New England Focus i151

Bernie Shakeshaft

December 2019. issue 151

2 New England focus.

focus_ team.

team From the

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Welcome to the December edition of New England FOCUS.

o many people to acknowledge this month!

Hats off to all of our local emergency services personnel … our SES, RFS, Police and Ambos, who’ve done such an amazing job keeping us all safe during what have been some of the most difficult weather conditions many of us have experienced in our lifetimes.

You’re all heroes in our book! Let’s hope your Christmas gifts this year include precipitation - a lot of it - and some much needed R&R. Trying times can often bring out the best in people too! There are some amazing people in our community who do whatever they can to help others, so thank you to everyone who’s volunteered or fundraised for terrific causes this month. Two of our local Armidale lads, Lochie Robinson and Nathan Smith organised a bicycle ride from Armidale to Uralla in November, and this event, which

contacts.

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

they called “Burning Miles” raised $6,500 for BlazeAid. Well done, guys!

Finally, thank you to the community at large who, despite the drought and all the financial uncertainty that comes with it, still dug deep and donated funds to those in need.

On the Cover Of course, the festive season is fast approaching! It’s good to shed the worries for a while and sip, sup, celebrate at this time of year. Samuel and Kate Martin have been busy for many years planning to establish a brewery … and after a lot of hard work, ingenuity and thinking outside the box, Great Hops Brewing Co was born! Situated along Old Inverell Road in Armidale, you can’t miss this interesting looking shed … that not only houses some great brews, but - wait for it - a fire engine mobile bar. Way to go, guys!

In this Issue We have a fabulous Shop Local feature

in this edition, where you’ll find heaps of ideas and inspirations for Christmas gift giving and feasting. It’s more important than ever now to buy locally where you can, to keep money in our own community.

We also catch up with a few more local heroes, including Bernie Shakeshaft, the founder of BackTrack, who was recently named a Local Hero in the 2020 Australia Day Awards.

Welcome We’re pleased to introduce the newest

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From all of us at FOCUS, have the most wonderful Christmas and New Year. See you all in 2020!

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New England focus. 3

contents Issue 151 - December 2019

focusinterviews

10

Bernie Shakeshaft.

feature a special

SHOP LOCAL

BackTrack needs little introduction … it’s been assisting youth in the New England since 2006, offering a chance for kids to turn their lives around, develop skills, find employment - and stay out of gaol...

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this Christmas

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Jodie Adams.

Great photography takes an enormous amount of skill and patience - and perhaps none more so than capturing a tonne of spinning, bucking, and cranky animal! Jodie Adams is well-known for her amazing rodeo and campdraft action shots ...

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Usual Suspects

Roy Cowley.

the

At almost 85 years of age, Armidale resident Roy Cowley considers himself “almost a local”!

He’s been cutting people’s hair for 70 years this month, has a cheeky sense of humour, he’s a keen Roosters supporter, and is one of the most genuine gentlemen you’d ever have the opportunity to meet...

8. WHAT’S ON DECEMBER 23. MINDING YOUR BUSINESS WITH ANTHONY FOX 33. TOURISM WITH KATRINA GEORGE

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Uralla & District Kennel Club

From pugs to poodles and chihuahuas to collies - plus a range of dog breeds you probably never knew existed … all will take part in the Uralla & District Kennel Club’s annual show from 13th - 15th December. Kaitlyn Elder from the club says the event is a social one, with purebred dog owners travelling from all over NSW and southern Queensland to compete …

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37. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE 40. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI 43. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN 48. ABODE HOME OF THE MONTH

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Hanging and

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We love a good road trip, and have we got a good one for you! Spend 48 hours exploring beautiful Nundle and Hanging Rock and soak up their quintessential country hospitality, quirky events and spectacular scenery.

AY ONE Located a scenic 50-minute drive from Tamworth, 1.5 hours from Scone and about 2 hours south-west of Armidale, make the most of your weekend in the little slice of heaven that is Nundle and Hanging Rock.

When you arrive, make your first stop Machina Coffee Donuts, who serve delicious coffee and hot cinnamon donuts out of a converted shipping container on Jenkins Street. Grab a bite, and head down to the Nundle Visitor Information Outlet, where you’ll be greeted by one of their knowledgeable volunteers sharing hot tips for your stay, like the best place to pan for gold and other precious gems (the area is well known for its fossicking). They can also show you the impressive Gil Bennet Rocks, Gems & Minerals Collection, one of the finest collections in the world, which comprises over 1,500 specimens.

While you’ve got gems on your mind, visit the Mount Misery Gold Mine Museum and Café on Gill Street. The museum includes a 150 m underground mine tunnel and memorabilia to give you an authentic taste of life on the goldfields, and you may even come across the ghost of Cranky Jack. Fuel up with a feed at the café serving home cooked meals and treats, before gearing up for an afternoon of 6 New England focus.

hours in

shopping. the view from Hanging Rock Lookout, before You’ll find unique treasures at Odgers & exploring the village itself, where signposts McClelland Exchange Stores (homewares), Sacs mark the area’s historic sites, including The on Jenkins (clothing and accessories), antiques Golden Nugget Inn, the Post Office and Diggers at Jenkins Street Antiques and Fine China and Hut. Ratters Flat Antiques, art and craft finds at Continue up the road to Sheba Dams, built Nundle Craft Inc. and in 1888 by the Mount Stormcrow Studios, and Sheba Gold-sluicing natural and locallyCompany. Today, it’s a produced products at popular spot for campers, Nundle Natural Skin fishermen and families The museum includes a Solutions, plus more! and is perfect for a 150 m underground After you’ve shopped relaxing walk, swim or mine tunnel and your heart out, kick up kayak. memorabilia to give your feet at the Peel Inn Further up the road you an authentic taste Hotel, which dates back again, explore the of life on the goldfields, to 1860. There, grab Arc-en-ciel Trout Farm, and you may even come across a beverage and treat where you can enjoy a the ghost of Cranky Jack. yourself to one of their guided tour of the farm famous pub meals for and their medal-winning a great evening in their trout at 11am or 2pm infamous beer garden. (on Sundays, Mondays and Fridays, weather permitting).

They’ve also DAY TWO recently opened the Nundle Smokehouse and Start the day right at Jenkins Street Drunken Trout Café, so you’re sorted for lunch!

Guesthouse, located in the old bank building Make the most of your Sunday before you and serving food with a focus on fresh head home, with a visit to the Nundle Woollen ingredients and homemade cooking (they also Mill, one of the last spinning mills operating do great high teas!) in Australia and winner of the Silver Cultural Then, it’s time to head up the hill to Hanging Tourism Award in the 2019 NSW Tourism Rock. Though it’s just a 10 km journey, the Awards.

On your way out of town, drop into difference in elevation is 600 m and makes for the Nundle Courthouse Museum. a spectacular contrast. Make sure to take in

NEED AN EXTRA REASON TO TRAVEL TO NUNDLE AND HANGING ROCK? Did you know, Nundle’s giving Tamworth a run for its money as a destination for country music? Head into the hills special shows like Nundle Rocks, Country at the DAG and regular gigs at the Peel Inn Hotel during the Toyota Country Music Festival, Tamworth, or you can get your fix each July during the Hats Off to Country Festival!

Visit at Easter, and you’ll enjoy the Nundle Go for Gold Chinese Easter Festival, a huge celebration of Nundle’s gold mining heritage, including stalls, gold panning, live music, Chinese dragon dancers and kids’ entertainment.

Other great events in the area throughout the year include the Nundle Country Picnic (March), The Great Nundle Dog Race (May), Christmas in July at Hanging Rock (July) and the Nundle CWA Art Show and Twilight Christmas Markets (both November).

Visiting during the week? Head to the Nundle Woollen Mill for free tours (run Monday - Friday at 2pm), and Kerry Swain from The Cottage on the Hill (a patchwork and quilting business) runs classes every Tuesday as well as two-day retreats.

To plan your next visit to Nundle and Hanging Rock, or to learn more about where you can stay while you’re there, visit: www.destinationtamworth.com.au

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‘Tis the season … to try some beaut new beers! A dream for Sam and Kate Martin that was six years in the making, the Great Hops Brewery on Old Inverell Road, Armidale is up, running, serving chilled brews … oh, and it’s been built around an old International Harvester fire engine. If you haven’t been to check it out yet, add it to your “must-do” list this holiday season! i Sam. Tell us a little about yourself and what led you to build your own brewery from scratch.

Ha ha! Yes, six years in the making …

Moving from our flat in Bondi (which had kegs hidden in every cupboard and every bed I could store them) I wanted space, really. I love the New England region and loved my time growing up here and studying science at UNE. I also love craft beer! And, I still love anything science related.

I did not know the brewery would take so long. I really wanted to build it right and bring in something different to the area. I (with the help of dozens of local tradespeople) rebuilt my second hand brewhouse. It was made in 1996 in the USA. I actually bought it in Japan, where it was just sitting there; it was built extremely well.

I love reusing and refurbishing. There is value in buying quality products and giving them a second life. So, I suppose the brewery came from a combined passion for excellent craft beer, the science behind it and my love for old things.

A lot of locals have watched with interest as your shed was being constructed on your Old Inverell Road site over the past few years. How did you come up with the design for the building, and how long did it take to build?

After the slab went down, the shed structure only took a month. The poor builders put it up in freezing cold conditions and heavy winter rain. These sheds were used all over the world during World War II, as they could be transported easily and taken down if they had to. I'd hate to take it apart now - way too many bolts!

After it was up, I just started doing small test batches and building its interior on weekends.

The main bar and kitchen boards came from Kelly's Transport shed in down town Armidale.

My office has feathered weatherboards from Walcha, the white railing and the stainless steel in the kitchen are both second hand and refurbished. Again, re-purposing stuff is so important to me. A lot of the time if you know what you’re looking for, older stuff is built better too.

What beers are you currently making - and what would you say have been your most popular brews to date?

We are currently making lighter beers for summer. We are experimenting with an XPA (extra pale ale - containing more hop flavour than traditional ales). This should be ready in December and for the grand opening of the brewery on the 26th January 2020.

Our most popular beer to date has been our Black Mountain Banshee Dark Ale. I love it. It was meant to be an Irish Red Beer - but the wrong grain turned up - and we just ran with it.

It sells especially well in New England and over the winter months.

You've achieved some great recognition for your brews too! What awards are you most proud of?

This year we received the greatest recognition at the Australian Independent Craft Beer Awards.

We were given silver for our Long Horn Larry Amber Ale, and bronze for our mid strength: AR-MID-ALE, our 9.5% Doppelbock and our Coffee Stout.

We’re generally happy with recognition from the pubs/bars, who keep telling us our beer is being well received.

The brewery is open for trading now on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, but what’s planned for the special opening on January 26?

We’re trading at can operate with four My wife bought the fire engine the moment … Very different beers and can carry off eBay in 2009; it came from quietly! We were up to 12 kegs.

Tasmania. The owners were wanting to tweak It now has a very cosy going to scrap it, and I things a little before home in the middle of the bar couldn’t let that happen. So, the grand opening - a in Armidale - I love the fact I drove it on the Spirit of Tasmania few café owners down it was designed and built in and brought it home to NSW. town suggested we Australia (imagine that!) do this. I’m extremely Apart from visiting the happy we did, as brewery, where else can there were so many we taste your beers? things needing attention. Our lawn is nonFrom November 22nd, we’ll begin canning. existent at the moment - with any luck, some There are a number of bottle shops really keen to summer rain will help bring it back to life. get stock straight away!

Scheduled for the day will be great beer The Whitebull Hotel, The St Kilda Hotel, and music. Hopefully the day will bring some Tattersalls Armidale, and The New England Hotel enjoyment to a town that is really feeling the have been great with support and feedback. effects of this drought.

We also have it on tap at the Powerhouse What's the story behind the old Hotel and The Pig and Tinder in Tamworth. We International Harvester fire engine you donated a tap set up to the Nambucca Surf own? How did you come across it ... and Club and installed it - locals love being able to does it actually operate as a mobile bar? taste Australian owned beer in a town heavily My wife bought the fire engine off eBay in dominated by Tooheys and Carlton (both now 2009; it came from Tasmania. The owners were owned by Japan). going to scrap it, and I couldn’t let that happen.

What are your plans for the brewery moving So, I drove it on the Spirit of Tasmania and into the New Year? brought it home to NSW. With the brewery in full swing next year, we We repainted it (it was pink from sitting hope to positively promote tourism and bring in the sun) and then took it on a road trip to more seasonal beers into the hands of those the Melbourne Cup - it was one of the most wishing to be part of the craft beer movement. enjoyable trips of my life.

We hope to keep giving back to the community When I returned, Kate (my wife) said: "Now in ways the big breweries can't and to educate what are you going to do with it?" I shrugged people about where their beer really comes from my shoulders and said, "Build a brewery around and how it's made. it" - and ... we did.

Where can we find out more info?

The mobile bar was a fun idea. It’s a big truck Head to our website: www.greathops.com.au to drive, and I don’t like taking it on long trips Follow us on Instagram @greathops or on any more.

Facebook, or just head into the brewery and get I love the life it brings to people’s faces! amongst it!

The beer pours very cold from the back. We Thanks Sam. New England focus. 7

focus_What’s On New England

D E C E M B E R

Lighting of the Christmas Tree

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Get the family together and come on down to Fitzroy Street Plaza on Thursday 5th December from 6pm, as we turn on the lights on the Community Christmas Tree.

There will be market stalls, kids' activities, live music and a visit from Santa Claus himself!

Where Fitzroy Street Plaza, Tamworth.

When Thursday 5 December at 6pm

Carols in the Park

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Walcha Farmers' Market The Walcha Farmers' Market is held on the third Saturday of each month (excluding winter). The market includes gourmet and fresh produce, pastries, espresso coffee, honey, olive oil, baked goods, cheeses, body products, condiments, edible by-products, plants and flowers and a community stall.

Enjoy live music, kids' activities, and competitions.

Where McHattan Park, South Street Corner of Fitzroy Street, Walcha.

When Saturday 21st December.

Carols in the Park is a highlight of the community calendar in Tamworth. Over the past few years it has continued to grow as an event, attracting thousands of people from the local area.

This event has, and always will be, run free of charge (excluding stall purchases) as a gift to the Tamworth community.

Where Bicentennial Park, Kable Avenue, Tamworth.

When Saturday 7th December.

Guyra Christmas Party

Join in the Christmas festivities with markets and much more at the Guyra Rotary Christmas Party in Bradley St. Market Stalls, shops/cafés are encouraged to stay open. Santa arrives at 6pm. Christmas tree lighting.

Community groups encouraged to participate. Lots of other activities and children’s entertainment.

When Friday 6th December, 5:30pm start, with schools marching down Bradley St from the Council building to the Christmas tree.

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Errol Russell Sinfonia of New England Presents A Summer Soirée

First Saturday Chats Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Samuel Doyle (Senior Paralegal / Migration Consultant) from 10am to 1pm at the Legal MInds offices at 157 Beardy Street, The Mall, Armidale on Saturday 7th December. As this is a popular program, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

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In their third annual concert, the Errol Russell Sinfonia of New England will present a program of string classics, including: Marcello Bassoon Concerto in D Minor, Hindemith Trauermusik, Mozart's Divertimento in B Flat Major, Vaughan Williams' Five Variants on Dives and Lazarus, Palmer Ruritarian Dances, special guest director Gwyn Roberts and soloists James McKay and Sophia Mackson.

When Sunday, December 15 at 04pm.

Where Armidale Teachers' College.

Cost Adults $25, concession/students $15; under 12 $5.

Bookings www.trybooking.com/bfxck

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Welcome in the Roaring '20s @ Tatts When Tuesday 31st December.

Where Tattersalls Hotel, Beardy Street Mall, 6pm.

Cost $120pp (includes canapés, live music and a drink on arrival). For more information, phone (02) 6772 2247.

Do not miss Armidale's best New Year's Eve party!

Get ready to welcome in the Roaring '20s in absolute style and luxury at regional Australia's finest art deco establishment.

There will be fantastic live music, world-class canapés and amazing drinks all night.

Embrace your inner Gatsby for a chance to win a stay in one of the hotel's luxurious suites for best dressed!

Many more prizes throughout the night.

Best Fit For

ALL THE FAMILY Oak Tree Retirement Village Armidale is helping families breathe a sigh of relief as loved ones move in and make themselves at home in the secure, village community.

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ince becoming Oak Tree Armidale’s second resident, the family of Fay Cluley are thrilled about their Mum’s new lease on life remarking Oak Tree is a good fit for everyone.

The villages offer a low maintenance lifestyle where all lawns and gardens are maintained by the village staff giving residents more freedom to participate in the regular village social events.

Married for 58 years, Fay was the full time carer for her late husband Bert and after his passing decided to move into a smaller residence with little or no maintenance, finding Oak Tree hit the mark.

“Mum is socialising again after being a full time carer for Dad; she has more energy and is very positive about her future,” said Gail.

“She wanted somewhere she could feel safe and secure,” said Mrs Cluley’s daughter, Gail.

“Since moving into Oak Tree Mum is regaining her independence and her zest for life. The new property has no maintenance issues and she is very comfortable and secure.

We feel more relaxed that Mum is living in a safe and secure environment,” said Gail.

With Christmas and New Year just around the corner, what better time to embrace a low maintenance, relaxed lifestyle.

Don’t hesitate, it’s time. Take that first step towards your new life by calling 1300 367 155 or visit oaktreegroup.com.au

• 89 Martin Street, Armidale • 217 Taylor Street, Armidale

Oak Tree Armidale’s two villages, located at Martin Street and Taylor Street, offer brand new turn-key villas at affordable prices and community facilities such as a village centre and bowls green offering good value for money.

The added benefit of not having to pay stamp duty is a big saving and the purchase price is very competitive in today’s property market.

SALES OFFICE NOW OPEN!

Shop 2, Armidale Food Emporium, 90-96 Marsh Street, Armidale New England focus. 9

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PhPhoto by Black Rose Photography.

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i Bernie. You’ve been named as a local hero in the 2020 Australia Day Awards. How did it make you feel, receiving this accolade?

There’s actually a back end to that story that’s pretty special. I received a letter a few months ago from a kid in a juvenile detention facility in NSW; he’d just watched the BackTrack documentary. He told me when he gets out of detention, he’s going to train as a youth worker - because he wants to stop other kids going into detention. He asked if I could be nominated for the Australia Day awards.

So, the application was written by a teacher and a group of kids in lockup - that’s very special.

It’s an honour, but I feel like I’m carrying the trophy for a village that’s raised a child. The way Armidale has gotten behind us, the kids who get out of bed each morning to try and change their lives - there’s a whole community wrapped around this process. It’s a huge thing.

You began to put BackTrack in operation in 2006. What do you feel have been some of the biggest changes to the programme since those early days?

The volume of kids we assist has been a big change. When we started, it was generally 16 and 17 year olds, whereas now, most of our referrals are 11 and 12 year olds. There’s a 10 New England focus.

SHAKESHAFT

BackTrack needs little introduction … it’s been assisting youth in the New England since 2006, offering a chance for kids to turn their lives around, develop skills, find employment - and stay out of gaol.

BackTrack is growing - it’s expanding into other areas through “BackTrack Everywhere”, and the man at the helm is Bernie Shakeshaft. Bernie has recently been named a Local Hero in the 2020 Australia day Awards …

huge growth in the number of referrals, and down the track, it was all about not being the problems are certainly more complex. sustainable. But, we just keep defying the We’ve expanded BackTrack a fair bit: we odds! BackTrack keeps growing, and continues now have a residential programme, we’ve just to be successful. kicked off a programme teaching kids welding Roughly how many kids do you believe skills - we now have three tradies, including BackTack has assisted over the years? welders and carpenters, teaching the kids; The numbers are always tricky, because we we also have a full-time teacher working in do so much prevention work in schools and a classroom. Everything has just expanded; in other communities too, but we estimate teaching kids agricultural it’s been over 1,000. We skills is a huge thing, as currently have around the agriculture industry 40 kids in our core is the biggest employer programme who come to The beauty of what we do here in the New England. us daily. It’s a long-term at BackTrack is that we tackle Our other big change programme, with no everything holistically. We is expanding BackTrack real end date … the end give kids a hand where into other areas. We’ve date for the programme it’s needed - whether helped communities is really when the kids it’s with legal matters, out at Lake Cargelligo, have a job, their own learning to read or write, Broken Hill, Dubbo, accommodation and if they need a place to sleep.

Grafton - and now they’re not in trouble Windsor is running a with the police. trial programme as well.

Do many girls access We started with BackTrack? a handful, of kids, a When we started, we handful of youth workers and an empty old only had boys - but the need for girls to access shed - but look at us now! our support has increased and is ongoing. We Would the “you” from 2006 ever have have a strong programme for girls that has imagined where you’d be today? been operating for the past couple of years.

No, I’d never have forecast the growth.

With everything we do, we keep building, In the old days, most of the talk was that making everything work better - and we’re we wouldn’t be able to make it work, we definitely a co-ed centre now. didn’t have funding … and then a few years What continues to keep you motivated

each day?

When you see kids getting it together on “the other side”, you know it’s all possible.

We have such growing youth problems in Australia. In 2014, a report came out that estimated one in five kids in Australia under the age of 17 don’t go to school, don’t do any training, and certainly don’t have a job.

If we’re talking about just that number, our systems are not looking after these kids.

What keeps me going … well, it’s not really a job. It’s a life that I’m lucky enough to get paid to live! I enjoy it. I’m still kicking down the door to get to work, and I’ll continue to do it. The need is enormous, it’s growing, and to see it now being able to work in other communities is probably the proudest part for me.

Do you think it’s getting harder for kids these days? Are the issues they’re facing changing?

When I went to school, I don’t remember kids having mental health issues. So many kids we help now have multiple diagnoses for mental health issues. This is a great concern.

The beauty of what we do here at BackTrack is that we tackle everything holistically. We give kids a hand where it’s needed - whether it’s with legal matters, learning to read or write, if they need a place to sleep. It’s a ridiculous notion to think that if a kid doesn’t have a safe place to sleep at night, then learning to read and write is more important!

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Photo supplied by BackTrack.

Photo by Simon Scott.

Photo by Black Rose Photography.

It’s all about the hierarchy of needs. We aim to tackle everything - homelessness, mental health, education, employment …

In the past year, the book Back on Track and the documentary BackTrack Boys have both been released. How have these been received - and have they helped raise awareness of BackTrack?

We’re really excited - we didn’t think the book would ever sell so many copies!

The number of people who are looking for answers about how to help young people in this day and age is growing. Last month we had over 100 contacts from different communities asking if we could help set up a BackTrack style programme in their area.

People are looking for answers.

The exposure from both the book and the documentary have been amazing, and we’re getting a lot of international interest as well - I believe the documentary is about to hit a big film festival in Texas, and it’s being screened in gaols and schools.

One of the most interesting things this year is that off the back of the book and the documentary, the number of Aussies helping us out with small donations each month is growing exponentially - whether it’s $5 or $10 a month. This little bit from a lot of people makes an enormous difference, and we’re so grateful.

We’re also getting exposure from events like the Black Hawk Dogs’ Day Out in Armidale,

held on 16th November. Black Hawk have been one of our sponsors for a long while … I think events like this just bring hope to people.

Off the back of the book Where to from here? things. and the documentary, the What’s in the future With BackTrack number of Aussies for BackTrack?

Everywhere, extending helping us out with We just want to help our programme into small donations each as many kids having a other areas - every month is growing hard time as we can. community is different exponentially - whether We’re hoping to help the needs are different. it’s $5 or $10 a month. other communities, and This is the beauty of to influence policies what we do; we can where we can, working work around what’s with governments and needed. other organisations to find solutions. It’s a There are two things we look for in other tough gig, a big problem, but we’d like to communities: a driver on the ground become part of the mainstream solution. someone who’s going to get up and do the There are some organisations we really hard work; and someone at the top end like that we’re hoping to form collaborations of town - whether that’s the Mayor, the with in the future and to develop pathways Superintendent of Police, Director of Education to assist with mental health - dealing with - someone who wants to see change and can loss, grief and trauma, for example. Feel the push it through the system.

Magic was one organisation that was here We now hold open days around four times a couple of weeks ago; they work with kids a year at BackTrack, and encourage visitors who have lost parents/caregivers. One in four to come and see what we do, how we got kids in Australia now deals with some form of started, and how we’re funded. psychological stress and mental health. I think And we need people to see it’s not just the numbers for homelessness in Australia about us; it’s about the kids, the community, now are somewhere around 28,000 kids …

Councils and local employers who support us, there have to be better ways of dealing with the sponsors, people who donate - it’s the old

Photo by Simon Scott.

saying about taking a village to raise a child.

Keep kids alive, keep them out of gaol, and chase their hopes and dreams - that’s our mission at BackTrack.

One kid we helped had the best analogy.

We were helping him sort out his legal issues out west; he was sitting in the truck and he told us that the rearview mirror in the truck was so small, but it was like what was behind him - and the windscreen, so big, was what he could look out on in front of him. The day to day stuff, changing the gears and using the indicators, was the day-to-day stuff, but to never lose sight of that windscreen!

That’s a good reflection of what we do here: a little bit of what’s behind, but the big picture’s out front.

How can we keep up with what BackTrack’s up to, or make a donation?

Visit our website: backtrack.org.au Thanks Bernie - and congratulations on your award; it’s so well deserved.

You can also find out more about BackTrack’s programmes: PawsUp, Aglads, Ironman Welders, The Classroom, Running Strong, Warrah, and School Outreach through the website.

New England focus. 11

focus_interview.

Experimenta Make SENSE

Want something for the kids to do this holiday season? WHY NOT VISIT NERAM, WITH PLENTY TO SEE AND DO FOR ALL AGES ALIKE! FOCUS got to play and see all the cool tech on show …

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ell us about NERAM’s latest exhibition, Experimenta: Make Sense.

Experimenta is Australia’s pre-eminent media art organisation. They are an incubator for experimentation and they produce the Experimenta International Triennial of Media Art, that showcases dynamic and challenging contemporary art that intersects with digital media, science, technology, and design. Experimenta: Make Sense is their animation within a virtual environment. seventh national touring exhibition, and it Scale Free Network’s A Hierarchy of expresses the disconcerting and delightful Eddies is an art-science experiment This exhibition is for world of the digital age. It questions what in staging the phenomenon of anyone wanting to it means to feel in an era of disembodied turbulence. Within a sealed chamber, expand their mind communication? To think in a world of two axial fans and polystyrene balls and understanding of algorithms and artificial minds? The exhibition enact a constantly changing flow contemporary art and includes a range of cutting-edge new media of movement and systems. This society. I think it really works and installations that encourage an work is mesmerising to watch. Judy pushes some boundaries ... embodied and interactive experience.

Watson’s work, The Name of Places So what kind of artwork will we see? and The Keepers are video works that Experimenta focuses on art that sits at the document hidden histories, touching convergence of digital media, technology on themes of repatriation, responsibility and recognition. The and society, and it includes everything from video installation, artworks are challenging, intelligent and also fun. robotics, virtual reality and kinetic sculpture. For example, you What audience is this exhibition for? have Steve Berrick’s work, Hello Future Self that invites people This exhibition is for anyone wanting to expand their mind to create an avatar of themselves that unites human and robotic and understanding of contemporary art and society. I think sensors, as well as analogue and virtual processes. that it really pushes some boundaries in terms of what people To make your avatar, you colour within a cubed template, may expect to encounter in an art gallery. We have already which then gets scanned and transformed into a digital heard people ask, "But is this art?” I love this question; it is an important one to ask and to keep asking as the creative landscape changes to include new ideas and ways of making.

There are several works that are awe-inspiring and visually arresting in scale and complexity. There are also works that are more intimate. This is also a great exhibition for families; there are a lot of works that will delight young audiences and initiate interesting questions and conversations with the adults they are visiting with.

How long will the exhibition last?

The exhibition is on now and will continue until Sunday 2nd February. There will be a number of school holiday programs and workshops coinciding with the exhibition in January 2020, so keep an idea on the NERAM website: www.neram.com.au for details.

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Ray White Armidale has seen many changes in 2019, with Andrew and Dayna Starr now offering a full service agency from their new location, 2/111 Dangar St. We spoke to Andrew, to find out more.

Hi Andrew. Lots of exciting changes are happening with Ray White Armidale; tell us about them.

Dayna and I have been members of the Ray White family since 2006, operating a stock and station agency specialising in rural property transactions in the Armidale and Guyra districts. Recently the opportunity arose for us to take over the Ray White residential franchise in Armidale. We jumped at this exciting opportunity, as it is a great fit and natural expansion to our existing structure.

It’s exciting to see our new business already gaining traction and market share. The overlap in the residential space with our existing rural client database and the sharing of IP has been a real advantage. We continue to operate out of our Guyra office with Margo Hogan heading the residential sales and property management roles in the township and surrounds.

Tell us a bit about your new staff members and what role they play in the business.

Cayne Moar joined our team in July this year on the back of selling their family business.

Cayne is our residential sales manager; he

heads up the sales team in our Armidale office and comes with a great deal of experience, having enjoyed much success in selling some noteworthy Armidale homes, lifestyle properties and acreages over the past five years.

Bec Poulter has recently joined our team and comes to us with 15 years of real estate experience across all sectors in the industry.

Bec is our general office manager and will coordinate the internal structure, efficiencies and processes at our new office. Bec is a lifetime local and is excited to be heading up our property management and commercial leasing team; she is widely regarded and respected for her professionalism and extensive experience and skill sets. She will certainly add great value to our property services in Armidale. Lachlan Cullen and I will remain very active in our rural sales roles and are excited for the residential opportunities that the city of Armidale offer.

Keep an eye on our new office front windows, as we have some exciting new listings about to hit the market.

Where is your new Armidale office located?

We have opened the doors at our freshly renovated office, which is located at 2/111 Dangar Street. The extensive office transformation is now complete; after a few weeks of setting up we are now open for business. The buzz of the passing traffic and interest from the footpath at this end of town is exciting in itself ... drop in and say hi, enjoy a cuppa and maybe even entrust us to sell your home!

What services do you offer?

Moving into the local residential space has enabled our team to offer a FULL service agency portfolio. We specialise in residential sales and leasing, commercial

sales and leasing, lifestyle property and small acreage sales, through to larger scale rural property transactions. Our professional team are backed by Australia’s largest and most searched real estate brand. We have a mandate that our clients’ best interests are to be at the forefront of all recommendations at all times. We strive to utilise the Ray White training and processes, to ensure we are delivering the best results.

Our youthful, yet experienced team are highly motivated and committed in providing a real estate experience that exceeds our clients’ expectations.

New England focus. 13

focusinterview.

Who doesn’t love fresh, juicy berries … berry ice cream, berry pie, or berry jam! Shane and Cheryl Andrews from Freshly Berried produce the most succulent berries on their farm at Metz, and they create the most fabulous array of products from their crops too. You can find them at a market near you soon …

Freshly Berried

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hat's your history in the New England region?

We were both attracted to a regional university and attended UNE here at Armidale … we never really left after that. We soon grew to love the cool climate and the beautiful tree-lined streets. We chose to settle on a farm on the edge of Baker’s Creek Gorge at Metz (east of Armidale) and raise our family, as we felt that farm life would be an ideal upbringing.

Our involvement with the New England region over the years has comprised off-farm employment in various capacities, and we have engaged with several community organisations within the region.

How long have you been growing berries on your property at Metz ... and what led to the initial decision to grow these types of crops?

We planted our first berries back in 1999 - so this year is our 20th anniversary! Looking for an additional farm income stream to supplement our beef enterprise, we wanted a product that was tasty and easy to grow, not a “run of the mill” crop, and one that didn’t need bucket loads of chemicals to produce (something which can be difficult to achieve in commercial-scale horticultural activities).

We considered some cool-climate varieties of nuts, and other interesting crops, but found the resilience of berries to be a real drawcard … so, berries it was! Our name had to be quirky to reflect our sense of humour, and Freshly Berried … berries to die for! was born. We’ve been successful in achieving management practices which avoid the use of pesticides and herbicides, thus providing a chemical-free product to our customers.

Roughly how many and what types of 14 New England focus.

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berries would you produce in an average year?

We have always grown blackberries, raspberries and blueberries (small quantities only), but have recently experienced some climatic difficulties with growing our raspberries.

Our initial intention was to have an enterprise that was manageable by just us two … but we started out way too ambitiously and overplanted, not realising the tonnage of berries that would be generated.

However, over the years we have progressively down-sized our production and now grow only sufficient to meet the needs of our small cottage enterprise. Being a small family-run farm with the two of us doing all the growing, picking, processing and marketing of our products (i.e. vertically integrated), we have a very personal connection to what we sell. The berries are all retailed in their various forms through our market stall.

Fresh berries are just the beginning too, as you produce the most beautiful array of berry goods! What are some of the products in your range?

Our berry ice creams and desserts are truly “to die for” treats and enjoy widespread popularity wherever we go.

We also handcraft a range of small-batch berry jams, from traditional blends to some unique combinations of fruit for those with a more adventurous palate. We try to source the other fruit for our jams from our local orchard or other local suppliers. Our Berry Coulis are sweet sauces that pair perfectly with ice cream, but really, their use is only limited by your imagination! (All our varieties of jams and sauces are gluten free).

A new line of products we’ve added to our market stall in more recent years are our baked berry goodies. These include not only our delicious Blackberry & Apple Crumble Pies (with the apples sourced from our local Greenhills

Orchard), but also an ever-changing variety of other home-baked indulgences.

We're heading into the Christmas season now. What are some of your suggestions for gift ideas?

Our Berry Jams and Berry Coulis make the most amazing tasty gifts! They have a wide appeal across all ages and are especially good for those “hard to buy for” special people in your life. Many customers like to buy them to make up a local produce hamper for delicious Chrissy presents for their family and friends.

Alternatively, if you’d like to avoid the hassle of gathering the goods yourself, pre-prepared hampers showcasing quality New England products (including our jams) are available from The Humble Cook www.humblecook.com.au The drought has hit the New England area hard. How are you and your property currently weathering the conditions?

Farmers learn to be resilient and adaptable.

But, yes, these conditions are the most extreme we have ever faced, and to say it is “challenging” is certainly an understatement. We were blessed to have received a stray storm last December that topped up our major dam and has kept us going so far … but the bottom of that dam is now fast approaching. The drought has certainly seen a reduction in our berry crop dam water is just not the same as that wonderful

stuff that falls from the heavens!

Additionally, our beef enterprise has been significantly affected, with us having to reduce our herd to about 30% of what we would normally run.

Where's the best place for us to sample and purchase your produce, or to contact you?

We attend various events, food and wine festivals and markets throughout the New England, Northwest Slopes and Plains, Mid North Coast and North Coast regions. To know where we’ll be popping up next, simply like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/freshlyberried You can send us a message through Facebook, or via our “Contact Us” form on our website www.freshlyberried.com.au or via email: freshlyberried@bigpond.com Our jams and sauces are also available from the Armidale Visitor’s Information Centre.

Heading into 2020, what are your plans for Freshly Berried?

Moving forward, our first task will be to try and recover (replant) some of our lost capacity during these drier times. I guess we’re fairly happy sitting where we are right now. The main thing is that we’d like to continue to provide our customers with a great quality product and share our love for berries.

Freshly Berried … berries to die for!

Thanks Shane and Cheryl.

New England focus. 15

focusinterview.

Adams P H O T O G R A P H Y

Jodie Adams

Great photography takes an enormous amount of skill and patience - and perhaps none more so than

capturing a tonne of spinning, bucking, and cranky animal! Jodie Adams is well-known for her amazing rodeo and campdraft action shots, but when she’s not battling the dust and heat ringside, she also enjoys photographing people and animals in much quieter settings …

16 New England focus.

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i Jodie. What’s your camera as a teenager to a Canon T70, back in association with the the film days. I still have it.

New England region I’ve always loved animals, especially horses. I ... and how long has it would photograph everything from the family been home? pets to the thoroughbreds at the racetrack.

Originally from Morpeth, Richard managed a cattle property, bred I spent the first seven years of my married life and trained working dogs and campdrafted. on the cattle property “Cangon”, Dungog.

As well as photographing the day to day life We ventured to Dalby for a couple of years, on the property, that’s where the campdraft working for a feedlot photography started. I’ve and then moved to always had horses, but Moree, where Richard Richard started me off (my husband) worked as campdrafting. Having a a contract stockman. horse background made The love of horses came first, and In 2005, the company it easier to photograph. the photography followed. For my husband contracted As we started a family, as long as I can remember, to transferred us to a it was then photos of the I’ve always had a camera property outside Inverell. boys, dogs and horses, in my hand, from a little With two young boys, it making memories and point and shoot camera in was time to settle down, documenting it along the my younger years; I then upgraded so we purchased a propway.

My sons, Brock and to my first professional camera as erty, and here we are 13 Clay campdrafted for a a teenager ... years later. while, but hung up the Which came first for saddles for gear bags and you - your interest in started to rodeo. They rodeo/campdraft, or photography? currently compete in the Steer, Jnr Bull and The love of horses came first, and the phoNovice Bull events. I began to take photos of tography followed. For as long as I can rememtheir rides, then friends’ rides, and it continued ber, I’ve always had a camera in my hand, from from there. a little point and shoot camera in my younger How far and wide do you travel for rodeo years; I then upgraded to my first professional and campdraft shoots?

focusinterview.

I usually travel within a six-hour radius. But, I would love to go to Africa and photograph I have travelled 11 hours to Clermont in QLD the wildlife and experience the culture of the to photograph the Australian Campdraft Assoc locals.

(ACA) Finals on behalf of the Association.

What’s some advice you can share with Mareeba Rodeo was a 20-hour trip, but well a photographer just starting out in the worth the effort also. industry?

It takes a considerable amount of skill to Practice, practice, practice, but most of all shoot photos that involve sports/action have fun. Take flattering photos and make sure and movement. What are some of the your subject looks its best. The images of rodeo key things you’ve learned, to ensure your competitors bucking off are good, but images photos remain clear and sharp? of rough stock and campdraft horses in their Making sure my camera settings are correct. best position are ideal.

Remaining focused on the moving subject does Protection athletes do like their photos too, take practice, but timing is the key. Having so at the expense of the cowboy hung up, horses and bucking these can be great shots. stock in their best posiIt can be easy to make tions involves deleting a these sports look bad, so lot of unwanted photos! be careful what you post Apart from rodeo/ to the world and cull your I enjoy photographing the campdraft, what other unflattering photos. As I competitors and their horses types of photography have a former bull rider competing in both campdrafting do you specialise in? and two rodeo competand rodeo - everyone I dabble a little in itors at home, they help from the amateur to the family photo shoots, with the selection of competitors at the top of stud photography - stalphotos. What I think their game. Their dedication lions and bull sales, and looks great creatively they to the sport and their skills are real estate photography. might not, due to the poincredible.

What do you most sition of the rider in the enjoy about photogshot. Competitors may raphy - what keeps choose different images you motivated to continue working in this to my selection; it’s a personal thing. industry?

Where can we see more samples of your I just love it. I enjoy photographing the comwork/contact you? petitors and their horses competing in both You can view my work on my website campdrafting and rodeo - everyone from the jodieadamsphotography.com/ amateur to the competitors at the top of their I also have a Facebook page and Instagram. game. Their dedication to the sport and their Most of my photography is displayed in the skills are incredible. Rodeo bucking stock are Australian Bushmen’s Campdraft & Rodeo just as well known as the competitors. It’s the (ABCRA) Magazine. thrill of the non-stop action.

I want to say a huge thank you to my What are the items in your camera bag/kit husband, Richard and our two sons, Brock and you’d never leave home without?

Clay, for their support. I couldn’t do what I do Spare camera batteries, additional memory without their help. They help me set up and cards, a monopod (as my camera is very heavy), pack up my gear, keep me fed and watered. chair and umbrella.

This job is very time consuming, and a lot of What’s an event/location you’d love to hours are spent on the computer after the photograph one day, given the opportuevent sorting, editing and uploading photos. nity?

Thanks Jodie.

New England focus. 17

Images supplied by Tamworth Regional Council

- T o y o t a -

COUNTRY Music festival

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he Toyota Country Music Festival is ten big days this January, from Friday 17th to Sunday 26th, and you’re invited to the Tamworth region for a great day out!

Take a day trip for a big festival experience; discover the streets filled with buskers, market stalls and street performers, awesome kids’ entertainment areas like Family Zone, free live music from some of the industry’s best at FanZone, and an incredible atmosphere every night at Toyota Park.

Grab one of the famous Toyota cowboy hats and keep your eyes peeled for some of your favourite artists, including Kasey Chambers, Troy Cassar-Daley, The McClymonts, Adam Harvey, John Williamson,

The Wolfe Brothers, Beccy Cole and Amber Lawrence, as they too wander the streets at this mecca of Australian country music.

There’s something for absolutely everyone to enjoy and to help get you in the festival spirit, we’ve got some inside picks for those of you looking for the ultimate day trip or day out on the town, and the key events you should mark in your TCMF calendars.

Toyota Park For 10 nights straight, Toyota Park hosts an extraordinary line up of artists and free performances, with a family-friendly focus.

With a new line up each evening, Toyota Park 2020 is new and exciting every time you go, so be sure to stick around into the evening with your family and friends.

must see artist shows 1. The McClymonts at the Tamworth Town Hall 2. Lee Kernaghan at the Tamworth Regional Entertainment & Conference Centre 3. Montgomery Church at The Press 4. The Viper Creek Band at the Longyard Hotel 5. Stephanie Penrose at The Welder’s Dog 6. Beccy Cole at the West Tamworth Leagues Club 7. Brad Cox at The Albert Hotel 8. Melanie Dyer at the Southgate Inn 9. Tom Curtain presents Katherine Outback Experience at the Paceway Tamworth 10. Blood Moon Tour - Cold Chisel featuring Paul Kelly, Kasey Chambers and Troy Cassar-Daley at Scully Park Get tickets for these shows and many more at www.tcmf.com.au

TOYOTA CAVALCADE On Saturday 25th January, visitors will flock to Peel Street for the Toyota Cavalcade Parade, themed the Toyota Cavalcade of Colour in 2020. Floats carrying artists and those put together by local businesses will parade through the crowds, giving fans another opportunity to catch a glimpse of their favourite stars.

TOYOTA GOLDEN GUITAR AWARDS Later that day, artists and music industry icons will attend the prestigious Toyota Golden Guitar Awards. Get up close with them at the red-carpet event (like the ARIAs, but in Tamworth). Then, take a seat in the audience for amazing performances and of course, the unveiling of the Toyota Golden Guitar Winners. Don’t miss out; tickets are on sale now.

Don’t miss out, tickets are on sale now at www.tcmf.com.au/awards

T C M F 2 0 2 0 I S G O I N G T O B E B I G ! W E ’ R E TA L K I N G B I G C O U N T RY M U S I C STA R S, B I G STA G E S W I T H B I G C R OW D S A N D W E C A N G UA R A N T E E T H AT I F YO U H E A D A L O N G , YO U ’ L L C O M E AWAY W I T H S O M E O F YO U R B I G G E ST M E M O R I E S. 18 New England focus.

BRONWYN

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Bronwyn Hafey explains how our local Rotary clubs are helping to support the valuable work of LIFELINE in our community.

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i Bronwyn. How long have you been a Rotarian, and what club are you a member of?

I am not an official Rotary member, but I have a long association with Rotary as a granddaughter, daughter, wife and mother of Rotary members.

Our home Rotary Club is Laurieton, where both my husband Phillip (District Governor) and son Nicholas are members.

This year, Rotary’s DG Partner’s project is LIFELINE. Firstly - what are “DG Partnerships”, and how do they work?

Almost every country in the world has Rotary clubs; however, Australia is unique in regard to the Partner’s Project. The District Governor’s wife, husband or partner can choose a specific project which they believe their district’s clubs will value. They share this project with each of the clubs as they visit and request their financial support to achieve the aims of the project.

I chose LIFELINE to support my husband’s focus for the year - Strengthening Local Communities - as I wanted my project to support and strengthen individuals, families and communities in our district and be available to everyone, whatever their age, anywhere, any time of the day or night.

How many Rotary Clubs are involved with helping to support LIFELINE this year?

District 9650 consists of 56 clubs, from Lightning Ridge down to Coonabarabran in the West and Woolgoolga to Forster on the coast - around 45,000 square kilometres. In visiting all the clubs, I have received incredible support for my project; in fact, a number of clubs had cheques waiting for me. Other clubs are planning and implementing a range of fundraising initiatives, including film nights, concerts, book sales, golf days, theme dinners, and fun runs.

The drought has had a huge impact on

many rural communities this year. Was this one of the reasons for choosing LIFELINE as an organisation to assist?

Yes, our rural families are known for their resilience, but this prolonged drought has really put this to the test. This includes not only those on the land, but also those in the community at large. We have met with those who once enjoyed a thriving business who now rely on charity to survive. So, this was indeed a huge influence on my choice, as I know that LIFELINE is committed to responding to community need, and provide a full range of resources, information and support - including specific strategies for our drought affected families, and those recovering from the devastating fires.

How are you hoping funds raised will actually assist LIFELINE? The funds raised will be used for two vital aspects to support and strengthen community members in our district: Scholarships for additional 24 hour telephone crisis support personnel, so that those in crisis will have their calls answered as quickly as possible - and hopefully not wait in a queue.

Provide the opportunity for community members throughout our district (9650), especially in drought affected areas, to attend Community Based Training and Follow up Support, implemented by LIFELINE personnel. I like to think of it as Responsive Training, which will provide the participants with the skills to really LISTEN, respond and support their family, friends and community members appropriately.

Where can community members make a donation?

Donations can be made by direct deposit to: Account Name: Rotary International D9650 DG Partner’s Project.

BSB: 932-000 Account No: 500143137.

Thanks Bronwyn.

KIX

THE HOTTEST COUNTRY

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social scene.

ACE ACEL Award Winners

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P H O T O G R A P H Y

Can Assist 2019

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social scene.

Thunderbolt Festival

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P H O T O G R A P H Y

Black Gully Music Festival 2019

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focusinterview.

mystic Kira Newton calls the little town of Moonbi home, and it is here that she also hand makes a gorgeous range of scented candles and melts.

KIRA STOCKS SOME BEAUTIFUL CHRISTMAS HAMPERS FEATURING HER PRODUCTS, WHICH CAN REALLY HELP TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF GIFT-GIVING!

i Kira. What's your background in the Tamworth area ... are you a long-term local?

I was born here, but moved away very young.

Mum and I spent the next 16 years living on the Central Coast, until we decided to come back here to be closer to family. I’m now living in Moonbi, which is such a beautiful little town.

How did you come up with the concept for Sage and Mystic?

Originally it was named “Sage Candles”. I didn’t want to pay an arm and a leg for other candles, so I thought I would make them myself. I was also trying to think of something that could act as a second job while I was working and studying, so I thought, why not start a little business?

I have always been into herbs, crystals and other spiritual things, so I started to branch out with products other than soy candles and wax melts, so that’s how the name “Sage and Mystic” came about. I am currently selling a range of crystals and tumbled stones, smudge sticks, selenite lamps, and I’m currently planning some candles making workshops, but more information on that is to come! I also offer tarot and oracle readings, but that can be very draining, so I’m holding off on that for now.

I love my business so much, I’m constantly inspired and excited by it, and I can’t wait to

22 New England focus.

watch it continue to grow.

What processes are involved in making your beautiful candles?

Currently I’m making them in my lounge room and kitchen! I’m hoping to work out some sort of studio/workspace in the future (somewhere in Moonbi would be amazing) to keep creating them and have room to do it on a larger scale. I work full-time as well, so I try to get up before 6am to make as many candles as I can before going to work.

I try to keep my product labels and packaging simple by printing them at home, so that I can do as much of it myself to keep costs down.

I sell wholesale to businesses as well, so that’s always exciting.

Where do you source the raw materials you use?

I’m currently using what’s called a “fragrance oil”, rather than essential oils; the fragrance oils have been specifically blended to give off a strong fragrance throw when the wax gets hot.

The wax is a soy blend, which can be very difficult to work with when the weather changes from hot to cold and back again as it has been lately, so there is always a lot of trial and error.

I use an Australian supplier for the fragrance oil, wax, jars, wicks etc.

What types of crystals are your personal favourites (and why)?

My all-time personal favourite is Rose

Quartz; it is just a great all-rounder stone for healing and grief, love and self-love, and I just find it has a really positive energy. I use rose quartz to meditate, I keep huge chunks of it around the house, and it’s probably a stone I recommend to most people.

What special hampers/gift ideas can you put together for customers for Christmas?

Currently I have some Christmas hampers available. They range from $50 to $100, or more if you choose. Each hamper has a mixture of candles in different fragrances and sizes, and most include a soy wax melt as well.

I love hampers, because you can either buy a large gift for someone, or you can break the hamper up and give the candles out separately, and it’s almost as if you’ve done all your Christmas shopping in one easy transaction.

What markets do you visit regularly?

I am regularly at the Peel Street Markets in Tamworth on the third Sunday of the month,

the Craft Shed Markets in Tamworth, which are on the first Saturday of the month, and then I travel around the region to other larger markets, Mother’s Day markets, Christmas markets, etc. You can find a list of the rest of the 2019 markets that I will be at on my website.

Where can we contact you/find out more info?

Facebook at www.facebook.com/ sageandmystic, and Instagram at @sageandmystic, but you can also find my website, which is www.sageandmystic.com.au I welcome emails at: sageandmystic@gmail.com You can also find exclusive Sage and Mystic candles at Molly Mays in Manilla, NSW, and The Hub General Store in Wallabadah.

I’m slowly branching out to other stores in Tamworth, but you’ll have to stay tuned to find out more.

Thanks Kira.

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this Christmas

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focus_contributor

ANTHONY FOX - PRESIDENT, ARMIDALE BUSINESS CHAMBER

Minding your

THANK YOU AGAIN TO THE EMERGENCY SERVICE WORKERS, VOLUNTEERS AND SUPPORTERS FOR ALL THEIR FANTASTIC EFFORTS IN FIGHTING FIRES IN OUR DISTRICT.

A

s we continue into summer, water and fire no doubt will be on people’s minds. We need to continue to be very cautious with our use of water - the more we save now, the longer it lasts. Water saving is becoming a way of life; our attitude towards water use is changing - a cultural change, if you like. Avoiding any activity that may ignite a fire is a must.

Sustainability The Chamber Committee recently held a planning meeting for the next year and considered the benefits it can offer to members. We decided in that process that Armidale becoming a sustainable city was a goal we should adopt in terms of growth and development for Armidale. There are already several businesses that have sustainable practices or a low carbon footprint. UNE is working towards that. The Chamber is happy to both lead with this theme and work collaboratively with other stakeholders such as UNE and the Council on this issue.

Multicultural Armidale I attended the Culture Fest on Saturday 2nd November 2019; it was an inspiring event, showcasing the diversity of cultures (and food) within Armidale. It would be good to further integrate that diversity within the Armidale business community in terms of new businesses and employment opportunities.

Buy Armidale The Chamber has embarked upon a campaign - “Buy Armidale” - to give a boost to local businesses. Our campaign complements existing campaigns such as “Buy Regional” from the State Government and “Buy from the Bush”. Our goal is to encourage our community when shopping to spend locally first, supporting our local businesses, their employees and families and helping our economy to thrive. Keep an eye out for our television and radio advertisements. As we head into Christmas, spend local/buy Armidale and keep your money in town, where it will do the most good!

New England Business Chamber The Chamber will put forward a resolution to change the its name from Armidale & District Chamber of Commerce to New England Business Chamber at a general meeting shortly.

The purpose is to reflect the Chamber’s regional outlook.

The Hub The Chamber supports the creation of a business hub in Armidale. The proposal is that it be created within the old library premises. UNE may have a presence there, as well as Council.

A hub can have professional work spaces (hot desks), meeting facilities, training facilities, as well as a one stop shop for Council in relation to activities such as development proposals.

WiNG - Women’s Networking Group Professor Brigid Heywood, Vice Chancellor, UNE, spoke at the October breakfast. By all accounts she was an excellent speaker, as she shared her life experience and professional journey. The next WiNG breakfast will take place on Tuesday 10th December at Hanna’s Arcade, Beardy Street, Armidale. A more informal breakfast featuring breakfast canapés, champagne cocktails and mocktails will allow WiNG members and guests to mingle, network and celebrate the year. The New England Collective, together with Hanna’s Arcade, is hosting us for breakfast, so it will also be an opportunity to discover the artisanal work of 45 New England based businesses.

Farewell Tyler McDonald The Chamber’s Executive Officer leaves at the end of November in order to take up residence in Newcastle, having now graduated from UNE. I am very grateful, as is the Chamber, for Tyler’s hard work, humour and ability to manage the various events held by the Chamber, as well as its general business. We wish him well for the future.

Christmas/New Year I would like to wish everyone all the very best for the festive season. This year has been tough; Armidale has been, and will continue to be, a resilient community. Stay safe, on the roads and at home.

New England focus. 25

26 New England focus.

SHOP LOCAL | A special focus feature

this Christmas

Irresistible Style Christmas and Irresistible Style - what a combination ‌ With Christmas around the corner, what are your favourite items this year for the New England shoppers?

As always, we do all things underneath to make women feel super special this Christmas; we also have a large range of gorgeous sleepwear.

If you are after beautiful pure cotton nightwear, you must have a look at the fantastic French Country range that we have in stock, including girls' ages 4 to 14. The other lovely nightwear labels are from Yuu, Givoni and Schrank, that have a large range of styles, colours and fabrics in nighties, pyjamas and brunchcoats.

If you are after underwear sets as gifts, you cannot go past ranges from Heidi Klum, Bendon, Berlei, Fayreform and the sporty selection from Calvin Klein, plus our extensive range of camisoles and matching briefs from Essence and Jockey, and also boxed hankies for men and women, and socks.

If you are still unable to choose, of course we have gift vouchers available for those who may be a little difficult to buy for.

Come in and see us at Irresistible Style; we would love to help you shop this Christmas.

And remember, we will wrap your purchases, so they are ready to pop under the Christmas tree.

New England focus. 27

Gift Pack For Her

120

Gift Pack For Him

143

$

$

Includes FREE gift box

Stormriders Tamworth Shoppingworld Shop 2, Tamworth Shoppingworld shoppingworld@stormriders.com.au (02) 6762 7951 28 New England focus.

Stormriders Tamworth Peel Street Shop 1&2, 430 Peel Street tamworth@stormriders.com.au (02) 6766 7799

Stormriders Armidale Shop 22, Centro Armidale Shopping Centre armidale@stormriders.com.au (02) 6772 6648

Sh op at S tormr iders in Dec ember to e c n a ch r u o y r o f y r a u n a J or

and a pr ivat e sh opping experience

with Stormies

Follow us on instagram for sweet fortnightly giveaways @stormriders_au New England focus. 29

SHOP LOCAL | A special focus feature

this Christmas

A R M I D A L E

Food

emporium Armidale Food Emporium has everything you need for entertaining or your weekly groceries this Christmas. WE ARE YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP! WE HAVE EVERYTHING FROM GORGEOUS FRESH FOOD FROM MONK’S, fabulous breads and buns from Bakers Delight, along with Coles Supermarket for your staple supplies.

D

on’t feel like cooking? No worries, because Pho Plus has you covered with a fabulous array of sushi and spring rolls. In a rush? Pop into Le Rendezvous Café. For all your family pharmacy needs, Cincotta’s is there to help and guide you.

Forgot your ham? Pete’s Mountview Butcher has you covered. Park close by, walk in and be mesmerised by what Christmas has to offer here at The Armidale Food Emporium!

1. Monk’s Health Mart cater to all your sweet and healthy Christmas desires! While in store, make sure you check out the wonderful selection of goodies to cook with at home, and be sure to grab one of their delicious wraps for lunch. If you’re a fan of throw-everythingin-the-food-processor kind of snacks, bliss balls are for you! Packed with tasty, nutritious ingredients available from Monk’s Healthmart - the perfect lunchbox snack! Pop in and see Chris; she has a wonderful knowledge base and can cater for all your healthfood needs!

2. Pho Plus is your one stop shop to take a break from your Christmas Shopping bonanza to refuel! It offers fresh sushi, rolls, soups and amazing sweet delights. Make sure you also have a coffee on your pit stop! The team here cater to all your sushi needs!

3. Getting a headache thinking about everything that needs to be done before Christmas? Don’t panic; Cincotta’s Pharmacy has you covered! Cincotta’s Pharmacy caters for all your gifting needs this Christmas. Drop on in to see their range and spoil that special someone this Christmas.

4. Psssst ... tell a friend and take the time

30 New England focus.

to catch up at Le Rendezvous Café, one of Armidale’s newest cafés. Le Rendezvous Café will be having some wonderful specials to tempt. Le Rendezvous Café is a must stop for either a quick run and grab lunch, or that overdue catch-up.

5. Fantastic Home and Gifts is offering your Christmas decoration answer! They have everything from decorations to wrapping paper, tinsel and cards, along with absolutely anything else you may need to decorate this year.

6. For those looking to the future, the very lovely and friendly staff from Oak Tree Retirement will be available to have a chat and answer any questions you have regarding their facilities. Drop in and say g’day.

7. We are also very excited about the up-coming opening of the specialty butcher - Pete’s Mountview Butchery. Pete is able to cater for all your Christmas needs and those upcoming summer barbecues.

8. Bakers Delight is your sweet stop on your Christmas spree. Offering the sweet allure of lemon or fruit-mince pies, croissants or that specialised bun, they have you covered. Stop by and organise a feast this Christmas.

9. Coles supermarket is not just one of Australia’s most trusted but also Armidale’s favourite grocery store. Coles has you covered!

Coles will be having specials and in store promotions right throughout your festive period; drop in!

10. Don’t forget to check out the new Uniqlee Home! Jamie has some beautiful Christmas ideas in there; stop by and say hello.

New England focus. 31

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

Christmas

of the

TEA

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

C

hristmas Eve. It’s the biggest night of the year for Santa and with all the travelling he has to do, it’s nice to come down the chimney to a welcome treat.

But if we stopped to consider how much milk, fruit juice, and the odd tipple that Santa must consume, not to mention all the biscuits, cakes, and slices he must eat in that one evening, you could imagine he’d be feeling pretty bloated by the morning.

So instead of the usual Christmas Eve spread, why not put out a steaming pot of Christmas Tea! Fruity, spicy, and sweet, this blend is reminiscent of a traditional Christmas fruit cake with marzipan icing.

Description The scent of cloves, vanilla, and cardamom break through the flavoursome black tea base. A must have for the

Where

Christmas season, but still tastes great all year round.

Brewing tip Pre-heat a cup or teapot. Use 1 tsp per cup, or 1 rounded tsp per person for a teapot. Pour freshly boiled water over the leaves and infuse for 3 - 5 minutes. Add milk or sweetener as desired.

Ingredients Black tea, orange peels, chopped almonds, cloves, flavouring, vanilla pieces, cardamom. CONTAINS ALMONDS. Available at Daily Ritual for this Christmas at a special price $10 / 100 g. Our Christmas Tea is quality tested to comply with strict European standards for any chemical or pesticide residues. Uniquely, the teas are then air freighted to Australia to maintain the finest quality and freshness for your enjoyment.

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

IS TH IS OL CO

Check these out! New England Hatters and Hills Hats have come to the Daily Ritual in their newly expanded store located in Richards Arcade.

With a large range of beautiful hats for any occasion, New England Hatters are proud to stock this new and exciting brand for the people of New England.

Featured are some of the headwear made from recycled coffee bags, fully lined and in numerous styles.

Come and check out the large range of headwear at New England Hatters, Shop 53 Armidale Plaza

32 New England focus.

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

shop local

tourism UPDATE

There are many ways that Armidale businesses can benefit from the new online movement that is rapidly gaining momentum to support the bush this Christmas.

S

ome of these initiatives are through the clever use of hashtags when posting onto social media. The great success story is the hashtag #buyfromthebush. If you are a retail business, please use this hashtag to increase your exposure to the thousands (if not millions) of people who are currently engaging and buying from businesses in the bush this Christmas.

One of our very own local moteliers (the Deer Park) has launched another clever hashtag #stayinthesticks that is encouraging people to come up and stay. We would like to encourage all accommodation providers to please use this hashtag when posting on social media.

The NSW Government has established a Buy Regional website. It is free to list your business, so please don’t delay: https://www.nsw.gov.au/ improving-nsw/regional-nsw/buy-regional-thischristmas/ Di Jones Real Estate has created a website to encourage spending in regional NSW in the lead-up to Christmas. Please complete the following form to be included in the e-catalogue: https://www.dijones.com.au/community/ drought-drive/ Di Jones Real Estate has organised a convoy of over 100 people to visit regional NSW over three days starting on 8th December. They will be covering over 3,000 kilometres as they spend, eat and shop locally and inject much needed cash into these regional towns. Whilst the New England isn’t on the itinerary, there will be a lot of exposure during this event and they would like to encourage all of our local businesses to get involved and gain exposure through listing on the website: https://www. dijones.com.au/community/drought-drive/ The Christmas school holidays present a great opportunity to take the children and explore some of the unique experiences in the region. The National Parks offer some wonderful family friendly walks, and one of the best is the Weeping Rock Walk in New England

National Park. Native wildlife, especially echidnas, are out and about and Gara Gorge is a fabulous area for having a picnic or BBQ, and if you are lucky maybe experience platypus playing in the water. The Armidale Visitor Information Centre has a comprehensive list of bushwalks in the region detailing distance, difficulty level and expected completion time.

The Dutton Trout Hatchery has aquarium displays, guided tours, fish feeding, educational tours and an audio visual show - located on Point Lookout road near the New England National Park.

Greenhill Orchard in Arding produces luscious summer fruits, such as cherries, apricots, peaches, plums and nectarines followed by a large harvest of apples and pears in autumn. They offer a farm gate experience, with an opportunity to source the fruit directly from the grower, and visit a working family orchard. The farm gate is open Monday to Saturday, 9am - 5pm.

All Armidale households need a copy of “Out and About with Kids”, so please drop into the Visitor Information Centre to collect any information on these activities and find out about the many other treasures in New England High Country.

Whilst many businesses choose to have a holiday between Christmas and New Year, the Visitor Information Centre, Heritage Bus Tour and Saumarez Homestead will be very busy looking after our visitors (except Christmas Day). The Visitor Information Centre will have a list of retail businesses, coffee shops, restaurants and wineries etc. that are open between Christmas and New Year, so call in and grab a copy. If you would like your business included in the listing, please contact Katrina George on 6770 3906 or kgeorge@armidale.nsw.gov.au.

Please contact the Visitor Information Centre if you are holding a Christmas concert, play or event, and we will promote this on our Armidale Tourism Events Calendar.

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas.

New England focus. 33

SHOP LOCAL | A special focus feature

this Christmas

Rustic ANGE FIELDER

Tamworth local Ange Fielder’s passion for all things country chic have led to an amazing business offering quality products online for all members of your family! RUSTIC LACE STOCKS A WIDE VARIETY OF WONDERFUL CLOTHING, SHOES, JEWELLERY, BAGS AND HOMEWARES, JUST PERFECT FOR CHRISTMAS GIFT GIVING. Ange also offers pop up stores quite often throughout the year, so check out her social media to see where you can find her next!

H

i Ange. What’s your history/background in the Tamworth area?

My family and I moved to Tamworth almost 10 years ago. My husband and I have always loved Tamworth and knew it would be a great area to raise our two children.

How did the “Rustic Lace” concept develop ... I believe you started as a popup shop?

I started Rustic Lace five years ago - it’s something I have always wanted to do. I wanted something that was a mix of things I love and things I knew customers were wanting, but were struggling to get in the area.

I love sourcing new products and suppliers and never would have thought Rustic Lace would have turned into what it has, through starting out with a few scarves and a handful of jewellery. Now, the products are endless.

These days you operate online ... but do you still run pop-up shops upon occasion?

34 New England focus.

If so - where can we find you?

We are online 24/7, and we absolutely love our pop-up shops. We are at the AELEC in TAMWORTH at least seven times a year. We attend: • ABCRA national finals • LandMark • Australian Stock Horse Nationals • Quarter Horse Nationals • National Cutting Horse Futurity • Australian Barrell Horse Finals • Reining Horse Nationals How do you choose the items you stock in-store?

This is really the part I love the most! I love to hunt and source new products.

I choose things I love, but also keep a close eye on what’s in trend and also listen to my customers with what they are wanting to purchase.

What would you say is your business’ key point/points of difference?

Old fashioned customer service. Even though we are online, we feel customer service is even more important.

Our knowledge of the products we sell.

I love to support other Australian businesses,

big or small, including there’s always a great I choose things I love, but one of my favourite range of tops. also keep a close eye on models, Fair Lady Fashion.

New and exciting what’s in trend and also I love working with cowhide sling back listen to my customers Matilda. shoes with what they are As we’re heading into What are some of wanting to purchase. the holiday season, your plans moving what would be some of forward into the end your top picks as gifts of 2019/2020? for men, women and I love Christmas time, kids? so we have some great For the men, definitely our Dale Brisby Xmas packs coming out - keep an eye out for products - we have T-shirts, caps and hoodies. these.

For kids, we have lots of Cowgirl Tuff Moving into 2020 … I can’t wait! We are jeans - always a winner under the Xmas tree! planning to get to a lot more trade shows, There’s lots of jewellery; we’ve just added which is super exciting for our customers and a new range of kids’ jewellery called Sugar followers. I can’t wait to see what we can Jewellery. For the boys, we have a great source and to continue to grow Rustic Lace. range of Dale Brisby and also B Tuff jeans.

Where can we find out more about Women - where do I start lol!

Rustic Lace/contact you?

Cowgirl Tuff jeans, beautiful cowhide Facebook, Instagram and our and genuine leather bags and wallets, a website: www.rusticlace.com.au new range of freshwater pearl earrings, and Thanks Ange.

focusinterview.

FOCUS INTRODUCES BRONWYN GRILLS from BRISK TR ADING.

H

i Bronwyn. Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m a former graphic designer, a farmer’s wife, mother, maker, thinker, procrastinator, and lover of nice things.

You’re bringing your beautiful wares from your shop in Guyra to the Armidale East End Mall for a Christmas pop-up shop. What can we expect to find? Yes! We are excited to be "popping up" on the corner of Beardy and Faulkner Streets for Christmas. Brisk Trading is a collection of things. Nice things. Unusual, playful, pretty, out of the box things. Lovely items for you, your home and the people in your life. We are a general store, a pint-sized present emporium, with gifts and small treats for everyone.

Presents for friends, neighbours, teachers, someone who has done you a favour, your mum or dad, or grandparent.

YOU MIGHT WANT TO TAKE A SMALL GIFT TO YOUR DINNER HOST, A SURPRISE FOR

YOUR AUNTY, A THANK YOU FOR HAVING ME TO STAY PRESENT, A LITTLE

SOMETHING FOR A NEW MOTHER OR A NEW BABY. Or perhaps you just want to buy something nice for yourself - a small milk jug, a notepad, a scarf, a snappy pair of earrings, a new bag, a basket, a cushion, a gorgeous hand made lamp or some knock out liquorice resin drawer knobs.

How long has Brisk Trading been around for? We have recently celebrated our first birthday in November this year.

The store is located in Guyra, and we have just launched our website: www.brisktrading.com.au which is very exciting, so if you are near or far you can always find a trinket or treasure for you or your home. We’d love you to come and visit our Guyra store, website or Armidale pop-up shop soon!

New England focus. 35

'Tis the

season

It’s hard to imagine that we are already in the final weeks of the year. The end of the school year is fast approaching, with family and friends arriving soon.

S

o, it’s time to get organised with gifts.

We can help you select materials for the budding artist Gallery 126 has you covered for artworks, art in the family. We have a great non-toxic range for young materials and framing. children, which encourage the making of art. In addition, In the gallery we have some wonderful a new range of pens, fountain pens and propelling pencils artworks made by local artists. The current from Monteverde have just arrived. These are refillable and exhibition, Softwired - new work by Tony help to reduce landfill, as well as being a beautiful piece to Sevil continues until Saturday 7th hold and use. The emphasis today December. Tony re-works and reis more and more on caring for the assembles found wire, metal and planet. various bits and pieces to make Every year in December, we have We will re-hang the gallery quirky and intelligent 2D and 3D an Advent Calendar, where a lucky with lots of artwork from pieces for the wall or shelf. Carrying customer gets to open a drawer our regular exhibitors this further, he has created several each day, wherein is a little gift. for the Christmas show painted works on paper using acrylic However this year, because so many - new works by local paint and ink. The marks on the people have been impacted by the landscape artists Stuart paper float on a background colour, drought and fires, we have decided Boggs, Robyn Jackson resembling floating objects which he to change it a little. We will still have and Anna Henderson, just to may have created in his mind. There the Advent Calendar, but for every mention a few. is a sense of peace with these works. day, instead of taking something We will re-hang the gallery with out, we will put something in. We lots of artwork from our regular will donate a percentage of the art exhibitors for the Christmas show supply sales and place the amount new works by local landscape artists Stuart Boggs, Robyn in the drawer, donating the total amount to the RFS at the Jackson and Anna Henderson just to mention a few. So, do end of the month. try to drop in throughout December to support local art.

We would like to wish all our customers a safe and We have great gift ideas, too numerous to mention here. happy holiday season.

New England focus. 31

Business Minds with Ingrid Rothe of VIVID Thinking

Pop Store UP

This month Business Minds talks to Jayne Croft, Anna Boston, Sorrel Watts and Tara Toomey from The Pop-Up Store. THE POP-UP STORE SHOWCASES HANDMADE PRODUCTS FROM THE NEW ENGLAND AREA and is representative of the growing handmade community in our region.

D

escribe “The Pop-Up Store”.

We are a group of locals who come together a few times a year to showcase some of the best handmade and unique products from the New England in one retail store. We love working alongside other makers across the region and the local community has been very supportive of our collaboration.

Tell us a little bit about yourselves.

Jayne: My small hobby bloomed rather rapidly into Calamity Jayne when I needed a creative outlet after having my fourth baby in 2012. I’m grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve had from friends, family and locals and the ability to work around my family’s needs and health. I also work with my husband, Michael, in our small business, so life is full.

Anna: I work full-time in digital marketing but have always had creative projects on the side. I started with a small market stall selling screen printed singlets with a friend at uni and set up The Eclective in early 2012 as a jewellery stall. About two years ago I joined the Armidale Pottery Club and have been making porcelain jewellery ever since.

Tara: I have a few irons in the fire, including

Aurelia’s Farm B&B, which opened in 2012 and The Humble Cook (which started under a different name in 2004) - making this my 15th year of making nougat. I also run Seasons of New England and the New Englander Rail Experience (launching 2020).

I’m married to the lovely Andrew Toomey, and have two wonderful children, Jacob (10) and Helena (7).

Sorrel: I’ve always had something creative on the go. After my son was born in 2013, I couldn’t find any fun, colourful, practical clothes (with pockets!) so started making them myself. After requests from friends, and friends of friends, Peg Leg Frida was born, based from my dining room table and growing to take over the house. I juggle this with studying speech pathology and am lucky to be supported by my amazing partner Adam and our two kids.

How did you all meet?

Jayne: It was love at first sight! Ha ha!

Actually, we had come across each other briefly before, but The Pop-Up Store was the first time we collaborated. After a couple of stores, we found our groove and drew on our individual strengths to really make a great team. In the process we have gained friends (and a very active group chat!) as well.

What led you to start the Pop-Up Store?

Anna: Jayne put on a Christmas market in her living room in 2013, to give makers a chance to show off their talent, and everyone a chance to buy handmade and local products. I went as a customer and loved the idea, so when Jayne put on a follow-up event a fortnight later in her driveway, I jumped at the invite. From the success of those informal events (and realising moving a living room of furniture was unsustainable long term!) we took the plunge in February 2014 and rented a shop in the mall for our first “The Pop-Up Store”.

What is your philosophy?

We want to give local side-hustles, market stalls and creatives working from home exposure in a retail space. We love that we get to showcase the diversity of talent in the New England, and also give the community a chance to buy locally, direct from the seller.

We strive to curate a quality and diverse range for each store, with a focus on handmade.

What was your biggest challenge starting out?

The time commitment for Pop-Up is massive - especially on top of our own business, work and family needs. But we’ve worked out a pretty good system of “dividing and conquering” the jobs between the four of us.

Any advice for a business (particularly one that is part of the growing handmade community) just starting out?

Tara: I would suggest lots of experimenting on trusted friends with your product before taking it somewhere for sale. Once I’d decided to sell my nougat and fruit cakes, I went regularly to our local farmers’ markets - it was great to have the interaction with customers and to see their reactions to the product too. It’s key to spend plenty of time on branding and presentation, and be prepared to make mistakes and start again!

What’s coming up?

Our focus right now is our Xmas Pop-Up! We are open every day from Wednesday 4th December to Sunday 15th December, in the Armidale Plaza (opposite Target), including weekends and a few late nights. We have 14 local makers selling jewellery, ceramics, hampers, soy candles, skin care, jerky, confectionery, clothing, homewares, jams and relishes, and of course, make-your-own gin kits!

Opening hours, info about our stallholders and future stores can be found on our socials: Facebook - The Pop-Up Store; Instagram The.Pop.Up.Store.Armidale.

Thank you, Jayne, Anna, Sorrel and Tara.

New England focus. 37

focusinterview.

Twenty Ninth Street Studio

There are two sides to Archie Denning’s artistic talent …

On a personal level, he loves to draw, paint and sculpt, exploring multiple techniques and media. On a commercial level, he uses his skill to assist businesses with their branding, so if you need a new logo or business cards, Archie can help!

H

i Archie. What's your background in the New England region?

I grew up in Armidale, after moving from Woy Woy on the NSW Central Coast. I went to school at TAS and after finishing, I began studying a Bachelor of Education at UNE. Wanting to dive more into art, I looked for options in Sydney; however, after a brief stint back down at the Central Coast and commuting to Sydney, I returned to Armidale when I was offered a position at Piddington’s as a graphic and monumental designer.

Since returning to the New England, I have begun testing the waters in the local art scene, with some time spent at NERAM’s art classes and entering works in competitions in local shows and the Armidale Art Gallery’s annual prize.

How did you become interested in art and design?

My interest in art was something that sparked during high school, particularly in my senior years (a little to the detriment of my other subjects). During a school trip to Sydney, seeing such a vast array of works in the big galleries was phenomenal; this was also my first visit to the Brett Whiteley Studio in Surrey Hills. After falling in love with Whiteley’s work 38 New England focus.

and the grand scale of Alchemy, I was hooked.

The studio has become my favourite and most frequented Sydney destination since.

The design side was more an extension of my interest in art, the commercial art side of graphic design in advertising - whether it was in printed media, large billboards, commercials, simple iconography, and typography. Just how subtle yet prevalent design is in our lives I find quite fascinating.

Advertising like that for the old Tooth’s Ale and Resch’s Pilsener had such beautiful artistic flair.

You've recently established Twenty Ninth Street Studio in Armidale. What types of things do you create from this site ... and what services do you offer clients?

Twenty Ninth Street Studio has become an opportunity to offer design services more focused on new or small businesses that may need new logos or business cards designed, branding assistance, or social media marketing. I also do work with sporting clubs and community groups that look for advertising for events, fundraisers and recruitment.

What are some of the concepts you've designed for clients that you're most proud of?

Working with the Barbarians Rugby Club is always enjoyable, as they’re open to concepts

TWENTY NINTH STREET STUDIO HAS BECOME AN OPPORTUNITY TO OFFER DESIGN SERVICES MORE FOCUSED ON NEW OR SMALL BUSINESSES THAT MAY NEED NEW LOGOS OR BUSINESS CARDS DESIGNED, BRANDING ASSISTANCE, OR SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING.

and new ideas, whether for game days or fundraisers at the St Kilda Hotel. I’d be most proud of the 2018 Blues vs. Barbarians NAIDOC game design, because of the significance it holds for both clubs.

Also, working on designs for the 2019 New England Rugby Union Finals Series, as well as the more recently completed series of Soviet inspired recruitment posters for the Baa Baas, which have been quite a hit.

Working with new business people is always a pleasure. I worked with Brooke Monley, the beauty therapist at The Hair & Beauty Basement in Armidale recently, and it was fantastic to see how much she enjoyed getting her concepts and ideas on paper and how much energy she had moving into a new business (although I might not take up the offer for a free back wax anytime soon …)

Another new business I had a great time working with was a Central Coast based tennis and high-performance coaching business, Coast & Country Tennis, located at the Gosford Tennis Club. Starting fresh, the team there was looking at designing new

business logos, as well as a concept for their pro-squad team, which developed into “The Bull Sharks.”

You also have an interest in contemporary art.

What media do you like to work with?

I mainly work in drawing, painting and sculpture, although I do like to dabble in many other mediums. I love the immediacy of drawing; something recognisable can be down within seconds, or laboured over for what begins to feel like hours. There’s a beautiful flow of form and line in drawing.

With painting, there’s a beautiful mix of colour and viscosity in paint as it’s worked across the canvas or board that is hard to beat.

Paint can be thrown out and schmeared or gently dabbed, depending on the subject; the beautiful texture and movement that is left is gorgeous.

Sculpture is a medium I love, whether in timber, metal, clay or stone, because you can be a little less refined when beginning a work, as it slowly shows itself to you.

You've enjoyed two trips away recently, which have helped you explore art in new

focusinterview.

Twenty Ninth Street Studio

ways. Can you tell us about this - where you travelled to, and what activities you experienced?

The first trip which was in April/May exploring Central Australia. I was on the road for about three weeks, travelling through South Australia and into the Territory.

Spending time in the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park and hiking through Wilpena Pound was amazing. Travelling up the Oodnadatta Track, visiting towns like Marree and William Creek and getting the chance to see Lake Eyre whilst it was in flood was magical and definitely a once in a lifetime experience.

Stopping in at several Indigenous galleries along the way was fascinating; the amazing colour palette and the details in the traditional work was breathtaking. Travelling into the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and walking through and sketching Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) was spectacular. Then, seeing the ancient rock art juxtaposed with the contemporary practice and works in the Walkatjara Art and Maruku Arts Galleries and studios was inspiring.

In August I headed to Lord Howe Island.

I was looking to travel back to Lord Howe after taking part in the 2018 LHI Conservation Volunteers Program, and by chance I came across a Sydney based travel company named Art Travel Adventures, run by Kerri Ainsworth.

Kerri organises artist workshops WITH BUYING LOCALLY both nationally and very valuable.

AND SUPPORTING LOCAL internationally; I Where would you like BUSINESS BEING SUCH A couldn’t recommend to see Twenty Ninth POSITIVE MOVEMENT AND the Art Travel Adventure Street Studio and CHANGE TO OUR BUYING experience more. your own personal art HABITS, I BELIEVE IT Each workshop is practice heading into SHOULD BE NO DIFFERENT led by a professional the New Year?

WHEN IT COMES TO ART. artist; this time it was I look forward to Debbie Mackinnon, working with new local whose works I had come businesses, as well across previously and as supporting various absolutely love! Each day Debbie would focus groups within the community. I’ve been in on developing our techniques as we created touch with the Climate Action Armidale group several works in response to the environment. and look forward to working with them.

From the turquoise blues of the lagoon to In addition to the design side, I’m looking the prehistoric grandeur of Mt Gower and to launch twentyninthstreetstudio.com.au in Lidgbird, Lord Howe is just the most beautiful early 2020 and taking the steps to building place to visit (and paint). an artists’ community, where emerging locally What are some of the key inspirations connected artists can be represented and sell behind the pieces you create? their works directly to the public.

I get my inspiration from nature. I love With buying locally and supporting local painting coastal scenes and water … Whether business being such a positive movement it’s the kinetic energy of the surf crashing into and change to our buying habits, I believe the shore or the glassy sunset reflection on a it should be no different when it comes to country dam, you just can’t beat it. art. It’s a great opportunity for people to buy Heading out into the local national parks real art from locals and stop hanging the is also inspiring, whether it’s the landscape mass produced “Ikea art” in their homes and or the fauna. Creating artworks and learning businesses. There are hundreds of local artists techniques in response to other art can also be out there who would love to have their works

hung in your home (or business) that can suit any budget.

I always notice when going into local businesses if they have a generic canvas print on the reception wall of some European avenue or unrelated street scene … it’s not very locals 4 locals.

This will give people the opportunity to view artists and works from the region, find an artwork they love and get it hung in their space, as well as having the bragging rights to having an original “Anna Underhill” hanging in their office. Leave the dodgy prints to uni dorm rooms and buy real art.

In addition, within my own art practice I’d like to develop a series of work based on my recent travels and hold an exhibition in 2020.

Where can we see more of your work/ contact you?

For any design work that you’d like to discuss, contact me on 0427 885 650 or head to our Facebook page, Twenty Ninth Street Studio.

To keep up with current works, pop over to my Instagram page: @archiedee.

And don’t forget to keep an eye out for twentyninthstreetstudio.com.au in 2020.

Thanks Archie.

New England focus. 39

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

December 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

Preparing for a move is likely to be a major influence this month.

Words need to be expressed and the longer you procrastinate, the harder it will be to express with honesty. Give yourself permission to speak and communicate from the heart, then these words will not be misunderstood.

Sunstone will attract like energies to you.

PISCES. FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

Relationships will prove to be a major influence affecting you this month. Speak honestly and openly to avoid any misunderstandings.

Play with your partner more, to help them feel a little more cherished.

Aries have such independence and focus on their needs so much, that their actions can easily be interpreted as a non-caring attitude.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love; place some in your environment.

You need to make a choice. There are beautiful gifts coming into your reality, but you need to know you deserve these things. Sit quietly somewhere in nature and state (even to yourself) what your heart desires, then give yourself permission to receive it.

Distract yourself from not having it yet, by concentrating on all the wonderful qualities you have.

Aventurine is great to carry for changes.

You have some exciting new influences knocking at your door. All you need to do is open yourself to receiving the best of what life can offer. Avoid compromising your standards, just because you don’t want to miss out. The more you can love yourself at present, the more rewarding your month will be.

Carry some calcite for spontaneity.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Strength will be your major attribute that you will lean on this month.

You will be likely to recognise that there is no challenge too big for you to easily remove from your reality. Your mind will benefit from some interesting information, so keep an eye out for a new book or something to learn about.

Lapis Lazuli benefits self-awareness.

You are learning to stand stronger, by looking at all cycles that repeated over and over in your past. You are a different person now, so there is no need to fear the repetition of these things.

Simply claim the benefits of being in that situation and give yourself permission to be freed from this pattern. Moldavite is a very powerful crystal for transformation. Try wearing some.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

You are slipping into the habit of taking life too seriously at present, which is waking up fears and self-doubt. Don’t forget how clever you are at getting what you want. It isn’t by chance that you can so easily manifest new things into your reality; you just need to recognise this gift in order to receive your full potential. Larimar will assist with personal nurturing benefiting self-worth.

You may be feeling unsupported and neglected at the moment, as you are always there for others but feel no-one is there for you.

Take some precious time out for yourself and do nothing but spoil yourself and focus on all your beautiful qualities with complete contentment.

Sunstone will strengthen your leadership and independence.

Set fresh goals in order to make some comfortable decisions soon. You are about to tumble into an experience that you may be completely unaware of; but have no fear, as this feels like an answer to a previous wish or prayer. You will have fun discovering new talent and perhaps new friendship.

Cuprite will connect you with a sense of purpose.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Changing circumstances will be an important influence this month.

You can expect new friends, new learning, even a new outlook at home. You can expect a move or the need to re-arrange things. A speech is coming forward to someone from your past; this will be likely to free some old emotions which may have been playing with your thoughts lately. Turquoise will benefit you if you wear some.

40 New England focus.

You are likely to be drawn to spiritual influences this month. Playing with new talent and discovering new friends with like-minded attitudes will add a well-deserved break to the monotony of everyday living. You may need to strengthen your energetic protection, as you are vulnerable to other people’s sadness and torment at present.

Try wearing some ruby for a few weeks.

You are learning to appreciate the difference between head strength and stubbornness at present. You will be likely to recognise patterns of behaviour from the past, which may surprise you. Avoid selfjudgement, as this will only hinder your growth. Instead, thank yourself for these insights and commit to making change.

Wear some azurite for self-approval.

New England focus. 13

TAMWORTH NRMA INSURANCE AWARDED FOR PERFORMANCE AND OUTSTANDING TEAM ACHIEVEMENT. Vicki Constable, Area Manager for NRMA Mid-North Coast Tamworth, Armidale and Gunnedah offices chatted with FOCUS about her team and how proud she is of their achievements.

Tamworth

T

NRMA I N S U R A N C E

he Tamworth NRMA Insurance branch has taken home the award for “Outstanding Team Achievement” at the annual NRMA Insurance Country Partnership Event held in Sydney recently.

They were up against 92 NRMA agencies across NSW and ACT. The Tamworth team won the prestigious award in recognition of their exceptional performance, customer service and contribution to their community.

NRMA has been represented in the area for over 90 years, with our agency being in the same location for over 30 years, with a customer car park at the back of the building. Tamworth NRMA has seven excellent customer service focused staff ranging in ages from 20 - 65; they have over 55 years' combined experience with NRMA Insurance.

The locally connected staff are very motivated and keen to HELP the loyal customers who voluntarily come into the privately-owned office. They offer quality conversations to ensure the customer is aware of the features and benefits of the policy enquiry, and work on a "What's in it for the customer" routine.

Vicki Constable, Area Manager for NRMA MidNorth Coast Tamworth, Armidale and Gunnedah offices, accepted the award in front of her colleagues from NRMA Insurance offices across NSW and ACT. The Tamworth NRMA team has been an active part of the community for over 30 years. As well as participating in and sponsoring local charity and community initiatives such as the Young Driver Expo, for the last 15 years the team has also facilitated the "Bus Safety Program", which provides road safety

42 New England focus.

education to approximately 1,000 kindergarten students each year.

They are extremely community driven, they support numerous local charities like Ronald McDonald House, the local women’s refuge, breast cancer events including The Biggest Morning Tea, Relay for Life, have collected an astronomical number of handbags for "Share The Dignity", sell St John's first aid kits and donate blood as a team effort.

NRMA Insurance Area Relationship Manager Frank Adler said: “This win reflects the dedication and commitment of the whole team at Tamworth. This award is tremendous recognition for their hard work and focus on helping local customers with all their insurance needs, as well as exceptional community support.”

Tamworth NRMA Insurance proprietor Chris Mowle praised Vicki for setting a great example, and congratulated his staff for their outstanding results, service and contribution to making a very successful team.

“I am really proud of the team at Tamworth. They absolutely deserve this great recognition. The team is really passionate about providing local customers with excellent service and ensuring they get the best possible solutions for their insurance needs. Vicki has shown great leadership and continues to deliver an outstanding experience for her customers every day.”

The Tamworth NRMA Insurance office is located at 458 - 460 Peel Street and is open from 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday, and Saturday mornings 9am 12pm. Customers can contact the office on (02) 6761 2177.

The Local Staff Looking After Locals 170 YEARS' COMBINED LIVING IN TAMWORTH; 57.5 COMBINED YEARS AT NRMA. Vicki Constable - lived in Tamworth: 48 years.

Time at NRMA: 26 years.

What she enjoys outside work: holidays and family time.

Rachel Riordan - lived in Tamworth: 32 years.

Time at NRMA: 10 years.

What she enjoys outside work: travel and family time.

Jenny Case - lived in Tamworth: 12 years.

Time at NRMA: 16 years.

What she enjoys outside work: travelling Australia and family time.

Crista Stevens - lived in Tamworth: 25 years.

Time at NRMA: two years.

What she enjoys outside work: decorating her home and family time.

Ray Bailey - lived in Tamworth: 20 years.

Time at NRMA: two years.

What she enjoys outside work: weekend adventures and watching movies.

Josephine McKee - lived in Tamworth: six years.

Time at NRMA: one year.

What she enjoys outside work: time with her daughter.

Emily Bennett - lived in Tamworth: 27 years.

Time at NRMA: 0.5 years.

What she enjoys outside work: family time and training at the gym.

focus_contributor

WITH SUSIE DUNN

Icing

CAKE ON

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

Local Understanding Goes A Long Way NRMA Insurance has been helping policy holders in NSW since 1925, and NRMA Road Side Assist has been helping members for 100 years, come 2020. An amazing milestone for both companies! NRMA Insurance has 92 privately-owned offices in country towns throughout NSW. NRMA Tamworth, Gunnedah and Armidale offices employ 15 locally connected staff, who have over 101 years’ experience with NRMA and have lived in the local areas for 321 years.

Meet the teams: Armidale: Marilyn - lived in area 30 years, worked with NRMA 15 years - enjoys travelling and spending time with her family.

Sandra - lived in area 30 years, worked with NRMA 19 years - enjoys playing hockey and spending time with family.

Brooke - lived in area 21 years, worked with

NRMA four years - enjoys playing sports, especially rugby league, for which she has a contract with South Sydney Rabbitos squad for 2020.

Kylie - lived in area 30 years, worked with NRMA four years - enjoys spending time with family.

Gunnedah: Ebonee - lived in area 21 years, worked with NRMA three years - loves camping, fishing, spending time with family.

Michelle - lived in area 15 years, worked with NRMA five years - enjoys rodeos, touch footy and family time.

Karli - lived in area four years, worked with NRMA one month - enjoys renovating her home and exploring new adventures with her dogs and partner.

Come down and obtain help from a local perspective. Our motto: locals looking after locals.

Local understanding goes a long way If you’re looking for help from a local perspective, come down to NRMA Armidale, Tamworth, Gunnedah for a chat today and let’s talk insurance.

What we can help you with:

NRMA Armidale Shop 42, Armidale Plaza, Dangar Street

6771 1322

NRMA Tamworth 458-460 Peel Street

6761 2177

NRMA Gunnedah at 95 Marquis Street

6742 0144

or visit www.nrma.com.au

Things you should know: To see if a product is right for you, always read the Product Disclosure Statement from the product issuer, Insurance Australia Limited trading as NRMA Insurance.

Christmas is the season we’re supposed to open our hearts ahead of our presents. I think we’re lucky to live in a region where our hearts are pretty conspicuously open, even while negotiating a very tough year.

T

he news has been like the famous “Curate’s egg” good in parts and painfully bad in parts. I don’t need to list the bad! But - we do find ourselves placed with an opportunity to take up the challenge of the high ground. Our region historically has shown itself to be a top agricultural protein and wool producer and education centre - and even more importantly, a region where people have had vision, ability and flexibility. We have the oldest, most established regional university in Australia. I believe our farmers, business people and citizens are resilient and adaptable, with a tremendous community spirit. Pulling together, we can strategise for necessary change, creating a viable, sustainable blueprint for the future as leaders in facing tough 21st Century challenges. Australians have a history in confronting the reality of situations when they have to - if we keep our mindset focused, we can build a sustainable path for future generations. Do we have the will to accept change and reform and grow with it? Someone has to lead, so future citizens will have reason to be grateful.

It’s important to make time to be with people. Spirits are higher when we get together - whether at the warmly inclusive UNE Culture Fest in the Creeklands, or events like Landmark’s “Night out from the Drought” at the Armidale Golf Club, Guyra’s Trout and Lamb and Potato Festivals, Uralla’s Thunderbolt’s Festival, the Black Gully Festival … events like Armidale’s Turning On the Christmas Lights … at performances, markets, concerts, plays, music and sport all over our towns … celebrations and gatherings of all kinds, big and small. The November inaugural UNE Boilerhouse event was a fantastical, !Wow! experience (more of that down the track). Happy faces make others happy and comfort the human spirit.

Smiles and top service create the atmosphere where citizens of all ages can share their lives.

Do buy Christmas presents locally - maybe using some inexpensive, imaginative lateral

thinking.

Standing in smoke-filled air on Remembrance Day on 11/11, my son and I joined the Uralla service at the War Memorial Gates. My uncle’s name had somehow been missed and the RSL made this good, listing him among the WWI fallen. I find these small country services incredibly touching - groups of people across our continent coming together to honour the dead. They seem more affecting than bigger, managed ceremonies elsewhere.

Founder of BackTrack Bernie Shakeshaft is the NSW Local Hero in the Australian of the Year Awards; Rowan Willis is the highest ranking Australian in the world equestrian tables; ARC Councillors Brad Widders and Jon Galletely have (almost) bared all to encourage water efficiency in the ARC area; just ended, the UNE Sheep CRC under Chief Executive James Rowe, “increased the value of Australian lamb and wool by billions”; DHS Multicultural Service Officer Matt Teece says he has his “dream job” helping the more than 450 newly arrived refugees and migrants establish in Armidale.

He’s among scores who’ve extended hands in welcome and been enriched themselves; NE Rail Trail Committee president Guyra’s David Mills is excited by the prospect of the Rail Trail; the Armidale trio of Dedes, Payne and Russell shared part-ownership of Yes Yes Yes, which won the world’s richest Everest Race; UNE student Amrit Kaur was named NSW International Student of the Year; Steve McMillan estimates sport will have contributed about $18 million to the Armidale economy this year; keen-eyed indefatigable community matriarch Thelma McCarthy is undimmed at 94; Rachael Parsons keeps bowling up surprises at NERAM, drawing the crowds; Sophie Masson lost count after she’d had 60 books published; specially God bless our frontline volunteer firies! … the range of our district’s people show why we’re confident in the future of our region. We know we can’t order nature to suit us, but we can respond better.

Hold the Season of Goodwill close.

Susie Dunn.

New England focus. 43

L O C A L LY- S O U R C E D PRODUCE, I N T E R N AT I O N A L F L AV O U R S .

Elders Insurance your claim as soon as possible helps us speed up the claims process, to get you back on your feet sooner.

If you’re in urgent need of "make safe" repairs, temporary accommodation or emergency cash payments, please contact us straight away.

Please remember • In an emergency dial 000 • Always follow the advice and direction of emergency services How to claim For any advice and support on your policy or to make a claim, please contact our office. It’s OK if you don’t know your policy details when you contact us; with your name and address, we’ll find it for you.

Elders Insurance New England, P: 6775 4577 W: www.eldersinsurance.com.au

Awa r d - w i n n i n g r e s t a u ra n t s | F i n e d i n i n g e x p e r i e n ce s C l a s s i c p u b s | B o u t i q u e b a r s | Co sy c a fé s We e k l y m a r ke t s

I m a g e c re d i t : D e s t i n a t i o n N S W

With the ongoing bushfires in this region causing significant damage, we’re working hard to support our customers as quickly as possible.

Our thoughts are with those impacted by these bushfires, and the safety of you and your family is paramount. It’s important that you follow the advice of local authorities.

Please refer to some useful information on our website surrounding preparing for a bushfire, staying safe during a bushfire, and safely returning to your home after a bushfire.

We are ready to take your call and lodge claims.

Our assessors and tradespeople have been mobilised to ensure we can support you as quickly as possible should you have sustained any damage.

If you need to make a claim due to bushfire damage, please contact our office as soon as you’re safe and able to do so. Notifying us of

D i s co v e r d i v e r s e fo o d e x p e r i e n ce s i n t h e Ta m w o r t h re g i o n a t w w w. d e s t i n a t i o n t a m wo r t h . co m . a u

44 New England focus.

focusinterview.

roy

Cowley

At almost 85 years of age, Armidale resident Roy Cowley considers himself “almost a local”! He’s been cutting people’s hair for 70 years this month, has a cheeky sense of humour, he’s a keen Roosters supporter, and is one of the most genuine gentlemen you’d ever have the opportunity to meet. Roy’s stories and history could fill a book, but we only have one page … so here are some of the key points of his life and career.

H

i Roy. Are you a born and bred local?

Yes, Mum and Dad were both born in Armidale, and three of my four grandparents were also born here. The fourth grandparent was born at Ebor … so I’m almost a local!

I went to Ben Venue school, then Armidale High School.

I didn’t pay as much attention to my education as I should, as being a barber didn’t have educational standards back in those days. I was 14 years and 10 months when I left school.

You’ve been a barber for 70 years this month - which is incredible! How did you start out in the trade?

I started out with Arthur Robins. He had a three-chair salon on the site where the IXL Arcade now is. I was with Arthur for almost nine and a half years - four years of those were my apprenticeship.

My father was a barber before me; he had a small shop in front of the office at the picture theatre. When my father developed heart problems and became too sick to work, I left Arthur’s shop and went to work in Dad’s shop full-time. Dad did a bit of part-time work, to keep his hand in. Dad died young, after his third coronary.

Did you always want to be a barber, even when you went to school?

Yes, I’ve always wanted to be a barber. It was always in the back of my mind that I wanted to be a barber just like Dad. I guess a lot of boys were like that in those days!

Can you tell us a bit about your family life?

My wife, Lillian, and I married young, in 1956 - we were both 21. She’s been very good to me with her marvellous support. I can’t thank her enough.

We met at a dance in the Cathedral Hall … a lot of courtships took place on the dance floor back in those days. We’ve been married for 63 years last May.

I used to play in several dance bands - when Swing was king. I play the alto saxophone.

We have three kids (all daughters), eight grandkids, and one great-grandson. But here’s the twist … we may have three daughters, but of the grandkids - only one is a girl!

(Laughs.)

Our three daughters all went through tertiary education, which was marvellous in those days.

How long have you been in your shop on Jessie Street, Armidale?

Hairdressing has been very good to me. I’ve been able to build my own salon … This building I’m in now is what used to be part of the second TAB in Armidale.

I originally rented that small shop in front of the picture theatre, as I mentioned, but Hoyts wanted to remodel the building and gave us six months’ notice to move. At that stage, there wasn’t a single shop for sale or rent in Armidale!

So, I bought this empty block - which was a derelict cannery owned by Ted Spensely. After that, Hoyts decided not to renovate after all and said I could stay, but, I decided to just keep the block. The TAB asked if they could build on the block, and I said yes, if I could have a barber’s shop in the front corner. So, I went to the bank!

I’ve been in this shop now for a bit over 40 years. I don’t know too many barbers who own their own premises most of them rent, so I’ve been very fortunate.

I’ve also been fortunate to have received some very good advice from my accountant, who’s helped us prepare for retirement. (Roy winks) … Retirement’s a bit of a dirty word, you know!

Well, I was a little hesitant to mention the “r” word!

My wife’s very keen to have me retire, but I don’t know if could handle the kitchen situation very well (laughs)! I don’t think she’d like me in the kitchen at all.

We’ll probably look at the retirement situation fairly seri-

ously after Christmas though, and perhaps look at putting this building on the market.

What would be your plans if you do retire?

I’m a very keen Rotarian - I’ve been a member for about 45 years. I’ve been President of the club and I’m a Paul Harris Fellow. I’m also a Freemason, so any spare time I have will be spent in one of those areas. I’m a member of Masonic Lodge Unity No. 6 - it’s the sixth oldest Lodge in NSW, chartered in 1849. The Rotary club I’m a member of is the old Armidale club, and it was chartered in the 1930s.

What have you enjoyed most about being a barber?

I think when I do eventually retire, I’ll miss the fellowship and companionship of my clients most. I like to think I’m pretty well informed, because I meet so many people from different walks of life every day.

How have you kept up with hairdressing trends over the past 70 years?

The easiest way to keep up with the latest trends is through the media.

I’ve often said the biggest enemy of the successful hairdresser were the Beatles, with their long hair. I think around 40 per cent of hairdressers gave away their trade during this time, because there wasn’t sufficient work for them!

Short hair is back again, but trends come, go, and come back again … I do think the older we get, the more reluctant we are to change.

If you had your time over again, would you still be a barber?

Probably. I had a passing interest in medicine, but I didn’t have the background or the education for that.

I would have found medicine extremely interesting and very rewarding, but I’m happy with the life I’ve led. It’s been wonderful.

Thanks Roy.

New England focus. 45

46 New England focus.

Thinking Access To Law – Eligibility For Legal Aid –by Elizabeth D. Stahlut - Senior Solicitor

THINKING ACCESS TO LAW

Eligibility For Legal Aid

W

hat do you do, if your teenage as well as the seriousness of the charges being son or daughter gets involved faced, and likelihood of a custodial sentence. in a ‘punch-up’ at school or For family law matters, an applicant’s capacity commits another offence, to pay for representation must also usually that results in the laying of be considered, as well as the seriousness and police charges? What happens, if your teenage urgency of the matter. Although Legal Aid son or daughter has a family law issue – for assistance is usually limited to parenting matters, example, becomes a mother or father, and it is sometimes possible to get assistance to deal needs orders to ensure that your new grandchild with some property settlement matters. gets financial support from the other parent, or Depending on the circumstances of your case, that your grandchildren have an opportunity to there may be other areas of law, for which it develop loving relationships with both sides of might be possible to get a grant of assistance, their family? from Legal Aid. A lawyer can help you to These scenarios can be determine your eligibility distressing for any parent for Legal Aid assistance, as to contemplate – and, well as make the application if the matter is to go to on your behalf, and then The Legal Aid Commission Court, proceedings can provide you with the legal of New South Wales have also be very expensive, assistance that you need, a number of criteria that especially if your teenage without you having to incur they apply when they assess child is still depending on substantial costs. eligibility as to whether you for financial support.

It is a good idea to collect an applicant should be Under these documents – such as bank given a grant of Legal Aid circumstances, it is worth statements, Centrelink assistance, or not. considering whether your income statements and/or son or daughter might copies of Court documents. be eligible for a grant of These can be used as assistance from the Legal Aid Commission of evidence to prove your eligibility for Legal Aid New South Wales. This is commonly known as assistance. Again, your lawyer can advise you Legal Aid. about what documents you might need to A private lawyer can apply for a grant of provide.

Legal Aid assistance, on your behalf. In most Also, because the Legal Aid Commission of cases, there would be a requirement to pay a New South Wales has a large number of matters contribution fee (usually $75), towards the Legal to consider, it is strongly recommended that, if Aid grant, however a successful application you believe you are eligible, you apply for Legal could mean that this would be the only legal Aid assistance as soon as you become aware costs you might have to pay. that you have a legal matter that may proceed ELIGIBILITY FOR LEGAL AID to Court. This will help to ensure that you get The Legal Aid Commission of New South the assistance you need.

Wales have a number of criteria that they apply For peace of mind, it is worth asking your when they assess eligibility as to whether an lawyer if you, or your son or daughter, might be applicant should be given a grant of Legal Aid eligible for financial assistance from the Legal assistance, or not.

Aid Commission of New South Wales in order For criminal charges, these criteria could that proper access and representation can be include whether the applicant has the capacity provided. to pay the costs of private legal representation, Talk to us. You’ll be inspired!

www.legalminds.com.au T 1300 642 166 E contactus@legalminds.com.au 157 Beardy Street Mall, Armidale

New England focus. 47

New England

hotm

48 New England focus focus.

focusAbode.

Home of the Month

11 ILLALLANGI CLOSE, ARMIDALE

T FOCUS was lucky enough to get a grand tour through this newly built and completed home in one of Armidale’s most prestigious locations, Illallangi Close. Robert Armbruster gave FOCUS a sneak peek through this amazing home ... and, take it from us, this home has every feature for even the fussiest buyer!

alk us through the build.

The idea was to build a home with the best quality products currently available to the Armidale market. The four generous bedrooms, two bathrooms, a powder room, media and office means this home is big enough to accommodate the largest family. This home was built by Steve Low and his staff, who have done a quality job after being confronted with quite a few challenges throughout the whole project. I couldn’t tell you how many truck loads of soil were removed to get the level of the driveway to meet Council requirements,

and then having to deal with retaining walls to support the block was quite an issue for Steve and our budget! Now we have a product that not only looks modern, but has quite a few features not seen in recently constructed houses in Armidale.

Entering through the rather colourful front door, you step into the tiled foyer area. To the right is the main living room, which has the most spectacular views of Armidale from the whole house. You will be guaranteed these views forever, as the neighbours are only to the northern side, with the southern area being a nature reserve.

New England focus. 49

focusAbode.

Home of the Month

11 ILLALLANGI CLOSE, ARMIDALE TO THE RIGHT IS THE MAIN LIVING ROOM, WHICH HAS THE MOST SPECTACULAR VIEWS OF ARMIDALE FROM THE WHOLE HOUSE.

From the living room, to the left, is the passageway leading to two bedrooms on the left, past the main bathroom on the right and the media room facing you.

The media room features a rather different décor, having been used by the owners of the house in their home in Noosa. The media room

50 New England focus.

colour is “chainmail”, and apart from being a very pleasing and relaxing colour, it helps prevent light reflection during daylight viewing.

Turning right, we proceed past another bedroom and then on to the study room, fitted with the necessary electrical/data fittings to set

up a functional office if required.

Facing you now is the powder room, which features a rather distinctive decorated finish, courtesy of the owner’s wife.

To the left is then the entry to the laundry, which features a rather large wall length storage area to accommodate extra linen or cleaning products.

Proceeding to the right, you approach the entrance of the master bedroom with ensuite.

These rooms are designed to present a restful, roomy sanctuary for the enjoyment of couples requiring some relaxation, away from the rest of the home. The bedroom features a backlit niche area for your special artwork.

Then, behind the bedroom wall is a hidden large, walk-in robe area, big enough for the largest clothing collection to be enjoyed!

The master bedroom’s ensuite will have you taken by the generous size. Perfectly fitted

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with luxury tiles, dual vanity with storage, a full sized bath and vigorous massaging showerhead - you’ll possibly spend too much time here!

To add to your comfort, as with the main bathroom, the floors feature under tile heating, heated towel rails and personally set water temperature adjustments.

Moving past the master bedroom, facing you will be the dining area, and to your right the modern/functional kitchen, augmented by the addition of a butler’s pantry. The kitchen splashbacks feature smoked mirrors, which reflect a stunning glimpse of the surrounding views.

The generous serving space doubles as a breakfast bar/entertaining area; then moving to

the sink area, the normal site entertainment.

TO ADD TO YOUR tap is complemented Under-bench/cupboard COMFORT, AS WITH by the controls for LED lighting is featured THE MAIN BATHROOM, a multi-functional throughout the kitchen THE FLOORS FEATURE Zip Water System, area.

UNDER TILE HEATING, featuring, boiling/chilled Entry into the butler’s HEATED TOWEL RAILS and sparkling water pantry is met with wall AND PERSONALLY SET selections. shelving and overhead WATER TEMPERATURE The cooking area cupboards. There is extra ADJUSTMENTS. features a bench top bench space, including five-burner gas range, a sink, microwave and with Bosch oven refrigerator spaces. This mounted underneath. area also has additional A Fisher & Paykel exhaust fan with lighting LED lighting. completes the cooking area.

Moving into the extended living area, you’ll A fitted wine refrigerator can be found enter a spacious dining area with access under-bench in the kitchen area for ease of on- through the sliding doors on to the alfresco

outdoor entertaining area. An overhead fan gives a breezy airflow for a warm day if required.

The outdoor area is covered in synthetic grass, to provide a maintenance free space leading to a drying area with fitted stowable clothesline to the north and access stairway to upper levels to the south. There is outdoor eaves-mounted lighting around the perimeter of the whole home.

This home was designed with energy saving being a paramount requirement. Double glazing is featured throughout the house, with seasonal temperature being controlled by a fully ducted air-conditioning system, fitted for extra comfort.

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focusAbode.

Home of the Month

11 ILLALLANGI CLOSE, ARMIDALE Solar powered daylighting has been fitted throughout, including bathrooms, hallways and the butler’s pantry. Three colour selectable LED lighting is also fitted throughout, to give opportunities to choose your mood lighting as required.

A stairway leads down to a spacious two car garage, with ample space internally and under house for work areas or storage. Also, a 3,000 L water storage tank is situated under-house for when the “rains come again”!

52 New England focus.

The greatest challenge has come from trying to establish the landscaping to complement the finished house. We have tried our hardest to work with what we had and managed to get some shrubs and trees planted before the onset of water restrictions.

Unfortunately, the lawn areas had to be covered in jute to prevent rain and wind erosion occurring to the seeded topsoil.

We hope we have presented a fully functional, comfortable, energy efficient family friendly home for your consideration.

What is special about this location?

It was picked primarily for the extensive bush views over Armidale, but it also boasts extensive privacy, being next to a nature reserve - therefore there is only one neighbour. We have been told that the subdivision was named Illallangi, as the meaning is “House on a Hill”; we think that is very apt!

What facilities are nearby?

Armidale Secondary College, PLC, Ben Venue, Sandon and the MET school are all

within walking distance of this home.

We hope we have presented a fully functional, comfortable, energy efficient family friendly home for your consideration.

Where is the home located, and are interested people able to have a look through?

The home is located at 11 Illallangi Close and will be open most Saturdays from 10am 1pm, or you can contact Robert on 0403 336 965 or Denis 0412 745 422 for an appointment to view.

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From pugs to poodles and chihuahuas to collies - plus a range of dog breeds you probably never knew existed … all will take part in the Uralla & District Kennel Club’s annual show from 13th - 15th December. Kaitlyn Elder from the club says the event is a social one, with purebred dog owners travelling from all over NSW and southern Queensland to compete …

W

hat's a little of the history behind the Uralla & District Kennel Club?

We have been a well-established club affiliated with DogsNSW for approximately 50 years, and our inception was for the purpose of having additional dog shows in the New England region. Originally, the club held their shows at the Rugby Club in Uralla, but as our show grew and exhibitors shifted from staying in motels overnight to camping on the grounds to save on expenses and to be able to celebrate with their friends, we outgrew the amenities provided by the Rugby grounds and moved to Armidale Showground in 2012.

How many members does the club have (roughly) - and who is eligible to join?

The club has about 30 members; however, exhibitors do not need to be a member of our club to enter our shows. To be a member of the Uralla & District Kennel Club, you need to have a keen interest in dogs, though to show your dog, you need to be a member of DogsNSW or their equivalent in each state and own a pure-bred pedigreed dog.

Where/when does the club generally meet, and what types of activities do members take part in?

The club holds three all-breed championship shows each year, over the same December weekend. Our shows are the last shows for the year for the northern region of NSW, and being so close to Christmas, exhibitors use it as a way to catch up with their doggy friends for a Christmas/New Year celebration until our show season starts up again in March/April.

The dog fraternity in the Armidale region take

part in a number of different dog sports and not only conformation shows, which assesses the dog’s conformation against their breed’s standard.

Other activities include obedience and rally-o, which assess the dog’s ability to obey and understand commands; agility, where the handler moves their dog through an obstacle course full of jumps, tunnels and ramps; and gundog trials, where the dogs utilise their instinct to retrieve game.

Dog sports are also very inclusive of children and teens and provide an opportunity for them to gain confidence around dogs and build a relationship together. Dog shows provide classes for young exhibitors to learn skills in handling dogs, and provide a competition where handlers are judged on their ability in presenting their dog, rather than the dog being assessed on their conformation.

The club will be hosting its annual show at Armidale Showground from 13th - 15th December. How many entries are you expecting for the event?

We will expect to see about 350 dogs each day. Generally, we see our exhibitors come from throughout NSW and southern QLD. We have seen entries at our shows be near 700 entries; however, the drought has affected exhibitors’ abilities to leave home over the past year, and the current bushfires may also have an impact on our entries.

What are some of the more unusual/striking dog breeds we can expect to see over the course of the competition?

Our event attracts exhibitors with all sorts of different breeds, from the favourites such as the pug, Staffordshire bull terrier, labradors to beagles, poodles of all sizes and chihuahuas. We

Our event attracts have also seen over the successful show each year. exhibitors with all sorts years new and rare breeds, This is a thankless job and of different breeds, from such as the xoloitzcuintle, is mostly overlooked by the favourites such as Peruvian hairless dog, the exhibitors. Most of the the pug, Staffordshire Russian toy terrier and committee has been runbull terrier, labradors pumi. You can see a variety ning this club for well over to beagles, poodles of all of pure-bred dogs at a dog a decade, as it is very hard sizes and chihuahuas. show, some that you may to find volunteers who have have never heard of! some time to help. Any Is the show open to chance we get we thank non-club members/specthem, and any exhibitors tators ... and if so, what can they expect to who volunteer to assist with the running of the experience over the course of the weekend? show.

Yes, spectators are welcome to come and We also extend our gratitude to UniPlan, who watch; however, it is DogsNSW regulation that have also been very generous in donating $1,000 spectators keep their dogs at home. Coming to a to the club, which will go towards our prize show is a fantastic way to meet different breeds, money this year. and if you are interested in a particular breed, Where can we find out more info about meeting an ethical breeder. It is also a good way both the club and the annual show? to see how a show is run if you have an interest Facebook - search for Uralla & District Kennel in showing.

Club to find our page. You can message us for Is there anyone you'd like to thank for assisfurther information on the show, and we are tance with the show? happy to answer any questions people may have Our shows are run by a very small committed about finding a pure-bred dog, or dog sports. group of local exhibitors who strive to hold a Thanks Kaitlyn.

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focusinterview.

So you have decided 2020 is the year you TAKE THE PLUNGE AND BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME - congratulations!

New Year, new you

Y

ou undoubtedly have aspirations considering your greywater reuse options is that for it to be a place that you greywater must not be stored, unless treated by create unforgettable memories an approved system. If stored, your greywater and share priceless moments will turn septic, becoming an environmental and with family and friends. health hazard.

You probably know exactly Reusing greywater gives you the opportunity how it will look and feel - how the solid oak to reduce your home's demand on town door will welcome you home every evening, water and keep your outdoor area thriving, how the stunning quartz no matter the level of benchtops will sparkle in water restrictions - that the warm spring light, and means the perfect pitch how you will spend time for backyard cricket every enjoying your luscious Christmas, no matter what.

THE MOST IMPORTANT lawn and colourful garden When building your new THING TO REMEMBER even through a one in home, there are two WHEN CONSIDERING 100 year drought, thanks greywater reuse options YOUR GREYWATER to the greywater system to consider: REUSE OPTIONS IS THAT you included when you • Greywater diversion GREYWATER MUST NOT BE built … OK, so maybe you • Greywater treatment STORED, UNLESS TREATED haven’t thought about If your primary concern

BY AN APPROVED SYSTEM. the greywater system, but is keeping your outdoors with the current climate it alive and healthy, then a is certainly something to diversion system is what consider. you will need. A diversion Greywater is the system, the cheaper wastewater that is generated by your shower, option, will divert greywater to your garden or bath, hand-basin and laundry. This water, with lawn for use in 10 mm sub-surface irrigation. the inclusion of the right devices in your new Council approval is not required for a WaterMark home, can be reused on your garden or lawn licensed greywater diversion system, but it must and, if treated appropriately, for toilet flushing be installed by a licensed plumber. and laundry use.

There are two types of greywater diversion The most important thing to remember when systems that you could install:

54 New England focus.

• Gravity diversion device - incorporates a hand activated switch and is fitted to the outlet of the waste pipe of the plumbing fixture, such as a laundry tub. Your greywater is then diverted directly to a sub-surface irrigation system in your garden.

• Pump diversion device - incorporates an automatically releasing surge tank to cope with sudden influxes of greywater for distribution directly to a sub-surface irrigation system in the garden. The surge tank does not operate as a storage tank.

Greywater treatment systems are more expensive than diversion systems, however, have many advantages. The system will treat your greywater to a standard suitable for toilet flushing and clothes washing, as well as garden and lawn surface irrigation.

If you chose to install a greywater treatment system, make sure it is NSW Health accredited and that you get Council approval and have the system installed by a licensed plumber. Once installed, treatment systems require regular inspections by a qualified person.

Greywater systems will soon be a must-have for all new homes. So, rather than jumping on the bandwagon, be a trend setter when it comes to building your dream home and consider what greywater reuse option will best suit your needs.

For more on greywater reuse, head to www.tamworth.nsw.gov.au/greywaterreuse

50 New England focus.

New New England England focus. focus.

19 19

The stars are out UNE is the only Australian public university awarded the maximum 5 stars for Overall Experience 14 years in a row*

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SOCIOLOGY AND SOCIAL SCIENCE Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Social Science~ Master of Arts*

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TRACKS Tertiary Preparation Program (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) ~ Honours year also available * Graduate Certificate also available ** Advanced Diploma also available # Graduate Diploma also available ^^ Early Application closing date Please see website for individual course rules and admissions criteria.