and then we worked a lot on our voices, to

make sure every word we speak is clear …

It’s a very different thing studying Shakespeare in English to seeing it on stage.

Theatre was not made to be read - it’s made to be seen and heard with a group of other people - it comes to life!

I’d never seen a play until I was 15, and then I saw a Bell Shakespeare production - I watched Darren Gilshenan in The Servant of Two Masters, and it changed my entire perspective of what a play is. He talked to the audience, which had us responding … no one else will ever have that exact experience, because between the text, the actors and the audience, there’s this incredible relationship that develops.

Benedick and Beatrice are timeless characters too … They’d fit right into other times and places, and still make sense.

Our costuming and sets also make the play appear fresh and current, and that the time is now.

Your favourite thing about the production?

My favourite part of the production is the audience. Benedick has such a wonderful relationship with the audience; they’re my scene partners for the majority of the play. Each place has had its own particular response to the play, but it’s all been so overwhelmingly positive and filled with love and laughter …

Theatre can’t compete with television in terms of a feeling of absolute reality, but it can make you feel like you’re in a moment that can only happen now … I’m here, you’re here, on this particular night, and the audience brings a new perspective every single time. That’s what I love about it.

Thanks Duncan.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Photo: Clare Hawley.

Visit www.capitoltheatretamworth.com.au for more info.

New England focus. 9

SPRING IS HERE AND IT’S THE PERFECT TIME OF YEAR TO GET OUT OF THE HOUSE TO EXPLORE YOUR OWN BACKYARD. HERE’S SIX WAYS TO KEEP THE FAMILY ENTERTAINED, AND BEST OF ALL … THEY’RE FREE!

Do inTamworth H FREE T

INGS

to

GET A VIEW! In Tamworth, head to Oxley Lookout in East Tamworth, which has views of the city and the Peel River Valley. Just north-east of the city, the spectacular Moonbi Lookout has views of the plains below Moonbi Hills, whilst the Hanging Rock lookout is located at an elevation of 1,100 m and shows off the Peel River Valley. To the North-west, get a view of Barraba from Adams’ Lookout, or check out the Manilla township, Namoi River Valley and surrounding farmland from the VJ Byrnes Lookout.

TAKE A TOUR Head to the multi-award-winning Nundle Woollen Mill for one of their free guided tours, run daily Monday to Friday at 2pm. Welcoming over 30,000 visitors each year, the Mill houses antique machines work their magic to turn bales of Australian Merino wool into yarn. It’s truly a spectacle to see.

TAKE IN SOME ART There’s no entry charge at Tamworth Regional Gallery, which regularly hosts exhibitions of national significance, runs workshops and is open to the public all weekend. Other galleries with free entry include the Weswal Gallery and Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre in Tamworth, Claycraft Productions and Moonbi Art Studio in Moonbi, Stormcrow Studio in Nundle and Fuller Gallery and Claypan in Barraba.

MEET SOME COUNTRY MUSIC LEGENDS Take a stroll down Pioneers Parade in Bicentennial Park, Tamworth and check out the bronze busts, where you’ll see Tex Morton, Stan Coster and Reg Lindsay amongst others immortalised there.

HEAD OUT FOR A WALK Check out the Peel River Levee Bank walk in Tamworth, which follows the top of the levee banks from Scotts Road in the south of town, through the CBD via the award-winning Tamworth Regional Playground and Bicentennial Park to Jewry Street in the north. If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, the Kamilaroi Track might be more for you, winding its way through the bushland of Oxley Park over several kilometres from its starting point at Tamworth’s Oxley Lookout.

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PACK A PICNIC There are tonnes of beautiful parks and gardens just waiting to host your next picnic; try Tamworth’s Botanic Gardens, part of the Victoria Park Precinct, where over 28 hectares of beautiful gardens offer picnic areas, walking tracks and amenities. Plus, it’s wheelchair accessible! Another fantastic spot to picnic in Tamworth is Bicentennial Park, right in the centre of town on Kable Avenue and next door to Tamworth Regional Playground. With toilet facilities and picnic tables, plus BBQ facilities just down the road, it’s the perfect spot for an afternoon out with the family.

New England focus. 11

focusinterview.

Red, pink, coral, white, yellow, multi-coloured - a rainbow of around 50,000 stunning blooms is produced by New England Peonies each year. Barry Philp explains that the beautiful flowers produced at Arding are highly sought after by florists around Australia … the business is a true rural success story, showing how diversification, hard work, and solid infrastructure can help when conditions are tough …

N e w

E n g l a n d

PEONIES

W

hat's the history behind the property where New England Peonies is situated ... Flowers haven't always been grown

there, I believe?

The Philp property at Arding is a fourth generation orchard, which has been run by my parents, Yvonne and Graham Philp, and now, by me.

Due to continuing low fruit prices and yields, diversification has been an important strategy to ensure the farm’s financial viability into the future, with mixed farming now occurring.

Although fruit has historically been the main focus of the property, the Peonies now account for a significant part of the farm income.

How did the idea to grow Peonies come about?

In 1998, Marilyn Pidgeon, a Peony enthusiast and expert, approached the Philp family to use the land at Arding to grow Peonies. Marilyn and John Pidgeon were interested in using the farm to grow Peonies, as Marilyn, who had grown up in Tasmania, knew that Peonies grow well in places that have cold winters and where apples are harvested.

The Philps also owned the necessary

12 New England focus.

infrastructure, such as and customers GROWING HERBACEOUS tractors, cool rooms, looking to obtain New PEONIES IS A YEARwater and irrigation England Peonies in the LONG PROCESS, WITH systems, which enabled springtime.

WORK ACROSS EACH an easier start to Peonies are a very a SEASON REQUIRED TO producing Peonies. special product, which ENSURE GOOD PLANT Thus, the Pidgeon-Philp people love receiving HEALTH AND A LARGE partnership commenced, and look forward to CROP OF FLOWERS. with the land and each spring time. No practical expertise being wonder Peonies are provided by Graham, called the “King of the Yvonne and I. Flowers”!

Initially, a hectare of flowers was set aside, Growing, picking and bunching the flowers with 2,000 plants being planted next to the brings great joy to my parents and I. Knowing apple orchard. The original plants were sourced how much our customers appreciate our from Tasmania, Victoria and New Zealand.

Peonies is immensely rewarding.

The first commercial delivery to florists Why are these flowers particularly suited occurred in 2004. to our New England climate?

In 2012, due to personal reasons and a Peonies can only be grown in cold climates, change in circumstances, Marilyn and John with cold frosty winters. Peonies need a decided to step down from their share of pronounced period of winter chilling in order the business partnership, leaving my parents to bloom well. Drier winters actually suit the and I to continue to further develop the plants, with arid conditions preventing water business. Marilyn still enjoys visiting the farm logging. The drier air also assists with fungal and providing advice and sharing her Peony disease prevention. expertise.

Roughly how many different varieties of Since 2012, the Peony patch has been Peonies do you grow on the property? expanded, with the inclusion of new varieties.

New England Peonies has the largest With the increase in flower numbers, there number of flower species in the region. has been a considerable increase in florists Currently there are 29 different Peony varieties

being grown, resulting in a wide range of flower colours and forms available for florists.

The Peony colours range from coral, through different shades of pink, to red, maroon, white and creamy yellows.

The species include varieties such as Coral Charm, Monsieur Julie Elie, Marguerite Gerard, Shirley Temple, Etched Salmon, Dr Greveaux, Marie Lemoine. This ensures a broad variety of product from which customers can choose and as such, makes New England Peonies unique.

You've recently sourced some Peony varieties from New Zealand. What's particularly special about these species?

In 2015, we did a second import from New Zealand, providing us with opportunity to provide very large “semi double” red, white and Gardenia type Peonies to florists around the country. These blooms are large in size and flower across all stages of the Peony season.

There's obviously a lot more to growing Peonies than sticking a plant in the ground, watering it and watching it grow!

How much work is involved with a Peony crop ... particularly when it comes to harvesting?

Growing herbaceous Peonies is a year-long process, with work across each season required to ensure good plant health and a large crop of flowers.

focusinterview.

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The process commences with good ground preparation and rhizomes planting in the autumn. Peonies may take up to three years for flowering to occur following planting. In the words of an American grower: “The first year they sleep, the second year they creep, and in the third year they leap”.

Planting and subdivision of the rhizomes occurs in April and May. During the winter, the plants are in dormancy, but intensive weeding occurs to eliminate later plant competition.

In August, the first shoots appear of the early blooming varieties, and at this stage, some fertilisation and watering commences.

As the plants develop and grow in size in September, fungal issues are addressed, and watering continues. From mid-October to mid-November (depending on the season) the flower buds develop and are ready for picking.

To ensure a high quality of flower, each bud is felt for density and shape before it is picked. Once picked, the buds are stored in a cool room, ready for sorting (again for quality control), bunching, packing and distribution.

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PEONIES

Over the summer, the plants are maintained with watering and a FORTUNATELY, THE post-harvest fertiliser.

PEONY PATCH IS ABLE The plants are then cut TO BE WATERED WITH back to 2.5 to 3 cm in DRIP IRRIGATION, height during April, or WHICH CONSERVES when the leaves change WATER, AND PLACES colour. The trash is MOISTURE WHERE IT removed from the IS MOST NEEDED AND Peony patch to minimise AS SUCH, MAINTAINS disease spread, and so division of plants, it BASIC PLANT HEALTH. the cycle begins again. is hoped we will be Peonies are a producing 14,000 herbaceous pre-annual bunches in the next two plant, and once planted, years. the rhizome keeps growing, with flowering Where/how do you market your blooms? occurring for many seasons.

New England Peonies are sent to Sydney If you had to estimate roughly how many and a variety of smaller towns in NSW and blooms/bunches of Peonies you produced interstate. In addition, flowers are sold in each year - what would be the total?

Armidale and across the New England region.

New England Peonies currently produces The business is marketed through an active approximately 10,000 bunches (50,000 and interactive Facebook page and Instagram, flowers) per year. However, due to a substantial which has led to a broad client interest and the development of relationships with many florists. We encourage florists to share their arrangements with us to display on Facebook and use Instagram to ensure cross promotion between ourselves and florists and their customers.

It is hoped a web page will be up and running shortly, to allow customers to review Peony colour, size and form before purchasing.

New England Peonies prides itself on supplying a high-quality, beautiful flower. As such, word of mouth promotion has been an important marketing tool amongst florists, as they share with each about our flowers.

How is your property currently weathering the drought?

Fortunately, the Peony patch is able to be watered with drip irrigation, which conserves

water, and places moisture where it is most needed and as such, maintains basic plant health. Established plants can tolerate the dry to a certain degree.

The rest of the property has been significantly affected by drought. The winter hay, which has been sown, will only yield if significant rain occurs, and the cattle on the property are reliant on last year’s hay stock.

What are your business plans/goals for the rest of the year?

Into the future, we are looking to expand the early season varieties, to maximise market share and to further develop the “high-end” highly sought after large bloom Peonies, particularly in colours such as coral, red and white.

Where can we find out more about your business?

There are a number of ways of contacting us. Barry’s phone number is 0422 260 600 and his email is baz_588@yahoo.com.au You can also contact us through the messages on Facebook - look for New England peonies https://www.facebook.com/ New-England-Peonies-851919914862782 We also have a New England Peonies Instagram account, and we reply to messages.

Thanks Barry.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Thanks also to Gillian Traise, for helping to compile info for the interview.

New England focus. 13

Eleven artists got together at “Little Kickerbell” in July 2018. There was much chatter about art and a lot of art making. THE RESULT… THIS EXHIBITION. ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT WALCHA GALLERY OF ART, IT NOW COMES TO GALLERY 126 and opens on Friday 6th September at 5pm.

KICKERBELL A R T I S T S

L

ocated on the Liverpool Plains near Quirindi, “Little Kickerbell” homestead dates back to the 1820s, when John Blaxland, elder brother of the explorer Gregory Blaxland, settled on the land.

With the help of convicts, he established a grazing property. The 1830s stone coach house, and another stone building (possibly a schoolhouse) remain as evidence of his colonisation. Currently owned by husband and wife team Cathy Armstrong, a caterer, and Rowen Matthews, an artist, it is run as an event venue with accommodation, food and workshops.

The artists came from Mackay, the Central Coast, Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Tamworth, Armidale and the South Coast and spent a week at “Little Kickerbell”. Each artist set up an easel around the property, painting plein air, and returning to the homestead in the evening for a fire pit show and tell session. Predominantly landscape painters, some artists produced the artwork in situ, while others treated it as a plenary session, with the works later produced back in their studios. The Liverpool Plains is a unique landscape with vistas aplenty.

14 New England focus.

Michelle Hungerford from Tamworth said, “It’s always about getting headspace when you paint outside, which frees the mind of all domesticity and allows the creative process to begin.” Sandra McMahon, also from Tamworth, produced lined landscapes while immersing herself at “Little Kickerbell”.

Artists Tim Allen and Rhett Brewer, from the Blue Mountains, and Brad Short, from Mackay, spend a lot of time in the landscape producing drawings and paintings, whereas Stuart Boggs and Rowen Matthews are more studio based artists.

Alison Mackay, who is based on the south coast of New South Wales, produced drawings and paintings of the interior of the homestead.

A more abstract approach was undertaken by Central Coast artist, Felicity O’Connor and the Blue Mountains based Ruth le Cheminant.

While each artist worked solo, the camaraderie of a group painting trip provided inspiration and encouragement, therefore lessening the solitary experience of art making. In addition, it produced wonderful artworks which will be on display from the 6th September at Gallery 126 Armidale.

Please come along to the opening.

focusinterview.

IF YOU’VE EVER THOUGHT ABOUT STEPPING OUTSIDE YOUR COMFORT ZONE …

THERE’S NO BETTER TIME THAN NOW! ANDREW PURKISS HAS FACED MORE CHALLENGES THAN MOST OF US, AND HE’S A KEEN FAN OF THE DUVAL DAM BUSTER EVENT.

in the Rough

H

e says if he can have a shot at the event, so can you … and with distances starting at just 3 km, why not walk, jog, or run your way to

triumph!

Hi Andrew. What's your connection with the New England area?

I was born in Armidale in the 1960s and spent my entire childhood there, right up to completion of the Higher School Certificate at The Armidale School (TAS). It was a great place to grow up. I still have a number of friends and relatives in the area.

Whereabouts do you call home these days?

At the age of 18, I moved to the “big smoke” to go to UTS (University of Technology Sydney). I’ve been in Sydney ever since, but come back to Armidale regularly.

It’s good to get the kids out into the country to see what else Australia is all about, and to also show them where I spent my childhood.

Why did you first begin running?

I’ve been running on and off since Little Athletics days - nothing serious or particularly adventurous. The longest I’d run until recently was the City to Surf in Sydney (14 km with a couple of reasonable inclines, for those unfamiliar with it).

In 2016 I was persuaded/encouraged to do my first half marathon. There were a few people from Armidale amongst the group who went to the Gold Coast in July that year.

It was a stretch, but it did inspire me to do another two half marathons in the following four months, each a bit faster than the one before.

You've had to fight through a few Ultra Trail Australia (UTA) event in the Blue serious health issues over the past year Mountains in May, followed by the half or so. Could you tell us a little about marathon on the Gold Coast in July, then the this?

City to Surf in Sydney in August. I wasn’t sure I was preparing to get back into training if I could manage running non-stop for 30 for more events in km, so I was interested 2017, when I was to see how I went. diagnosed with stage Apart from walking three colon cancer. up the steepest inclines, That started a yearI did make it the whole A SPECTATOR AROUND long treatment/surgery way at a reasonable THE 18 KM MARK YELLED regime, consisting pace. You really don’t OUT TO THE RUNNERS, of radiotherapy, know what you’re ‘YOU CAN DO IT! chemotherapy and serval capable of until you YOU’RE STRONGER operations of varying give it a shot.

THAN YOU THINK YOU types.

You'll also be coming ARE!’ I’VE REFLECTED I continued to run to compete at this ON THAT SPECTATOR’S whenever I felt up to year's event on ENCOURAGEMENT IN it. My oncologist and September 22nd.

EVENTS EVER SINCE. surgeon both said my What distance will fitness coming into it, you be running - and and efforts throughout, how much are you really made a difference looking forward to it? to my recovery and longer-term health I’ve registered for the 30 km again this prospects. year. I have to say, of all the events I’ve done, What's your health status now? the Duval Dam Buster is the one I’ve enjoyed I had my last operation in February 2018. the most. The terrain is varied, and the I’m now in remission and being monitored outlook quite spectacular in places. closely. So far everything’s going to plan, with I like the fact that you can recover from the no signs of cancer reappearing. climb up Mount Duval with the downhill and You're no stranger to the Duval Dam flatter parts around the dam, before giving it Buster event - you've taken part in it another go in the second loop. before! How tough was your last run It’s far less brutal than the unrelenting there? uphills/steps in the UTA 22. I also like the I did! I was actually the first to register for people and the atmosphere - for a relatively the event, so I ended up with the number small event, it really has a great vibe. one race bib!

What do you hope to achieve at this I worked my way up to it with a few events year's event - do you have a time/goal in in the preceding months. I ran the 22 km mind?

I’d be happy with anything around last year’s time. If I creep under three and a half hours, that would be even better. I’ll just give it my best shot and see what happens.

A lot of people may be thinking about events like the "Buster", convinced they wouldn't be able to do them. What would your advice to these people be?

Coming into 2016, I’d only attempted a 14 km distance - and felt that was a stretch.

The half marathon seemed insurmountable.

Before I knew it, I’d run three in four months.

There’s a great sense of achievement there.

In that first half marathon on the Gold Coast, a spectator around the 18 km mark yelled out to the runners, “You can do it!

You’re stronger than you think you are!” I’ve reflected on that spectator’s encouragement in events ever since.

Set your sights on something, get some training under your belt, and give it a go.

Walk, jog, run, whatever - there’s satisfaction in just getting out there. The DDB is a good choice, given its variety of distances and terrain - there’s something for everyone, and what better place than the great New England tablelands!

Thanks Andrew.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

You, too, can enter the Duval Dam Buster on September 22nd.

With events starting from 3 km and stretching right through to 30 km, why not give it a shot?

To register and for further info, visit www.duvaldambuster.com.au Event proudly supported by Armidale Athletics Club, New England Locksmiths and the NSW Government.

New England focus. 15

Armidale Regional

Museums Sharing our story, valuing our past

Wonderfully

Armidale Folk Museum

Tracing its origins back to 1933 the Armidale Folk Museum is housed in the magnificent 1863 Armidale Literary Institute and explores the history of the region.

A program of diverse and changing exhibitions and events tell the stories significant to the local community.

Corner of Faulkner and Rusden Streets Open daily 11am - 2pm. Entry by donation.

Armidale Bicentennial Railway Museum

The railway age in Armidale began in the early 1880s and profoundly transformed local social and economic life. At its peak it was the largest single employer in the district. This museum commemorates the role and work of generations of local men and women who worked for this once great transport service.

Brown Street, Armidale Railway Station Mon - Frid 11am - 12.30pm or by appointment. Entry by donation.

Hillgrove Rural Life & History Museum

In 1895 Hillgrove was a vibrant gold mining town with six pubs, four churches and a population of over 3000. Hillgrove began to decline after 1900 as the mines ceased to be profitable.

The Hillgrove Museum tells the story of the rise and fall of this once busy place.

Scouler Street, Hillgrove Frid-Mon 10am - 2pm. Entry by donation.

www.armidaleregional.nsw.gov.au 16 New England focus.

at the

Folk Museum D I S P L A Y

IT’S THE OFTEN FORGOTTEN FEATURE OF OUR SHOPPING SPREES AND FAVOURITE PRODUCTS, BUT PACKAGING HAS PLAYED A VITAL ROLE IN MANY ASPECTS OF OUR LIVES.

A

new display at the Armidale Folk recognise from their childhood,” Ms Ward said.

Museum, From Plants to Plastic, charts The display and a celebration of the roaring twenties, to the development of packaging from mark next month’s release of the film Downton Abbey, are early natural plant based carriers to the on exhibition at the Armidale Folk Museum until the end of development October. of glass, paper, The museum is open daily from 11am to canned food and the revolution of 2pm, and entry is a gold coin donation. plastic packaging.

Phone 6770 3836 for further information.

“Medical care, marketing and From using gourds, the extended shelf lives and leaves and hollowed-out transportation of food are all logs to our modernexamples of how packaging has day dependence on changed our lives,” Museum Team single-use plastic, it is a Leader Hayley Ward said. fascinating progression “Food is inextricably linked to that took many packaging: storing and transporting thousands of years. food and water was an essential step in human development.

“From using gourds, leaves and hollowed-out logs to our modernday dependence on single-use plastic, it is a fascinating progression that took many thousands of years.”

Some of the packaging on display also tells stories of our small retailers and businesses in the Armidale region. Local stores like Richardsons, Hanna’s and Dares Macs Fabrics all had their own paper wrapping, while cordial manufacturers in the region supplied an assortment of drinks with their own branded glass and stoneware bottles.

“Mallam’s Pharmacy provided packaging for medicines, and there are some old tin food containers that many will

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

Blend month

GET READY

of the

W E E K E N D

G

NEW SOUTH WALES RURAL FIRE SERVICE ANNUAL GET READY WEEKEND IS ON THE 14 TH -15 TH SEPTEMBER.

et ready weekend is about making sure you, your family and your property are ready for the fire season.

Fire season is already upon us, with many major fires burning across the state. It is a timely reminder to look at your bush fire survival plan. Just as a

reminder, permits are required as of the 1st of August 'til midnight 31st March, with a possible extension 'til 31st April.

Dumaresq Rural Fire Brigade will be at Bunnings Armidale on the 14th September between 8am and 4pm. This is a chance for you to come down and have a chat about making sure you and your loved ones are ready for the season ahead and grab a Bush fire survival plan

pack, before enjoying the Bunnings BBQ. There are free activities for the kids and a chance to look over our Category 1 Fire Truck.

Come on down and meet your local brigade and get information on Bush Fire survival, as well as joining NSW RFS in your local area. Learn the key five steps to make sure you are safe this bush fire season.

Indian Assam Halmari TGFOP1 Clonal

One of the best Orthodox (Assam) black teas in the world. Drink award-winning Halmari pure Assam Orthodox tippy tea - summer second ush tea.

Leaf: Long, selectively plucked, tippy clean and delicately rolled leaves with a generous sprinkling of chunky golden pubescent buds. Very exclusively made only during the two months of second flush season.

(Very limited availability.)

The Fair is held Saturday 12th October (9am - 5pm) and Sunday 13th October (9am - 2:30pm) in the RSL Memorial Hall, Salisbury St Uralla.

T

he Antiques and Collectables Fair is a community themed weekend of stall holders showcasing and offering their treasures. We have a good mix of exhibitors, including furniture, books, vintage clothing, bric a brac, glassware, crockery and more. We attract mostly local exhibitors, but some are coming from Manilla and further afield; we have a regular exhibitor from Sydney, because they love coming to our event in Uralla!

A very experienced appraiser can advise people about their special items. It will cost $5 for one item and $10 for three items, limited to six items per person, so everyone gets a turn.

The entry fee is kept to a minimum, by only asking for a gold coin donation. There is a Guess the Mystery Item Competition and like all good Rotary Clubs, we have a raffle with some great prizes. All profits raised from the Antique Fair this year will go to Uralla Fire and Rescue.

For further information, contact Leanne: 0488 559 928.

Liquor: A deep ruby coloured liquor with refreshing clonal flavour. Clear and excellent; top of the line.

Golden, deep ruby and malty tea.

One of our most iconic teas, the Assam TGFOP1 Clonal has won the world Tea Championship in 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2019. This beautiful tea is only made during the second flush time of the year (mid-May to mid-July) and is subject to very limited quantity. Desired and exported to all corners of the world, this cup is guaranteed to leave you wanting more. We can assure you, that you will not have had anything close to this type of Orthodox (Assam) tea. It is not only a great cup with breakfast, it can be consumed at any part of the day. Beware, though, once you’ve tasted this cup, there is definitely no going back. Best had self-drinking.

Buy Halmari GFOP1 Clonal, the best tippy tea. Winner of the World Tea Championship, this pure Orthodox flavourful Assam black is one of the best tippy teas that you can order in India.

Get lovely Orthodox (Assam) Black Tea online: www.dailyritual.com.au or enjoy the full-bodied malty taste in store.

Where

Find out more about other quality blends at www.dailyritual.com.au New England focus. 17

focusinterview.

Steve GONSALVES

Tamworth based photographer STEVE GONSALVES HAS VISON … HE’S ABLE TO SEE THE BEAUTY AND UNIQUENESS IN EVERY SCENE, ASSESS THE AVAILABLE LIGHT, CAPTURE A SHOT, AND FREEZE A MOMENT IN TIME THAT MAY NEVER COME AGAIN. Whether it’s showcasing the austere angles and lines of a building, or highlighting the rustling grasslands on a farm, Steve’s expertise behind the lens is unquestionable …

18 New England focus.

H

i Steve. What's your You've established a name in quite a connection with the niche market with your photography ...

Tamworth area? professional architectural shots aren't I grew up in Tamworth, something you see every day. What is it and my father served about this area of photography you most for many years as the enjoy?

City Engineer. I studied two years full-time at I have always enjoyed photographing Queensland College of Art, majoring in both structures and as an artist, I understand the commercial and portrait photography. Once I architect’s vision for a building and the space completed my course, I that it occupies. returned to Tamworth Photography allows me to set up my own to fulfil that vision and business. show the building in an Your business, artistic form.

WHAT I LOOK FOR IN MY Steve Gonsalves Lighting and angles LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY Photographics, has place a key role in making IS FOR THE VIEWER TO been established the photograph work.

HAVE A FEELING OF since 1986. Starting a Your landscape shots BEING DRAWN INTO new business venture - particularly your THE PHOTOGRAPH, TO is always risky ... rural scenes - are also EXPERIENCE WHAT I SAW AT so what led to the amazing. What are you THE TIME OF THE SHOOT. decision to start your generally looking for own? when you shoot images My love for of this type? photography started What I look for in when I took it up as a hobby when only 12 my landscape photography is for the viewer years old, and I knew that I would end up to have a feeling of being drawn into the doing it for a living. photograph, to experience what I saw at the I have always been self-motivated and to time of the shoot. me, the freedom of running my own business I also like to portray my landscape photos and the rewards that it offers was what led me the same way an artist would a painting. to start it up in 1986.

Landscape photography is capturing a

focusinterview.

COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY OFFERS ME SO MUCH VARIETY, AND THIS IS WHAT I REALLY ENJOY ABOUT IT. ONE DAY I CAN BE PHOTOGRAPHING NEW HOMES, AND THE NEXT DOING A SHOOT ON A PROPERTY FOR A FARMING MAGAZINE.

brief moment in time, and this allow the same location to look completely different, depending on both the photographer and time of day and year that it was taken.

How much of a part do drones play in your day to day work these days?

Drone photography has really changed the industry, in the same way as digital photography did in the early 2000s.

I find that commercial photography benefits from drone photography. This allows me to

get angles that were only possible in a cherry picker or plane in the past.

The drone also has a video function, and because of this it I now take on assignments for clients that require aerial videos. I find this type of photography very enjoyable.

What other pieces of camera kit wouldn't you walk out the door without?

All assignments have different requirements.

My main camera kit consists of a Cannon 5D MKIV and an assortment of lenses,

portable flash unit and plenty of charged batteries. I always carry a tripod with me to every job.

My studio lights will sometime be required, but only if natural light is not going to work.

Who are your typical clients - as commercial photography can cover quite a lot of territory?

Commercial photography offers me so much variety, and this is what I really enjoy about it.

One day I can be photographing new homes, and the next doing a shoot on a property for a farming magazine.

I get to photograph new machinery, artwork, food, shopping centres. The list goes on and on.

How do you feel your skills as a photographer have grown/changed over the years you've been working in the profession?

My love for technology has allowed me to keep up with the many changes in photography.

Going digital in the early 2000s was a big and expensive change. Prior to digital photography, I had to use my skills make sure that every shot was right in the camera; shooting with film was very limiting - I relied on the lab to produce prints for me. When I went fully digital, I became the lab. This was

a turning point in my career. All of a sudden, Photoshop played a major role in my day to day workflow.

Drone photography has also been a change for the industry as well. The ability to offer clients shots that were not possible prior to drones was just as revolutionary as the introduction of digital photography.

I’m finding more jobs require not only still photography these days, but also video photography as well. This suits me just fine, because I can produce the final video files for them using professional video edition software.

What's the "pie in the sky" for you ... your ultimate dream as someone who works behind the lens?

This a tough question to answer, because every job is so much fun - and I know that I will never want to retire from this amazing career.

Photography has given me the freedom that I could only dream about. I have done so many amazing assignments and look forward to many more.

How do we go about contacting you/ finding out further info?

I can be contacted on: 0432 842 215.

My website is: www.sgphoto.com.au Email: mail@sgphoto.com.au Thanks Steve.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

New England focus. 19

social scene.

Back on Track Book Launch Photos

P H O T O S

B Y

D A V E

R O B I N S O N

Purple Fusion

P H O T O S

B Y

D A V E

R O B I N S O N

Tamworth Running Festival

1_Z-NET Sustainability Expo 2019

P H O T O S

20 New England focus.

B Y

D A V E

R O B I N S O N

eats New England

THE TRADER STORE - URALLA

THE PIG & TINDER BOX - TAMWORTH

Nutella cheesecake with your morning coffee.

Celebrate Dad this Father’s Day at The Pig with five week dry aged Angus rump with fondant potatoes, horseradish cream, kale and beets.

GOONOO GOONOO STATION - TAMWORTH

RIVIERA BAR & GRILL - TAMWORTH

Open for breakfast seven days a week! Start every day with Glasshouse’s seasonal breakfast menu.

A fresh and healthy menu will be on offer with an emphasis on simplicity and the highest quality produce.

Classic home made waffles, house made vanilla gelato, maple syrup and seasonal berries.

GOLDFISH BOWL BAKERY - ARMIDALE

THE ALBERT HOTEL - TAMWORTH

Freshly baked cheeseballs - they’re back!

Mouth watering burgers. Our $10 lunch menu is available Monday to Friday!

New England focus. 21

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

Thunderbolts Festival 2019

In 2014, Armidale was voted as one of Australia’s Hottest Travel Destinations by “Australian Traveller Magazine”, followed up with a fabulous article on why Armidale should be on your bucket List. We are very excited to announce that Armidale is once again very fortunate to be featured in the current issue of the “Australian Traveller”.

T

he Armidale Tourism team making it extremely safe for the kids to make designed an enticing itinerary snowmen and have snowball fights. The to pitch to the Australian owners advised that this event has produced Traveller Magazine, to some record sales, and now they have some persuade the journalists to breathing room for a while. This event was come on up and experience a dream comes true for them. Thank you so what Armidale and the region have to offer. much, Danny and Donna, for helping literally The article, titled Treasures of the Tablelands, thousands of people have a better experience showcases many of the small wonderful due to your hospitality”. businesses that make up our region …

Congratulations to The Powerhouse on the “Alongside its heritage appeal and jawlaunch of their new rebrand. They are now dropping wilderness areas, Armidale and formally The Powerhouse Hotel Armidale by its surrounding towns and villages boast Rydges. It is a wonderful positive investment in world-class art, funky small bars and even a the future of tourism and the city of Armidale. bohemian boutique distillery”. There are many The Duval Dam Buster Trail Run is on local businesses featured again, so save the date in this article, so pop Sunday 22nd September. on down to your local There is something for newsagency and pick up everyone, with three There are many local a copy of the August/ courses available, from businesses featured September/October 3 km, 15 km and 30 km in this article, so pop edition. events. So, dust off those on down to your local Whilst writing this running shoes and come newsagency and article, the snow is slowly and explore the beautiful pick up a copy of the melting, as we thaw Dumaresq Dam and Mt August/September/ out after a very cold Duval areas. For more October edition. but busy weekend for information, visit www. the region. The snowy duvaldambuster.com.au weekend provided a National Parks and fabulous boost to the Wildlife would like to local economy, particularly in Guyra, where invite you to join them on a Wollomombi people travelled hundreds of kilometres to Gorge guided walk and BBQ lunch on view the snow. Higgins Storm Chasing set Saturday 5th October to celebrate the 25th up base at the Guyra Bowling Club, where anniversary of the Gondwana Rainforests of from all reports they were hit with crowds Australia. The 4 km walk (suitable for adults of people. Congratulations to the Guyra and children) will be departing at 10am, Bowling Club. The following was reported followed by a free BBQ lunch served from 1pm

by Higgins Storm Chasing on their Facebook - 2pm. If you love the raw power and beauty page: “These guys worked tirelessly around of rugged wilderness, then come for a tour the clock to accommodate everyone. Both at Wollomombi Falls and experience it in a Saturday and Sunday night with snow light not seen before. For further information, hammering - they had a line out of the front please phone (02) 6738 9100. door for people wanting warmth and a good We would like to pass on our condolences feed, and they did it all with a smile. Not just to the team at FOCUS and the family and that, they helped to make the experience friends of Tracy le Messurier; her friendly smile better by allowing us onto the bowling green, will not be forgotten.

22 New England focus.

The Rotary Club of Uralla celebrates 21 years

high jump exhibition, official opening by Mr

of Thunderbolts Festival on Saturday 26th

Adam Marshall MP, there will be face painting

October 2019.

and pony rides, and food provided by: Friends of

Uralla will come alive with a spectacular street

McMaughs, local schools’ BBQs, fresh fairyfloss

parade themed “Medieval Knights and Fair

and homebaked goodies.

Maidens” at 10:30am, featuring Oxley Riders

The Thunderbolt Cup, medieval combat

Bail Up Poker Run, Hot Rods and Customs,

tournament, will be held over the same weekend

Capt Thunderbolt, Medieval competitors and

at the Uralla Bowlo. It will be the largest HMB

supporters, antique machinery, The Fairy Lady, fire

(historical medieval battle) held in the Southern

engines, schools and community groups.

Hemisphere! Competitors from Australia and

There will be market stalls amongst the shady

New Zealand will engage in Buhurt (teams) events

trees in Alma Park, and only $2 for kids to use the

and duels, including Sword and Shield and Sword

rides, including rock climb wall, giant inflatable

and Buckler. Entry is just $5 adults and $2 under

dual slide, merry-go-round, a huge jumping

12 years. Spectators will receive a wristband, so

castle and smaller one for littlies. Children will be

they can come and go between the Thunderbolt

able to enter the Circus Confabularuim, join the

Cup and Thunderbolts Festival.

hula hoop competition and strike a pose in the

Thunderbolts Festival, proudly sponsored by

Papermoon Photobooth.

Uralla Shire Council - something for everyone in

Live music by local band Pantor, Paws Up dog

Uralla! thunderboltsfestival.com.au

WITH MONTY MAGUIRE - POWERHOUSE HOTEL ARMIDALE GENERAL MANAGER

Powerhouse partnership welcomes Rydges to the New England region

H ACCOMMODATION ALL DAY DINING MEETINGS EVENTS 31 Marsh Street, Armidale 6772 7788 www.powerhousearmidale.com.au @powerhousehotels

POW0026_Aug Focus 2019_317x145_Final.indd 1

20/8/19 12:06 pm

i Monty. Can you tell have come to love about the Powerhouse, us about your new plus unique Rydges benefits such as the partnership with hugely popular Priority Guest Rewards Rydges Hotels & program, which offers members 10% off the Resorts? lowest rate, late checkouts, complimentary Our Armidale property welcome drink, discounts on meals and rebranded as Powerhouse Hotel Armidale drinks, plus points for free nights, meals and

by Rydges on 31st July and continues to more! be managed and owned by the Maguire At The Powerhouse, we’re about satisfying family. Powerhouse Hotels is an Australian the guest and making corporate and leisure owned family business, and we’ve been travel a pleasurable experience. Now that operating in regional NSW for the past 39 we are intrinsically linked with the power years. Over that time, we’ve developed a of the Rydges brand, this provides endless solid reputation for being at the heart of the opportunities for our guests into the future. business community, Why did you choose with exceptional service, Event Hospitality and quality restaurants, bars Entertainment and and upmarket facilities. specifically the Rydges We’re confident our Rydges Our new branding Hotel brand? partnership will deliver retains the heritage Rydges Hotels and a local corporate sector of the Powerhouse Powerhouse Hotels share focus, distribution strength properties (in Armidale a strong commitment in the global marketplace, and Tamworth) while to delivering world-class continued innovation in our benefitting from the service and facilities, to food and beverage offering and strength of the Rydges investing in business and authentically Australian guest brand, with more than in people to add value to experiences. three decades of hotel the regional community experience across and tourism economy, Australia and New while always putting Zealand. the needs of our valued What will this guests first. Our team partnership bring to both the property is incredibly excited about this new journey, and guests? and we look forward to Rydges becoming an We chose to partner with Event Hospitality integral part of the New England community. and Entertainment Limited, whose brands, Regional destinations like Armidale cannot Rydges Hotels and Resorts, QT Hotels be underestimated for their business and and Resorts and Atura Hotels are at the tourism appeal, natural beauty, genuine leading edge of Australian hospitality. We’re hospitality and paddock to place experiences. confident our Rydges partnership will deliver We partnered with Rydges, because they a local corporate sector focus, distribution understand and support the growth potential strength in the global marketplace, continued of regional Australia, together with their innovation in our food and beverage signature philosophy of great local hospitality, offering and authentically Australian guest backed by extensive and international experiences. marketing and distribution channels.

Our guests will continue to enjoy all they Thank you Monty.

New England focus. 23

focusinterview.

val of the i su st n fe

Contrary to the name, “The Buoys” are an all women four-piece band that FEATURE WITTY LYRICS WITH AN EFFORTLESS ‘90S ROCK BAND SOUND THAT’S MAKING WAVES AND PICKING UP INTEREST IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY. Heading on tour through August with their new single, “GOLD”, we chat with lead singer Zoe about life and the upcoming FOTSUN here in Port Macquarie.

W

here did your love of music and songwriting come from?

My father was a musician, so that’s definitely where it came from for me personally.

Growing up in school, I was encouraged to learn as many instruments as possible and I just never stopped. It’s a similar story for a lot of the girls; they have family members who are musicians or played instruments in primary school and just kept doing it.

How did your band come together? Did you all know each other beforehand?

We’ve had a couple of line up changes. Originally I started the band with a couple of girlfriends in Cronulla, which was almost three years ago now, and then a bunch of us kind of went travelling, came back and disbanded, and I moved to Inner West Sydney, where I met a couple of these girls.

I actually met Tess, our drummer, because I went on a date with her cousin, and I just would not shut up about how I needed a female drummer; he gave me Tess’ number. We met up and just hit it off like hearts on fire.

The rest of the girls we met through mutuals, having so many friends in the music scene.

What is it about playing to a live audience that you love?

I can definitely speak for the whole band here, because we all completely have the same feeling about playing live music, in that you can be in any state whatsoever, but then as soon as you pick up your instrument and you get onstage, it just completely cheers you up and gives you the energy you need, that you felt you were lacking at the end of the day. It can just quickly change your mood for the better. I don’t know what it is; it’s just so enjoyable and fun.

Your singles are now regulars on triple J. How do you feel when your songs are played on the airwaves?

Still in shock! Very much shock. It is just so cool to hear your stuff being shared around, and I hope it gets around more.

Talk us through your songs; you are a songwriter.

Can you share with us a little about the inspiration

24 New England focus.

IT’S STILL UNREAL THAT WE’RE PLAYING, SO WE ARE ALL JUST LOOKING FORWARD TO GOING ON A ROAD TRIP TOGETHER, SPENDING TIME WITH EACH OTHER AND HAVING THAT EXPERIENCE TOGETHER FOR THE FIRST TIME.

for your lyrics?

Usually my daily experiences, whether it’s just mundane everyday tasks or conversation that was had or a situation ...

I like to write about personal things, because it’s easier to use language when you’re feeling something quite strongly.

What would be one of your favourite songs to play at the moment?

At the moment it’s got to be Gold, the new single. It’s a very dancy song, and when we play it live we play it a little bit differently. We all have really cool interactive parts, and half the time we’re just kind of passing it on to each other and losing our sh*t through six drum parts and solos.

Gold is more of a dance song. What kind of genre would your music usually fall into?

People usually classify us as ‘90s garage rock. I’m terrible at classifying genres, so I’m just going with what other people say. We’ve been delving into a little bit of punk lately, but mostly garage rock.

You’re playing at Port Macquarie’s Festival of the Sun in December. What are you looking forward to about this event?

For me, it’s my first festival outside of Sydney! It’s still unreal that we’re playing, so we are all just looking forward to going on a road trip together, spending time with each other and having that experience together for the first time.

Have you got any other festivals on your bucket list

that you want to play at?

Send me to Splendour and Falls.

They’re on the list for sure.

Will you get to spend much time in the Port Macquarie region while you’re here, or is it just a quick fly in visit?

It always just stops when you’re driving up north. It’s not a really good distance from Sydney to have any time and chill out - we all have to do the drives in such fast bursts. I remember when I was younger and I was at uni, we could take our time driving to and fro.

You could always stay overnight. Now, we’re always in a rush.

We’re so looking forward to coming to Port Macquarie. Please come up and say hi. We can see on Spotify that we have fans in that area, and we want to meet you all.

Other than on the radio, where can we hear your music or catch up with what the band’s up to?

Our socials are very active - Facebook and Instagram; you’ll always find what you need on there. All of our released music you can find on all streaming platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora.

Thanks Zoe.

See The Buoys at FOTSUN, December 12th, 13th and 14th. More info at fotsun.com

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Cristian Campano Design.

New England focus. 41

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

W I T H M E L A N I E LO C K : N AT U R O PAT H B H S C - T H E H O L LO W S T O R E

W I T H P E T E R E L FA R F R O M S U N D I A L D E N TA L

ARE VERY

is

IMPORTANT TO YOUR

CHILD'S HEALTH & DEVELOPMENT A healthy smile is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child. So start educating your children and your family about oral health from the beginning.

F

Getting to the bottom of Gut Health

or years "poop" has been a taboo subject - the butt of our jokes, a social insult and the least celebrated of human habits. Our poop may be considered a generic waste product, but the colon itself is a profoundly intelligent machine. Just try to drive your car without its engine - you can’t. And the bowel is one of the most important engines of our body. For this reason, I've collaborated an 11 page eBook (FREE) to navigate the uncharted waters of holistic colon health: www.thehollowstore.com.au/ products/better-bowel-cleanse

I’ve been working with people’s bowels and intestinal tracts for a very long time. It’s commonly the first port-of-call in the restoration of healthy digestion. Why? Because a lazy, blocked, sluggish or oversensitive bowel can manifest issues with nutrient absorption, mineral or vitamin deficiencies or food intolerances. More importantly, the colon is the primary site of waste elimination.

Any blockages, constipation, inflammation or disfunction of the bowel can greatly impact the delicate balance of healthy bacteria in your GIT (Gastro-Intestinal-Tract). Research shows that the bowel is vital for Vitamin K production, is crucial to immune activation and development, and contains small brain proteins called neuropeptides necessary for the regulation of emotions and mood. It’s no surprise the the GUT is called the second brain - it contains approx. 100 million neurons. That’s a lot - more than the spinal cord!

People often find themselves on the swinging pendulum of bowel function, though certainly constipation is a commonality that becomes "normal" for most. Let's just imagine a bin full of stinking rubbish left in your house for a few 26 New England focus.

days, a week - heck, a month. Without regular waste collection / elimination, your home would become a cesspit of debris, mess and vile.

Everyone would be in a funk. And thou shalt not elaborate on the kinds of unsavoury bugs and creepy-crawlies that would ensue. Gross for sure, but a perfect analogy for your rear end.

The beginning of many chronic conditions start ironically - in your rear end. In fact, many inflammatory diseases have their humble beginnings in the bowel. It's known that more than 70% of our immune system is located in and around the gastrointestinal tract, and possibly why food sensitivities, auto-immune diseases and increased intestinal permeability are commonplace in the health and medical industries now.

Could *Hippocrates have been right when he said, “All disease begins in the gut”? Given the scientific findings in the role of our gut and bowel in our health, we should assume so.

We absolutely, positively should be thinking about our poop. We should be holding mental and visual (yes, I said it) conversations with ourselves about the uniqueness of our bowel habits, because our waste system is a red flag of danger; a canary in the mine; an expression of what is happening in our gizzards. And it’s not just about the colour, texture and odour, but the subtle or obvious changes that occur in your toileting habits and what they say about your digestion or lack thereof.

(Hippocrates *he’s kind of a big deal in the field of medicine.)

Melanie Lock Naturopath BHSc - The Hollow Store www.thehollowstore.com.au

Importance of Baby Teeth Baby teeth are important to your child’s overall development, so help your child form good oral hygiene habits from a young age. Some people are very casual about baby teeth, because they are not permanent, but baby teeth are very important; not only do they help them chew, speak and smile, but they hold space in the jaws for the adult teeth that are growing under the gums. If the baby tooth is lost too eaarly, the surrounding teeth can drift into the empty space. This makes it difficult for the adult tooth beneath the gum to come through. As a result, this may cause crowding or crooked teeth. Therefore, it is important to start infants with a good oral hygiene regime, to help protect their teeth so they can stay healthy and in place until the adult teeth are ready to replace them.

Oral Health Essentials Tooth brushing is an important habit that should start as soon as teeth appear. Letting your child watch you brush demonstrates to them good behaviours and encourages them to follow suit.

Spend time brushing your child's teeth twice a daily for two minutes to remove plaque from tooth surfaces. It is easiest to see and brush your child’s teeth if you stand behind them. They may need to stand on a stool or chair. Brushing their teeth in front of the mirror allows them to watch and later imitate good oral hygiene. Plaque is a build-up of bacteria and if not removed regularly, it produces acids that may lead to tooth decay. Tooth decay is undesirable even in baby teeth. Not only is it unsightly, but it can lead to infections or illnesses and is one of the leading causes of children missing school. It is recommended to supervise your child’s brushing until they are eight years old. It is also important for your child to brush their teeth with a smear of age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste. There are special toothpastes available and recommended specifically for children. Children toothpaste has less fluoride and the mint flavor of the toothpaste is not as strong compared to adult toothpaste. This is important, as children may

accidentally swallow the toothpaste, and a large amount of fluoride is not good. Furthermore, children are more sensitive, and heavily minted toothpaste can put children off brushing.

First Dental Visit by the Age of One The Australian Dental Association recommends children to visit the dentist when their first baby tooth erupts, or at the age of one. Regular routine visits (every six - 12 months) is a great way to introduce your child to a dentist, and regular visits will help your child become familiar with the dental environment. By familiarising your child to the dental environment, they will become less wary of receiving further dental treatment if it is needed. During check-ups, your dentist will check the health of your child’s teeth and gums.

Simple check-ups allow for early detection of oral health problems, such as tooth decay. Visiting the dentist is meant to be a fun outing for children, so it is very important that you do not wait until your child suffers from a tooth ache or dental trauma to see the dentist. Waiting for toothaches can cause your child to associate visiting the dentist with pain. Lastly, if your child does need some extra work, do not say to your child, "Don't worry; it won't hurt". Modern dental treatment uses all the tools to treat children (and adults) painlessly, so your child may feel nothing at all, but by discussing “pain” with them prior to the visit, it may set your child up to think that it may be painful and cause them to be nervous or anxious unnecessarily. This can result in making it difficult for the dentist to provide dental treatment and achieve dental outcomes. Remember: oral health has a great impact to your child’s overall wellbeing, health and development, so take the time to know and understand how to support your child's dental needs. Dental health is a team effort, and the team at Sundial Dental likes being part of your family’s team!

For more information or to book a check-up for your child, contact the caring team of dentists and oral health therapists at Sundial Dental on 6583 3533 (Port Macquarie) or 6585 2015 (Wauchope) or visit: sundialdental.com.au

focusinterview.

PROFESSOR

ROD McCLURE Meet Professor Rod McClure, THE NEW DEAN FOR THE FACULTY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW ENGLAND. Professor McClure is passionate about educating the next generation of medical health professionals in Australia …

H

i Professor McClure.

What brought you to Armidale?

A lifetime of experience, a love of the Australian bush, and the homing instincts of the peripatetic traveller.

In 2016, I was working for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, USA. I had landed in that city of about half a million people in a country of over 300 million at the end of a 30 year journey across five continents from a farm in Liverpool Ranges, NSW; where the nearest town of about 100 people, was 10 km from my gate.

One warm afternoon over a drink at the 57th Fighter Group Restaurant overlooking the Chamblee airport and the CDC buildings beyond, I realised that it was time, after developing expertise in my trade, to make a contribution. It was time to return home.

What's involved with your role as Dean?

My role as Dean is to make things possible.

Ideas are easy. Selecting the good idea from the many available is sometimes a challenge.

Turning ideas into concrete outcomes that benefit people’s health and wellbeing is the hard part, but in essence, that’s my job.

The Faculty of Medicine and Health has dedicated, highly trained staff. Our students are among the best in Australia. Our government, industry and community partners are outstanding.

My role is to create an environment that allows these great people to deliver great results. This takes some knowledge of context, a collegiate leadership style and appropriate attention to good management standards. But, it mostly takes the people around me.

My role is to facilitate the activity of people I work with to enable success for students and the communities of which the university is part.

One of your previous professional roles was with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States. What were some of the highlights of your time there?

When I first arrived in the United States to work in perhaps the largest public health agency in the world, whose purpose was to protect the health of one of the world’s largest populations, my first thoughts were about the size of the task. I very quickly I realised that it is complexity that make things difficult. The size of a problem is frightening, only because it makes underlying complexity issues so much more evident.

My key takeaway learning from my time in the US is how to identify key points in a system that have the biggest influence on system behaviour and use this knowledge to drive large scale improvements in population health.

You have a special interest in medical epidemiology (the incidence, distribution and possible control of injury and disease, in layman's terms). What is it about this field that intrigues you most?

I started my medical career as a clinician in emergency medicine, waiting ‘til people became ill, then treating them one by one. In many cases, I was unable to return patients to the health they had previously enjoyed.

And in some cases, road traffic crash incidents for example, the difference between pre and post incident health status was irretrievably catastrophic.

My move to epidemiology was all about scale. It was the natural consequence of my search for the point in the health care continuum where I could intervene to achieve the greatest health benefit for the greatest number.

How do you feel we're doing in Australia with our public health system generally -

I believe University of New particularly when it part of my purpose England can play a lead comes to potentially and has become more role in supporting health preventing/controlling so over the years as solutions not only for our some of our more my experience and communities throughout the New troublesome diseases? opportunity to contribute England region, but solutions to My focus on working has grown. similarly stretched communities in the parts of the What do you hope to throughout the world. system where I can bring to your role as make the greatest Dean; do you have any influence is relevant special plans moving to this question forward? too. Australia is doing well with our public Very special plans. I see no reason at all why health system, but wherever you are in the the health of rural Australians cannot be equal world, there is always tremendous scope for to that of the healthiest people in the country. improving health outcomes.

UNE is currently developing innovative models In Australia there remains huge disparity of healthcare delivery, and the education and in health between people from different training methodologies to support these new locations, from different populations and innovative models. different contexts. For example, rural I believe University of New England can Australians have higher prevalence of health play a lead role in supporting health solutions risk factors compared to their metropolitan not only for our communities throughout the cousins and much reduced access to New England region, but solutions to similarly healthcare. stretched communities throughout the world.

The key challenges for the Australian system When you're not busy with your role at are to 1) bring the health of all citizens up UNE, what are some other activities you to the standard of the most healthy, and 2) enjoy? push forward the boundaries of knowledge First, a range of participatory sporting that supports improved health promotion and activities that have changed over the years management. as age whittles away at my capabilities. My How important is it for you, being newest excitement has been finding the involved with educating our next thriving Armidale Rowing Club, which has generation of doctors - especially in a rural generously welcomed this beginner to their area like ours? regular training sessions on Malpas Dam. Taking responsibility for enabling, educating I also paint.

And of course, I love to watch and training emerging professionals in grass grow.

As a long time farmer (albeit one one’s discipline and setting and monitoring who has worked in the city for 28 of the 30 of adherence to ethical, technical and years he has actually owned his own block of professional standards are defining features of land) the thrill of watching grass actually grow a profession. is a joy indeed.

Like all doctors, being involved in these Thanks Professor McClure. responsibilities is part of my professional DNA. For me personally, this is a hugely important Interview: Jo Robinson.

New England focus. 27

professionals

Refresh Rejuvenate Cosmetic Injectables Our most popular treatment option; restore your natural youthful appearance with a tailored, individualised cosmetic injectable treatment plan.

Rosalie Palmer (RN) With an extensive medical background and a keen aesthetic eye, Rosalie creates individualised treatment plans with you and for you. An advanced injector with over 39 years’ nursing experience, Rosalie holds several post-graduate qualifications in cosmetic and advanced nursing practice, including: Rural Isolated Practice Endorsed Nurse, First Line Emergency Care endorsement, Advanced Life Support and a Graduate Diploma in Cosmetic Nursing. Working alongside a skilled team of medical practitioners, Rosalie delivers safe, effective and quality treatments.

“I love working with clients to achieve their desired skin complexion and watch their selfesteem and confidence grow as a result. It’s very rewarding having such an impact on someone’s life. I wouldn’t want to do anything else.”

Anti-Wrinkle Injectables Anti-Wrinkle injectables relax the muscles that cause wrinkles, resulting in softened lines and improved skin texture. Effective for the frown, forehead, crows feet and more. Advanced treatments include for jaw grinding, excessive

28 New England focus.

sweating and facial slimming. Refresh Rejuvenate stock two products from reputable Australian companies, so the choice is yours!

Dermal Fillers Restore facial volume, fill in lines and enhance your natural features. A soft gel filler is injected to fill and add instant volume to the treatment area. Advanced treatment areas available include: Dark under eye circles, lip enhancement and jaw contouring. We stock a large range of fillers to choose from, depending on your needs.

Exciting news!

Introducing Inverell's very own cosmetic skin clinic, Refresh Rejuvenate is opening their doors mid September.

Shop 3, 30 Evans St, Byron Arcade.

Phone 6721 1872. Call our Tamworth clinic for bookings and enquiries.

professionals

Ability Therapy Specialists Welcome to our therapy studio in Armidale. We see patients by appointment only. You can self-refer to our service.

Clients can call ahead or email our service.

You will talk directly to Dr Joseph Randolph Bowers and/or Dr Dwayne Andrew Kennedy.

We are Senior Specialist Counsellors and Psychotherapists, and we focus on helping you to co-create solutions, build strengths, while empowering new perspectives and change. We provide a range of clinical assessments, support plans, and reports to assist your goals. We see children up to seniors. We work with private clients in a range of areas.

Our specialisations include grief and loss,

trauma, mindfulness, stress reduction, anxiety, depression, spirituality, personal growth, identity, sexuality, and behaviour. We consult across the New England region and Australia.

People also come from across Australia for therapeutic intensives for up to three days.

As NDIS certified providers, we apply person centred expertise towards helping you achieve your goals. We focus on psychotherapy solutions that are highly tailored to your unique capacities and needs, including creative arts therapies, sand tray and symbol work.

Behaviour support often assists with your complex needs in health, disability, and mental health. We also provide training and capacity building to a wide range of organisations.

New England focus. 29

professionals

Well

Nourished T A M W O R T H

W

hat led you to establish your business, Well Nourished, in Tamworth and how long have you been in operation?

I have been a dietitian a for almost 17 years, and for 15 of those I was employed with Hunter New England Health as a Diabetes dietitian with the Diabetes Service.

Having my own private practice was always something I had wanted to do.

It has been challenging, but I love the flexibly of being able to choose my own hours around family commitments. This flexibility also allows me to provide a more personalised service to my clients. Since establishing Well Nourished, I have also had the opportunity to expand my skills and practice into areas of interest, such as women’s health.

Kirsty, what led you to return to Tamworth, and how can you help people who have been diagnosed with Diabetes?

My interest in Diabetes started at the Tamworth Diabetes Centre 10 years ago, where I met and worked with Kylie, so our partnership has been a long time in the making!

Since then I have worked as a Diabetes Educator in Brisbane and Melbourne, but recently returned to Tamworth with my husband to raise our young daughter and twin baby boys. W e both love the Tamworth community and the opportunities that living in a regional area provide.

As a Diabetes Educator, my role is to help people understand their condition and learn valuable self-management strategies, whether they are living with 30 New England focus.

Kylie Norman and Kirsty Guilfoyle Type 1 or Type 2.

With my business Diabetes Education and Technology, it gives me the ability to see the same clients on a regular basis and allows for a more personalised and consistent approach to managing their condition.

My special interest is in medical technology and devices. I love being in the position where I can improve someone’s daily life by helping them to access and learn about new products including insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring.

Kylie, typically, what types of people come to you for advice about nutrition?

Food and nutrition affect every aspect of our health; I believe that everyone can benefit from seeing a dietitian. I see a wide range of people - often for specific health conditions such as diabetes, weight management, gut health and women’s health issues. I also do a lot of work in the aged care and disability sectors and present to community organisations and other health professionals.

How do you work together as a team to offer your clients the best care possible?

Successful management of diabetes and sound dietary advice go hand in hand; it made perfect sense for us to team up.

A diagnosis of Diabetes at any stage of life can be overwhelming, and there is an enormous amount of information and management advice out there to try and understand. We work closely with clients and their GP and endocrinologist to monitor and manage their Diabetes to live healthy and active lives.

Unlike traditional services, our work environment is not confined to the four

walls of our office - we love getting out and providing education to community groups, schools, work place health and to other health professionals.

What can you tell us about the Women’s Health Forum to be held on September 8 at the Tamworth Jockey Club? Will you both be presenting on the day .... and who are some of the other key speakers?

The women’s health forum coincides with Women’s Health Week from the 3rd to the 7th September. The Forum hopes to provide local women with education and information about issues that affect women of all ages and from all backgrounds.

We are passionate about Women’s Health and saw a need for women to access accurate, up to date and evidenced based information from local specialists, not just Dr Google.

The topics and speakers this year include Endometriosis, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Anxiety. Women’s Health Week also coincides with CWA Awareness week and as a member of the Tamworth Evening Branch, Kirsty thought it opportune to include the 2019 CWA health topic of Endometriosis, which will be presented by Gynecologist Dr Lilach Leibenson, with a personal account of living with Endometriosis shared by a CWA member.

Where can we purchase tickets to the event, or find out further info?

Tickets can be purchased through Event Brite or by contacting us for further information.

Kylie Norman, Well Nourished 0422 142 183.

Kirsty Guilfoyle, Diabetes Education and Technology 0413 591 312.

A R M I D A L E At some stage in your life, you have probably been into the Armidale PCYC, whether it was to partake in some boxing or to get fit using the gym. It also has possibly been a while since you have stepped foot into the club. If this is the case, then now is the perfect time to come down and check out what’s new ...

T

he PCYC is so much more than a sports centre. addition of our new class, “PCYC Golden Girls, which is an over At the club we have worked hard to ensure it is 55s women’s class running in the mornings on a daily basis. a place for the whole community.

The group was designed to create a fun social event for ladies You will see upon passing or visiting the club wanting to meet new people. Also, we have been lucky enough that PCYC has a new face. Recently we have to get two new trainers, Keith and Gayle, to run our two health had the building painted, to give us a bit of a challenges, Healthy Him and Her. “facelift” and fresher look. The work was completed as a part of With the addition of this class has also come the addition the CBP grant from Adam Marshall and now will reflect the new of our platinum direct debit gym membership of only $15 per and exciting club inside. week. This platinum membership not only gives you access to Once in the doors, you will spot that it is not only the outside the gym, but it also gives the ability to attend any of our classes, of our club, but the inside that has had without paying any extra class costs. a facelift. We have been able to utilise While you’re at the gym, why not take the our main walkthrough into a new time to check out our upgraded functional functional room. The room is full of room and our new equipment. everything you need to get fit in time While checking out the functional room, WHILE YOU’RE AT for summer, including a 20 m dual you will see the addition of our friend THE GYM, WHY NOT sled track, climbing rope and a tyre flip Mario on our Mario themed wall in our TAKE THE TIME machine, just to name a few. With this drop in centre, which also contains access TO CHECK OUT amazing space has come the creation to Xboxes and youth approved games.

OUR UPGRADED of new fitness classes to suit every age The drop in centre provides youth with FUNCTIONAL ROOM and fitness level. a positive place to hang out and engage AND OUR NEW Upon first glance, you will see the positively with members of the community EQUIPMENT. and the PCYC club. Once the room is finished, we hope to be able to run Friday night activities for the youth to come in and watch a movie on the big screen and play the consoles. The need for a safe place on Friday for our young people has been on the scope for a long time now, and we are happy that it is all coming together.

You might now be left asking what else is new with PCYC Armidale ... Well, the PCYC is currently organising a number of outreach programs in close by communities, with the hope to start these programs in Glen Innes in Term 4. The programs look to further PCYC’s reach into rural and remote areas that do not have access to facilities. Our programs hope to grow and continue to strengthen the relationship with young people and the Police, to help youth reach their full potential. These are exciting times for the club, and we look forward to continually improving and reaching more of the community.

New England focus. 31

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

September 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

The ending of feeling suspended is on the way. Reflect on the past 12 months, and release any undigested emotions. These are the only things holding you suspended, as you can’t take them into the future.

It is time to let them go.

Ruby helps us release our fears and hurts.

PISCES. FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

Know you deserve the best of the best. Let this be a motto for a few weeks, and see the difference life makes to you. Release any beliefs of bad luck or misfortune, and give yourself permission to succeed.

Citrine attracts an abundance of good.

Reflect yourself in your loved ones. If someone is displaying behaviour you disapprove of, find out why you disapprove, instead of asking them to stop it.

Relationships are mirroring you presently; don’t judge - just observe.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

Love and romance will be high on the agenda this month. Reflect yourselves in each other, and you will discover a lot about yourself.

Don’t end your day without solving any conflict when you put your head on your pillow; do it with a clear mind.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

To balance your moods, try spending more time near the water.

Allow your negative thoughts to leave your mind and see them washing out to sea. The next wave in carries the answer to what you just released; see it wash over you.

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

You have recently been recognising cycles that have repeated in the past. However, now they aren’t affecting you the way they used to.

This is because you have healed. Identify the change you made to have this shift, and thank yourself.

Apophyllite tip placed on the third eye helps us to see clearly.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Your patience is being tested currently. Don’t get frustrated by delays; use your inner sight to see the answer you will be living, then everything will fall into harmony. Try to be a little more aware of your thoughts and remain positive.

Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

You’ve recently stepped out of emotional turbulence. Don’t look back; just focus ahead and let go of recently triggered future fears, as they are only FEARS. Concentrate your thoughts into the things that matter most to your heart.

Pyrite will bring back courage.

Better times are coming into clarity. Set some awesome fresh goals, give yourself permission to achieve them, and go and live life. You can expect new friends with social activities, and restless energy is likely to be satisfied by travel or commitment to adventure.

Jade brings a feeling of peace and wellbeing.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Justice is coming into play to balance any injustices from the last 12 month cycle. Don’t allow any negative experience to pass by without gaining your reward for it. Ask your higher self what you have to gain from it.

Danburite connects us to our higher consciousness.

32 New England focus.

You are a natural born leader and the master of your own destiny.

Your word is your honour; this is why people trust in what you say.

Your arbitration skills are going to be useful over the next few months; you’re a natural peace keeper.

Clear Quartz amplifies strength.

Justice is coming into play. You can expect all kinds of change! Focus your attentions to the task at hand, to avoid a dazed, wandering mind. Your clever Capricorn brain will greatly benefit from some fresh goals or intention.

Carnelian is a terrific stone for focus and productivity.

Book your Coffs Coast

Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa

AirBNB is a popular choice for most holiday makers these days. This property at Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa is set on nine tropically landscaped acres of absolute beach frontage, seven kilometres north of Coffs Harbour. FOCUS had a chat with owner Madonna Bannerman, to find out more …

W

hy did you decide to invest in a property for the purpose of AirBNB? We decided to invest in this property as an AirBNB due to its location; it is one of the only beachfront resort styles left on the Coffs Coast, and who doesn’t want to stay on the beach! We could see that it had so much potential, and the property was just a stunning location.

Where is the property located, and what are some of the stand out features?

Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa is located at Sapphire Beach, north of Coffs Harbour. This property has so much on offer, with absolute private beach frontage, three swimming pools, indoor and outdoor spas, exercise cabana, two full size beachfront tennis courts, a children's playground, nine acres of tropical landscaped gardens, and beach fishing right on your doorstep.

You have recently renovated the property. Tell us what has changed and improved.

We have done a complete renovation on the studio villa; it now has a very coastal Hamptons feel about it. It hasn’t had a makeover since it was built in the '80s. It now boasts a stylish bathroom, large bedroom and dining lounge area.

In the coming months we are doing an enclosed

courtyard with an outdoor shower and entertaining area.

IT NOW BOASTS A STYLISH Who were some of the BATHROOM, LARGE local suppliers involved BEDROOM AND DINING accept credit card payments at in the reno?

LOUNGE AREA. IN THE the time of booking. You can All the tradies we use are COMING MONTHS WE contact Maddy on 0413 522 locals: from our builders ARE DOING AN ENCLOSED 518 to secure your booking Trent Hart and his fantastic COURTYARD WITH AN and add additional extras team; Andrew Ross, our OUTDOOR SHOWER AND such as beach towels, cheese electrician; Peter Harrison, ENTERTAINING AREA. platters etc. our painter; Jessy, our tiler.

How can we book or find These guys all worked out more information? to my strict deadline and You can book direct by budget and have done an outstanding job to calling 0413 522 518 or by going on AirBNB. complete this in three weeks.

You can also email us and we can send you more What are the top five things people should information: madditk@hotmail.com or admin@ consider when looking to book an AirBNB twotailswines.com.au property?

Why do you think Coffs Coast is a great place People should consider what needs they have to visit? when booking an AirBNB property, not just look The Coffs Coast has so much to offer - not just at the price - where is it located, what facilities are beautiful beaches. It has some amazing attractions available to them and most of all, is it the style of beyond the Big Banana; we have Dolphin Marine break that they are looking for?

Magic, fantastic restaurants, such as Tapas at Two Can we book the property directly with you?

Tails Wines, Coffs Coast's number one winery, If so, how can we get in touch?

Thai, seafood - just to name a few. There's also Yes, we encourage people to book direct, as bush walking trails, surfing, diving, horse riding. like all holiday accommodation if you book direct Thanks Madonna. you in most cases get a better deal. We can also New England focus. 33

FOCUS ON

34 New England focus.

BUSINESS

Business Minds with Ingrid Rothe of VIVID Thinking

CODY

Morgan

This month Business Minds talks to Cody Morgan of Tamworth-based Cody Morgan Racing, one of the largest horse training set-ups in country NSW. A FORMER JOCKEY, CODY GAINED HIS TRAINING LICENCE IN 2008 AND HAS TRAINED OVER 70 WINNERS at an impressive average of 22% career runners to winners.

T

ell us a little bit about yourself …

I was born on Melbourne Cup day, which turned out to be somewhat prophetic. I grew up and went to school in Quirindi. Mum and Dad grew up on the land. Dad is a 20-time Australian champion rodeo rider. Both my mum and brother were also champions, but I wasn’t that great at it.

How did you end up a jockey?

A family friend, Max Rose, had racehorses. When I was 13, he told me I would make a good jockey, that I could leave school and make lots of money. What more could I possibly want? My principal made it very clear it would be a mistake to leave in Year 9, but eighteen months later, I became a professional jockey. Ironically, I saw him at all the meets, and he was a great supporter.

How did you do?

I was no superstar, but it was a great industry, and it set me up to this day. Before I had a car licence, I had bought my second house. For that aspect, I am forever grateful.

Racing is such a dangerous sport. I always say to my apprentices, go and buy real estate, buy a house; you can’t do this forever. I’ve seen many do the lot. I was lucky my parents managed my money for me.

My younger brother was better than me. I rode 150 winners and my brother 200.

What led you to start Cody Morgan Racing?

I always planned to transition to training. Many jockeys cross over out of necessity; however, I always knew I wanted

to be a trainer and used my career as a jockey to set up my training property.

I didn’t own my own business initially. I started with a couple of my own horses and six belonging to others. Now I have around 25 horses, including my own. I race two or three with my family.

In the last two seasons, I’ve earned $1.6 million in winnings for the owners. I get paid on my performance, and I love it.

Training is my life, not a job and something I want to be doing when I am 60.

What is your biggest asset?

Give me a horse for five minutes, and I’m able to assess its potential. My biggest asset now is that I can still do my own trackwork. My brother does a lot of the breaking in and assists with track work.

How has racing changed?

Ten years ago, you had your country owners. It was unheard of to have a city owner. Now, because of social media and the internet in general, 95% of owners are from Australia’s capital cities.

Competition from Sydney trainers is very strong, making it harder for a hobby trainer. Horses I was buying for owners five years ago for $10,000, I am now buying for over $70,000.

Syndication has changed everything. You can have just as much fun racing horses in syndication - most members only have 5% in two or three horses, but their costs aren’t huge. A minimum of twenty owners in a horse, and the bill may only be $50 a week.

The syndicates are the biggest highlight for me. In a

syndicate of 20 people, if the horse turns out to be superduper, then fantastic. If not, they haven’t done all their money on one horse. That has changed racing.

Why have you stayed in Tamworth?

You no longer have to aspire to Sydney to make a living.

The prize money in country NSW is incredible, and it’s attracting city owners. In my case, the owner of Black Caviar makes up half my stable. The Everest is the richest race in Australia, and horses have to be trained in the country to be eligible for that.

What was your biggest challenge?

To be honest, cash flow is the biggest challenge. You see a lot of money, but there are a lot of outgoings. I see a financial advisor and accountant every second week. And then, learning the ropes with communication. I found that 30% of my job is training and 70% communication. Owners like to be informed all the time, see what the stables look like, know the person. I like to feel I’ve made that a priority.

Any advice for a business just starting out?

Before you start, do your research, work underneath someone you look up to, even if it’s only for six weeks or three months. Learn as much as you can.

What inspires you?

To do the very best job for the owners who have faith in me. You are not going to win every race, but if I run into that owner in six - 12 months’ time and they are really happy with the job I did, that is all I can ask for.

Thank you, Cody.

Photo courtesy of Bradleyphotos.com.au New England focus. 35

Work beyond 2020 the future of healthcare FOCUS speaks with Maree Bernoth, Associate Professor of Nursing at Charles Sturt University, to explore the nature of these changes and how healthcare provision is responding to them.

W

here is healthcare headed?

The coming decades will present the healthcare industry with unique challenges. These challenges will need innovative solutions to ensure patient care remains effective, equitable and economically viable.

How do we meet the needs of a changing and ageing population?

The demographic profile of Australia is changing like never before. Immigration is one factor, but the biggest structural shift is that Australia is, in terms of the people who live here, getting older. Often this shift in demographics is presented as a negative thing.

You may read of a “time bomb” or a “looming crisis”. Of course, an ageing population presents challenges socially, economically and in terms of healthcare provision, but it also presents opportunity. Associate Professor Bernoth feels that the changing demographic means unique

possibilities for healthcare workers.

“The growing number of older people means that healthcare workers can work with people from preconception right through the lifespan, so that patients have quality of life throughout their lives. That’s exciting for healthcare workers. More people living longer is a sign of a successful society. However, we want people to age so they don’t have co-morbidities and chronic health problems that some of our current older members of society have.”

“And, as we understand more about the ageing process and effects on it through research, frontline healthcare staff like nurses can help people apply this knowledge to ensure their quality of life. That means things like health promotion about lifestyle choices as we age,” says Professor Bernoth.

Meeting the needs of an ageing population who make more demands on healthcare services will require growth in dynamic services, delivered by agile workers able to respond to change positively. Growth in the industry will

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csu.edu.au/bachelor-nursing *The Good Universities Guide 2018/19 **Pending external ANMAC accreditation. CRICOS Provider Number for Charles Sturt University is 00005F. © Charles Sturt University, 2019. S1001.

36 New England focus.

mean opportunities for shortage of nurses in those looking to work in our regions by studying the field. Just in terms of nursing in your region? nursing, in the medium Charles Sturt University GROWTH IN to long term Australia’s delivers the Bachelor of THE INDUSTRY demand for nurses will Nursing across most of WILL MEAN significantly exceed their campuses, making it OPPORTUNITIES supply. It is thought as convenient as possible FOR THOSE the shortfall will be for its students. From 2020 LOOKING TO approximately 85,000 onwards, the degree will BUILD A CAREER nurses by 2025 and be offered at the Port IN HEALTHCARE. 123,000 nurses by Macquarie campus. Get 2030. (Dept of Health, ready to make a difference Australia’s Future Health to the future of healthcare Workforce - Nurses). and study by the beach!

How can we increase the number of nurses? Find out more or apply now at csu.edu.au/ Did you know you can help combat the bachelor-nursing

focus_contributor

ANTHONY FOX - PRESIDENT, ARMIDALE BUSINESS CHAMBER

Minding your

NRMA TAMWORTH

While our region is experiencing tough times as a result of the continuing drought, our resilience as a community is just as marked.

The 2019 Armidale Regional Business Awards was a great opportunity for us to take time out to celebrate our region’s successes across a range of business endeavours.

I

would in particular like to congratulate all our finalists. All entrants submitted to a very high standard, and the judges’ marks reflected this. Thank you also to homegrown actor, Gareth Rickards, who did a simply fantastic job as MC, and a heartfelt thank you to the sponsors of the 18 award categories.

Many thanks to the Committee of the Chamber that organised the night; Monty Maguire, Bryn Griffiths, Cathryn McFarland and Tyler McDonald. Their combined efforts resulted in a great evening.

Support: APM Employment Services Excellence in Micro Business: Daily Ritual Excellence in Small Business: En Pointe Health Excellence in Social Enterprise: New England Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service Excellence in Sustainability: City Centre Motor Inn New England Enterprising Woman: Nicole Brown, Face 2 Face Beauty Salon Outstanding Business Leader: Nicole Brown, Face to Face Beauty Salon

Congratulations to Employer of Choice: all the winners at the The Business of the Forsyths Armidale Regional Year Award goes to the Outstanding Young Business Awards business with the highest Employee: Sarah 2019. In particular, score in any category.

Edmunds, Face to Face congratulations to Scores are given by Beauty Salon Rianna Feenstra, who independent judges.

Outstanding Young took out the Business Entrepreneur: Riana of the Year Award, Feenstra, Altitude Farm along with Outstanding Outstanding Young Young Entrepreneur Executive: Emalene Gemmell Family Law Award. The Business of the Year Award goes to the business with the highest score in any Start-up Superstar: The New England category. Scores are given by independent Collective judges.

Business of the Year: Altitude Farm Rianna’s business - which she started at age 16 - sells alpaca and sheep products and fleece to the craft market in Australia and worldwide.

2019 Award Winners Excellence in Business: BEST Employment Excellence in Customer Service - Hospitality: Daily Ritual Excellence in Customer Service - Retail: Taking Shape Excellence in Customer Service - Trade & Services: Face2 Face Beauty Salon Excellence in Export: Three Creek Beef Excellence in Innovation: Meralli Solar Excellence in Mental Health & Recovery

Dinner for the Governor of the Reserve Bank, Dr Phillip Lowe The Chamber is hosting a dinner for the Governor of the Reserve Bank, Dr Phillip Lowe on Tuesday 24th September 2019. Dr Lowe has, in a number of speeches during the last few months, addressed the economy, interest rates, growth in infrastructure and the job market. The dinner will give members of Armidale Chamber, surrounding Chambers and members of the public an opportunity to hear first-hand from him.

The dinner is at Armidale Bowling Club.

Tickets can be obtained through the Chamber website.

Come in and meet the team of insurance experts at NRMA Tamworth. You will be able to speak to an insurance professional face to face about your personal insurance needs and circumstances, knowing they understand local issues that are important to you.

You can speak with Rachel, Jenny, Crista, Ray, Jo, Emily and Vicki. With a combined experience of over 50 years in the insurance industry, they pride themselves on their level of service, tailoring policies to the needs of their customers.

The team at NRMA Tamworth are passionate about their communities, presenting the Bus Safety Program to local kindergarten classes at the start of the year and presenting at the Young Driver Expo, for which NRMA are a major sponsor, in August each year.

NRMA believes that nothing matters more than the feeling of security you get from your home, and every home is worth protecting.

So, from 11th August to 31st December 2019, NRMA will plant a tree on the customer’s behalf for every new home policy sold. They are partnering with CVA (Conservation Volunteers Australia) to plant a tree in koala habitat impacted areas across NSW. NRMA Home Insurance can protect against the unexpected, such as damage to your home by fire, storm, impact and theft or attempted theft.

If you rent, we can protect your personal items in your unit and those items you take with you, such as a laptop or other devices.

Come in and see why help is who we are.

Get quality Home Insurance at a great price Our Home Insurance includes features like: • New for old replacement of your belongings • Up to a year’s temporary accommodation for you, your family and even your pets • Cover for theft and damage, even if you forget to lock the door Drop into your local branch and chat to the team today.

NRMA Armidale Shop 42, Armidale Plaza, Dangar Street 6771 1322 nrma.armidale@iag.com.au NRMA Tamworth 458-460 Peel Street 6761 2177 nrma.tamworth@iag.com.au or visit www.nrma.com.au

Things you should know: Cover is subject to standard underwriting guidelines and policy terms. To see if our insurance is right for you, always read the Product Disclosure Statement from the product issuer Insurance Australia Limited trading as NRMA Insurance.

New England focus. 37

FOSTER CARE WEEK

I N T E R V I E W S

W I T H

A

C A R E R

&

Dawn Rogers DENNIS

TALITHA HOLZHAUSER How long have you been fostering? Eight years. We have had nineteen children in our care, including respite care.

What led you to become a foster carer? We raised Dennis’ grandson from when he was three to fifteen. We had a good time with him; he did well, so we thought we would open our home to other children.

What are some of the rewarding aspects of being a foster carer? Seeing children come home from school, witnessing their achievements and personal growth. All of the children have turned out so well; every single child we have had in our care would still be happy to come and say hello if they saw us.

What are some of the challenging aspects of being a foster carer? Every day is a challenge.

Every day is an unknown quantity.

Sometimes kids don’t know what to expect, it’s hard for them, and they are coming into a strange home. We actually had a young person do the bolt on us (laughs); when I drove to the roundabout, he opened the door and got out.

The police brought him back at 3am - he was very happy to be back!

We had one little boy for three months; he was not a problem. He had two bits of zucchini over two nights, and he thought that was a lot of vegetables!

What would your advice be to anyone who is considering becoming a foster carer? Think about it and get as much information as you can.

Talk to other foster carers. Be prepared to spend time with the kids.

How long have you been fostering?

Officially? I guess you could say four years.

Prior, I was looking after children who were going through rough patches in their lives.

What led you to become a foster carer? I guess you could say I come from a long line of foster carers (laughs). I have a lot of aunties on my mother’s side, and a lot of them have been through the process of becoming carers.

There was one lady in particular, who had a big impact on my life and inspired me to start the formal process to become a carer. I guess it is something I have always been interested in.

What are some of the rewarding aspects of being a foster carer? When I was a child, I was immersed in the culture of foster care. I witnessed a lot foster children grow and turn their lives around, watched their progress

and how far they’ve come. With my own foster children, it’s a child using manners, or something as simple as learning the alphabet or learning to read a book. I guess just instilling confidence and teaching them a different way to deal with something too. It’s about the little wins.

What are some of the challenging aspects of being a foster carer? Second-guessing if I am doing it right. I always put myself in the position of the child or their parents. I want to ensure that the child maintains a positive relationship with their parents and can reflect on positive experiences from the past.

What would your advice be to anyone who is considering becoming a foster carer? Remain open minded, expect the unexpected, and take care of yourself.

make a difference in a child’s life today

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO BECOME A CARER PLEASE CONTACT PATHWAYS ON 1800 314 199 OR FOSTERING@PATHFINDERS.NGO

38 New England focus.

thinking debt recovery

WITH CHRISTOPHER SEROW & SAM DOYLE

thinking

debt recovery

S

ometimes, you may have a complaint against someone who has provided defective goods and services, which you have not been able to resolve with the provider or someone owes you money, and they have not shown any willingness to pay you, in spite of requests from you.

Often, these issues involve relatively small amounts of money. It then does not appear worthwhile, to go to court and sue for the money, where the costs can be significant and where dealing with the complexities of court litigation can be daunting.

In civil debt claims, the amount of the debt generally determines which court or tribunal you would need to go to in order to pursue a debt claim. For matters where the claim is between $10,000 - $100,000, it will usually be appropriate to file your action in the Local Court in its General Division. For amounts greater than $100,000, it would usually be appropriate to file your action in the District or Supreme Court of NSW. For these kinds of action, it is definitely recommended that you get legal advice and assistance.

Debt claims of $10,000 and under, can usually be filed in the Small Claims Division of the Local Court. This involves filing a Statement of Claim and a supporting affidavit. These must be served upon the other party. In most cases, it is usually a good idea to send a Letter of Demand first, to the other party, to give them an opportunity to resolve the matter, without the need to go to court. This letter would be your proof that you have attempted such resolution, as the Small Claims Division strongly encourages parties to attempt prompt and efficient settlement of claims between themselves, leaving litigation as a ‘last resort’. Court registry staff can provide some limited assistance in filling out the appropriate paperwork, but they cannot give legal advice.

If a party has been served with a Statement of Claim but then does nothing about it for at least 28 days, then the claiming party, the Plaintiff, can apply to the court for a Default Judgement against

the Defendant/Judgment Debtor. Provided the other party does not successfully apply to have a Default Judgment set aside, the Plaintiff would automatically have judgement in their favour by default. It then becomes a matter of how the judgment is to be enforced.

One way, is for the Sheriff’s Office to seize property of the judgement debtor and sell it. Another way, is for the wages or pension payments of the debtor to be garnisheed, which means that their payer has to take a certain amount of money out of the debtor’s income payments, to pay off the debt. Sometimes, a debtor can apply to be allowed to pay a debt off by instalments and the court can order a party to give evidence of their financial means to determine a reasonable amount to be paid with each instalment.

Also, it is possible for a debtor’s assets to be made subject to a charge or a writ. The debt then becomes payable once the debtor attempts to dispose of the asset or when the creditor sells the property. It is usually real estate that becomes the subject of a charge or writ, but it can be applied to other assets.

The Small Claims Division of the Local Court is generally less formal than the General Division, and the court may often refer parties to a Community Justice Centre for mediation, to give an opportunity to settle a claim as an alternative to ‘fighting it out’ in court. It is generally cheaper to negotiate a settlement, with or without the help of a mediator (Community Justice Centres do use mediators). Lawyers can also assist, in negotiations.

Seeing a lawyer about any contemplated action in court, may not only help to save you unnecessary costs, you will also get the advice, information and support that you need, in relation to costs, limitation periods and options for recovery to ensure that you are in the best position to get what you are entitled to.

Christopher Serow Principal, Solicitor Director, Notary Public, Migration Agent Sam Doyle Paralegal

New England focus. 39

focusinterview.

G AT H E R I N G

Want to join a network of women in similar rural backgrounds to yourself? Feel like getting away for a weekend and doing something exciting? FOCUS talks with Chloe Hoy about this year's Rural Women's Gathering, which will be held in Walcha ...

W

hat is a rural women’s gathering?

A rural women's gathering is a weekend event primarily supported by the DPI and the Rural Women's Network. The gathering is a state wide community hosted event for ALL rural women, including farming women, Indigenous women, women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, mining women, women in the fishing industry, women who live in regional cities, towns and villages and also coastal women. We also encourage women who may be looking for a "tree change" to come and experience our town and also the lifestyle we have to offer.

Gatherings provide an opportunity for rural women to network and meet people from similar and also diverse backgrounds, share experiences and support each other through good and tough times. It is not a “conference”, but a special event which brings women together.

Tell us the history about this event.

In Orange in 1993, NSW Agriculture’s (which is now NSW Department of Primary Industries) the Rural Women’s Network (RWN), along with Farm Safe Central West and a committee of volunteers, instigated the first gathering in NSW as a way of bringing rural women together for networking, learning, gaining inspiration and ideas and sharing information. Four hundred women from NSW and other states came to the

40 New England focus.

Orange gathering!

From that event came enthusiasm for NSW gatherings to be held each year.

Gatherings have been held all throughout the state since then, including Bega, Bourke, Cobar, Cooma, Coonabarabran, Coonamble, Gloucester, Grafton, Gunnedah, Hay, Junee, Kempsey, Moree, Orange, Temora, Tocal, Wellington, Wentworth and Yanco, Parkes, Scone, Broken Hill, Narrandera, Coolamon, Glen Innes and Merimbula.

This event goes for three days. Tell us in detail what people can expect for each day.

FRIDAY Registrations open at 1pm at the Walcha Showground, which is the "hub" for the Walcha gathering. After registering, participants will have the opportunity to view the pop up art show featuring local artists, as well as a quilting display and demonstration held in the main pavilion at the showground - along with a large range of market and information stalls. This will be available for viewing over the whole weekend!

Participants can also explore our beautiful town and also our diverse range of shops before our Friday night "Meet and Mingle" dinner, which is a great opportunity for attendees to "break the ice" and kick back and relax. We will have some wonderful entertainment on the night and also an inspiring welcome speaker.

SATURDAY Saturday morning starts off with an easy and relaxing walk along the Apsley River, that weaves

Want to join a network of women in similar rural backgrounds to yourself? Feel like getting away for a weekend and doing something exciting? FOCUS talks with Chloe Hoy about this year’s Rural Women’s Gathering which will be held in Walcha...

its way through the town a packed lunch will be After a decadent lunch, (for those who are willing!) supplied to those who participants will break into the and then a beautiful buffet have to start the trek first of two workshop sessions. style breakfast at the home.

There is a variety of 40 showground, again with Are partners included? workshops to choose the opportunity to browse What will they be from - from basket weaving the variety of local talent doing? to developing a bucket list, in the form or art, quilting The partners are guests will be spoilt for choice! and stalls. absolutely included, We will be officially although they will not welcomed by Walcha be attending the same Mayor, Cl Eric Noakes, program as the ladies, we and the gathering will formally be opened by have an incredibly interesting and educational The Hon. Adam Marshall, NSW Minister for program for the partners! They will be able to Agriculture and Western NSW. We will enjoy experience a tour of one of the leading superfine stories from some local women, who will be sure wool producing properties in the Walcha area, to inspire and empower our guests. along with a display of working dog training, a After a decadent lunch, participants will break visit to the Walcha Men's shed and a star safari! into the first of two workshop sessions. There is What can rural women hope to gain from a variety of 40 workshops to choose from - from attending this experience? basket weaving to developing a bucket list, We hope that the women attending the guests will be spoilt for choice! Tours to various Walcha gathering gain confidence, strength, regions around Walcha will also be a highlight. support, networking opportunities to re-connect Saturday night will feature an exquisite sit established friendships and form new associations down dinner, with some amazing entertainment and networks. and also a very special guest, who will be It is important that our hard working women, providing our ladies with very special memories to the backbone of many farming families and take home with them! communities recognise how important their role SUNDAY is and how appreciated they really are.

After an exercise session (again, for those Thanks Chloe. who are willing) and Ecumenical service, we will hear from some incredible guest speakers, sure to touch the hearts of our guests. The RWN will also be hosting a session in which participants will have the opportunity to provide feedback When November 1st - 3rd, 2019 and have an open discussion with the RWN team Where Walcha Showground, Walcha NSW 2354 about any relevant issues they may be facing.

Cost $255 (inc GST) PP. Lunch will be provided to our guests, and Bookings www.rwg2019walcha.com

New England focus. 47

Jenny Roff Celebrant Love & Life What services do you offer?

I am a registered celebrant who specialises in weddings, naming ceremonies, commitment ceremonies, renewal of vows, memorials and memorial anniversaries, scattering of ashes, life celebrations, pet funerals and dedication ceremonies.

Whereabouts?

I am based in Armidale and travel to Dorrigo, Glen Innes, Gunnedah, Guyra, Inverell, Moree, Tamworth, Tenterfield, Uralla, Walcha and further afield.

Tell us a bit about yourself ...

I am a high school teacher and long-time resident of Armidale.

I am married to Damian, and we have four children. I enjoy keeping fit and performing in local musical theatre - most recently in Chicago and Singin’ in the Rain.

What’s the best part of your job?

I get enormous satisfaction from knowing that I am assisting others to celebrate incredibly significant life events. I am able to combine my love of writing with confident public speaking skills to create unique and elegant ceremonies for my clients.

“I would recommend Jenny a thousand times over. She is a wonderful speaker; she took the time to get to know us and presented a very special ceremony for us and our guests.

Thank you so much, Jenny; we had such a perfect day”...

Steph and Ed Davidson ~ July 2019.

42 New England focus.

focusinterview.

PLC Armidale production of

ROALD DAHL'S

Matilda

A

ccording to Producer, Mrs Kate Clynch and Artistic Director, Mrs Jo Wysel, it was the perfect production for an all-girls’ school to perform. FOCUS took time out to speak with them during their rehearsals recently: What was so appealing about the opportunity to perform Matilda?

Jo: PLC Armidale is a school full of talented students, and we were actively looking for our next musical production to be performed in 2019. When the rights for Matilda the Musical became available for a limited number of schools in Australia, we knew that we wanted to apply! The cast is perfect for a girls' school and gave us the chance to have a large ensemble, giving so many of our students a chance to be on the stage. The excitement that reverberated around the school when we announced that our production was going to be Matilda the Musical just confirmed that it was the perfect musical for us.

Kate: This was an opportunity to have some real fun with a show. Despite the musical being technically rather complex, the characters and the songs are very memorable, and it moves along at a roaring pace. Often hilarious, but with real moments of poignancy, this show is one that will delight audiences young and old. The main message of Matilda is that young people can have a voice, and effect real change in their communities, and this is a message that really resonated with us, and with our school as well. As Matilda sings, “Even if you’re little, you can do a lot; you

The Creative Arts and Music staff at PLC Armidale are excited, and for very good reason. PLC Armidale is the first school in the New England / North West region to be granted the rights to perform “Matilda the Musical”, Tim Minchin’s contemporary musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s, “Matilda”.

THE MAIN MESSAGE OF

musn’t let a little thing MATILDA IS THAT YOUNG like little stop you”.

PEOPLE CAN HAVE A VOICE, What was the AND EFFECT REAL CHANGE audition process like?

IN THEIR COMMUNITIES, Jo: The large amount AND THIS IS A MESSAGE taking the opportunity to of interest in Matilda THAT REALLY RESONATED make use of our excellent meant that we had a WITH US, AND WITH OUR boarding facilities. It rigorous and lengthy SCHOOL AS WELL. was also lots of fun for audition process. students, as they spent We opened up our big days singing, and auditions to male learning choreography, as students at NECOM, and to brothers of our well as having time to get to know each other PLC students, for some of the roles. Along as a cast. It is great to see students from Year with our Musical Directors Matthew Minter 5 to Year 12 coming together and making and Sam Jacometti, and Assistant Director Jan connections through the creative arts.

Patterson, we held a whole day of auditions Kate: We have a dedicated production initially. Students were asked to individually crew, who bring a wealth of expertise to the prepare a song from the musical, as well as production. Musical direction is from Matthew a script excerpt, and performed these for our Minter, Sam Jacometti and Connie Dunham, panel. and our resident speech and drama guru, Mrs Kate: Students were then put through Jan Patterson has been putting our drama their dance paces, being taught some students through their paces. Sets, costumes choreography by our Director and and stage management are being most ably Choreographer, Jo, in small groups to show managed by Set Designer Helen Templeton, us their dance skills. Call-backs followed for supported by Millie Graham and Shane principal roles, and by the end of the process Moffitt. We have also been lucky to have our we had a stellar cast to start rehearsing with.

Year 12 Captain of Drama, Ria Kealey, and With a cast of nearly 60 students, the stage at Captain of Dance, Aisha Kleindienst on board the UNE Arts Theatre is going to be a heaving for the rehearsal process. Past PLC Armidale hive of activity at the end of October. student Darcy Campbell also made the trek How are the cast and crew shaping up? to Armidale to work with students at Matilda Jo: Things are looking amazing! This cast Camp. is working so hard, and their talent is shining What can the audience expect from the through. Students and staff gave up the last production? days of the recent holidays to attend "Matilda Kate: An outstanding display of the talent Camp": a three day, intensive, immersive at PLC Armidale! Our cast is headed up by our two talented Matildas, Scarlett Loxley rehearsal camp at PLC, with many students

and Amber Hahn, both students in Year 7.

The tyrannical Trunchbull will be played by Michael Harrell, and the lovely Miss Honey will be performed by Isabelle Taylor. The principal characters are sure to delight audiences, as they transport them to the world of Roald Dahl’s Matilda.

Jo: The choreography is high energy, and showcases the dancing flair of the cast, and the talented orchestra is going to bring Tim Minchin’s music to vibrant life.

This is a very modern musical, so watch out for some exciting set changes, vibrant costumes, and just a little bit of magic on the stage. Audiences can expect an enthralling production, that is suitable for the whole family. We can’t wait to share it with you!

PLC Armidale production of Matilda the Musical When October 31, November 1 and 2 (7pm, with an additional Matinee on Saturday from 1pm).

Where UNE Arts Theatre, Armidale.

Tickets www.trybooking.com/BDHEZ TICKETS ON SALE NOW Adults $35; children/concession $25.

Enquiries PLC Armidale Reception on 6770 1700 or info@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au New England focus. 43

focusinterview.

Father Anthony Koppman

Holysmoke

Father Anthony Koppman

H

i Fr. Anthony. What's your background in the area?

I am originally from Coffs Harbour, with my parents and brothers still living on the Coffs Coast. In early 2000 I accepted an offer from the Armidale Bishop at the time, Bishop Luc Matthys, to serve in the Armidale Diocese. My Ordination to the Catholic Priesthood was in 2001 at Saint Mary and Joseph’s Cathedral in Armidale. I served as Assistant Priest in Armidale, Moree, and was appointed Parish Priest for the communities of Guyra, Walgett and Lightning Ridge. In February 2019, I was appointed the Parish Priest of Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church at West Tamworth.

I still have a special connection with the Armidale and Guyra communities, after receiving the Australia Day Award as Citizen of the Year in 2013 for community work.

Tell us a little about your parish work …

My parish work is varied - serving and supporting the Catholic Community at West Tamworth, regular visits to Saint Joseph’s Primary School, and pastoral care to the wider community of West Tamworth.

I never take for granted my vocation as a Priest, although we are living in challenging times, with workplace and professional standards a vital part of life. With church attendances declining, and the lack of vocations to the Priesthood, this does not mean that the ministry is declining. I am often humbled by the way so many in the community have the highest respect for the dedicated and hardworking clergy today.

One thing that has not changed is the vital need for a caring and supportive church that is made up of a variety of people, all working together, with the ability to connect in our own unique and personal ways - that includes my own unique and unusual way through the use of 44 New England focus.

Many of us in the New England have been privileged to witness a Holysmoke fireworks display … Father Anthony Koppman is the man behind the magic, bringing smiles to the faces of both young and old.

Pyrotechnics!

How did your interest in pyrotechnics begin?

Since my earliest ‘Cracker’ came to me through a memories of the old Christian brother on the Gold Father Crackers. Holysmoke cracker night, I recall the Coast. His original name Fireworks was established in array of colours, crackling was ‘Taka’; I changed 2002. noises and the smell of his name to reflect this What do you most enjoy burnt gunpowder mixed wonderful partnership of about a fireworks display? with the smoke from the Holysmoke and Cracker.

There is a lot of planning bonfires that lit up the sky involved with each display. I at sunset on those cold am always conscious of any nights on the Queen’s inconvenience to pet owners Birthday June long weekand environmental impacts; end. having a policy of recycling where possible and I remember saving up my pocket money and planting native trees after each display is just one waiting for the sale of crackers in the corner small part of taking an active responsibility for the stores and toy shops, purchasing a variety of future. The greatest joy is the noise of the crowd; items and then making my own special plans for when their applause is louder than all the mortars the best fireworks night of the year. After cracker firing and the salutes exploding in the sky, then I night, the fascination continued after collecting know my team and I have provided a well-earned the burnt-out multicolored cylinders and dismanpat on the back for another successful commutling them to see how they worked. nity event.

Two vocations were developing, one of There are several very large and successful disbringing care and support through ministry to the plays: Tamworth Country Music Festival, Commucommunity, and the other being the love for crenity Christmas Carols, and the highly publicised ating a unique “gunpowder artwork” and how I Armidale New Year’s Eve Fireworks. could share this love of fireworks.

The Armidale New Year’s Eve Fireworks Less noise, smoke and more colours and originated about twelve years ago, after I witunique effects that literally make the saying “the nessed many families looking for a free and safe sky’s the limit” … This is what challenges me evenvironment to gather once a year to celebrate ery time I am invited to showcase my Holysmoke New Year’s Eve. It was hard work over two years Fireworks to a community group. sourcing the funds needed to get this not for I gained my Pyrotechnic licence in 1999. Back profit display off the ground. It was the support then, it was twelve months of training with a of locals that made the display on the main Rololicensed operator, who was also a Catholic Priest, gas Sports Field possible for everyone. although now retired. Father Tom provided a It has now become such a huge event that last small number of community displays for his paryear, Council took over the management of the ish and other local events.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks.

After I was ordained a priest, I continued My next challenge is to establish this same to work with fireworks, having the nickname

NYE display with another community and bring that same joy and support to others that I was so privileged to share with Armidale for many wonderful years.

Your sidekick is the gorgeous Cracker!

What’s special about your partnership?

“Cracker” came to me through a Christian brother on the Gold Coast. His original name was “Taka”; I changed his name to reflect this wonderful partnership of Holysmoke and Cracker.

He is a great reminder when planning a display that animals don’t always appreciate noise from fireworks, and how I can limit that noise as much as possible.

Occasionally on a Sunday he likes to make his appearance after Mass and of course receive all the attention! Cracker is often by my side through the ministry work; each time he brings comfort, support and in his own way, a special healing. Cracker is often seen at the local nursing homes, schools, and other venues while I do my pastoral visits. This is where I soon find out who has the “dog treats”, as he is always eager to make himself known to them.

It is a real privilege to be welcomed into people’s lives, whether it be a joyful or a difficult time. Serving the church as a Priest has many rewarding moments and being able to share my love of “lighting up the sky” on special occasions, makes life so worthwhile. God has given everyone a special gift to share and when we find these little treasures and share them, they become huge gifts to so many. We should never take for granted the little blessing we receive each day.

Thanks Fr. Anthony. Interview: Jo Robinson.

focus_tech

WITH GAVIN MORONEY

focus_contributor

WITH SUSIE DUNN

Icing

CAKE ON

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

WELL, THAT WAS THE WINTER THAT WAS - THE CALENDAR SAYS IT’S OFFICIALLY GONE, PUSSYCATS! WE’LL SEE.

T H E

E-bike

WHEN YOU THINK OF THE WORDS “ELECTRIC BICYCLE”, YOU MIGHT IMAGINE SOMETHING LIKE AN ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE OR SCOOTER. BUT, JUST IMAGINE YOUR REGULAR BICYCLE, ADD SOME ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS, AND YOU’RE S O M E W H AT T H E R E .

E

-bikes have hit different bicycle scenes in a big way, and by a big way I mean they are the fastest growing category in the cycling industry globally, despite some opinions from purist cyclists.

the crank area (where the pedals attach) of an e-bike frame and offer electrical assistance relative to the amount of power being exerted by a rider. On a majority of the motor systems, they will typically be programmed with three - five levels of assistance. The tech that goes into an e-bike is quite straightforward, with Aside from the often obvious electric motor controller, battery and motor all seamlessly system that integrates into an e-bike, integrated into the modern e-bikes are design. E-bikes starting to look more will come with an and more like their onscreen display traditionally pedalshowing speed, level powered cousins.

The electric bike is just of assistance and They come in most like a normal bike, where battery life. Battery styles, including urban, you can pedal, but has life differs from bike mountain, city/folding an additional battery to bike, but in some and the debated road pack and through an cases on the lowest bikes. When looking integrated motor can assist setting, some at pedal powered and assist you in pedalling. companies claim to an e-bike side by side, have a battery life of it’s easy to see some 100 km. resemblance between the two. Start looking a little closer, and a number of differences become more noticeable.

The electric bike is just like a normal bike, where you can pedal, but has an additional battery pack and through an integrated motor, can assist you in pedalling. There are also options for a throttle styled e-bike, which is controlled more like a motor bike and pedalling is optional. The motors are usually very quiet and can assist up to 45 km/h.

In most cases, pedelec motors are fitted to

Who are e-bikes for?

They are for anyone from a novice to a pro rider, but I can see this will greatly help people who would enjoy a long ride but may not be at a fitness level for traditional biking. It should definitely be considered for daily commutes to work and because of the ease of the ride, there is no need for the change of outfit when you get to work.

Lastly, this will be my final tech review for now, and I would like to thank anyone who has read any of the reviews for the past year.

I

’ve been musing about what used to be thought of as the iconic Australian male: riding tall and lean in the saddle, broad-brimmed hat, laconic manner, larrikin sense of humour and a healthy dose of cynicism. He mightn’t look the same or work the same now, but we can still find glimpses of that man. I’ve never met Guyra farmer Benjamin Jackson, but I loved when he laid out drought feed for his sheep to spell “GO THE BLUES” as they munched along the trail - filmed by a hovering drone - then circulated on video before the State of Origin.

And, it worked!

We need those can-do attitudes, as well as our senses of humour. Recently we’ve been bombarded by new attitudes, using words such as “hate speech”, “toxic” and “weaponise”. We need to stand against them, articulating a civil belief in integrity and ethics. We can’t claim to be perfect - but take one local example: the Women in Black once a month care enough to make their silent anti-war protest in front of the old Armidale Courthouse. We march for decent treatment for refugees and against war, to celebrate our First Nations, for myriad examples of decent standards in our multicultural community.

Sometimes we parade just for fun. Voluntary community groups contribute, enjoying making their contribution. People know their neighbours. We pull together in times like drought. These strengths are lost to many in today’s world.

I wonder how many take advantage of opportunities on offer to the community from UNE? There are a range of free talks, lectures, facilities and activities welcoming those interested. For example, The Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences Seminar Series cover all sorts of subjects on Friday mornings. [Contact Karin Von Strokirch at School-of-Hass@une. edu. au]. Keep an eye out for Open Days at The UNE Smart Farm. The Law School has frequent public lectures by distinguished speakers.

The various special interest museums, e.g.

Natural History or Antiquities, welcome visitors.

Lazenby, the Arts Theatre and UNE Sport all offer events and venues. If only the powers-

that-be could pay some serious attention to reactivating UNE’s famous Summer Schools, bringing an influx of visitors, utilising the campus and gladdening the hearts of town’s cafés and bars! UNE is integral to life in our region and not just swathed in clouds up on that hill.

O Joy, O Bliss … hasn’t it been good to feel some tentative life and action unfolding in Armidale’s Central Mall! Congratulations to the Renew Armidale group - may they continue with their efforts to sow seeds of new purposes and life in this special precinct.

Good to welcome Suzanne James and Malcolm McClintock back to town. Both made their marks when here before - Suzanne as Director of NECOM and convivial artist Malcolm energising the Armidale Art Gallery. When Russell Bauer, called to Brisbane on family matters, bid his sad farewell, we were lucky Suzanne agreed to return as Interim Director for eighteen months. As well as contributing professionally, they’re both fun to have around.

My inner Pollyanna thinks our increasingly dire water situation has some salutary side effects. People have grown up (particularly in metropolitan Australia) expecting water, electricity and general services to simply exist, without a second thought. It ain’t necessarily so, and having to think through alternatives is an excellent exercise. The hardest to summon up is water, and it’s the most vital. If we dam it, we must also consider where we’re stopping it - what happens down the line? We’ve come to take the whole supply system of services for granted. My father said, “Before you begin, consider what the end may be”. I know I’ll be investigating batteries to back up my solar panels. Our politicians should be busier with practical national plans.

John and Rosemary Johnson have always been lateral thinkers and committed to the community. Rosemary’s researching old wells around town for the Armidale District Historical Society. If you know of any, contact jandr. johnson@bigpond.com My thoughts and prayers are with Tracy Le Messurier’s husband Greg and family. She was special.

Susie Dunn.

New England focus. 45

Get paid to study!

2020 TEACHER EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS APPLICATIONS OPEN 9TH SEPTEMBER 2019

O

SC H O OL S R U Moree

St Philomena’s Central

Narrabri Mungindi

St Joseph’s Primary

St Francis Xavier’s Primary

Barraba

Warialda

St Joseph’s Primary

St Joseph’s Primary

Wee Waa

Inverell

Holy Trinity Central

St Joseph’s Primary

St Joseph’s Primary

Glen Innes

St Joseph’s Primary

Guyra

St Mary of the Angels Primary

Walgett

Armidale

St Mary’s Primary O’ Connor Catholic College

St Joseph’s Primary

Uralla

Boggabri

St Joseph’s Primary

Sacred Heart Primary

Walcha

St Patrick’s Primary

Gunnedah St Xavier’s Primary St Mary’s College

Manilla

St Michael’s Primary

Tamworth

Quirindi

St Joseph’s Primary St Joseph’s Primary St Edward’s Primary St Nicholas Primary McCarthy Catholic College

46 New England focus.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

arm.catholic.edu.au/employment

(02) 6772 7388

Catholic Schools Office

Diocese of Armidale

hat is the Catholic Schools Office Diocese of Armidale?

The Catholic Schools Office (CSO) Diocese of Armidale serves 24 systemic Catholic schools around the New England and North West region of NSW. It employs approximately 1,000 people in teaching and non-teaching roles and educates approximately 6,000 students.

What is the role of the Catholic Schools Office?

The CSO is responsible for providing educational, administrative, information technology, industrial, financial and employee services support to the 24 schools; 19 primary (K-6), two central (K-10) and three secondary (7-10).

Where is the Catholic Schools Office located?

The CSO is located at Unit 2/131 Barney Street, Armidale.

Where are the schools located in the Diocese?

The Catholic Diocese of Armidale is the second largest diocese geographically in New South Wales (approximately the size of Portugal). Within our boundaries are the major centres of Armidale, Tamworth, Gunnedah, Moree, Narrabri, Inverell and 13 other towns, including: Uralla, Walcha, Guyra, Tenterfield, Glen Innes, Walgett, Manilla, Warialda, Barraba, Mungindi, Wee Waa, Boggabri and Quirindi.

What are the employment opportunities within the Diocese?

The CSO employs on average 100 new teachers each year in permanent, temporary and casual positions. Teachers wishing to apply for casual employment can do so by applying through the CSO. Permanent and temporary teaching positions are advertised through the CSO website,

teachers.on.net and other forms of media.

What incentives for teachers does the Catholic Schools Office offer?

The CSO offers a number of incentives (subject to conditions) to teachers including relocation subsidy and accommodation allowance. A special allowance is also available for those teaching in Mungindi and Walgett.

What support does the Catholic Schools Office offer?

The CSO is committed to supporting Early Career Teachers by providing support through relief days, an allocated supervisor, an allocated mentor, professional development days and further support by the way of the CSO Performance and Development Officers.

To support the study needs of all permanent and temporary teachers across the system, the CSO also offers financial support for further study by the way of reimbursement (up to 50% of course or unit fees) for those who are studying to meet Religious Education and Leadership requirements, general curriculum and related education areas. The CSO will also provide support for non-teaching staff in study related to their role in supporting the work of schools.

Tell us about the Teacher Education Scholarship Program ...

The CSO will be offering a number of scholarships to applicants who intend to commence or are in the process of completing a recognised initial teacher education training program in 2020. Scholarships will open on the 9th September 2019 and consist of a $7,500 training allowance per academic year of full-time study and a $3,000 one-off grant on appointment to an Armidale Diocese school (appointment location will be determined by the CSO). The successful applicant will be required to complete twelve (12) school terms of continuous service with the Diocese as a permanent, full-time teacher after satisfactory completion of the program.

Further information on the scholarship

potential, so they can program, including an application package, can graduate to a world The CSO offers a be found on the CSO where they can make number of incentives website. a difference based on (subject to conditions) What are the the values and beliefs of to teachers, including requirements to teach their Catholic education. relocation subsidy in the Diocese of Why is working in and accommodation Armidale?

Catholic Education allowance.

To join us, you must in the Diocese of hold relevant educational Armidale a rewarding qualifications (or vocation? completed a minimum of We spoke to teachers 75%), have accreditation who have been working in our schools, and with the NSW Education Standards Authority here is what they said: (NESA), have completed all practicums “Through our pastoral care and academic (including final internship if applicable) and programs we get time to develop and mentor have the right to work in Australia. these young people, so they can go out into Special requirements apply to those who the world and make a contribution”- Melita, teach Religious Education within the Diocese Secondary Music Teacher, O’Connor Catholic of Armidale.

College, Armidale.

What does Catholic education offer?

“Barraba’s a great town; it’s small but it’s Catholic education offers a sense of got a lot to offer. I get to work with the community, a faith dimension, value-based students and parents more closely. I am very learning and social justice programs. These well supported, and I hope to stay in rural elements combined with an outstanding communities” - Shani, Early Career Primary academic reputation give Catholic school Teacher, St Joseph’s, Barraba. students a wonderful opportunity to be the “I get to be a part of my students’ spiritual best they can be. and academic learning. If I had my own Catholic schools make an important children, this is where I’d be sending them” contribution to Australian communities, and Elise, Primary Teacher, St Joseph’s, Wee Waa. they connect in a very tangible way with “There are so many opportunities to develop their parish and local community. Catholic your career in this system of schools. You are schools cater for students with special needs, able to get more exposure and experience Indigenous students, students from diverse than you would in larger Diocese” - Michael, linguistic backgrounds and students from rural Principal of St Francis Xavier’s, Narrabri. and remote regions.

For further information on any of the above, The schools in the Diocese of Armidale are please visit the employment page on the CSO building a contemporary professional learning website: arm.catholic.edu.au/employment/ community in a Catholic context as a vehicle or call the CSO recruitment team on for school improvement. Our moral purpose 6772 7388. is to ensure that all students learn to their full New England focus. 47

48 New England focus.

focusinterview.

Currently completing her carpentry apprenticeship, Armidale local Kasey Burton has received a lot of comments and support as she forges her career in what is traditionally a male-dominated field. Kasey was one of this year’s winners of the Sarah Lloyd Scholarship, which she says will only help to further her career goals …

H

i Kasey. What's your background in the New England area?

I was born and raised in Armidale.

I have two older brothers and one younger sister, who also live in the New England area. My parents are here too. I went to primary school at Martins Gully and attended Duval High School. I now attend TAFE New England.

When you were going to school, what were some of the career paths you had mapped out for yourself?

Originally I applied to university to complete either a Bachelor of Business or Bachelor of Nursing degree.

However, I was uncertain which path I should take, so I decided to take a gap year.

During my gap year I completed my Certificate III in Retail Management course, whilst managing at McDonald’s. I had worked for McDonald’s for about four years up to that point, while I was at school, and the offer of being paid to gain management experience and complete a formal qualification was a great opportunity.

I also worked at Intersport for two and a half years while at school.

When/how did you decide to focus on carpentry as a career choice?

During my gap year, I decided management was something I’d like to pursue in the future, but in the building industry, rather than in retail. I decided to pursue a carpentry apprenticeship. My dad is a builder and my two brothers are apprentices, one a carpenter, the other an electrician.

My introduction to the building industry started early, as I spent many weekends in my younger years helping my parents building numerous family homes, so

I was no stranger to building and supportive.

My introduction to the building construction.

You were awarded a $2,000 Sarah industry started early, as I Whilst at Macca’s, I had Lloyd Scholarship this year - a spent many weekends completed my Induction Card, scholarship that acknowledges in my younger years which is a mandatory qualification women working in traditionally helping my parents for entry into the building industry. male-dominated roles. How did building numerous This enabled me to do some you feel when you found out family homes, so I was labouring during my gap year. I you'd won? no stranger to building and loved it, and it has gone from there.

Thrilled and honoured. The Sarah construction.

Where are you completing your Lloyd Scholarship Fund is a terrific carpentry training? incentive for young women like me.

I am currently employed with One of my managers and I travelled Sunwest Constructions Pty Ltd. to Wagga for the presentation.

Sunwest is a commercial building company operating The Sarah Lloyd Scholarship Fund, which was set up in in Northern New South Wales and Queensland. I am loving memory of Sarah Lloyd by her family, gives female completing my apprenticeship through TAFE New England apprentices residing or working in New South Wales the in Armidale. The duration of the apprenticeship course is opportunity to apply for a scholarship through ATEL. This four years.

Scholarship Fund is aimed at supporting women who wish What do you love most about your job? to work in non-traditional trades.

I enjoy seeing the finished results of what we have built How will the scholarship help you further your and the journey of how you get to the end result. Working career? with different tradespeople is also interesting, learning It provides me with the opportunity and support to new skills. pursue my career in ways I couldn’t on my own. I intend to What challenges have you found there to be working further my studies, and this will certainly assist me. in your chosen field?

What are your future plans/aspirations?

Perhaps not so much a challenge; however, being a I intend to finish my apprenticeship and build on my woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry is technical knowledge and experience of the building interesting! It has caused everyone to re-think and change industry by going into the Project Management side, which their mindset about how to approach some tasks, such as opens up a whole new world of opportunities, experiences heavy lifting and jackhammering. and challenges, including contract administration, cost When people ask what you do, and you tell them estimation and general project management skills like you're a carpenter - what's the typical reaction? communication, teamwork and decision making skills.

People are genuinely interested, and somewhat Thanks Kasey. surprised. I have found everyone to be encouraging and Interview: Jo Robinson.

New England focus. 49

focusinterview.

P A R T N E R S H I P S Forestry Corporation of NSW, Boral Timbers and Planet Ark have a partnership program donating timber for community projects across NSW. Justin Black from the Forestry Corporation talks to us about the program and what has happened so far. i Justin. Tell us a little about the program.

The program is about us supporting community groups by supplying beautiful North Coast hardwood timber for projects. The scheme has been operating for about six months now, and we have already supplied timber to seventeen different projects across the state.

So far, we have provided timber to schools, sports groups, museums, community gardens and halls. We have around a thousand packs of timber, so there will be a few more projects and community groups that will benefit from this program.

That sounds like a lot of timber; where did it all come from?

When Murwillumbah flooded in 2017 during Cyclone Debbie, water went through Boral Timbers' processing plant on the south side of town. A fair amount of their stock was damaged and was subsequently determined usable, but unfit for sale. Boral is one of our timber customers and they had heard about the different partnerships we have with community groups that use State Forests and our networks in regional communities. We decided to work together to salvage the timber for local community projects. Even though the timber is water damaged, it is still pretty good; timber is very forgiving, and a lot of the damage is superficial.

50 New England focus.

You said there were seventeen projects so far; have any been finished yet?

We really only started distributing the timber in January this year and already five projects have been completed, with quite a few underway. It’s not easy for community groups when they rely on volunteer support and fundraisers, so the timber has been a real support.

The first finished project was at Bellingen Primary School, where a timber pergola was built around the music room. Another partner, Thora Sawmill, also supported this project, donating the timber posts. The pergola was built on the northern side of the classroom, to keep it cooler over the summer months. The music teacher, Elizabeth Scott, told us that it was designed with vertical slats, creating musical staff lines for students to decorate with notes and music symbols.

The Connect Presbyterian Church has been another recipient of the timber and have restored the ageing floor of their 150-year-old building at South Grafton. The building is an important community facility used by many different community groups each week, so it was great to be able to support this project.

Nambucca Cycle Club have upgraded their mountain bike tracks with a timber donation, and the Nature School at Port Macquarie have created a nature playground using logs from our local forestry operations and some of this timber. The timber has really added something special to these projects, and I

It’s not easy for community can’t wait to see some effect of spending time groups when they rely of the other ways it will outside in nature. The on volunteer support and be used. research has shown that fundraisers, so the timber has Why is Planet Ark having wood around been a real support. The involved in the you can lower blood first finished project was program? pressure and heart rates at Bellingen Primary We have been as well as reducing School, where a timber pergola working with Planet Ark stress and anxiety. The was built around the music room. through their Make it timber we are donating Wood campaign for the is a real gift that not last couple of years, to only looks good, it feels promote the important good as well - and helps role that wood plays in helping tackle climate the environment at the same time. Hopefully change. It was natural to partner with Planet through these projects we are sharing the Ark for this program, given the opportunity message that locally grown timber is an to promote the sustainability benefits of important sustainable industry on the North timber.

Coast.

Wood is unique among building products, It must feel pretty good being able to because trees remove carbon dioxide from support community projects with the the air and store the carbon in wood, which timber. can be used in buildings such as people’s It’s a very positive way for us to support the homes while the forests are being regrown. communities where we live and work. Staff Wood also requires less energy to produce from across our organisation are helping to timber compared with steel, aluminum and find a home for this timber, and it's helped concrete. As a rule of thumb, if you replace that many of us live in regional communities one cubic metre of concrete or brick with one across the state. We have always seen caring cubic metre of timber, you will eliminate one for State forests while providing community tonne of carbon dioxide being emitted into access and supporting the local timber the atmosphere. industry as being of benefit to regional areas, More recently, Planet Ark has started to and this is just another way in which we can promote the health and well-being benefits give back. We are grateful that we’ve been of using wood. Research shows that using able to develop this program with the help of wood inside buildings has physiological Boral Timbers and Planet Ark. and psychological benefits that mimic the Thanks Justin.

F Easter'sLandscape & HOME DECOR SUPPLIES

Celebrating 45 years in business.

Easter's Landscape Supplies and Home Décor Centre is a locally run family business, here to provide all your landscape and home décor needs. Whether it’s for the weekend handyman job or the commercial business, you can find everything you're looking for at Easter's.

rom pavers, retaining wall restrictions in Tamworth, it has made it blocks and decorative hard to get into the garden - but don’t stones to that perfect let that stop you! At Easter's we have a gift for someone special variety of artificial plants, pots, wall art for their garden or and garden ornaments to help brighten outdoor living area ... It up the garden. Easter's also have a great doesn’t matter how large or small the range of outdoor table settings, three customer’s project is; Easter's will have it piece settings, cast iron bench seats and in any quantities, from ½ a cubic metre gliders, perfect to finish that outdoor to 100 metres. relaxation area with As one of the the warmer weather most experienced approaching. operators in the Open seven days a With the drought and the district, Easter's week with new stock current water restrictions in have a large arriving weekly, why Tamworth, it has made it hard to variety of products not hop into Easter's get into the garden - but don’t let to choose from, and check out what that stop you! At Easter's we including Pavers, we have to offer, with have a variety of artificial Retaining Wall over 1,000 square plants, pots, wall art and Blocks, Concrete metres of displays and garden ornaments to help Sleepers, Organic 500 square metres brighten up the garden.

Compost, Garden of that indoors. You Mix, Top Soil, Turf are sure to find what Underlay, White you’re looking for, Sand, Gold Sand, or give the friendly, Washed River Sand, Crusher Dust, Tea professional team a call on 6762 0650 for Tree Mulch, Forest Mulch, Cypress Mulch enquiries and more information, or check and Woodchip, Certified Softfall, Pine out the range of products available online Nuggets, Firewood, Limestone Roadbase, at www.easters.com.au Landscape Yard Aggregate, Septic Stone, Sand and Gravel 7am - 5pm Mon to Fri Mix, and a large range of decorative 8am - 2pm Sat and 9am - 2pm Sun stones and pebbles.

Home Décor Centre open 9am daily With the drought and the current water

New England focus. 51

Big Garden FURNITURE

Big Garden Furniture is a local, family owned and operated business situated in Woolgoolga. Gareth and Lisa are recognised as market leaders in the outdoor furniture industry. FOCUS wanted to know more …

W

hat is Big Garden Furniture? Big Garden Furniture is a small family operated business in Woolgoolga that builds solid timber high quality furniture and structures using locally sourced hardwoods. The business has been in operation since 1996 and owned by Gareth and Lisa Owen since 2008.

pretty hard on us sometimes!

How has your business evolved since it began? Well … Big Garden Furniture doesn’t really speak for our current capabilities; however, the name and logo is so well known on the East Coast, we have just kept it because BGF is who we are.

We are known for our high-quality products, that’s backed up by the exceptional service we offer with each project. We now offer a full turnkey service, from concept through to installation, where before, we just supplied what people wanted - and we always go the extra mile to exceed our customers’ expectations.

What are the trends you have seen over the years? We have seen the trends go full circle since we started in 2008; however, there’s always the common denominator in Blackbutt.

Blackbutt still manages to keep that ageless appeal; whether it’s for an outdoor setting or elegant dining chairs, it complements all colours and has a fresh look, even We now offer a full 10 years down the track. turnkey service, from The biggest trend at the concept through to moment is wall hung installation, where before, furniture; vanities and TV we just supplied what people entertainment units are wanted - and we always go still in vogue, with the soft the extra mile to exceed our close and push to open customers’ expectations. mechanisms the norm with drawers and doors.

Tell us about the orders you receive and how your wife, Lisa, is involved in your projects?

Business from our local region has increased three-fold over the past year, mainly due to our online and magazine presence. Our new website has just started to show a positive return, as it now showcases our capabilities beyond the “outdoor furniture” umbrella. We’ve also been seeing enquiries as far north as Darwin, west to Perth, south to Melbourne, with Sydney and Brisbane/ Gold Coast bringing the most enquires.

Lisa is heavily involved with the colour concepts in the soft furnishings that we do in house and is also in charge of quality control; if it doesn’t pass her scrutiny, its comes back to be rectified - she’s 52 New England focus.

What are your greatest achievements? We’ve a few achievement milestones over the years, though designing, building and installing a 4.0m x 4.0m outdoor lounge on a fifth storey penthouse on the South Bank in Brisbane last year was a major one. The furniture had to designed to be dismantled and fit in to a small service elevator, then transported up four flights of stairs to the outdoor platform that overlooked the river. The finished product was nothing short of spectacular, and the customers were extremely happy - or should we say “totally stoked” with their lounge suite. It features heavily on our website, advertising and stationery.

We also won a contract to design and build custom furniture for the recently opened Howard Smith Wharfs in Brisbane last year, which is a feather in our cap, because the furniture had never been seen before and we had to do a twopack paint finish, which was new to us. I think Lisa was over it when she had to sew for a solid month to make all the soft furnishings.

Thanks Gareth.

focusinterview.

THE ROSEY ROUNDABOUT The local branch of the Australian Garden History Society (AGHS) and the Armidale Regional Council (ARC) have embarked on a project on the newly built roundabout at Armidale Airport. The aim of this project is to establish a sustainable drought resistant garden by planting 160 Rugosa roses in the centre of the roundabout.

T

he Rugosa is one of the hardiest and least water reliant roses known, and by using a particular kind of gravel mulch and irrigation system, AGHS members have created a garden which will be drought sustainable and will showcase gardens as one of Armidale’s many strengths and tourism drawcards.

Detailing the partnership, Armidale Regional Council Mayor Cr Simon Murray said the Australian Garden History Society approached Council to create the rose garden and link it with the magnificent heritage rose garden the society members have completed at the National Trust property Saumarez Homestead.

“The garden has been designed to showcase plants that thrive in our climate and survive in drought conditions,” said Cr Murray.

Around the world, roundabouts are planted out to showcase aspects of local communities’ interests and to feature plants which thrive in that particular climate.

The altitude, climate and soil of Armidale make it ideal for rose growing, and the region has long been recognised, with many local rose gardens opening to the public over many years.

The five petalled rose (of which one species, the Rugosa has been chosen) featured in the earlier City of Armidale Arms dating back to 1955, and both the Arms of the University of New England (1955) and Mary White College (1993) feature the five petalled rose.

The Rugosa is renowned for its low maintenance needs, toughness, glorious long-lasting flowers which develop into colourful hips, accompanied by excellent foliage colour in autumn.

As part of the construction and development costs of the roundabout, ARC has provided funding for the soil, purchase of the roses, mulch, and irrigation,

while AGHS members have prepared the soil, dug the holes, and planted the roses.

Tamworth.

The Back Track Boys and The roses were watered at the local contractor John Hiscox Our aim is to show New time of planting in late June and spread the mulch, with John England gardeners that wise have not been watered since. loading the boys’ barrows species choices, and Although a drip irrigation with his dingo. The spreading the use of water saving system has been laid as part of the was completed in record practices such as laying project, it is envisaged that it will time, despite the logistics of decorative gravel mulch, be used infrequently.

On the odd operating in the middle of a can allow us to continue to occasion when it is used, using a partially closed off highway, enjoy our gardens, even in these drip irrigation, rather than a spray which still had traffic harsh drought conditions irrigation system, means the water travelling through. AGHS will drip straight through the mulch members then installed the layer into the ground, resulting in irrigation system, which far more effective absorption than a spray irrigation has not yet been used, and is expected to be used system. infrequently once the roses are established. The AGHS “Our aim is to show New England gardeners that volunteers have undertaken to provide the long-term wise species choices, and the use of water saving care and maintenance of the roses each year. practices such as laying decorative gravel mulch, can Demonstrating sustainability, a scoria gravel mulch allow us to continue to enjoy our gardens, even in these has been used. This has several advantages over harsh drought conditions,” said Helen Oates, Co-chair traditional plant material mulch, as it doesn’t absorb of the AGHS Rose Garden committee. “Our partnership any moisture, instead allowing it to move directly with ARC has allowed this project to proceed and to down into the soil. Renowned garden designer Carolyn give the garden the best possible chance of thriving.”

Robinson has been experimenting with different kinds A display featuring the main elements of the project, of mulch at her garden “Eagles Bluff” near Tenterfield including the different kinds of mulch, roses and and says, “Gravel mulch is marvellous, as it reduces information sheets has been set up in the Armidale soil temperatures in the warmer months and keeps the Council office foyer for interested parties to view. soil warmer in colder months. Another benefit is that Both organisations acknowledge the generous it is a permanent mulch with just occasional topping support of the Back Track Boys, Black Mountain up of levels required. Scoria does not attract insect or Nursery, Ducats, Armidale Pumps & Irrigation, Roads & moulds.”

Maritime Services and John Hiscox.

Signs advertising the use of the sustainable mulch Many thanks to Lynne Walker for this editorial have been erected on the roundabout in keeping with and photo contribution. the signs along the New England Highway outside New England focus. 53

Ultimate

Home

modular - the smarter way to build

doesn’t have to take months to build!

Have you, your family or friends ever built your new “Ultimate Home”? Everyone gets excited in the early stages about the wonderful new home you’re planning.

And then, the building gets underway.

Frames go up, the roof goes on, windows are in, and in no time at all, it’s looking pretty good from the outside.

T

hen the handbrake seems to go up!

Everything blows out and takes longer than you thought. The excitement starts to wear off, and despair sets in. When is your new home going to be finished? Welcome to the common horror stories of building on site!

But, it doesn’t have to be this way - not with Modular Construction!

OK - let’s go straight to what you’re thinking. A modular home looks like an ugly box - how on earth can you call it your “Ultimate Home”? We know where you’re coming from; the old fashioned transportable homes look disgusting - a cardboard box with a roof on it.

Have you seen what Uniplan can do with a Modular Home? If not, before you let any preconceived ideas turn you away, come check out our display homes. Seeing is believing!

Right - so, what makes modular construction so much quicker and better than building on site?

WEATHER That’s why building out in the elements like a common builder does is such a silly idea.

No matter how small your building project, you are definitely going to experience delays on site due to the weather. If tradies don’t get held up on your job, they will be unable to finish their last job, meaning a delayed 54 New England focus.

When building in our factory,

REMOTE AND RURAL SITES One place where start on yours. With factory building beats factory-built modular on-site construction homes, most of the every day of the week building is completed allows different tasks to be is regional, remote and inside the control of overlapped for the shortest rural sites. OK - we our factory. This allows possible build time. admit if you’re talking us to predict, with about building a spec 100% accuracy, exactly home in a metro area when your building will you will be able to get be completed in our any number of high volume builders to knock factory. it together for you on the cheap.

TRADIES Try to build that same home out in a OK - so I’m a tradie too; but let’s be honest country location, and you will be struggling - we don’t have a real good reputation for to find a builder to even quote. Having to turning up when we say we will. drive out to a rural site every day and have You know for yourself ... you can drive every delivery cost extra is a big waste of past a home being built on site and more time and money. often than not, you will see no action at all.

With building your home in our factory, it No one on site, not a soul … The reason? really doesn’t matter. Once we’re done, we The plumber was waiting for the tiler to pop it on the back of a truck and bring the finish, the tiler was waiting for the painter to completed building to site. It really doesn’t come, the builder forgot to tell the painter make that much difference if that is 30 km that the carpenter had finished. So many away or 300 km. stories, so many reasons (aka excuses).

THE COST OF TIME - WHAT’S IT WORTH? When building in our factory, we control When evaluating the cost of building on all the various trades (because they are our site or building with modular, how much employed staff) and run an efficient schedule will you factor in for the overall time saving? that allows different tasks to be overlapped After your buildings are Council approved, for the shortest possible build time. This is a big contributor to allowing us to build a large an onsite builder may well take six - eight months to build an average size home. A four bedroom home in 28 days, or a cabin factory built modular home could easily or granny flat in only 16 days. This includes cut this time in half to three - four months all the internal works and finishes, ready for from Council approval. That is a three - four delivery to your site.

we control all the various trades (because they are our employed staff ) and run an efficient schedule that

month time saving!

What is that worth to you? Saving on rent?

Or if you’re an investor, you can put your new building to use that much quicker and see your return on investment fire up sooner.

EVERY BUILDER WILL QUOTE YOU A PRICE - HOW MANY ESCAPE CLAUSES DO THEY INCLUDE? Building on site allows for so many hidden surprises. Along with surprises come costs!

Building within our factory removes so many unknowns and allows us to give you a fixed price contract - no ifs or buts.

AND HERE IS THE PROOF “Let’s put our money where our mouth is.”

“If you’re so certain, prove it!”

“All talk and no action?”

I’m so certain that we can make this happen; here is my promise: We’re putting a display home at the new Cookes Hill development in the Eastern side of Armidale.

Construction of this home commenced in our factory on Tuesday 23rd July 2019.

Earth works on site commenced on Monday 12th August 2019.

I am willing to guarantee that this display home will be open for inspection on Saturday 12th October 2019.

That’s 59 work days from starting in our factory and only 45 work days on site!

We’re happy to announce the move in date before we’ve even started building!

That’s Uniplan and Modular Construction at its best!

Save Time and Money

...to this in just From . . . s i h t

45 DAYS!

*

*Working days

This is what modular construction is all about! The photo of the excavator was taken on 12th August. Our new display home at Cookes Hill, Armidale will be open on 12th October, smashing the cost and turnaround time of on site builds.

Search

Uniplan Group

to find

5 ways modular construction saves time and money.

CALL US: 1800 864 752 VISIT OUR DISPLAYS: 22 MYRTLE DRIVE, ARMIDALE NSW 2350 New England focus. 53

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New England focus. 51