New England Focus - i67

NEW ENGLAND

Feature Story Melanie Murphy

December 2012 // Issue ssue 67

S T UA RT WA R K A 2012 recipient of a Churchill Fellowship, Stuart will research overseas experience in order to help Australians who suffer an intellectual disability to live more successful lives.

H M A S A RM I DA L E TS ARMIDALE will hold a memorial weekend on Dec 1 & 2 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the sinking of the HMAS ARMIDALE.

TAR A WI N KLE R A trip to Cambodia changed Tara’s life, and consequently the lives of many children, who are now cared for by the organisation she inspired and supports, the Cambodian Children’s Trust.

2 new england focus.

editor's note.

editor.

from the

Tracy Le Messurier.

Welcome to the December edition of New England FOCUS. an you believe it’s almost Christmas and this is our last issue for 2012? Time certainly flies when you’re having fun.

This month I’m filling in for our Editor, Sue Dee, who is recovering from recent surgery. We wish her a speedy return, because as you know the old saying: “While the boss is away ...!” A sincere thank you to Lynda Lynch, who, as always, has worked like a trouper and is a huge asset to our team. Thanks also to Tim Barnsley, our photographer ... we love your work!

We have dedicated this month’s cover to some members of Locals 4 Locals: the lovely Di Johnston from Armidale Toys, Paul Schmude from Sports Power, Greg Jackson from Jacksons Quality Meats and Michael Dubber from Talk M Landscapes feature. Read about their affiliation with other local businesses and learn more about the purpose of Locals 4 Locals in this issue.

C

A YEAR IN REVIEW We have published some great articles this year and celebrated some wonderful milestones with our clients.

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ADDRESS: 5/164 Beardy Street, Armidale PHONE: 02 6771 5551 FAX: 02 6772 5551 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/focus.ne TV: www.focustv.com.au

One of the standout features was dedicated to David Carey, who has worked 60 years of his life as a motor mechanic. What a magnificent effort!

The New England FOCUS turned five years young this year. We had a wonderful celebration for a wonderful magazine. We thank the local community for its support.

Throughout Australia, the 2012 year posed some unsettled and uncertain times within the business community.

Sadly, we saw some local businesses close but on the positive side, we also saw many new businesses open and existing businesses expand. As my dad often says to me: “We have to take the good with the bad, me girl, and only focus on the positives, as the negatives put a stop to productivity”. Let’s all look forward to a fresh new and productive year in 2013, as we do live in the best place on earth.

A massive thank you to all of our advertisers; without your continued trust and support, FOCUS would not be as successful as it is today.

sharing a ‘behind the scenes’ view of their local business, Drew’s Seafood.

John and Katherine Mitchell show their generosity and support for the Kingstown Pony Club.

Inspector Greg Steir gives us an insight into what it’s like to be hunting Australia’s most wanted criminal.

FOCUS also congratulates Bernie Harper from New England Hydraulics, who celebrates 20 years in business.

SEASON’S GREETINGS All the team at FOCUS would like to wish our contributors, advertisers and readers a wonderful Christmas and a very happy 2013. Let’s all remember the true meaning of Christmas, the three Fs: family, friends and fun!

FINAL WORD “I cried because I had no shoes, until I met someone who had no feet.” – nown. unknown.

Tracy Le Messurier Messurie

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Thanks to Lynette and Wayne Sauer for

tracy@focusmag.com.au

EDITOR: Sue Dee

GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment

sue@focusmag.com.au

michael@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING MANAGER: Tracy Le Messurier

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone

tracy@focusmag.com.au

kyle@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Lynda Lynch

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan

lynda@focusmag.com.au

jeff@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont

ACCOUNT MANAGER: Louise Beaumont

jay@focusmag.com.au

louise@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul

PHOTOGRAPHER: Tim Barnsley

dylan@focusmag.com.au

tim.barnsley@gmail.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable

SUB EDITORS: Jo Atkins / Reg Brookhouse

joey@focusmag.com.au

jo@focusmag.com.au / reg@focusmag.com.au

FOCUS IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THESE GREAT COMMUNITY EVENTS AND PROGRAMS.

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor.

All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders.Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. New England Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications Pty Ltd ABN: 62128786005. Material in New England Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications Pty Ltd 2012 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

new england focus 3

focusinterview.

Melanie Murphy spent 10 years with The Australian Ballet and is now teaching ballet in Armidale. She shares her journey with us ... hen did you first put on a pair of ballet shoes?

My grandmother saw an ad in the local newspaper in Tamworth for dance classes and told my mother to send me along. I was 3 years old and from that day on, the dream unfolded into an amazing career and dream come true.

I use an original 1928 photograph of my grandmother dancing in the pantomime Mother Goose for my New England Ballet School logo and business card.

Tell us about your journey to the Australian Ballet School ...

After commencing ballet at the age of 3, I trained in RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) classical ballet. I achieved Honours in all my ballet exams and loved to perform at the many eisteddfods around the region. From age 4, my first ballet solo on stage was at the Armidale Eisteddfod and was awarded a first place. At the age of 12, I decided to enter the Apex Eisteddfod in Newcastle to perform against a high standard of dance. A well respected Marie Walton Mahon, now a major examiner with the RAD, saw my potential and took me under her wing to make me a star. I travelled to Newcastle every weekend for 3 years, before being offered a scholarship to train with Marie full-time at age 15.

My family moved to Newcastle for 12 months, where I attained Honours for my Advanced Examination and was awarded a Solo Seal. I won all the major competitions throughout Australia and was a finalist for the Adelene Genee Awards in London.

After auditioning, I was accepted into the Australian Ballet School, where after 3 years I graduated with an Advanced Diploma of Dance (Honours). I was then 1 of 2 girls chosen from my graduating year to join The Australian Ballet Company.

As a performer, what have been some of your greatest moments?

During my 10 years with The Australian Ballet, some wonderful highlights come to mind. Open4 new england focus.

ing night of The Red Shoes, performing the principal role, Victoria Page ... Cygnets in Swan Lake at the Opera House Sydney. Etudes, for its difficult classical precision, La Bayadere, for dancing on stage with the famous ballerina Darcy Bussle.

My favourite ballet/contemporary piece as a performer was In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated – the most challenging but rewarding ballet danced en pointe, which required an incredible amount of stamina and technique.

I also enjoyed performing The Rite of Spring with Bangarra Dance Company in Sydney at the Opera House during the 2000 Olympics.

What prompted you to come and teach in Armidale?

My pilates mat classes are great for shaping and toning the whole body and strengthening and lengthening. I focus a lot on the core muscles to help prevent injury. All exercises are non-weight bearing, so anyone can join in, get toned and strong without injury.

My family and I moved to Armidale early this year to be closer to family in Tamworth.

Tell us about one of your most I always wanted to offer my profespromising students. sional experience and expertise I have a very talented young to country students. I realise student, Lachlan Martin from “My favourite ballet/ it's hard for families to travel Tamworth, who travels to Arcontemporary to the big city to get the level midale 3 times a week to train a piece as of training required for talwith me and has just been acperformer was In the Middle, ented students. The Russian cepted into the Australian Ballet Somewhat (Vaganova) method of classical School full-time for next year. .

Elevated ” ballet, which I teach, is what is I am very proud of his achieveoffered at the Australia Ballet and ments, as he has only been dancing professional dance schools in the city. for 3 years and is one of the youngest The program aims to develop in the student a students (Year 7) to be offered a position – usually professional attitude, which will assist them in a they take students from Year 8 or 9. They say you pursuit of a career either as a professional dancer have to be exceptional to be offered a place in or dance teacher. It also focuses on performance, Year 7. which is very important part of becoming a good I have been working extremely hard with dancer.

Lachlan over the past 6 months. We have been

What ages to you cater for?

The New England Ballet School's 6 year program is designed to suit the needs of all classical ballet students, from the beginning through to a professional level of dance. Beginners, Level 1 usually starts around 4 years of age, through to level 6, Vaganova, ages up to 18 years.

I also offer adult ballet classes. My pilates classes and conditioning for adults and students range from 12 years through to adults of all ages and all levels of fitness.

focusing on his technique and stamina, building his strength with pilates and really working on his performance skills.

Lachlan, although nervous about the big move to Melbourne, is still excited about what his future holds.

What has being a ballerina brought to your life?

I think the discipline and physical fitness has been good for maintaining good posture, strength and flexibility for the body. The performing on

stage in front of audiences builds confidence and for me, I've enjoyed travelling to perform in amazing places overseas and seeing the world at the same time as doing something I am passionate about and love.

I also value the amazing friendships gained from this experience; we've been through so much together, and we will be lifelong friends.

How can people who are interested join your classes?

Any age and anyone is welcome to join the New England Ballet School and Vintage Pilates Studio ... Vintage being my love of all things old, which also applies to the body: "All things old come back new".

The studio is located on the corner of Rusden and Jessie St, CBD. I can be contacted on 0407 511 762.

My classes include all styles of dance: • Classical Ballet (Vaganova) • Repertoire • Modern & Contemporary • Jazz/Cabaret • National Character • Private Coaching • Pointe work • Eisteddfod and Production work • Assessments • Pilates/Body Conditioning • Pas de Deux All classes are of a small size – around 10 to a class for personal and beneficial development.

We are now taking enrolments for 2013 – limited spaces.

Thanks Melanie.

inside this

Issue 67 - December 2012

18.

Tara Winkler TARA Winkler was in her early 20s and had the world at her feet when she was confronted by corruption and poverty in Cambodia. Ahead of returning to NEGS as this year’s Speech Day guest, we talk to the former NSW Young Australian of the Year and NEGS Old Girl about the work of her Cambodian Children’s Trust.

Armidale Roller Derby League

33.

Emily Stocker, AKA Busty Gutz, the President of the Armidale Roller Derby League (TARDL) tells us about one of the fastest growing sports in Australia.

50.

New England Hydraulics FOCUS would like to thank Bernie Harper from New England Hydraulics for sharing his 20 years in business with us.

Congratulations Bernie!

usual suspects.

the

17. what’s on for December 26. eat featuring local restaurants 34. star guide with Terri

No matter where you are in the world, d, read Focus for free online every month nth @

www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/ne.focus w www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

new england focus 5

focusinterview.

B u s i n e s s e s wo rk i n g t o ge t h e r f o r t h e c o m m u n i t y !

H

ave you noticed and been concerned by recent shop closures or job cuts in the Armidale area? You can make a difference by supporting businesses which display the Locals 4 Locals logo or poster. They are encouraging consumers, businesses and organisations to think twice about how and where they choose to spend their money.

Businesses are doing it tough. Their struggle with the current economic climate has brought a group of like-minded business owners and managers together, in a new organisation called Locals 4 Locals. There are 38 members to date. Their campaign promotes the positive impact that member businesses have in the community, through grassroots support of charities, sports and a broad range of groups or events.

Locals 4 Locals was founded by current President, Greg Jackson of Jackson’s Quality Meats. ”Our motto is ‘Show support for local community, by supporting your local businesses. Locals 4 Locals’! The branding of businesses that are Locals 4 Locals with a clear logo makes it clear that in choosing them, you’re supporting a local who is there for locals – simple as that,” he said.

Mr Jackson explained what prompted Locals 4 Locals. “In recent years, I’ve been watching how businesses were really being affected by online trading, with the popularity of online stores and the eBay phenomenon. Then, you’ve got itinerant traders, markets and the local operations sourcing goods direct from the big cities. It all drags money out of the area. It does not simply affect individual local businesses; it diminishes the economy as a whole.”

Locals 4 Locals is about increasing the percentage of dollars that stay in the economy of the Armidale area.

“We estimate that if you spend $100 in town, you would probably have about a 70 percent chance that the money would circulate 6 new england focus.

commu muni nity ity. ty. through the town and support the community.

If you spend the same dollar in, say, Tamworth, you may have about a 20 percent chance of it coming back to the Armidale community. If you spend your money in Sydney or Brisbane, you can probably work on a 1 or 2 percent chance and if you buy overseas, the money has not only gone from Armidale, it has gone from the country altogether,” Mr Jackson said.

“The challenges businesses face have increased, but the level of requests from the community for our (charitable) support have not,” he said. “In the past 18 months, my business alone has handed out over 48 separate sponsorships.

“The owners, managers and staff in this area are proud of the role that their business plays in their community. It is rewarding for us to help get jerseys on kids in a sporting team or contribute to charities that benefit locals in times of need, like the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. Locals 4 Locals is saying to the community, ‘think about supporting the businesses that support you’,” Mr Jackson said.

“Of course, we understand that the consumer has the right to spend their money how and where they see fit. We just want to keep the message out there about the flow-on benefits of giving a local a go.

“When you shop at a multinational, do you ask for a discount? Do you get the personal service and attention you should? What if you are in need of some support for your sporting club or school fete? Are they able to help?

“I’ve heard so many stories: of people trying on clothes in a unique, home-grown store just so they get the size right when they buy online; of local butchers who have been called on in a pinch when a regular out-of-town supplier fails to deliver; of retailers giving their time to educate a customer about the technical specifications of a product, only to be asked to match an online price; of local businesses asked to service often inferior or ill-fitting things bought online or elsewhere – and they go on.

You can imagine how these kinds of practices

make m ma ake ke tth ke the he local he loccall b business u in us ines ines esss pe p people eop ople lee ffeel, eel, when they do so mu much ch for for the ttheir heir ir com ccommunity,” ommu munity,” i Mr Jac Jackson said.

JOIN NOW AND BE AMONG THE LOCALS 4 LOCALS If any local business people would like to join the Locals 4 Locals team, they can either ring or contact Greg Jackson at Jackson’s Quality Meats, Di Johnston at Armidale Toys or ask a participating business that displays the logo.

Additionally, more information and a form for membership can be found on the website: www.locals4locals.com.au Membership entails an annual fee, which covers Locals 4 Locals marketing and promotions. Currently, a Christmas ‘Shop and Win’ promotion is underway. Stamps, stickers and educational materials for schools or community groups are also produced by the team.

Andrew Korsch from MyCar Sound and Communications joined Locals 4 Locals recently.

“We joined because we had a lot of people coming in and asking for sponsorships. We’ve supported a lot of things like Ronald McDonald House, APEX and Rotary. A lot more people are buying online these days. Internet sellers can sell products a lot cheaper than a shop, which has rent, electricity, wages and other costs to account for. We think it is important to highlight the flow-on benefits of shopping locally, such as what we put back in the community,” he said.

Mr Korsch reiterated that the Locals 4 Locals message is aimed at businesses and organisations, not just private shoppers.

“If all the businesses in town can source the goods and services that they need locally, wherever possible, then that will make a difference,” he said. “More businesses involved in Locals 4 Locals will help to get the message out, through their staff and regulars.”

Locals 4 Locals has produced an unexpected spin-off. It has strengthened and demonstrated the unity, akin to team spirit, that exists in the

Armidale business sector. “It shows that a lot of businesses are aware of what’s happening, that they are supportive of each other, as they all try to do the right thing for the community,” Mr Korsch said.

Locals 4 Locals is raising public awareness of the benefits of shopping locally, including those positives that might not be as obvious as others. ”It’s not just the internet that concerns us. The guy who comes into town, sets up a bargain shop for a week or two, sells their gear and splits; they are not here for the sporting clubs, the Relay for Life, the CanAssist, all those requests for sponsorship faced by businesses that are in town for 365 days of the year,” Mr Korsch said.

“Many young people get their first job in retail. It’s very important for the community to have these jobs available. If people keep putting the bottom line first, above all, then those jobs will keep declining and might not exist for our kids and grandchildren. Beyond the wages, the work experience from a local business can mean so much more, in terms of the insights, the one-on-one training and the sense of community.

“There is a broad cross-section of businesses involved in Locals 4 Locals. I hope to see even more sign up. The more we have on board, the better we can support and educate each other and the community. In many cases, people don’t even know that a local supplier exists or that their prices are competitive. The fact that dealing with a local will involve superior service and convenience should be clear to anyone,” he said.

Look for the sign that identifies a Locals 4 locals business and says: It’s a Locally owned business.

It’s employing Locals.

It’s supporting Local charities.

It’s supporting Local fund raisers.

It’s supporting the Local schools.

It’s supporting Local sporting groups.

It’s supporting Local special interest groups.

focusinterview.

Drew’s Seafood

Wayne and Lynette S auer

Local business owners ers who pride themsel themselves on service, quality and repeat custom!

I

ntroduce us to Drew’s Seafood …

Drew’s Seafood is a small, familyrun local business that provides local and fresh product to our community.

We personally source and purchase our seafood and fillet all our fish ourselves, to provide a high quality and fresh product to our customers. We deal with local product only; none of our fish is frozen or imported.

How did Drew’s Seafood commence operation?

Haywood Bullen started the seafood business 35 years ago. Back then, it was known as Bullen’s Seafood. Stephen Drew bought the business from Haywood Bullen and changed the name to Drew’s Seafood.

Six years ago, I purchased a couple of bottles of oysters from Stephen Drew and I told him that if he ever wanted to sell the business, to give me a call. Three months later, Stephen rang to say he wanted to sell the business, so I bought it and kept the name, as the business had a fantastic reputation.

My wife, Lynette and daughter, Jessica, are part of the business; they mainly work in sales.

Where do you source your seafood?

I source seafood from the co-ops at Maclean, Iluka, Yamba, Coffs Harbour, Ballina and Evans Head. I have a few standard orders with mates who own boats and put their catch through their local co-op. When I know the boats are going to work, it’s exciting to see what they’ve caught when they get back in, and when I ring the co-ops, I place large orders. The Maclean Co-op is good to me, as I can ring orders through and they will put product away for me.

Michael’s Seafood’s of Ballina deliver oysters to Maclean for me, and I have a good relationship with the fishermen as well. Overall, I have a great working relationship with all my suppliers.

I have a general routine I follow each week. product. ct At 3am each Tuesday, I go to the Maclean We are lucky we can source our product Co-op. I look at what product is around, and from many different areas. Yamba has a bad I speak to the skippers of the fishing boats. bar the boats must cross, but Coffs Harbour On Wednesday mornings, I purchase the fish. doesn’t have a bar, so Coffs Harbour boats can I have two filleters who work for me in the get out a little bit more regularly than the boats co-op at Maclean; I usually get into the filleting at Maclean. room and give them a hand.

Also, fish migrate a lot. Warm and cold While this is being done, my wife, Lynette, is water can determine what fish are around. usually returning from another location, such We’re able to source top shelf seafood from a as Coffs Harbour or Ballina, with product I number of different suppliers. We carry about couldn’t get from Maclean. All of that prod18 - 20 different fillets every week; the variety uct is then filleted. is determined by Mother Nature.

Around lunchtime that day, we pack There are a lot of people who hang out for up the trucks and head up to the our seafood each Wednesday, ThursNorthern Tablelands. On Wednesday and Friday. They know it’s day afternoons, we stop at fresh, locally sourced and Guyra and then head on to well-priced. of t lo a do We also r Armidale. We remain in When you buy a homework on ou a t treat Armidale all Thursday, piece of seafood from seafood. You can’a piece and on Fridays we head me, I know where piece of fish like a lot of steak – there isample, to Uralla and Walcha. it has come from, more to it. For ex much By 5.30pm on Friday how old it is and the o to t you can’t pu u yo afternoons, the sales are whole process it has as , on lm Sa ice on You have all over, and the whole been through. I am will discolour it. store process starts again the not going to sell any to know how to uct.” different fish prod following Tuesday. bad product, because I The main thing with fish is want the repeat business to ensure that it’s fresh, local and from my customers, and I well-priced. I take two trucks and a also want that customer to tell ute to the coast each week, and I can afford others about the fresh quality of my to sell seafood at less cost to locals. seafood.

Describe your product range … how much What is the most popular product with do you sell each week? your loyal customers?

Wind and southerlies affect fishing, as fisherIt varies a lot. We sell a lot of prawns in men won’t venture out. When bad southerly Guyra and Armidale, but mainly fish in Walcha winds blow, it could take 24 - 48 hours for the or Uralla. The biggest seller overall would be ocean to settle down. If it’s really bad, prawns Atlantic Salmon, because it’s fresh Tasmanian bury themselves in the sand and won’t come Salmon from Storm Bay. It’s very high in Omega out again until the seas calm down. There have 3. been times when we’ve had to take a week off We also do a lot of homework on our seawork, because we couldn’t get hold of enough food. You can’t treat a piece of fish like a piece

“

of steak – there is a lot more to it. For example, you can’t put too much ice on Salmon, as you will discolour it. You have to know how to store different fish product.

What do you like most about your job?

It’s a simple job with long hours. People don’t realise the time and effort that goes into sourcing and preparing all of the product. Everything I sell is ready to go into the pan or oven.

The customers are really great and so is our repeat business. I like providing customer satisfaction; I’ll go out of my way to help everyone.

Many of our customers stop and have a chat.

If I had written down each recipe I was given since I bought this business, I would have a recipe book a foot high - and it would be a best seller!

Who would you like to thank?

Clarence Co-op at Maclean; they are great people to work with. It’s been through some tough times. The manager, Danielle, is doing great things with the help of all her staff making working with them a pleasure. I would also like to thank my wife, Lynette, and family who assist with the business and most importantly thank you to all the customers who support our locally owned business. They make it all worthwhile.

A special mention to the skipper of the boat Pippy Dee. He’s a well respected fisherman in Yamba. We love the way he looks after and prepares his product. Thanks to Graham and the Maclean Co-op, that’s where 98% of our seafood comes from.

Plans for the future?

Apart from winning lotto and retiring, we are going to keep doing what we are doing. It is a successful little business, and we enjoy what we’re doing. It’s not a 9 - 5 job, which I used to do, and it’s a rewarding job. We are locals looking after locals, and we love it.

Thanks Wayne. new england focus 7

focusinterview.

Stuart Recently awarded a Churchill Fellowship, owship, S Stuart tuart is using g his roles at the Ascent Group and UNE to further study study overseas overseas experience p on ways y to better provide support to people wi with an ith a n iintellectual ntellectual disability y in Australia. ow long have you lived in Armidale, and why do you choose to reside here?

My wife, Seonia, and I both studied at UNE in the early 1990s before moving out to Western NSW. I worked in both the child protection and disability support fields for a number of years in towns like Cobar, Nyngan and Bourke before my wife, who is a maths teacher, was offered a position at The Armidale School (TAS) in 1997, and we happily moved back here. I have been with The Ascent Group since 1997, and I’m currently also jointly employed at the University of New England, while Seonia is now the Director of Studies at TAS. We have two great kids: Emily, who is 15 and at Armidale High; and Matthew, who is 10 and at TAS. We have now been back in Armidale for 15 years and have no plans to leave in the immediate future. We have both spent all our lives in the country and don’t have any desire to live in a large metropolitan area; Armidale is a great small city that has everything we want.

Stuart, congratulations on being awarded a 2012 Churchill Fellowship. What is your particular area of interest?

In recent years, the life expectancies of people with intellectual disabilities has increased dramatically. A century ago, the life expectancy of a person with an intellectual disability was less than ten years, and now it is over seventy and is very similar to the rest of the community.

I have a long-standing interest in supporting the successful ageing of individuals with an intellectual disability, and I’ve completed both my PhD and other collaborative research projects with the Universities of New England, Sydney and Newcastle in this area.

The purpose of my Churchill Fellowship is to examine different models of practice from the USA and UK, where government and services have been proactively addressing this issue for many years. My goal is to gain an understanding from researchers, practitioners and community agencies on how they are supporting people with intellectual disabilities to age successfully.

What do you see as the potential outcomes 8 new england focus.

of your research?

One of the biggest problems facing the sector is that there are still no comprehensive policies and work procedures for this issue, and relevant models of practice have not been consistently or widely implemented within Australia. Each organisation is largely required to ‘go it alone’, with limited support.

My Churchill Fellowship is designed to review and evaluate the overseas models and to examine how they could be best implemented back here. Being based in regional Australia has given me a particular focus on the applicability of such models to rural and remote regions, as there are clear areas of differentiation between metropolitan and country areas in terms of service delivery, access and support. It is my hope that the project will assist in the dissemination of information and support the development of realistic models, alleviating the current lack of knowledge around this key issue within the disability sector.

You are Manager of the Pathways Team for The Ascent Group. What is the Pathways Team?

The Pathways Team was established by The Ascent Group’s CEO Kevin Mead in 2010 as a response to the identification of growing need for specialist clinical guidance and support for people with disabilities, their families and carers, and our support staff. The role of the Pathways Team is to assist the individual, their family and direct care workers to facilitate independence through the provision of high quality care and support options for people with a disability.

The Pathways Team can provide assistance in areas including clinical practice, psychological

gain testing, behaviour analyWith such a challenging “ My goal is toing nd ta rs sis and support, sperole, how do you find an unde ers, from researchan cialist support plans, time for work-life bald practitioners encies protective behaviours ance? community ag e training, medication My golf game has ar ey on how th le op administration and certainly deteriorated – I pe g tin or supp l training, and person am struggling to ever get with intellectua e centred planning. The out to the course now! disabilities to ag ” . ly successful Pathways Team is comHowever, I recognise it is posed of experienced staff important to try and balance with qualifications in areas work and personal life, and I am including Nursing, Psychology, very grateful to my family for their unGerontology, Mental Health, Personal Planning derstanding and support. In terms of my physiand Positive Behaviour Support. cal health, I try to get to the gym at SportsUNE You’re also a Post Doctoral Research Fellow most lunch-times, and I find that their excellent at UNE; how do you manage both? facilities are very useful in reducing my daily I am greatly enjoying my new position with stress levels. I also go to Zen Bu Kan Kempo UNE. I commenced as a part-time Post-Doctoral Karate at the Armidale PCYC every Monday Research Fellow with the Collaborative Research and Wednesday night.

Network (CRN) for Mental Health and WellRenshi Gary Taylor is an exceptional teacher being in Rural Communities in November 2011, and is one of the best instructors I have come so I am now about a year into combining the across in any field. While I am personally not two different roles. As you say, the biggest chal- very good at it, just going along regularly to lenge is trying to balance out the demands of karate is another great way to maintain that two jobs that both have different time pressures balance between work life and personal life. and expectations. However, the most exciting If anyone has ever thought about taking up a part I have found is the synergy between two martial art but hasn’t acted on it, I can highly roles. I am still doing my daily clinical work, recommend coming along and trying it out. I which informs my research at UNE, while the just wish I had started earlier – my flexibility is academic role in turn has practical applications really poor! for my Ascent position.

I also love cricket, and I’m about 80,000 I am very grateful to the CEO of The Ascent words into a book about the Gregory family Group, Mr Kevin Mead, and to the local leaders and their role in developing the sport in Ausof the Collaborative Research Network, my tralian during the 19th and early 20th Century. long time mentor Professor Rafat Hussain and It has temporarily gone onto the backburner also Associate Professor Myf. Maple, for their due to my work commitments, but I will finish understanding and co-operation in allowing me it one day. to keep a foot in both camps.

Thanks Stuart.

10 new england focus.

focusinterview.

Growing up with an interest in the natural environment has become a career in ecosystem research both here and overseas for Glenn. His recent appointment as Head of Robb College now also gives him the opportunity to nurtue students who share a similar interest.

Dr Glenn Wilson

H

ow long have you lived in Armidale?

I’ve now lived in Armidale for just over seven years, having shifted from a position with Griffith University in south-west Queensland. We moved here in late 2005, but settled in properly with a sense of ‘home’ in early 2007, when we bought our current house.

Tell us about your family and how they benefit by living in Armidale?

Rhonda and I got married in late 1989 in Armidale, while we were both still studying and now have four children. Laura, our eldest daughter, now works at UNE in International Marketing; Tom our son, works at TAFE New England; and our other two daughters (Sophie, Year 10) and Isabel (Year 6) are at O’Connor Catholic College and St Mary’s Primary School.

Rhonda is a lecturer in mental health nursing at UNE. I’ve spent nearly all my life living in regional areas or at least close to the bush without the stress of large-city travel, and Armidale is no different. If one of our kids needs to be collected from school, it’s close to a 20 minute round trip back to work. If we want to have a coffee downtown, great cafés are never far away. If we need a bottle of milk, it’s a five minute walk up to our favourite corner store, and if we want to browse through clothing shops, you’re greeted by someone who knows you personally. It’s about being part of a community, rather than a population!

Tell us about your personal education?

Although born in Melbourne, I grew up in Canberra, where I completed Year 12 at Daramalan College. My dad was a nuclear physicist, but he also had a strong interest in pursuits like bushwalking and fishing, and I guess some of that interest in science and the natural environment rubbed off onto me. Some of my earliest memories are of scrambling around rocky headlands to go rock-fishing, chasing lizards around the bush behind our Melbourne house, and bawling my eyes out when (as a 4 year old) Dad refused to buy me a pet lizard or snake at the local pet shop!

Head - Robb College

I coasted through high school, with average grades, spending as much time as possible chasing carp or Murray Cod in the lakes and rivers around Canberra. But, I then received a Principal’s Recommendation for ‘early entry’ into UNE to study for a Bachelor of Science degree and followed that with an Honours research project in the UNE Zoology Department on the ecology of fish in rock-pools. Ironically now, I spent all of my undergraduate time at UNE as a Robb My Dad was a t, College resident! After nuclear physicis in the African bush and strong that, Rhonda, Laura he but also had a ts like being woken up by nearby ui rs pu and I shifted up to interest in shing, fi d lions growling, hippos an ng ki al w bush Townsville and James ess some of that grunting or hyenas squealgu I d an Cook University for my e and ing at each other, often at interest in sciencronment PhD studies. the natural envi me.” the same time! Similarly, But to be honest, some rubbed off onto having a hippo surface close of my most important by to eye you off while you’re education has occurred since setting nets from a small boat then. It’s one thing to know how can be ‘exciting’ to say the least. But, to ‘do science’, but learning how best adventures aside, African countries have the to make your research findings useful to water same water management challenges as we do and land managers and understandable by other in northern New South Wales, and we have as stakeholders, such as farmers, is an absolutely much to learn from them as they do from us. vital skill that only comes from experience and How are you settling in to your position as learning from your successes and failures.

Head of Robb College?

How long have you worked at UNE, and With much trepidation! It’s been a big jump what did you do before being appointed from my ‘just-research’ role, but I’m still spendHead of Robb College? ing a portion of my time back in Ecosystem I’ve been back at the UNE for just over seven Management, and the office and support staff years, with most of that time working as a at Robb and UNE Residential Services have been senior researcher on the ecology of inland rivers very welcoming. and wetlands in the Ecosystem Management Describe a typical day as Head of College? department. Most of my research has focused Each part of the year has its own set of tasks on fish from these habitats across the northern and pressures, so I’m not sure if there will ever Murray-Darling Basin, examining what flow be a typical day! At the moment though, with conditions are needed for spawning and early nearly all of our students having left college for growth. It includes a lot of lab work and some the year, much of my day is spent reviewing long, hot days in the field, but also beautiful student grades in deciding who to allow back scenery and working with great colleagues and for the following year and who to give academic landholders. high-achievement awards to. But, reviewing Since 2009, I’ve also been involved in similar applications from new students wanting to start projects in the Okavango Delta wetlands in Botheir UNE experience at Robb is equally importswana, southern Africa, and discussing future tant at the moment. collaborations with colleagues in nearby Zambia The other important task for now is planand more far-flung Ethiopia. It’s hard to describe ning social activities and student leader training the experience of sleeping in a small dome tent for February 2013. Before the majority of our

“

students return to college in mid February, we spend about a week with our student leaders, providing training in recognising mental health or other personal challenges, negotiation skills, and goal-setting for the following year. Once 2013 is underway, getting to know the student residents individually then becomes important, as does supporting the student leaders and ensuring that academic support activities are running effectively.

Why would you recommend Robb College?

Robb has established a distinctly rural-regional character over its 52 year history. Many of our students come from a rural background and study degrees with an agricultural or environmental focus or with a view towards using such degrees as education, economics or nursing in rural or regional areas. If you wish to develop skills and knowledge for working in these settings, Robb is an ideal place to do so.

Robb also has a strong Senior Common Room of academic staff, Armidale business people and other community members who give their time to helping with the pastoral, cultural and academic support of our student residents. We have annual Rural Focus and Health dinner and lecture series and an occasional seminar series tailored towards the interests of our students.

Our ‘mixers’ with industry leaders provide valuable networking opportunities.

Final word?

Thank you for your interest in our college.

We are always happy to show parents, prospective students and other members of the community through Robb and to answer any queries about the benefits of living on campus while studying. new england focus

11

focusupdate.

Video OF THE

3:00

MONTH

Watch on your smartphone

VIDEO BY: FocusTV. ABOUT: The Armidale City Bowling Club is more than just a great place to enjoy a meal and relax over a cold drink with friends. It’s part of the community, helping sporting and community groups to benefit the local area.

Image of the month.

WATCH AT: www.focustv.com.au

Corbury Fields is my home in Guyra during the recent snowfall.

Photo by: Gayle Burey. Camera: Olympus VR-310.

LOCAL

Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email editor@focusmag.com.au

READ

Title. The Guinea Fowl Girl.

Local Author. Val Sherwell.

Val Sherwell’s memoir is set in the 1940s and 1950s, long before the independence of Zimbabwe from Britain, when it was still known as Rhodesia. The title derives from the formative years she spent at the Guinea Fowl School outside Gwelo (Gweru), in the Rhodesian bush.

with Robert Gasparre from Armidale Farmers’ Market

WH

AT ’ S I N

The author tells her own story, what she experienced and remembers of her family and family history, but Sherwell also records her observations of Rhodesian society, its cultural norms and everyday life, before everything about that time disappears forever.

GARLIC Allium sativum, commonly known as garlic, is the universal spice which is used extensively around the world. Although garlic may not always ward off vampires, it will assist with cardio vascular health and lowering high cholesterol, while also acting as a natural antibiotic to stimulate your immune system. te spring/early summer. It may ay ssee em o dd to o cconsider onsi ons side side derr In our region, garlic is usually harvested in late seem odd something so familiar as garlic as a seasonal treat, but almost all the garlicc or months. Imported garlic iss we buy has been dried and kept in storage for ther chemicals when it is usually treated with growth retardants and other try is relatively small. brought into Australia. The local garlic industry ewarding. It does well in Growing your own garlic is not hard and is rewarding. me bulbs for replanting our region due to the cold winters. Save some each year, and you will steadily build up yourr supply.

Book Launch: Armidale Library at 10.30 am, Monday 12 November. All welcome.

Promote your local book. Send us the details to editor@focusmag.com.au

Opportunity and lifestyle, UNE has it all

he cured The taste of fresh garlic is not as intense as the bulbs. Instead, they’re juicy and have a soft, sweet garlic flavour.

UNE offers a broad range of employment and career opportunities and a

way and For roast garlic, take a bulb, cut the roots away slice off first 1cm from the top, exposing the cloves. arge Place cut side up on piece of aluminium foil large ne enough to enclose the whole bulb. Drizzle one kle dessertspoon of olive oil over bulb and sprinkle salt and pepper. Wrap tightly in foil, place in utes shallow baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes or until garlic soft and tender. Serve on toast with soft cheese and roast peppers.

enjoy a vibrant, cosmopolitan university city; fresh, clean air; wide open

WHERE

12

Available at: Fastnet Books, 227 Donnelly Street, Armidale.

refreshing lifestyle attracting staff from around Australia and the world to Armidale in the beautiful New England Region of New South Wales. Staff spaces; and best of all, time to enjoy it.

While UNE has a long history and strong tradition of academic distinction, our outlook is dynamic and fresh. Our focus is on the future.

For further information about UNE and the positions we have available to develop and grow your career, visit:

www.une.edu.au/recruit The Armidale Farmer’s Market is on the first and third Sunday of every month in Curtis Park. For more information visit www.armidalemarket.com

new england focus.

Equity principles underpin all UNE policies and procedures

new england focus 13

focusinterview.

Raft from the HMAS Armidale.

HMAS Armidale II.

HMAS Armidale.

Ellen Valler (far left) and TS Armidale.

E L L E N VA L L E R S U B - L I E U T E N A N T, A N C C O M M A N D I N G O F F I C E R T S A R M I D L E ( T R A I N I N G S H I P A R M I DA L E ) .

H

ow many members are involved with TS ARMIDALE? Cadets range in age from 12.5 to 19 years. Currently we have 26 cadets regularly parading and 7 staff members.

What’s the history behind the group?

TS ARMIDALE was formed in 1993 as an initiative led by retired Navy Warrant OfÞcer, Max Tavener. It has its origins in the 'Australia Remembers' program of 1989-1995 of the 50 year commemorations of the Second World War. As HMAS ARMIDALE was lost in tragic circumstances in December 1942, the program included a full ceremonial parade and service in Armidale.

As part of the planning for the parade by ArmidaleÕs Naval Association of Australia subbranch, it was suggested that a Navy Cadet unit be formed as a living memorial to the gallantry of the ship's company of the ARMIDALE. Nu-Ship ARMIDALE was formed in the Armidale Legacy Hall with four volunteer instructors, about a dozen prospective cadets (including me), no uniforms and a box of old rope as the sole training aid.

In early 1993, the old railwaymen's barracks in Armidale became available for a peppercorn rent. Recruitment progressed and with a ßoat from HMAS WATSON, a loan of old uniforms and the arrival of the HMAS NIRIMBA band, Nu-Ship Armidale was ready to take part in the Autumn Festival Parade. In July 1993, TS ARMIDALE was commissioned as the 67th ANC unit in Australia.

Being so far from the sea with limited sailing opportunity, the unit has specialised in bush activities and hosts the annual Tri-Service Cadets competition. Cadets host the annual HMAS ARMIDALE commemoration weekend, which has included sailors from HMAS ARMIDALE II and HMAS SHEEAN. TS ARMIDALE has also been awarded the PENGUIN trophy for community

14 new england focus.

service by a Navy Cadet unit.

TS Armidale is organising a memorial weekend, December 1 – December 2, to highlight the 70th anniversary of the sinking of HMAS ARMIDALE. What’s the story behind this disaster?

On 1 December 1942, HMAS ARMIDALE was on an operation to Timor, when she was attacked by Japanese aircraft.

The Þrst attack came at around 1pm.

ARMIDALE managed to avoid the Japanese bombs and survived. At around 3pm, 13 Japanese planes began circling beyond the range of ARMIDALEÕS guns. They circled for about 20 minutes, then split up into groups and attacked from four directions at once, using torpedoes.

The Þrst torpedo hit just near the messdeck, killing more than half of the Netherlands East Indies troops that were on board and wounding many of the rest. As ARMIDALE began sinking, one man scrambled up the deck, strapped himself to an oerlikon gun and began Þring at the planes. He hit two. The gunner was Teddy Sheean, an 18 year old Ordinary Seaman, who some of the crew think should have been awarded the VC. ARMIDALE sank within three minutes of the Þrst torpedo hitting, but for the next 20 minutes the planes ßew back and forth, machinegunning the men in the water.

Of the 149 men aboard, 102 had survived the sinking. The good swimmers gathered ßotsam and lashed it together to make a raft, held aßoat by some drums and a couple of orapiza ßoats. The survivors also had a carley ßoat and a motorboat. Later that afternoon, they found ARMIDALEÕs damaged whaler, ßoating about a metre under water. They tied it to ßoats and lashed it to the raft for men to stand in.

They were now congregated in one place, the wounded in the motorboat, the others taking turns on the raft and in the carley ßoat. Captain Richards expected that rescue would come

quickly Ð but by the next afternoon, he had to accept that it wouldn't. Richards knew the only hope was for him to take the motorboat and try to reach the Australian reconnaissance area. They were 250 km from the area regularly patrolled

by Allied planes, and they only had enough fuel for 160 km, so he picked some Þt men to row and set off; there were 22 men in the motorboat when they started − 2 died on the journey.

On the raft, the men had to continually fend off sharks and sea snakes. The Netherlands East Indies troops, unable to speak English and unused to the ocean, were reluctant to give up their places in the carley ßoat and take their turn on the raft. Their ofÞcers were armed, and so were some of the soldiers − things began to look ugly. The Australians, unarmed and on the raft, decided to give up the carley ßoat Ð and the two groups drifted apart.

Four days after the sinking, the Australians decided to ßoat the whaler. After hours of effort they succeeded − but the whaler would not stay aßoat without constant bailing.

Five days after the sinking and three days after Richards had set off in the motorboat, the senior ofÞcer on the raft, Lieutenant Lloyd Palmer, had a difÞcult decision to make. The whaler offered a slim chance of salvation if it could be rowed into Australian waters Ð then they might all be rescued. Palmer picked 28 men to join him on the whaler.

On the whaler, they took turns rowing, resting and bailing. They were all almost naked, and their backsides were red raw from the movement involved in rowing. Thirst drove them to the brink; some hallucinated and tried to leave the boat; some drank their own urine. They rowed for two days É then it rained. The grateful men collected what water they could. Shortly after the rain had passed, a Catalina ßew into sight, disappeared, and then came back Ð right over them. It dropped a message saying that Richards was safe, they'd found the raft and a ship would

be sent to pick them up.

The HMAS Kalgoorlie reached them the next afternoon. When Kalgoorlie's crew tried to lift the whaler out of the sea, it disintegrated. The survivors were taken below deck to showers and food.

Back in Darwin, they were reunited with Richards and the survivors from the motorboat.

The raft had been spotted by the same Catalina that found the whaler, but the sea was too rough for a landing, and all that remains of that encounter is a grainy photo showing the men on the raft waving (see photo above). There were extensive searches, but the raft and carley ßoat were never seen again.

Why do the TS ARMIDALE group feel it’s important to bring the fate of the HMAS ARMIDALE to the attention of the general public?

TS ARMIDALE staff and cadets have been fortunate enough to meet survivors of the ARMIDALE. It is only right to pay tribute to those who lost their lives, as well as to acknowledge the survivors and their families.

Thanks Ellen.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

SATURDAY 1 DECEMBER 10am − Memorial service held at the HMAS Armidale memorial in Central Park.

6.30pm − Formal dinner held in conjunction with the CorvetteÕs Association at the Armidale Bowling Club.

SUNDAY 2 DECEMBER 9.30am − Church service at the Anglican Cathedral.

12pm − BBQ Lunch at TS Armidale.

MORE INFO? People can contact Ellen on 0458 158 999 or ellenvaller@live.com.au

new england focus 15

focusinterview.

GREG STEIR.

THE HUNT FOR MALCOLM NADEN INSPECTOR GREG STEIR FROM THE ARMIDALE POLICE SHARES THE CHALLENGES OF BEING A PART OF STRIKE FORCE 'DURKIN' ...

Y

ou have obviously dealt with the New South Wales Police Force. On a daily basis, many complex investigations I would contribute to the operational deployment during your career. Would you process and monitor daily deployments of police in consider the Malcolm Naden the field. I also provided a strategic briefing to the investigation one of the most Commander, on future strategies and deployments challenging, and what role did of the Strike Force. you play in the investigation?

Did you ever contemplate that you may never All major investigations I have undertaken have have caught Mr. Naden? their complexities; the Malcolm Naden ‘man hunt’ Never did this cross my mind. There were times had many complexities, but the most challenging during the investigation, thoughts crossed my mind thing was the New South Wales Police Force had that the Strike Force could go for a substantial never undertaken such a man hunt in period of time; we seemed to be always recent times, in terrain that could out of luck, so to speak, and about a only be describe as most difficult. fortnight behind Mr. Naden.

What this meant was Strike It was always clear to the There were Force ‘Durkin’ had to break Strike Force members that we in ts en ev some ch hi new ground in how to would be in the area until w ry ua br late Fe the approach such a large scale Mr. Naden was caught; this confirmed to meMr. man hunt. Traditional policing was communicated by our Strike Force had ghts and Naden in their si area methods were not going to Commissioner very early on, importantly, in anneficial work. after leading Senior Constable be t os that was m e.” rc The basics such as electricity, MacFadyen was shot near Fo e rik St e to th radio communications and Nowendoc in December 2011. mobile phone coverage was not In the middle of February 2012, available to the investigative team to I really felt the Strike Force had assist them in their investigations. momentum; the Strike Force Analysts had The challenge of the topography, weather back captured five years of information, and the and the extreme risk Mr. Naden posed to the Strike Force had some really good modus operandi of police were major factors the Strike Force dealt with how Mr. Naden operated. on a daily basis.

The community in the area of operation by this The role I played was Staff Officer/Operations to time was feeding the Strike Force with relevant and the Operational Forward Commander, Detective recent information.

Superintendent Paul Fehon, and my duties included There were some events in late February which co-ordination and administrative support for the confirmed to me the Strike Force had Mr. Naden in Forward Commander, writing policing policy for their sights and importantly, in an area that was most the Strike Force, logistical support for operations beneficial to the Strike Force. and administration issues, providing a 24 hour What satisfied you most about this on call contact for Strike Force DURKIN, and daily investigation? writing of confidential reports to the Executive of The Strike Force was faced with adversity daily;

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16 new england focus.

new initiatives had to be implemented and adopted on the run to meet the changing needs of the Strike Force. Adversity was something the Strike Force seemed to get around; these instances only made the Strike Force stronger.

The bringing together of so many specialist policing commands into one Strike Force, under one roof under one commander was unique – rarely had it be done by the NSWP, and it will be some years I’d suggest before it ever happens again on such a large scale.

There was a lot of speculation not only from the media, but within the NSWPF and the community in general that the Strike Force would never capture Mr. Naden.

This only strengthens the bond of the Strike Force that eventually captured him in the Moppy Valley, west of Gloucester.

Investigations of this magnitude often take up a lot of your time, particularly being away from home. How did this affect you and your family?

My family might be best to answer this question. Strike Force ‘Durkin’ was my life from 7 December 2011 to 24 April, 2012. Deployments were usually on an 8 day on, three day off roster. Actual days off were rare, as generally there was always communication from Strike Force Headquarters to the Management Team.

Although you were home, your mind was always with the Strike Force. The day of the capture, there was seriously a sigh of relief in that my life would get back to some normality.

Would you do it all again?

The opportunity provided to me by the NSWPF to work on this Strike Force will never be forgotten. The culture, experience and satisfaction I was exposed to during this investigation would always draw me back for round two.

Thanks Greg.

A RO U N D T H E R E G I O N // D E C E M B E R

19 What’s NEW ENGLAND

1-2 Don't Dis My Ability Events held during December will include the Armidale Access Advisory Committee presentation of the Access Awards at Kent House Community Centre, Monday 3 December and the Don’t dis my ability expo and concert on Friday 7 December.

More info information and to register your interest in either attending or participating in the IDPwD, Expo/ Concert, please contact Suzanne Bannon on 6770 3804 or sbannon@armidale.nsw.gov.au www.idpwd.com.au www.DontDISmyABILITY.com.au www.armidale.nsw.gov.au

14-16

HMAS Armidale Memorial Weekend Saturday 1 December AS 10am − Memorial service held at the HMAS Armidale memorial in Central Park.

6.30pm − Formal dinner held in conjunction with the Corvette’s association at the Armidale Bowling Club.

Sunday 2 December 9.30am − Church service at the Anglican Cathedral.

'Twilight’ Festival

First Saturday chats

Festive activities to take place will include • Live performances • Food and drinks • Christmas shopping • Kids' activities • A visit from Santa Claus!

The next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Sara Abboud from 10am to 1pm on Saturday 1 December 2012 at Legal Minds. Bookings are essential on 1300 642 166.

12pm − BBQ Lunch at TS Armidale.

Where In the Armidale Mall.

When14 - 16 December 2012.

More info please contact Cr Jenny Bailey: jbailey@

Contact People can contact Ellen on 0458

armidale.nsw.gov.au

158 999 or ellenvaller@live.com.au

When 10am to 1pm; Sat 1 Dec 2012.

Where Legal Minds, Beardy St Mall.

Contact 1300 642 166.

new england focus 17

focusinterview.

TARA TARA Winkler was in her early 20s and had the world at her feet when she was confronted by corruption and poverty in Cambodia. Ahead of returning to NEGS as this year’s Speech Day guest, we talk to the former NSW Young Australian of the Year and NEGS Old Girl about the work of her Cambodian Children’s Trust.

F

irstly, tell us a little about your childhood ...

I grew up in Sydney, five minutes from Bondi Beach. My mum, also a NEGS old girl, was a horse lover, so I started riding from a very young age. In 2003, my parents agreed to combine my passion for horses with the rest of my secondary education by sending me to NEGS. My strongest memories at NEGS are of the riding school, with my horse, Theo.

But I also remember how beautiful the grounds looked in autumn, my IT class (which was my favourite subject), and for the fun and crazy times I had with my friends.

You came from a privileged background, and some might say, a sheltered one. What were your career plans?

Yes, I had a privileged upbringing, but I wouldn’t necessarily say I was sheltered.

My parents would take my sister and me on holidays to far-flung places where there wasn’t another foreigner to be seen. We learnt to embrace foreign cultures and made lasting friendships with the locals.

During my final years of school, I became determined to get a job in the film industry and was prepared to do anything to get my foot in the door. Eventually, I convinced a Sydney based production company to give me work experience on a telemovie. I finished Year 12, forfeited Schoolies Week and began working immediately, assisting in the art department as a runner, and two weeks later I was made a permanent part of the team.

I then worked in various roles with a commercial production company and was also doing an apprenticeship with one of Sydney’s top set designers. I was working a lot and was making good money, but it wasn’t quite the fairytale I’d hoped for.

18 new england focus.

What took you to Cambodia in 2005?

I had planned a three-week trip through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. I decided to stay on an extra month volunteering at a little landmine museum in Siem Reap, Cambodia. I was doing tours for tourist groups and teaching English to 20 kids, all victims of landmines, who lived at the museum. After my volunteering stint at the Landmine Museum, I went to Battambang, which is when I first met the kids living at the Sprouting Knowledge Orphans (SKO) orphanage. I was struck by the poverty I saw at SKO and pledged to help raise funds for it when I returned to Australia.

After raising a fair bit of money, I decided to return to Cambodia, one year after my first trip, to volunteer for three months and monitor how the money was to be spent. It was during this time that I became aware of underhanded dealings at SKO. Funds were being embezzled, many of the children were not legitimate orphans, but actually the family of the orphanage staff, and the children were being grossly neglected as well as suffering physical, sexual and emotional abuse.

I worked with a local man named Jedtha Pon to get permission from local authorities to set up CCT and offer the legitimate orphans a chance to leave with me to a new home. In August of 2007, we turned up, unannounced, with a bus and two authorities from the Department of Social Affairs and took 14 kids to their new, safe home. I had all of a sudden become entirely responsible for 14 people’s lives.

You were just 22 years old when you set up the Cambodian Children’s Trust. What were some of the hurdles?

I was 21 years old the day we rescued the kids from SKO orphanage. There were so many hurdles in the early days, it would fill a

Your journey was the subject of an book – so in fact, I have written one which is episode of ABC TV’s Australian Story. I to be published by Allen and Unwin and on guess your inspirational work has also the shelves in the new year. The biggest hurdle made you a sought-after speaker? remains finding the funding to support all Yep, I had to get over any fears of being CCT’s projects. in the spotlight and public speaking pretty Tell us a bit about CCT's work.

Cambodian Children’s Trust (CCT) is a secular, fast. It’s not my favourite part of the job, but I’ve enjoyed meeting some really interesting non-profit NGO running projects to help break people along the way. the cycle of poverty in the Battambang region What have been some of the challenges of Cambodia. to ensure aid is effectively We run an extensive Family Outreach delivered?

Programme, helping poor families The biggest challenge in to get up on their feet and ensuring the work we do become financially selff “ In August oed is effective and focused sustainable, but allowing 2007, we turn ced, on long term change, them to stay together. up, unannound two growing from a simple We also run a with a bus an m the orphanage to a community Youth o authorities fr f Social progressive community o Centre for children t en Departm 14 ok to focused organisation, who are not unsafe at d an Affairs fe sa , ew n r ei has been getting the th home, but their parents to s kid funds to make it happen. are, for various reasons, home. ” It’s much easier to get unable to hold down a job funds to sponsor an individual and therefore provide their than a community educational children with adequate care. The programme.

CCT Youth Centre supports around Your old school is currently hosting two 100 children in the Battambang community so girls from CCT on an experience visit. they can remain with their family, while being How can people help contribute in a provided with the CCT's high standards of meaningful way? education and healthcare.

I’m blown away that NEGS is offering this We have residential care homes for children wonderful experience to CCT’s girls. They’ve who are left with absolutely nowhere to go heard me talk about my life in Australia over or are unsafe at home. These children live the last few years, and now they’ll get to as a family, in sibling groups of 6 - 8, with a experience it first hand.

Cambodian mum and dad, in regular sized We’re always in need of funding to support homes around Battambang. We also run a our projects. Anyone interested in becoming number of other vocational and educational a sponsor or running a fundraising event, community programmes. To find out more please, please get in touch via our website. about the work we’re doing, please visit out Every cent counts! website: Many thanks Tara. www.cambodianchildrenstrust.org

new england focus 19

focusinterview.

J O H N & K AT H M I C T H E L L

Thank you to John & Katherine Mitchell for letting the Kingstown Pony Club use their property, ‘Carlowrie’.

P o n y

C l u b

R I C H A R D & K AT H E R I N E B R A H A M

22 YEARS ON

K

atherine Braham shares Carlowrie Challenge, which was based on some history and insights a Stockman’s Challenge. On ribbon day, the about the club with FOCUS visitors were treated to a musical ride display readers ... which was spectacular this year, and the How did you and Richard children battled difficult weather conditions. get involved in the Kingstown Pony Club?

This display was choreographed by two of our Richard and I got involved with the fabulous associate riders (Natalie Hough and Kingstown Pony Club in 2004, because our Maddie Davidson), who put a lot of time and boys had friends already going to the camp. effort into working with the kids.

We knew it was a friendly, easygoing camp, What roles do you play in the running of so we thought we would give it a go. We the club? haven’t looked back since. We have made Richard grew up with pony club since lifelong friends through the club and the age of 4, and his father was the NSW enjoy many social occasions President for Pony Club for over 20 with them. The children years and was involved with learn how to ride safely the Tenterfield Club. I guess and competently in he has it in his blood.

Kingstown Pony ist a relaxed, happy His sisters have all been ex t club could no g in lm he w environment. We through pony club, as er ov without the hell itc M e th of have a huge range well as their kids. Richard ty si genero w a bunch of riders, from the is the Chief Instructor. family. They allo ell as of strangers, as w their beginners to highly Chris Beard is the old friends, on toeek so we competitive riders in President and takes property for a w p.” interclub gymkhanas. m charge of the kitchen, ca can hold the Some of our past which we are eternally members have gone grateful for as he does a on to riding for state and terrific job. He went through the some have made a career out of club as a kid and gives a huge amount working with horses. The children of time and hard work to the club. His father receive a huge portfolio of different was one of the founding members of the club. experiences at Kingstown Pony Camp.

Kim Heagney is the secretary of Kingstown We are lucky to have a member of the Pony Club and has been a member for many Lighthorse Brigade who comes and tells the years. She is the life and soul of the club, children about history and horsemanship. and the kids adore her. I assist Kim with the The children can have a go at tent pegging, secretarial duties, and I stepped in to help out showjumping, flat riding, dressage, as well as as she was overseas during camp this year polocross, cross country, and campdrafting, with one of her daughters. just to mention a few.

The running of the camp involves coThis year we had a special event called the ordinating instructors, timetables, the kitchen,

“

20 new england focus.

living arrangements for the week and after hours activities. ht, This year we had an outstanding skit night, d which many of the kids were involved in and he was extremely amusing, especially one of the adults acts. One evening we had a tug-ofwar and an iron man event. The after hours activities are a lot of fun and a time to relax and unwind.

What is the history of the Kingstown Pony Club ?

The inaugural first camp was 1989; it was formed by John Campbell and Geoffrey Beard.

They were the main drivers for the club. John Mitchell held his hand up for a venue for the club, and the camps are still to this day held at ‘Carlowrie’. The initial camp started with 10 or more kids. Keeping it as a little bush camp is due to the success of the club. A lot of the success of the club is due to Geoffrey Beard, and Chris Beard has now kept the family name in the club.

How many members does the club currently have?

Fifty kids at this year’s camp, with 90 members.

What makes the Kingstown Pony Club different to other clubs?

Kingstown Pony club could not exist without the overwhelming generosity of the Mitchell family. They allow a bunch of strangers, as well as old friends, on to their property for a week so we can hold the camp.

We use their shearer’s quarters for the kitchen and accommodation, and the girls and boys

use their their i shearing shed and feed shed s use to sleep in. The thing that makes Kingstown Club – Kingstown Club is the genuine enthusiasm of every single member. All the family comes, whether they ride or not, just to be part of the memories we take home with us. We all camp in tents, vans and trucks, and we really make it a week for us all to enjoy. Everyone goes to the camp with a positive, fun attitude and a real sense of loyalty to the club. Everyone wants to make it work.

We have people coming from Sydney, Newcastle and Tamworth, just to name a few.

We may only see them at camp once a year, but we all look forward to it. The emails prior to camp get more and more exciting as the time comes closer to the big week. Being able to hold the camp on a property gives Kingstown Pony Club a special bushy feel. The cross country course involves jumping logs out on one of John and Kath’s paddocks For children who don’t get the opportunity to be on a working property whilst learning how to ride, they are certainly in for a unique experience.

We have something pretty special going at Kingstown Pony Club, and it is very precious to all of its members.

Thanks Katherine.

focusinterview.

and Samantha Myhill tied ey gn ea H Patrick on the knot recentlyey Th 3. r Novembe ial share their spec . us day with

PAT

ell us about your upbringing ...

Pat and I both grew up in and around Armidale. I grew up just outside of Armidale off the Castledoyle Road. My father (Steve) owns a bobcat and excavator business, while my mother (Debbie) works as a sales rep. I also have a brother, Brett, who is a horse chiropractor.

I went to St Mary's then to O'Connor, before becoming a hairdresser in Armidale. Pat grew up in Uralla on a cattle property. His father (Greg) still works the farm in a family partnership, while his mother (Carmel) works in administration. He has a sister, Clare, who is a speech pathologist in Sydney, while his brother is studying primary school teaching at UNE. Pat also did his schooling and university through Armidale, going through Duval then UNE. How did you and Pat first meet, and tell us about the proposal?

Pat and I first met through my brother, Brett. Pat and Brett were good friends and once he started to come out home, we started to get to know each other really well. We began dating in the middle of 2009, while Pat was still at uni and I was hairdressing.

Once Pat completed his studies, he received a job with an accounting firm in Armidale. We continued to date for

SAM

O U R W E D D I N G D AY

another 12 months, before we decided we wanted to get out of town and see what else Australia had to offer.

Pat took a job with Suncorp Bank in Rockhampton, QLD, while I obtained a job with Ergon Energy.

Pat proposed to me on the beach at Emu Park on a lazy Sunday morning.

We had talked about it for some time, but the proposal took me completely by surprise and unfortunately, all I could do was burst out laughing (seems to happen when I get nervous). It did take me a while to compose myself, but I finally blurted out, “Yes”.

How did you plan your special day?

Given we have only just recently moved to Dalby with Pat's work, I did organise a fair bit of the wedding. I was very meticulous in the organisation, religiously following my wedding planner.

This being said, I do organise functions through my work, so it was relatively stress free. When I did get stressed, I always had Debbie and Carmel close at hand; they helped me through it. Pat did chip in organising the cars, suits and of course, our honeymoon on the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.

Tell us about the local businesses that helped make your wedding day perfect?

We have a lot of people to thank in Armidale for their help and contribution to the wedding. Firstly, a big thank you to Leanne, Aaron and the rest of the team

from Servies Armidale for all the help with the reception. The venue and menu were excellent, and we couldn't have asked for anything more. Also, a big thanks to Gerard and Matt from Hanna’s Armidale, with all the help with the suits for the groomsmen; all fitted like gloves and any alterations that needed to be done were not a drama. The team from Hanna's Armidale were very professional.

We also need to thank Dianne Scott from Rosemerin Florist, who did a great job on the flowers, and Lindy and Mickayla Hardman from Image 2 Dye 4 who did an amazing job on not only my hair, but all of the bridesmaids.

What was your highlight of the day?

It is hard to pick out just one moment of the day. Everything went off without a hitch (apart from the bride being 20 minutes late, but that is a story for another day!) We couldn't have been happier with the church, reception and Deb Stevenson and Julie Myhill for organising our photos out at Saumarez Homestead.

Plans for the future?

We have settled down in Dalby, having been here 6 months now. We both have great employment and love where we work. Dalby is a nice country town, reminiscent of Armidale/Uralla, and we feel right at home. Our plan is to settle down in the interim.

Thanks Samantha. new england focus 21

focuseditorial.

Merry as ChreisU RtA Lm LA BOWLO from th Chinesnet Restaura

B

en and Wendy Zhong have been serving locals and visitors scrumptious Chinese meals since June this year.

Their goal is to provide the best quality and best value Chinese food to our customers. They serve many popular meals; for example, Mongolian dishes, satay dishes, big and yummy omelettes and much more. Their lunch special is only $8.50; all the meals can be dine

in or takeaway. They cater for all the functions; banquets are from $10 per head, depending on what you’d like to choose from our menu! The restaurant can seat around 70 people, and the function hall can seat up to 100 people with the stage and dancing floor! Great for parties!

There is still plenty of time to book your Christmas party.

They would like to thank everyone for

making them feel so welcome and for their support and are looking forward to another great year at the Uralla Bowlo ... Merry Christmas and happy New Year to all.

the plug!

Corner of Queen and Hill St, Uralla.

Ph: 6778 4807.

focuseditorial.

Welcome Robert Carlon to the d-fine team. d-fine Image is pleased to be welcoming Robert Carlon to their team. After leaving Armidale 4 years ago, he moved to Newcastle to work for one of the country’s leading salons, Suki Hairdressing. Robert’s passion for all aspects of hairdressing soon saw him move to Suki Paddington in Sydney, where he was fortunate enough to work amongst some of the country’s top stylists. The move

started his editorial career, where he was seen backstage styling for Sydney and Melbourne Fashion Week, editorial photo shoots for local Sydney designers and magazine publications such as Vogue, Russh and Marie Clare magazine. Robert is also an educator for international brands GHD and KEVIN MURPHY, travelling around NSW and also inter-state for seminars throughout 2011 and 2012.

the plug!

Robert will be working at d-fine Image on a part time basis with extended trading hours.

His hours will be: Wednesday 3 - 8pm, Thursday 3 - 8pm and Saturday 9 - 4pm.

Phone: 6772 7762.

eat. now with over 2,350 downloads.

F

OC is pleased to report OCUS our eat. iPhone App has now crossed over 2,350 downlo downloads on the App Store. eat iPhone application The eat. featues a great selection of local restaurants and w mouthwatering cafés, with professi professional images, so you can eat with your eyes. The u app is updated regularly and res each restaurant includes maps, detailed descriptions of every eesstablis establishment, price guide, 22 new england focus.

style of food and easy to use contacts. And best of all, it’s FREE – just like Focus.

So far the app has a 5 star rating on the App Store, with comments including:“Sleek and classy app will make it easy to find the perfect place to eat while I’m in town for business or on holidays. Easy to use, fast, lots of places to eat, all with the information I need.

Phone numbers and maps are a great feature ... Food photos

look spectacular!”

The app is available for both the iPhone and Android phones. Readers can download the app for free by visiting www.focusmag.com.au/eat Scan on your smartphone QR code reader to download.

focuseditorial.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING If you’re looking for something unique and personal to give to that special someone this Christmas, come along and see what’s in store at the New England Regional Art Museum.

There’s something to tempt everyone, whatever their budget.

A

wide variety of exquisite handmade items are on display, including ceramics, glassware, jewellery and prints, or choose from a selection of beautiful books on art and photography.

There’s also a huge range of gorgeous cards.

For the young and young at heart there are beautiful picture books, a wonderful assortment of art and crafts to make, as well as some very groovy and fun toys and art supplies.

Sarita Dutoit, NERAM Shop Manager, has enjoyed sourcing different gifts.

“I am always on the look-out for something a bit unusual ... something distinctive,” she said.

If you find it all too hard to make a decision, why not give the gift of creativity, with a gift voucher for one of

our art classes?

All profits from shop sales go towards NERAM’s exhibitions, education and public programs.

This holiday period is the perfect time to visit your art museum. There are sparkling new exhibitions, including Not the Way Home: 13 Artists Paint the Desert, where 13 prominent Australian artists (including Walcha artist Ross Laurie) ventured to Fowlers Gap in north western New South Wales for an epic journey into the vast landscape of Australia’s arid desert.

Not to mention, two wonderful selling exhibitions – abstract artist Peter Griffen and ceramic artist Ann Streckfuss. And, as always, NERAM is delighted to showcase its permanent collections. This time our wonderful band of volunteers have chosen their favourite work in the collections

– Pick of the Bunch and we revel in the abstract art from the Coventry and NERAM Collections in Glory of the Abstract.

In January we have school holiday workshops, and adult art classes. Check out our website: www.neram.com.au to find out more.

Relax. Unwind. Enjoy.

the plug!

The gallery will be open over the Christmas/New Year, closed to the public 24 - 26 December, 31 Dec and 1 Jan. Otherwise, NERAM is open from Tues – Fri 10am to 5pm, Sat and Sun 10am to 4pm. p. 6772 5255. w. www.neram.com.au

focuseditorial.

Let’s Celebrate A C H I E V E M E N T As the year draws to a close, it is worthwhile to reflect on some of the many events and activities promoting disability issues in our community.

T

here is growing support for a National Disability Insurance Scheme; however, everyone needs to sign up for the campaign to send a clear message to all Governments that it must be fully funded. Lend your support by logging on to www.everyaustraliancounts. com.au and signing up. Thank you to all who participated in the DisabiliTEA held in the Armidale Mall on 26 October to draw awareness to the campaign. The Ascent Group is providing support to the campaign, to ensure that all people with disability in our community get a fair go.

The United Nations International Day of People with Disability is celebrated in December each year. For information on this important celebration, go to www.idpwd.com.au In Armidale on Friday 7 December at the Town Hall, there will an Expo of services followed by a concert to celebrate this special day. Look out for further details in the local media. The Ascent Group has been providing disability services in

Armidale and the New England since 1955.

As your local community based charitable organisation, we are also proud to be part of the Locals 4 Locals group. We are also proud to be part of a generous community that supports our major projects. With our most recent project, ‘Walker House’, a new home for people with disability, many organisations and individuals came forward to support us; however, the two major sponsors have been the Greater Building Society, with a grant of $50,000; and the Rotary Club of Armidale, responsible for the landscaping and garden with a value of approximately $50,000 also. Thank you all our supporters, large and small.

The next wave of positive change in disability services is the development of person centred approaches to providing service to people with a disability. We are moving from a service based approach to one which focuses on the individual and working towards meeting their needs and aspirations. This approach further strengthens the need for greater

community and social inclusion. The Ascent Group is well placed to meet the challenge of change. The Armidale community proudly is one which is inclusive and welcoming. We look forward to building on this strength in the years ahead.

contact info.

Kevin Mead p. 6774 8977 w. www.ascentgroup.org.au

new england focus 23

focusinterview.

Suncare meets Skincare The launch of SPF 50+ is the biggest breakthrough for the Australian sunscreen industry since the 1990s. As of November, the new TGA legislation allows SPF 50+ claims on Australian sunscreens.

A Merry Christmas from Ella Baché We have lots of special gift ideas for your loved ones this Christmas. Whether a gift voucher for a relaxing treat or our specially designed gift packs, your loved one will be pleasantly surprised!

drating molecules. RRP $100, valued at $189.

Our Ella Baché Skindulgence Value Packs are a gift pack individually tailored to suit a range of various skin types.

ents with organic tomato pulp full of vitamins,

Eternal Regenerating Gift Pack – the Eternal range firms, repairs and rejuvenates to correct the signs of ageing. Using the latest in skincare technology, Eternal achieves superior results by immediately plumping and smoothing fine lines and softening skin texture. RRP $124, valued at $229.

Hydra Revitalising Gift Pack – give your skin an immediate boost of hydration and restore skin suppleness and diminish fine lines. Ella Baché’s intensive hydrating products saturate the skin with moisture and energise the skin’s own hy-

Organic Radiance Healthy Glow Gift Pack – love your skin with this natural and organic gift pack; the Fruit d’Eclat products combine natural and radiance enhancing food ingrediminerals and antioxidants. RRP $139, valued at $229.

Age Protection Gift Pack – Ella Baché’s Age Protection products protect the skin and regenerate the cellular mechanisms, allowing for optimal renewal. Perfect for skin types showing signs of stress and fatigue. RRP $112, valued at $201.

Great 30+ Lipsaver Gift Pack – packed with moisture plumping lanolin, mango butter, shea butter and pomegranate, this sheer SPF30+ tint lip gloss protect lips from sunburn for pucker perfect lips. RRP $29, valued at $57.

his is great news for Ella Baché, as we will be launching our new SPF 50+ range – which has been tested against the new more stringent SPF testing guidelines in Australia, to ensure we meet the demands of Australian skins. It also complies with the significantly higher UVA requirements, so we can claim broad spectrum too.

Ella Baché’s SPF 50+ range is superior, as it offers a unique super-fruit antioxidant complex combined with moisturising and protective skincare benefits to deliver a dual line of defence for the skin.

Before we look at preventing UV damage, we need to first understand what UV is and why protection from these rays is so important.

What is UV? The sun gives off ultraviolet radiation that we divide into categories based on the wave length.

• UVC – 100 to 290 nm • UVB – 290 to 320 nm • UVA – 320 to 400 nm UVC – UVC radiation is almost completely absorbed by the ozone layer and does not affect the skin. UVC radiation can be found in artificial sources such as mercury arc lamps and germicidal lamps.

UVB – UVB affects the top layer of skin, causing sunburns. Specifically: • About 90% of UVB radiation is absorbed by the ozone layer.

• As the ozone layer gets depleted, we are exposed to more UVB radiation.

• UVB is the most intense between the hours of 10am and 2pm, when the sunlight is brightest.

• UVB is also more intense in the summer months.

• 70% of a person’s yearly UVB dose occurs in the summer.

• UVB does not penetrate glass.

UVA – in general, UVA affects the deeper layer of the skin, the dermis, and causes changes that lead to photo ageing and skin cancer.

Specifically: • The ozone layer has no effect on UVA rays.

• UVA penetrates deeper into the skin and works more efficiently.

• The intensity of UVA radiation is more constant

24 new england focus.

than UVB, without the variations during the day and throughout the year.

• UVA does go through glass.

UVA and UVB work together Because of other atmospheric filters besides ozone, most of the UV radiation that reaches us is UVB, about 20 times more than UVA. Even though we think of UVB as the sunburn producer and UVA the wrinkle and skin cancer producer, they both work together to cause skin damage, including: • Wrinkles • Lowered immunity against infection • Ageing skin disorders • Carcinogens The difference between Ella Baché sunscreens and others • All Ella Baché sunscreens combine UV protection and anti-ageing skincare benefits (antioxidants and emollients) to deliver a dual line of defence to prevent both carcinogens and visible signs of ageing (wrinkles, loss of firmness and age spots).

• The SPF 50+ broad spectrum products combine significantly higher UVA protection and a unique antioxidant complex to deliver superior UV and skin protection.

• Ella Baché sunscreens are superior, as they are tested in Australia meeting the strictest SPF testing guidelines in the world.

• All Ella Baché sunscreens are broad spectrum, delivering both UVA and UVB protection.

The difference between SPF 30+ and SPF 50+ • SPF30+ prevents 96.7% of UV rays penetrating the skin.

• SPF50+ prevents 98% of UV rays penetrating the skin.

• Essentially, the 1.3% increase in UV protection = 40% less UV damage accumulated on the skin – this is what the 'better’ UV protection refers to.

Regardless of the SPF factor, there is always a small amount of UV that penetrates the skin; hence, the importance of having antioxidants in a suncare product to neutralise the free radical activity generated from the UV that does penetrate the skin.

Remember to also cover up with a hat, sunglasses and protective clothing, especially in the summer months.

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53 years of experience...

Ph. 6772 4726 136 Beardy Street, Armidale

New England

Paprika spiced calamari with a pistachio and date cous cous salad and a coriander dressing from Azka Restaurant, Wine and Tapas Bar.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android mobiles. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 26 new england focus.

eat.

The Plum Tree Co. Come in and try our coffee, tea, handmade cordials and milkshakes made with our own flavourings.

The Plum Tree Company is dessert heaven – we have fresh homemade cakes and sweets available daily, all prepared by some clever local cooks. Try our scones, baked fresh daily, or our cherry pie – it’s delicious! The cheesecake is the best in Armidale ... and there’s more, including many gluten free treats.

Call in and have a look. Everything is available to take away, or you can relax and have a seat in our lovely new space.

Owner Michelle Wheatley.

Shop 2, Armidale Food Emporium (Coles East Mall), 92 Marsh St, Armidale t 6772 2867 open Monday to Friday, 8.45am - 4pm.

Saturday, 9am - 1pm.

Azka Restaurant, Wine and Tapas Bar Azka Wine and Tapas Bar is a stunning, designer space with an exciting range of boutique drops. Match your wine with a tempting selection of modern tapas – perfect for casual and social dining.

Azka Restaurant features beautifully cooked dishes with subtle Mediterranean influences that will appeal to every taste.

The menu focuses on fresh seasonal produce from the New England.

Open for Christmas Day lunch.

Susie Coventry, Maître d’

Quality Hotel Powerhouse, 31 Marsh Street, Armidale t 6772 7788 open Azka Restaurant – 7 days for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Azka Wine & Tapas Bar – daily from 11am – late.

Courthouse Coffee Relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the Armidale Mall at the Courthouse Coffee Shop, with the owners Chrissy and Peter Rologas. Gourmet range of cakes and slices, mouth-watering lunches and all-day breakfasts.

Look forward to seeing you all at Courthouse Coffee!

Chrissy, Peter and their team wish everyone a very merry Christmas and look forward to seeing you all in 2013.

Christmas Trading Hours Closed from Sunday the 23rd December 2012. Reopening Monday 7th January 2013.

Chrissy & Peter Rologas

160 Beardy Street Mall, Armidale t 6772 0099 open Mon-Fri: 7.30am to 4pm. Sat - 7.30am to 1.30pm. Open Market Sundays 7.30am to 1.00pm. new england focus 27

eat.

The Royal Hotel At the Royal Hotel, we work very hard designing menus that our locals and visitors will love. We have gone with a pub style menu with a few twists, offering many choices – all designed to enhance your dining experience.

We are also offer function and catering menus; if people are to eat in our function room or have an off site party, we can do both.

The Royal has an amazing bar, with a wine and spirit list to match. We stock a number of local wines, and the Royal has the highest end spirits in any bar in Armidale – great talking point, even if you don’t enjoy them.

W H E A T L E Y Chef Danou Killen-Cullen.

Marsh Street, Armidale t 6772 1444 w www.royalhotelarmidale.com.au open 7 days. Dinner: 6 - 9pm. Lunch: noon - 2pm.

From the Plumtree Company, Armidale’s newest café

H

ow long have you been in Armidale, and what brought you here? We moved here to Armidale almost 4 years ago. My husband, Roy, and I were looking for a change in lifestyle after spending 7 years in Newcastle and many years moving around the globe. We have 3 teenage boys and the pace, the open spaces and relaxed lifestyle suits us all down to the ground.

I love that I've met so many people since moving here, and I’m excited about a growing sense of community and people’s pride in their local area.

There are so many talented people here.

What prompted you to open your café ... and tell us about The Plum Tree Company?

Burger Fresh Opening special – receive a FREE drink with any purchase!

Our difference – create your own burger! The ability to choose and tailor your lifestyle to your particular tastes dominates today’s consumer environment. In the food industry, individual taste has proven a challenge for many.

Burger FreshTM provides what we believe to be the perfect answer to what today’s customer is so desperately seeking – the ability to purchase a fast, value meal that has all the ingredients they love.

By making our customer the creator, we are empowering them to design a meal tailored to their unique taste. From the perfect patty to the freshest of salads, our love in preparing your burger filters through to your taste buds. Importantly, it creates a healthier and safer working environment for all our franchisees, as it eliminates the risk of any injury through cooking with hot oil.

Shop 23 / 197 (Armidale Plaza) Beardy Street, Armidale. t 1800 237 374 open 7 days, 8am to 8pm.

28 new england focus.

explore our backyard.

We also have a selection of local items for sale and hope to expand this little retail corner.

Customers are free to use the Plum Tree Book Corner. Choose one of our selection of books then when you are finished, mark your name on one of our sticky bookmarks and mark your place, so that next time you’re in you can start where you left off. In the meantime, others can also enjoy reading the same book.

For the little helpers, we have little big chairs and pencils to decorate their own little bags. We have cookies just the right size for little hands.

Describe your menu ...

Everything on our menu is available to take away, or you s can enjoy our space and take ke ca e th of l al Not e a seat – there’s a lot to look are availabl ld so ce on d at, or you can just watch an Earlier this year, it everyday at’s Th . ne go ’re ey the world go by. The Plum th occurred to me that out are all ey th e us ca be Tree Company has lovely there was a bit of a ry fresh by some ve e ad m coffee and a large selection need for a little place to oks.” talented local co of teas, including herbal tea. relax, enjoy a coffee, and We also have some fresh tasting meet friends in the East Mall and beautiful looking handmade shopping centre. There was cordials. At the moment, there is Tangy nothing there to cater for all of those Lime, Moroccan Orange and Plum, but there shoppers. A coffee before shopping, are 15 fl avours in all, and we plan to work our a takeaway coffee to sip during the way through them all. grocery shop, a cake and coffee with a friend you

“

bumped into in every aisle.

I decided not just talk about it, but to do something about it. I love simplicity and set about designing a space that was very natural and peaceful. As we make the space our own, we have added lots of interesting and colourful local items – knitted tea cosies and crocheted fruit bowls, art works from young local artists, flowers from the garden. It looks different to anything else we have here in Armidale.

I have also displayed a big map of the New England for both visitors and locals. I really want to encourage everyone to get out there and

Our selection of sweets is fantastic – cherry pie, apple pie, brownies, mini syrup cakes, chocolate cake, mini brownie bites, biscuits, choc chip cookies, cheese cake, tea cake, butter cake, scones, banana bread, banana cake, carrot cake, hummingbird cake, friands, fudge, tarte tatin, slices and more. Not all of the cakes are available every day and once sold out, they’re gone. That’s because they are all made fresh by some very talented local cooks. We love sweets!

Plans for the future? Just keep the Plum Tree growing!

Thanks Michelle.

Relax in an English Rose Garden.

Glorious Spring and Summer.

It’s another glorious spring and summer at are a fabulous way to catch up with friends or family while sipping tea from pretty cups and Kentucky Roses; the garden has matured indulging in a selection of sandwiches, into an amazing tumble of fragrant desserts and cakes. They are the English roses, with lots of perfect birthday surprise for a potted roses in the nursery mum, sister or grandmother ve ha and the usual array of ill st We and a great idea for a small the very yummy treats and coffee igh H r la Christmas party. A proper pu po available in the café.

Teas, which are high tea is a relaxing treat, This year we also have a fabulous way especially when you have ith to catch up w . ” absolutely delicious homethe added bonus of a ily m fa or s friend made sausage rolls and frittata beautiful garden to wander as savoury options, and a through as well. selection of ‘raw’ cakes and treats Kentucky Roses Café, Nursery – made entirely of uncooked healthy and Garden is open every Sunday or by ingredients. These are perfect for the health appointment for groups and High Teas and is conscious who want to indulge – they taste well worth the drive out to the lovely village of amazing!

Kentucky. It is advisable to book, so a table can

“

We still have the very popular High Teas, which

be reserved for you if we are busy!

new england focus 29

30 new england focus.

Gourmet Goodies at DJ’s.

The Bottlo’s New Branding.

W have a wonderful array of gourmet goodies for your We Christmas party or Christmas gifts.

Warren Nelson, Manager of the Royal Hotel Bottle Shop, tells us about the recent new branding of the bottlo.

From cheeses, pate, salamis and a huge variety of savoury crackers to beautiful jams, chutneys, sauces and marinades.

Also in stock is gold strength gelatine leave, edible gold leaf and a variety of glace fruit. Stilton Pots will also be in stock for Christmas.

We are very excited to now be a part of Liquor Legends, as this means we can offer our customers even more value for their money with fantastic promotions and specials in addition to our everyday low pricing. These promotions will now run for a period of six weeks, which will give our patrons more time to take advantage of these great deals. Becoming a part of Liquor Legends will also allow us to expand our product base to ensure we can continue to meet the needs of our customers.

Our speciality range includes a large selection of gluten free grocery and organic groceries and fruit and vegetables.

We are able to do gift baskets for you using a combination of our gourmet lines and fruit and vegetables to order, or you put your own together and we will wrap it for you!

Throw that peeler away; we also stock peeled potato and pumpkin – don’t forget to pre-order though.

Currently taking orders for Aurelia’s Farm, Rum & Raisin and Guiness Fruit Cakes.

Remember – we take phone orders, and you can also place an order on our website: www.djfruitmarket.com.au Call in and see one of our friendly staff to help with your Christmas.

We also offer the convenience of a drive through bottle shop for quick and easy access and are more than happy to carry your purchase to your car. The staff in the bottle shop are very knowledgeable of the product range and strive to make all customers feel welcome and appreciated, as we believe in good, old fashioned country service.

I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all of our loyal customers for their ongoing support since I started working in the bottle shop. It is great to work in such a friendly, welcoming community, and I have made many great friends. Hope to see you all soon at the new Liquor Legends!

new england focus 31

focuseditorial

Gallery 126 10th Anniversary

Sculpture by Michael Jarochowicz.

CONTINUES!

O

ver 70 artworks adorn the walls of Gallery126, as well as 12 sculptural or 3D pieces on the plinths in the current exhibition, 10 Year Retrospective. The exhibition, a celebration of 10 years of art in the Gallery, was opened by Dr Jane Kreis, the Executive Officer of Arts North West, on Friday 9 November to a crowd of over 200 people.

Anne and Stuart Boggs, the Gallery owners, said that the opening night was standing room only, and they thank both the artists and the viewing public for their wonderful support both on the evening and for the past 10 years. Dr Jane Kreis said of the opening, "It was an absolute joy to see so many creative and dedicated people celebrating together in your 'place'."

Two walls of the Gallery feature 28 works on canvas or board. They are all very different styles and mediums, with the only common feature being that they each measure 10 by 10 inches, to coincide with the 10 year theme.

There are abstract pieces, one using Acrylic paint, felt and sand on canvas by Kerry Gulliver and a more geometric piece by Winifred Belmont, and two encaustic wax pieces, one by Vicki Taylor and the other by Hayley Ward. There

32 new england focus.

The other walls are filled with framed works on paper, again just as diverse in styles, mediums and genres. There are watercolours by artists such as James White, Sally Lloyd and Deb Goos and drawings on paper by Mike a n, tio bi The exhi of Riley, Hilary Pollock, Rowen n io at br le ce is a portrait of an unthe in t Matthews, Dominique Hopf ar of s ar ye 10 ed known soldier by Pam and Bob Roden.

Gallery, was open , the Boyd. Pictured here

by Dr Jane Kreis r of Arts More abstracted works Executive Office iday 9 is a tonal landscape include landscapes by Fay Fr North West, on owd of painting on canvas by Porter, Michelle Hungerford, cr a to r be Novem .”

Isabelle Devos, with a Robyn Jackson and Stuart over 200 people contemporary landscape Boggs.

by Rosalie Rigby and a more Photography is well represented, representational landscape work with digital prints on paper and canvas of Marjory Schmidt's. with works by Simon Scott, Christie RobertThe square format of the canvases impose son, John Fields, David Henderson and Anne a regularity in form, but because of the artists' Andrews. individual approach, they retain a uniqueness Both flora and fauna subjects feature in art– from Rowena Post's abstraction through to works by David Mackay, Nadia Waters and Pierette Romandi. Also, Nicola Oram's Blue Wrens, Arthur Chaffey's suggested landscape, to Kerry Wilson's rock structures and Pam Black's moodi- pictured here with a more abstract interpretation of Place de la Bastille by Frank Howard, ness.

“

Soldier Crabs by Shirley Caldwell, a paper cut by Brigitte Stoddart, Poppies by Lou Abrahams and Eastern Spinebills by Nola Sindel.

Prints haven't been forgotten either. There is a strong reduction Lino print by Anna Curtis, etchings by Amanda Donohue and Anne Irvine and an exquisite collograph with chin colle by Lin Quaife.

In between making sushi, Kiyo and Kumi Hashimoto have made a ceramic piece each to be included. Gerhard Koertner has carved this snake (pictured), from a piece of silky oak, which manages to mimic the scales of the skin.

More quirky pieces using found objects by Gabrielle McGrath, Margarete Ogonowski and Tony Sevil bring a little light relief.

focusinterview.

ARMI

DALE

LEAG

UE

Emily Stocker, AKA Busty Gutz, the P resident of the Armid ale Roll e r D e r b y Le a g ue (TAR D L) ...

H

ow and why did the Armidale Roller Derby League begin?

Well first of all, did you know that roller derby is the fastest growing sport in the country? I suspect that women in the area had been secretly dreaming of becoming derby divas for quite a while. I’d been a wannabe for years and had resigned my dreams to the impossible. The very day that Wayne reopened the rink at the Sport and Rec Centre, there were a couple of women getting a roll on! A few of the girls who started showing up regularly got together and realised that now the rink was open, there was nothing stopping us from making a roller derby league in Armidale a reality.

How does one learn to do this sport?

One does not simply learn the sport of derby … one is generally consumed by passion for the sport of roller derby! A lot of people who become involved in roller derby find they’re unable to think about anything else – like doing the shopping or feeding the cat! In fact, a lot of husbands of women who play derby end up as what’s known as ‘derby widows’. So much so, that they end up becoming involved in the sport anyway they can, just to see their wives occasionally!

But seriously, before you can ‘bout’ (compete), you need to achieve a certain skill level. So what we are developing now is our training levels.

Beginner skaters join a level known as Fresh Meat, then level 2, level 3 etc. until skaters can meet the minimum skill level required for bouting or competing. What we offer currently is a Fresh Meat training session on Monday nights at 6 - 8pm (with a social skate from 5 - 6pm), a level 2 group on Wednesday nights at 6 - 8pm (also with a social skate from 5 - 6pm) and an all in league session Saturday 11 - 1pm.

Who plays roller derby?

This is one of the awesome things about

derby – we have students and teachers, doctors and lawyers, musicians and mums. Derby is for big women, little women, long lassies and short sheilas. It’s so inclusive! The only limit is that you must be at least 18 to join, because it is a contact sport. Part of the attraction for some is the get up. The typical derby garb might involve fishnet stockings, stripy knee high socks, some glitz and loads of attitude. All this, while getting about on skates! What more could you want!

Another one of the great things about derby is the names. I’ll give you a few examples. In our Armidale League, we have HESSterical Fury, Mary Floggins, Betty da Bruiser, and Kathital Punishment, to name a few. We now have a few fellas skating with us who aim to become referees, including: Ref Leppard, the Ref Prince of Hell Yeah and Bogan Josh.

Describe the 'personal benefits' you gain from this sport?

The benefits are really varied for different people. Apart from the obvious health and fitness benefits – which are huge, there is a real sense of community in the derby world. No matter where you are in the world, if you meet a fellow derby skater, there is an instant bond.

One of the things I get really excited by is the growing sense of empowerment for many of our skaters.

We hear that Wayne from Armidale Sport & Recreation Centre is your number one fan?

Yeah, he’s a bit of all right, that Wayne. He really looks after us so well – including supplying us with his delicious pizzas! We really could not have achieved what we have without his support. Now all we need to do is get him out on the rink in skates and fishnets! Ha! If you’d like more information, you can email us: armidalerollerderby@rocketmail.com or find our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ TheArmidaleRollerDerbyLeague or just ask our number one fan, Wayne, at the Sport and Rec Centre.

new england focus 33

DECEMBER 2012

35(6%<7(5,$1 /$',(6¡ &2//(*(

WITH TERRI

$50,'$/(

/ ĹľÇ&#x2021; W> <Ĺ?ĹśÄ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ĺś Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; Ç&#x2021;ŽƾĆ&#x152; ĹŻĹ?ĆŠĹŻÄ&#x17E; Ĺ?Ĺ?Ć&#x152;ĹŻ Ç Ĺ?ĹŻĹŻ Ć&#x161;ŽŽÍ&#x160; Ĺ˝Í&#x160; 'Ĺ?Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E; Ç&#x2021;ŽƾĆ&#x152; Ä&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĆľĹ?Ĺ&#x161;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ç&#x2021; Ç&#x2021; Ä?Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ć&#x161; Ć?Ć&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ć&#x161; Ĺ?Ĺś ĹŻĹ?ĨÄ&#x17E; Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ĺ?Ĺ&#x161;Ć&#x161; Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E; Ç Ĺ?Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161; ĆľĆ? Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161; W> Ć&#x152;ĹľĹ?Ä&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Í&#x2DC; &Ĺ?ĹśÄ&#x161; ŽƾĆ&#x161; Ç Ĺ&#x161;Ç&#x2021; Ç&#x2021;ŽƾĆ&#x152; Ä&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĆľĹ?Ĺ&#x161;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; Ç Ĺ?ĹŻĹŻ W> Ć&#x152;ĹľĹ?Ä&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Í&#x2DC; tÄ&#x17E; ůŽŽŏ ĨŽĆ&#x152;Ç Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x161; Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ć&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻĹŹĹ?ĹśĹ? Ç Ĺ?Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161; Ç&#x2021;Žƾ Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝Ä&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ç&#x2021;Í&#x2DC; Ä&#x161;ĆľÄ?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x;ĹśĹ? Ć?ĆľÄ?Ä?Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ć?Ĩƾů Ç Ĺ˝ĹľÄ&#x17E;Ĺś Ç Ç Ç Í&#x2DC;Ć&#x2030;ĹŻÄ?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;ĹľĹ?Ä&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Í&#x2DC;ĹśĆ?Ç Í&#x2DC;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161;ĆľÍ&#x2DC;Ä&#x201A;Ćľ ĎŹĎŽ ϲϳϳϏ ϭϳώϳ

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Relationships may bring some unexpected surprises. Keep the nurturing magic of your relationship active this month. A holiday may soon be on the agenda. New friends and work colleagues are also likely to be a major influence over the next few weeks.

Rose quartz is a loving, nurturing crystal encouraging confidence.

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Congratulations you are about to receive a beautiful reward. Your faith is one of your strongest gifts, and even though you have been through rough times, you were still able to be true to yourself and remained yourself. You may now be showing others how to do the same.

Turquoise enables us to receive our rewards effortlessly.

PISCES. February 20 - March 20

WĹ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć? Ä?ŽƾĆ&#x152;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ç&#x2021; ŽĨ ^Ĺ?žŽŜ ^Ä?ŽƊ WĹ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝Ĺ?Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x2030;Ĺ&#x161;Ç&#x2021;

You may have been feeling left out or abandoned lately. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t despair, you were just being given a perfect time out time to regather your energy and personal power. Work opportunities will soon take you on a new journey. Enjoy!

Ruby is very effective for personal power.

ARIES. March 21 - April 20

now l o r n E 013 2 r o f

34 new england focus.

If life still isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t satisfying you, perhaps your focus is a little too material. Try connecting with the essence of your childhood joy, and allow new adventure into your life. Your intellect will soon be satisfied, as study is a likely influence soon.

Citrine brings an abundance of creative energy.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

More adventure is on the horizon this year. A trip overseas is likely to occur soon, bringing further passion into your life. Avoid being anxious about money, because you will manifest the perfect amount needed, as you usually do anyway.

Citrine carried in the wallet is said to attract an abundance of wealth.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

New beginnings surround you at the moment. Dreaming of birth often represents new beginnings too so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be worried if you have dreamt these themes. This year is likely to host a myriad of activities for your social calendar. New acquaintances are entering the picture so enjoy their company.

Mangano Calcite is wonderful for removing potential negative thought patterns, and eliminating self- sabotage.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23 Ju

You have recently triumphed over personal challenges and may have begun to recognise new strengths. Now just bring back your laughter and lighten up your energy. New romance, fun and adventure can be expected. Make a wish and see what happens. Rose quartz brings out our passion for living and our joy.

LEO. July 24 - August 23

You are about to tumble into â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the adventure of a life-timeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Enjoy your talents and the wonder of developing them as this year will present many opportunities to explore them through. Reconnect through your inner child with a personal relationship and enjoy some playful energy.

Aqua Marine gives us enormous self courage to confidently walk through any situation.

Your feelings of distance from your situation will not last much longer, as your tolerance is returning to you. Be patient and kind to yourself, as you are so often there for everyone else and rarely for yourself. In order to survive, you needed your space to recover from the demands placed on you.

Ruby protects us from our own worst enemy (ourselves). Stops fear based thoughts and insecurities playing with us.

LIBRA. September 24 - October 23

Congratulations; you have created the way for your success through letting go of anxiety and bringing forth self confidence. Now rehash what is important to you and why it is, to attract even more reward. Real estate dealings should prove very rewarding.

Orange Calcite heals, restores and rejuvenates the mind, body and spirit.

SCORPIO. October 24 - November 22

Stand strong in your own light, someone close to you is trying to grow through their weaknesses, and their insecurities are playing with them.

They are learning by your example, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give up. Remember we all react to truths we arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t prepared for. Blue lace agate lightens the mind and clears thoughts.

SAGATTARIUS. November 23 - December 21

Total change can be expected to your binding circumstance, as your wish has been heard. Validate one talent today by using it, and watch the wonderful difference this makes to your attitudes.

Try a little goal setting.

Carnelian is a wonderful motivating crystal.

focuseditorial

icing on the cake with Susie Dunn

Icing on

cake Unwrapping some thoughts over Christmas …

T

he often quoted Chinese curse right note for students should carve out their “May you live in interesting times” own distinct futures. seems true more than ever.

It is up to us to look outside our immediate The ‘global world’ is, for the first pool and assess the options and opportunities time, inescapable. that differentiate us.

If we are truthful, the tsunami of technology The Head of our UNE School of Rural which unfolds on itself continuously can leave Medicine, Professor Peter McKeown, has put us uncertain, out-dated and breathless. Those forward a lateral thinking possibility which who see it as a giant game can be happy. is worth brain-storming with his idea of a Those who look as well at the big picture in university hospital. the real, non virtual world can often be afraid.

As UNE Chancellor Richard Torbay is fond of There seems no real illusion of security saying, let’s “think outside the square” on this any more – certainly for those with jobs and one. mortgages watching changing national and If there was a university hospital of international events. excellence, teaching post-graduate as well as And we can feel left with little choice but to graduate students, would this do more to solve surf erratically in huge and potentially stormy problems for both the university, Armidale and seas. its health service than most suggestions Now – let’s just wait a minute! so far? Or is the idea counterWe can adapt and plan – that’s productive? Or impossible? what the rest of the world Obviously it would involve n ca gs has to do. Our plans may some highly creative lateral in Th in and do happen not always come off, but it thinking as far as financing ng this fast changi doesn’t mean that many can’t is concerned, but should we world, where 23 be n be achievable with energy think if we can make a case ca year olds s. re ai on and application. And of somewhere?

Things can and lli bi course, there is always random do happen in this fast changing luck! world, where 23-year olds can be What is really needed is a state billionaires. of mind which is both informed and A group has just set up Opera New above all, positive ... willing to learn, flexible, England. They’ve got big ideas and big plans to recognising the inevitability of change and match. I wonder if they will present Australian having the ability to learn to use it sensibly. operas? They might just be on to something.

In our regional city we have so many Their first production is in January – yes, they’re advantages over the big metropolitan cities. out there, and this one is happening.

There, as you waste time negotiating clogged It’s that quirky human element that can alter traffic, it can all feel too enormous and too real events in real time. hard to struggle with a big picture.

One of the warmest and vividly joyous One of the big issues that people here talk experiences I’ve had this year was at “a couple about, often in circles, is the future of the of waltzes in the middle of the room” at the university and its impact on the town.

Showground, telling stories from Silver City in It seems obvious we have to both recognise the ‘60s. It was music, laughter and sadness the trends and use them to our advantage. together for generations of both performers The idea that universities will exist through and audience. our mobile phones, as Mr. Google was quoted Game-changers can present themselves – as saying the other day, may happen. win some, lose some. Let’s unwrap some more But good universities which offer intelligent of them! hands-on options on campus and have Seasonal greetings to all.

Susie Dunn. passionately marketed models that strike the new england focus 35

focuseditorial.

Left. Janelle at Cu Chi Tunnels Middle. Paul gives Vietnam the thumbs up Below. Amanda meets the Masai

ADVENTURE Paul and Leigh have just returned from Vietnam and absolutely fell in love! Amazing people, beautiful scenery and fantastic food – what more could you ask for?

A

t Harvey World Travel, we will help you plan the perfect trip to Asia or anywhere else! And what could be more perfect than a fully inclusive Scenic Tours 5 Star Luxury tour.

Scenic Tours has just launched their Asia program for 2013/2014, travelling to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Burma, China and Japan. There are a number of fantastic new itineraries, including a 19 Day Spotlight on South East Asia which incorporates three nights in major South East Asia destinations including Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. Also new for 2013 are ‘combo’ tours, which mix China and Vietnam tours and China and Japan tours.

A highlight of a Scenic Tours South East Asia journey is a 7 night boutique cruise along the Mekong River from Saigon to Siem Reap on board the Jahan, the most luxurious vessel on the Mekong. The 26 luxurious staterooms offer floor to ceiling panoramic glass doors leading

to a private balcony, and guests can relax at the rooftop pool and bar, enjoy Tai Chi on the Sun Deck, take a Vietnamese and Khmer cooking class, or watch a traditional dance performance, all while floating past beautiful villages, paddy fields, canals and islands.

Experience the Jahan on the 31 day Grand Indochina & Mekong River Cruise. This trip includes a 2 night cruise on Halong Bay, beautiful Hoi An, the 7 night cruise and also visits Vientiane and Luang Prabang, which many people say is the most beautiful city in Asia.

Scenic Tours are currently offering FREE FLIGHTS for the second person travelling on selected Asia tours.

EARLYBIRD OFFERS OUT NOW

24 day Grand African Safari

* to $1,400 SAVE up

per couple

14,245 pp twin share

31 day Grand Indochina & Mekong River Cruise

PARTNER FLY FREE* including taxes

*

Land $ only from

state-of-the-art open top vehicles to ensure face-to-face wildlife encounters.

Save up to $1600 per couple by booking your Scenic Tours Africa adventure with Harvey World Travel by 31 December.

On a Scenic Tour you won’t constantly have your hand in your pocket, as the tour price includes all accommodation, most meals, activities, events and entertainment, airport transfers, tipping and gratuities. It makes budgeting so much easier!

We truly believe that money can buy happiness when it is spent on amazing experiences and creating lifelong memories.

Put yourself in the picture by calling Harvey World Travel, Armidale, and let our experienced consultants help you plan your experience to Asia, Africa or wherever else in the world you’ve dreamed of travelling to.

WORLDWIDE DESTINATIONS Amazing Vietnam

Exotic Africa EARLYBIRD OFFERS OUT NOW

Africa is another amazing destination destination, boas boasting vast expanses, incredible wildlife and unique cultures. As a guest of Scenic Tours, you will witness wildebeest migrate across the Masai Mara and go on safari to spot the ‘Big Five’ in Kruger National Park. You will also see the flamingos on Lake Nakuru, experience sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro and discover Victoria Falls.

Scenic itineraries travel to South Africa, Zambia, Kenya and Tanzania, and new for 2013 is extended touring to Botswana. Scenic Tours guests will meet the Masai and dine under the stars at an ethnic boma dinner. Choose from Scenic FreeChoice activities, such as whale watching, walking safaris and an African cooking class – all at no extra cost!

Scenic Tours operates small group tours.

There is unrivalled access to natural marvels, with exclusive early access to game parks and

From

SZK

11,770*pp twin share

$

Hanoi

KENYA

Lake Nakuru National Park 1

ZAMBIA

Livingstone Chobe National Park

Victoria 3 Falls

Rest 3

Blyde River Canyon

TANZANIA

3 2

1 Aberdare National Park

Luang Prabang

1 Nairobi

Ngorongoro National Park 2

BOTSWANA Pilgrim’s

Johannesburg

Masai Mara National Reserve 3

1

2 Amboseli National Park

Halong Bay Cruise

3

Vientiane

1 Tarangire National Park

2

2

LAOS

Pakse

Hue Danang 2

Hoi An

2

3 Thornybush Game Reserve Pretoria

Siem Reap

3

Kampong Cham

SOUTH AFRICA

Champasak CAMBODIA

7

Cape Point

VIETNAM

Mekong River

Phnom Penh Chau Doc Cai Be

3 Cape Town

ENJOY: Game drives on private concession • Three nights in Kruger National Park DISCOVER: Masai culture • Victoria Falls • Chobe National Park, Botswana • Cape Winelands EXPERIENCE: Dining under the stars at Thornybush Game Reserve • Lake Nakuru Orphanage

VMCL

1

2 Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta

ENJOY: Three day Halong Bay cruise • touring the Cu Chi Tunnels with a veteran guide DISCOVER: The spectacular temples of Angkor Wat • Vientiane’s charm on a sightseeing tour EXPERIENCE: Lunch at KOTO Restaurant in Hanoi • The Baci ceremony • Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Call Harvey World Travel Armidale Shop 10 Centro Shopping Centre, Armidale NSW 2350

02 6772 1177

*Conditions apply. Price based on per person twin share in AUD ex SYD, are strictly limited and subject to availability on specific dates until sold out. For new bookings only and not in conjunction with any other offers including group deals. Maps or other route depictions are intended as an indication only and are subject to change. Surcharge may apply on credit card transactions. Taxes and charges are subject to change without notice. Africa: International & internal Airfares and taxes are additional. Flight from Masai Mara National Reserve to Nairobi is included in the tour price. A $1000pp non-refundable deposit due within 7 days of booking. Earlybird discount of $1400 per couple is included in the advertised price. Offer available until 31 December 2012 or until sold out. Vietnam: Partner Fly Free including taxes of up to $550 per person.

Based on Singapore Airlines Economy Q Class. Flight offers are subject to availability of airline booking class or until sold out. If appropriate airline booking class sells out a surcharge will apply. A surcharge applies from all other ports. Flights must be booked through Scenic Tours. Once issued, air tickets are subject to amendment and cancellation fees as established by the applicable airline. Scenic Tours reserve the right to ticket the booking upon receipt of deposit. Should specified airlines not be available for any reason Scenic Tours reserves the right to ticket flights on a substitute airline. An additional, non-refundable deposit of $3500 per person as specified is required within 7 days of booking and tour information. Offers available until 31 March 2013 unless sold out. Prices based on the following departure dates. SZK: 15 September 2013, VMCL: 2 June 2013. Prices correct as of 15 November 2012. For full terms and conditions refer to brochure and Earlybird flyers. Scenic Tours ABN 85 002 715 602 Lic. No 2TA 002 633. QUOTE CODE: SNPR673

36 new england focus.

focuseditorial.

Ageing Gracefully

by Dr. Chandran Arianayagam Time takes its toll on the human body in different ways, and skin is no exception. In fact, the effects of excessive exposure of fair skin to the harsh Australian sun compounds the effects of ageing.

Initially, the changes are noted on the surface as blotchy, pigmented marks and fine blood vessels on the face. Later, skin begins to thin and sag due to collagen in the dermis (deeper part of skin) losing substance and the thinning of the fat layer beneath the skin.

Facial Rejuvenation is now well established, using skincare and protection, as well as lasers and surgical methods as the basic building blocks.

Skincare is a must and refers to adequate moisturising of skin and avoidance of the use of drying agents, including some soaps and cosmetics. Skin protection is the use of suitable clothes and sunblocks and the avoidance of overexposure to the sun.

‘PhotoThermoLysis’ (photo+light/thermal=heat/ lysis=destroy) is the principle by which lasers work to rejuvenate skin. Both ‘skin peeling’ and ‘non skin peeling’ methods are available, and PhotoThermoLysis produces new collagen, with a resultant increase in skin tone (firmness) and a decrease in the sagging of skin. In addition, the skin looks and feels better too.

‘Dermal fillers’ are injections used to place synthetic collagen in the dermis and are appropriate for softening facial lines and grooves; in effect, this

temporarily reproduces the effects of the laser treatment.

Surgical methods of facial rejuvenation have become more sophisticated over the years, with the emphasis more on restoration rather than removal and/or tightening. In a facelift operation, where previously skin removal and tightening were the mainstays, now there is much less removal and much more restoration of tissues to the original site, reducing the effects of sagging and stretch.

Expert Management of Skin Cancers Assessment of skin condition Total body check Appropriate treatment including: Carbon Dioxide Ablation Excisional Surgery (Including with Frozen Section Control)

new england focus 37

focus

locals 4 locals feature.

38 new england focus.

focus

locals 4 locals feature.

Locals 4 Locals is raising public awareness of the benefits of shopping locally. Show support for your local community, by supporting your local businesses, Locals 4 Locals! So far, Locals 4 Locals have almost 40 members.

The following pages show a broad cross-section of businesses involved so far. The more businesses involved, the better we can support and educate each other and the community. In many cases, people don't even know that a local supplier exists or that their prices are competitive. Many people have asked which businesses are involved, and here they are. Keep an eye on the website to see an up-to-date list of businesses involved, as it's increasing all the time. If you’re a local business

SportsPower Armidale.

At Armidale Sportspower, we take special pride in offering the local community a first-class service in sport-related clothing, equipment and footwear.

Paul and his team are themselves active in sport and are able to offer informed advice on a great range of sporting needs. If you like a local service which supports the community, and also want the benefits of global buying power, Armidale Sportspower is the place to come. ...........................................................

interested in joining Locals 4 Locals, more information and a form for

Phone 6772 4569 Address 116 Dangar St, Armidale

membership can be found on the website: www.locals4locals.com.au

Jacksons Quality Meats.

Legal Minds.

Coming into the Xmas period, I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all the people I work with, both at O’dell Street and our Beardy Street Shop. I would like to thank the businessess and customers who have given us great support throughout the year, and most importantly, my family. To my wife and children, a big thank you for what we’ve achieved this year. Hope everybody has a great and safe Xmas and New Year. .................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Legal Minds team provides professional legal advice and support in relation to family law, business, corporate services, conveyancing, environment, local government, insurance matters, wills and estate planning and most areas of litigation. In addition to general areas of law, the company also provides qualified migration services and access to our Notary Public for international transactions. So talk to us. You’ll be inspired!

Phone 6772 9400.

Address 127 O’Dell Street, Armidale.

Phone 1300 642 166.

Address 157 Beardy Street (Mall).

Armidale Toys.

Armidale Toys for toys that will EXCITE, INSPIRE and DELIGHT children of all ages this Christmas! We offer FREE wrapping, FREE delivery and FREE expert advice.

Our trained teachers can help find something to help develop and stimulate all children over the holiday time. The Christmas window is finished and ready to delight everyone ... hope you like pink! Open every Sunday 'til Christmas from 9am to 1pm. .................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone 6772 6261.

Address 4/109 Dangar Street.

Hannons Mountview Pharmacy.

Hardman Automotive.

Phone 6772 8411.

Address 101 Marsh st, Armidale.

The NISSAN RANGE covers all your motoring needs, from small sedans to serious 4WDs. New models include the Almera, Pulsar, Pathfinder and Patrol.

Our HONDA vehicles are affordable and innovative, including the new Civic hatch and re-designed CRV in both 2WD and 4WD. All our vehicles are supported by a professional sales team, qualified technicians and a genuine after sales commitment.

Hutchison & Harlow Real Estate.

At Hannon's Mount View Pharmacy, there is not a week go by without someone asking for a prize, gift voucher or donation for a fundraiser, sports night or charity function. We value the support we get from the Armidale Community, and that is why we try to give a lot back. .................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Choosing a real estate agent who can share your personal dream is important. We have built our business on a reputation for caring about people’s needs and dreams. We have a proven track record as specialist negotiators who understand the local market. H&H proudly support the local community through sponsorships and donations. ...........................................................

Phone 6772 7557.

Address Rockvale Road, Armidale.

Peter Georkas 0408 668 907.

Michael Clark 0488 255 720.

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Black Dot Music.

Black Dot Music has been servicing the musical needs of the New England and northwest for over 25 years. Our aim is to provide quality, well priced instruments to anyone looking to enhance their lives through music. We believe the process of selecting your instrument should be informative and fun.

Ascent Print Pack Post.

There is no way of measuring how great music makes you feel. Whether listening or playing, we know it adds value to our lives. Why not start today? ................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...............................

Phone 6772 6325.

Address 111 Dangar St, Armidale.

Phone 6774 8977.

Address 13 Myrtle Drive, Armidale.

Ascent Print Pack Post is a division of The Ascent Group, your local community based organisation providing services to the community since 1955. We specialise in cost effective printing, mailing and packaging services, so whether it’s business cards, newsletters, mail outs, posters, banners or small parts assembly, call us for a quote. Also, secure document destruction and office paper recycling.

Hunts Carpets & Blinds.

Armidale Bicycle Centre.

Owned and operated by The Bullen family for 38 years, now into the third generation of family members who have represented at the highest level nationally and internationally. We pride ourselves on the most up to date sales, service and repairs of everything to do with cycling – all products and service is personally guaranteed and all bicycles are fully assembled and . . . . . . .......................................................... covered by warranty. Our commitment Phone 6772 3718. to Armidale is second to none, and we Address 2/244 Beardy Street, Armidale. are proud to support Locals 4 Locals

Hunts Carpets and Blinds have been servicing the Armidale district for 28 years. Ken and Lisa Whitty have owned the shop now for 18 months. The personalised service, quality product and excellent workmanship is something that Ken and Lisa pride themselves on. Come in and wander through our extensive display of samples. Hunts Carpets can organise a free, no obligation measure and quote at your convenience. ...........................................................

Phone 6772 6766.

Address 217 Mann Street, Armidale.

TalkM landscapes.

Does your garden need some tender loving care with a professional touch?

Call Mick Dubber for restoration and maintenance of your existing garden or a new garden design.

• Lawn mowing, tree and hedge pruning • Design and construction of ponds, waterfalls and features • Weed control/spraying • Fully insured – competitive rates – prompt and efficient service. ................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mob. 0450 605 056.

Phone 6772 2685.

Web www.talkmlandscapes.com.au

Service, Value and Expertise. You don’t need to look any further. From the home computer to the corporate network, we can sell, fix, upgrade, install and optimise almost anything related to ‘IT’, ‘Print’ and POS. We are local dealers for SHARP and IDEALPOS. Call in and see us for old fashioned service. ...........................................................

Phone 6771 4072.

Address Shop 4-5, 108 Beardy St Armidale.

Email armidale@csteam.com.au

Moxons Bakery.

Easy As Coffee.

Our doors have been open in Armidale for 32 years, and we have grown from one small bakery to a large specialty built bakery and three shop fronts. Our bakers have also won awards at state and national levels. We contribute to local netball, north and south soccer teams, the Rams and cricket teams on a regular basis. We do this as our way of thanking our consumers. After all, it’s our consumers that make our business a success. Without our consumers, we wouldn’t have such a successful business. ................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Great tasting coffee ~ friendly service ~ Drive Thru convenience.

Phone 6771 2232.

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Computer Support Team.

We offer more than just coffee, with a range of hot and cold food to go such as delicious gourmet pies, toasted sandwiches or foccacias, fresh salad rolls and wraps, and tempting sweets.

Trading 6.30am - 3pm weekdays and 7.30am 12.30pm Saturdays. Drive Thru access from 97 Naughton Avenue. ...........................................................

Phone 6772 0666.

Address 97 Rusden Street.

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Armidale Wholesale Fruit Market. ket.t Armidale’s local green grocer; you’d be surprised. We not only have the best range of fruit and vegetables, but also a huge range of dried fruits and nuts, smoked trout, fresh seafood on Thursdays, bread, milk, condiments, juices, fresh meat, free range eggs.

With plenty of parking at the door and free home delivery within the town boundary. Having a function?

We also do bulk discounts. We are convenient and WE’RE LOCAL. ‘FLY INTO THE FRUITY’ TODAY; you’ll be surprised. ..................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone 6772 5970.

Address 168 Rusden St, Armidale.

Digital Colour Australia.

Locally owned and operated business for over 25 years, providing a full range of digital multifunction products for the home office through to professional production printing. Rachel heads up our product support locally, has a wealth of product knowledge and specialises in analyzing individual businesses’ needs and providing the best products available. Her unique approach gives our customers the most cost effective Phone 6772 4033.

Address 2B 215 Mann Street, Armidale. solutions on the market today.

MyCar Sound & Communications.

Daily Ritual.

Daily Ritual is your one stop shop for all your Christmas needs. From tea, coffee and Christmas puddings, to beautiful gift ideas for everyone in the family, or even finding that gift for that person who has everything, we have you covered. Enjoy a lovely shopping experience with us.

Phone 6772 7545.

Address 113 Jessie Street Armidale.

Open MON – FRI, 8am - 5pm.

SAT – 8.30am - 12.30pm.

Brother’s Andrew and Mark Korsch are Armidale locals who commenced business in October 2003. MyCar is your one stop shop for communications, car audio and in-car mobile phone hands free kits. They pride themselves on quality products at reasonable prices.

New road rules have been introduced in NSW in regard to mobile phone use; talk to MyCar about a mobile phone hands free or Bluetooth car kit, to save a hefty fine and 3 demerit points! ...........................................................

Phone 6771 2743.

Address Shop 2/11 Marsh St, Armidale.

Web www.mycarsound.com.au

Concepts of Armidale.

Graz Ag.

. . . . . . . . . . .................... ................................

Phone 6770 3400.

Address 12 Ampol St, Armidale.

is an agricultural and rural merchandise distribution business providing products and services to the New England district. Products include: animal health, drenches, vaccines, backliners and management programs, fencing materials, pasture seed, with full agronomy and support, fertiliser supply and delivery, including soil testing and interpretation.

Providing products and services to the New England district.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................

Phone 6771 1877.

Address 172 Beardy Street, Armidale.

Concepts of Armidale really is a one stop shop for all your Christmas shopping.

Our beautiful shop is like a mini department store, with something for everyone on your Christmas list. From newborns to Nan and Pop and everyone in between, we will have something to suit. Come and experience what this great locally owned business can offer.

Railway Hotel Tavern.

Servies.

The Servies has been a part of the Armidale community for almost 60 years. We focus on friendly service, quality products and greater returns back to the community in members’ benefits, sponsorships and donations. We are a part of your community because of ‘The Locals’, which is why we support Locals 4 Locals. .................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone 6776 0800.

Address 137 Dumaresq St, Armidale.

Come in to Armidale’s only ‘downunder cellars’.

Check out the huge variety of weekly specials.

Full pubtab facilities, with Sky Channel coverage. Trax at the Railway offers dining seven days a week.

The Railway Hotel tavern in West Armidale has all this to offer and easy parking facilities. Don’t battle traffic and crowds to have lunch or enjoy that bottle of wine.

Come and join the others who have discovered the Railway Hotel tavern, Trax restaurant and what it can offer you. ...........................................................

Phone 6772 3109.

Address 222 Rusden Street, Armidale.

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Gym Ridz Personal Training. g Here at Gym Ridz personal training we fully believe in and support everything that the Locals 4 locals campaign stands for. We are proud to be involved in this great town. Our mission statement is ‘to guide people towards a healthy, balanced and better lifestyle’, and we believe that this is possible through being an active supporter of the Armidale business, charities and community groups. ................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone 6772 6798.

Email info@gymridz.com.au Web www.gymridz.com.au

Wards Auto Supplies.

Window Tinting – automotive, house and office comes with a liftetime warranty. s Painting – your one stop shop for all your painting needs. Industrial, automotive and house paint.

WINDSCREENS, SIDE AND REAR GLASS, CHIP REPAIRS. Authorised O’Brien dealer and all insurance companies. ................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone 6772 7244.

Address 118 Taylor Street, Armidale.

Killen’s Smash Repairs.

Killen’s Smash Repairs has been established in Armidale since 1970. Currently employing 19 people, we are proud to support the Locals 4 Locals campaign. Killen’s is one of country NSW’s best equipped workshops and pride themselves on their commitement to post trade training and development, to ensure we can repair the most modern vehicles to the current standards. ...........................................................

Phone 6772 9044.

Address 246 Mann Street, Armidale.

Westend Sound.

Westend sound was established in 1986 and continues to supply and fit a huge range of equipment to cars, trucks, boats and virtually anything else you can think of.

We stock a huge range of audio products from CD, DVD and multimedia players and speakers through to the largest range of replacement car antennas in the New England. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .............................................................................

Phone 6772 6099.

Address 13 Wright Place, Armidale.

The Electric Company.

Armidale City Signs.

Armidale City Signs has been supplying quality signage products and services to the public since 2002. During this time, we have developed a complete display solution for our clients that ranges from design, large format printing, print finishing, custom built displays and signage. ................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone 6772 2444.

Address 121 Rusden St, Armidale.

The Armidale Electric Company Pty Ltd began operations in Armidale 1989 and has been successful in the largest to the smallest projects.

We continue to do so and are proud to support local business and local employment. For that friendly reliable local service, call ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .............................................................................

Phone 6771 1000.

Email admin@armidaleelectricco.com.au

Webcessity.

Rossbuild Homes and Construction.

Ross Burgess started this company in 1996. Rossbuild build homes from the small range to a higher end.

Rossbuild is very proud to be a part of Locals 4 Locals. . . . . .............................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone 6771 3232.

Address 6/280 Mann Street, Armidale.

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We offer a range of website solutions for any size business. Webcessity specialises in online shops and selfmanaged websites, utilising our latest product – Sqimple!

Save time and money ... experience the benefits of local support, superior service and great prices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .............................................................................

Phone 6772 4444.

Web www.webcessity.com.au

Thinking Criminal Law with Elizabeth Stahlut, Solicitor

THINKING

Legal

CRIMINAL LAW

It’s that time of year again ....’tis the season to be jolly. However, there is nothing jolly about being ‘pulled over’ by the police for being a drunk driver or suffering the consequences of getting into a fight after having had that one drink too many. egrettably, the Christmas season is too often a peak time for road accidents, conflicts, and other problems caused by stress and alcohol, so it is worthwhile considering the risks of the season as well as its pleasures ... and how those risks can be reduced.

R

and being affected by alcohol at the time of committing any criminal offence does not qualify as a defence, even if you don’t remember anything that happened, the next day.

At this time of year, many people will be driving to their holiday destinations. The Christmas/New Year period is also when ‘double demerit’ points apply – this means if you are caught breaking the road rules, you will likely incur twice as many demerit points as you would otherwise – and for some offences (e.g. exceeding the speed limit by 45km or more), this is enough to lose your licence. If you incur more than 12 demerit points, your licence can be suspended by the Roads and Maritime Services (formerly known as the RTA). While it may be possible to go the Local Court within 28 days to appeal a suspension of your licence, it’s much better not to lose it in the first place and drive sensibly.

Insanity or self-defence are sometimes relied on, to defend a criminal charge. One wonders if the crimes of Jack the Ripper could be explained by insanity ... was he mad or just bad? To date, the identity of Jack the Ripper remains uncertain and we can only speculate on his real motives or state of mind. If he was drunk, it would certainly not be a satisfactory defence.

If you have a ‘P’ licence, you should not drink at all, if you are driving. The blood alcohol limit is zero. If you have an unrestricted driver’s licence, the limit is still 0.05. One can go to the Roads and Maritime Services website and find out how many drinks it takes before you reach that limit, however this is only a guide – not all drinks are standard and different people may reach the limit on fewer drinks, depending on their build, sex, etc.

The penalties for ‘drink driving’ can be severe – involving up to 2 years’ gaol, fine of $5,500 and disqualification from driving for up to 5 years. In most cases, if you’re ‘pulled over’ for drink driving, there is generally little option but to plead guilty in court. It is simply not worth the risk. If you are going to drink, it is best not to drive at all.

If you go to a pub or a party, please remember that being drunk is not an accepted or acceptable excuse for bad behaviour. You are still expected to take responsibility for your actions

No matter how irritating and insulting people can be at parties and in pubs, provocation is also not a defence. Provocation may be taken into account by the court as a mitigating factor when considering a penalty for certain offences, such as assault.

Many of you would have made your own opinion at the Armidale Local Court on 18 November when these and other issues were explored as part of a hypothetical inquest.

The Touching Fingers with Jack the Ripper exhibition, inspired by the dynamic Susie Dunn, researched and presented by Margaret Bain and Jack Bedson, and proudly hosted by Legal Minds last month, raised questions as to whether Armidale may have had a connection with the immortal Jack the Ripper. Congratulations to Susie, Margaret and Jack and all the people that provided us with the opportunity to seriously consider the possibilities that the connection might have!

If you get into any kind of trouble over the Christmas/New Year break, it is best to get advice from a lawyer, who will be able to explain your options and likely range of penalties, as well as what steps you should take. However, the very best advice is to enjoy the season but be mindful and sensible of the potential consequences of your acts. Have a very Merry Christmas and a happy and peaceful New Year!

Elizabeth Stahlut, Solicitor – Legal Minds new england focus 43

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New Technology Working to Improve Parking Management Armidale Dumaresq Council (ADC) wishes to update all motorists on the implementation of new parking monitoring technology in the Armidale CBD. he new technology began operation on 29 October, following successful completion of installation and testing.

“The availability of free parking in the CBD will remain the same. The only change is that the surveillance systems are being modernised,” said Councillor Rob Richardson, who is on the Working Party overseeing the introduction of the technology.

Information in the form of Frequently Asked Questions about the new technology remains available on the ADC website. A printed brochure containing similar information has been produced and delivered to businesses.

The brochure, which includes a map showing time limited parking locations, is also available from Council Rangers and ADC’s Customer Service Centre at 135 Rusden Street.

“The recent work in improved CBD parking includes recent community consultation about free timed parking limits, resulting in some timed zones being altered,” said

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The availability of free parking in e ain th the CBD will remchange ly same. The on llance is that the survei g systems are bein modernised. ”

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Mayor of ADC, Cr Jim Maher.

“I anticipate improved productivity in our monitoring work, and fairer distribution of CBD parking, for the benefit of the retail community, shoppers and businesses in Armidale,” said Cr Maher. “Council is using the data and community feedback to manage CBD parking.”

The information derived from the sensors will enable Council to respond better to changing patterns of demand over time.

Regarding parking for people with limited mobility, over 50 accessible parking places continue to be available for permit holders in the CBD, without time restrictions, so that these motorists can have comfortable access.

“Please be sure to observe the signs carefully,” Cr Richardson urges the community. “That way you can make effective use of Council’s free timed public parking.

Alternatively, you can find unlimited parking very close to the CBD.”

M O T O R I N G W I T H LY N DA LY N C H

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corolla

Bolder, sportier and more fun than ever before This week, our good friends at Toyota gave me the opportunity to test drive their very popular car, the Corolla. Some of my memories of being a kid remind me of the times of getting ferried around by my friends’ parents in their Toyota Corolla. t seemed that every family had one. The only thing I think has changed is modern technology and styling, but not the tradition.

On first seeing the Corolla, I was taken aback by the sleek, sporty look, compared to my thoughts of the good old days. It had the appeal of being a car for all occasions.

Upon entering the vehicle, I was really impressed with the modern finish. This was enhanced with the overall new car look and smell. For a medium sized car, this vehicle had plenty of leg room in the front and back.

As usual, I used the Corolla for business and private use. It was a fun car to drive around town and handled all conditions well. I took the car for my weekly grocery shop and surprisingly, had plenty of room left over in the boot after loading all the bags in. I was aware that the rear seats folded down to allow for more room, but

I

I didn’t need to utilise this function, although it can come in handy when needed.

The Toyota Corolla’s I took the car forery my weekly groc sound system is something d surprisingly, an op sh to be experienced. The six om left had plenty of ro after speaker CD Tuner audio over in the boot gs in.” system packs some punch, loading all the ba fuel efficient 1.8 litre but being accompanied 4 cylinder engine, the by a USB connection for my Toyota Corolla is still able to iPod and Bluetooth capability deliver plenty of power when for my iPhone just complemented required, yet save you at the the overall media package. Toyota has petrol bowser – a necessity these days. catered for any required experience and need in My dedication to vehicle safety has not this area. changed, and I was impressed with what the On the open road, the Corolla performed Toyota Corolla offered. Seven SRS airbags are beautifully. The added convenience of Cruise fitted for protection in the event of a collision.

Control added to the comfort of driving whilst The vehicle also comes with Anti-Lock Brakes, also positively assisting with safety and fuel Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control consumption issues. Being powered by a – a complete package satisfying mine and my

“

family’s needs.

While testing the vehicle, my neighbour became interested after seeing the vehicle.

He, his wife and three kids took the vehicle for a test drive for an hour. He and his family, like myself, was very impressed with the look, performance and space offered by the Toyota Corolla, and he is now making further enquires with Armidale Toyota about the vehicle.

In typical style, Toyota has delivered another highly presentable vehicle which caters for all needs. I had a lot of fun driving this vehicle and recommend you give it a try!

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Westway Paints Westaway Paints.

Sarah and Anthony Westaway take on an exciting business venture as the new owners of Westaway Paints, formerly Meredith Paints ... ell us about your family and how you found yourself living in Armidale ...

Anthony was born in Armidale and has lived here his whole life. I, on the other hand, came to Armidale on a holiday and met the man of my dreams and then made Armidale my new home.

Since then, Anthony and I have accomplished many of our dreams in just a few years.

These include buying our lovely old home (our project) and having a beautiful little boy, Braith (now 4).

Last month, buying Meredith Paints and getting married, all in the same week, was one of the most tiring and trying experiences of our lives – there is no way we could have done this without the support of our family, friends, staff and customers.

How did you first get into the paint business?

After spending 2½ years cherishing every moment at home after having Braith, it was time for me to re-enter the work force. I had no idea what I wanted to do, but I knew that I have always enjoyed working with customers.

I then applied for the job going at Meredith Paints and got it. Soon after working there for a few months, I realised my love for the flair of colour.

Anthony and I have always wanted to own a business – never did we imagine that we would buy a paint shop, but here we are today, and we love it.

Introduce us to your staff ...

Our number one staff member is Scott Sharp. He’s a one in a million, and we would be lost without him; he’s a hard worker, but also makes the workplace fun and stress free.

Anthony works in the mines as an exploration driller. He will help out as much as he can while he is home, and hopefully he soon will be able to come and join the team full-time.

Describe your products and services ...

Our major supplier, Haymes, is 100% Australian owned and Anthony and I have always made and was awarded na wanted to owve family business of the year r did ne – ss ne busi

by Family Business Austrawe successfully coating and at th e we imagin t in lia. Other suppliers include pa a extending the longevity y bu ld wou we Resene, Zinsser, and Bondall. of the coating. shop, but here w e We choose to support these are today, and In the architectural and love it. ” companies, as they are supdecorative range, Haymes porters of independent family Paint recently was awarded businesses, which really support Best Low Odour and Best Coverlocal communities and small local busiing Paint on the Australian market, nesses. beating all major competitors.

We pride ourselves on our personal service This really emphasises the quality we pride first and foremost – something that some of ourselves on delivering to our customers. our larger competitors can sometimes struggle Who do you cater for? with. Our services include expert advice on We cater for retail, but if needed we also all architectural and decorative paint finishes, deal with many of the local tradesmen and can including woodcare and our ultimate industrial organise, if needed, numerous qualified tradescoatings. men to come out and quote – especially if you Woodcare is a real challenge, as there are believe the project you envisage is too large or many differing timbers on the market and all difficult for you to tackle. need to be treated differently. Some timbers What areas of the business do you feel are dense, some are tannin rich (oily), and you are going to develop and grow? knowing how to treat each timber is the key to We are currently looking into expanding our

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decorative and special effects range, which includes wallpaper. Also our new and improved woodcare range is in full swing at the moment, with lots of new and improved products.

We would also like to be the best paint suppliers in Armidale, with ongoing support to our retail and trade customers from start to finish.

What keeps you busy outside of the business?

Outside of work, we are all about family and friends. We love to entertain and spend as much time with the ones we care about the most, as life is way too short. We love spending time around the garden and slowly renovating our home. We also love to travel.

Plans for the future?

Our plans for the future would be to have a few more children and a very successful business, while living life to its fullest.

Thanks Sarah.

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100% safe to use around children and animals.

Concreting at Ducats.

Keep Away Dangerous Snakes The Sentinel Q Electronic Snake Repeller has been developed to scare away all kinds of snakes; it emits an intermittent vibration, which the snake picks up through sensors throughout its body. The snake perceives a danger zone causing them to evacuate the area; most snakes will retreat almost immediately.

Developed in Australia for Australian snakes, in use successfully around Australia for over seven years. It is the original and genuine snake repeller quite unlike the shoddy imitations that are appearing on the market place.

It has been designed and produced to give trouble free service with low running costs. Solar powered for economy and low maintenance.

It integrated high quality solar panel and rechargeable batteries provide reliability to work continuously day and night. Each unit will protect a large circle 40 metres across – 20

48 new england focus.

metres in all directions from where placed. It is environmentally safe and will not affect any other animals, birds or livestock. By placing these units around your home, any snakes that enter the area will feel under threat and retreat. Usually snakes will go at least several hundred yards away, and normally they will not return.100% safe to use around children and animals – effective against all snake species.

We are a small, family run business and are always willing to try and help with your situation.

As used by the Army, RSPCA, schools, vets, flying doctors, and many homes with children and pets.

Visit www.oakent.com.au For more information, phone Robert on (07) 5483 4861 or email oakcloud@yahoo.com

Mick McFayden has been working at Ducats for 24 years. His main role is operating the concrete pump, taking bookings for the pump, and checking and assessing access to the site for complicated jobs.

He has been doing this for 7 years and previously was a concrete mixer driver for 17 years.

We have a great concreting team which includes Alan Frost (Al), who runs the concrete plant. His responsibilities include ensuring the plant has enough materials to cope with orders of ready mix day to day, making sure there are enough drivers and trucks for the workload, the load of mixers, and making sure deliveries are made efficiently. There are many different mix designs for concrete to suit applications and customers’ orders. Al’s many years of experience and knowledge ensures customers get what they need.

Howard Martin, Paul Clark, and Simon Cahill are the regular concrete mixer drivers and have many years of experience between them. They are very capable in their work and do their best

to meet customer needs. They can probably put a truck where many would not put their cars!

Concrete has not really changed much, except maybe the fact that different uses require suitable mix designs or alterations. For example, in the cold winter months of New England, early concrete supplies discoloured and used hot water to accelerate set times. Technology has not found an additive that will do the same if not better which makes life easier for the batcher (Al). Alternatively, in the warmer months a retarding additive will slow the curing down. Pumps are being used more and more.

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Hydraulics FOCUS would like to thank Bernie Harper from New England Hydraulics for sharing his 20 years in business with us. Congratulations Bernie!

H

ow long have you lived in Armidale, and please tell us about your family ...

I moved to Armidale in October 1991, where I married local physiotherapist Kate Hind. We have 2 children, Kirsten and Lachlan – both are now planning to do some tertiary education, and we are also expecting our first grandchild in January.

Kate runs and operates her own business, Kate Hind Physiotherapy. Kirsten plans to go to university next year and Lachlan will have a Gap Year before going to university in 2014.

How did you first get into hydraulics?

I finished high school in 1975 and worked casually for a hydraulics and pneumatics company whilst studying to become a health and build-

50 new england focus.

ing inspector – and found this was not for me.

This hydraulics and pneumatics company then provided a full-time job in the their parts store, where I could then see all the parts that went into manufacturing fully assembled items and became interested in how these all operate and function.

Pongrass Industries manufactured and imported hydraulic and pneumatic components – it was an old style company which had its own hydraulic and pneumatic cylinder design drawing room, with mechanical engineers, tool room, hydraulic cylinder honing facility, hydraulic cylinder welding facility, full range of manual and automatic lathes, and also the latest NC Machines, when these were first available in the Australian market. To say the least, it provided a great

grounding. They must have seen something in me, and they provided a ½ day per week to allow me to go to TAFE and complete the Mechanical Engineering Certificate.

This new opportunity provided the opportunity to further understand how all these products that were manufactured actually function and work from an engineering point of view.

Pongrass then moved me into sales, where I was able to use these new skills to design pneumatic and hydraulic systems with components manufactured in their plant and imported from overseas.

I was approached by Malcolm Moore, who were distributors for Rexroth, one of the leading brands on the world market.

My role there was to design systems that suited the customers’ requirements with the assistance of other engineers within the business.

The system, once built, would then be installed, commissioned and refined for repeat orders.

Malcolm Moore were innovators in the hydraulics industry, and we were able to grow the business. The business was then sold to BTR Indeng, and we all left to start a new business, Rexroth Hydraulics Australia, in 1987.

Within 2 weeks of leaving, we were trading and had branches in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. Rexroth has become the no. 1 suppliers of hydraulic systems in Australia.

Describe the changes you have seen in this

focusfeature industry over the years?

When I first started, most systems were designed using fixed displacement gear and vane pumps with manual and hydraulic pilot control.

Within a few years of starting in the industry, changes were occurring. We are now using variable flow piston pumps and electronic control to operate proportional valves, providing the machine user with fine control over all of the functions.

The industrial market for hydraulics is not as big, and a lot of applications where hydraulics are used are served with DC/AC variable drives. The largest increase in use in hydraulics is on mobile machinery i.e. graders, excavators, cranes, drill rigs, tractors and small loaders, where the prime mover is usually a diesel engine.

What is your speciality?

We design and supply hydraulic systems for all industries. Using Armidale as our base, we travel to all points around NSW and have clients in Brisbane and Darwin. We manufacture tailor made power units to suit customers’ specific requirements, fitting additional equipment to existing plant i.e. excavators, dozers, tractors; if there are hydraulics fitted to any machine, we are able to add functions.

We also repair hydraulic components in our workshop, where everything is tested prior to leaving our workshop whenever possible. For some systems we supply: power units to drive nail plates into timber, pneumatic cylinders to operate drafting gates and doors, fully remote control power units, petrol and AC for V race sheep handlers, hydraulic manifold assembly to operate planters controlling trip, opener and presswheel pressures from the cabin, power units to operate cardboard balers, automatic loading facility for coal into trucks, hydraulically driven mud pumps, 200HP. The NE Hydraulics supplies and distributes the

following world class products: Bosch Rexroth, Hydac filtration systems, Manulli Hydraulics hose and fittings, Permco pumps and motors, Barnes DC power units.

What are some of the largest jobs you have been involved with?

When working for Malcolm Moore, we supplied hydraulics to operate a bloom caster for Newcastle Steel Works worth $1million in 1986.

We have completed many large jobs in Armidale – the supply of compoWe design and nents and parts to supply hydraulic s. operate 20 off stalk dustrie systems for all inas our pullers/ mulchers for e al id rm Using A all the cotton industry, base, we travel toSW and within the business. Sue liaises N nd ou ar with an approx. points isbane Br in s with our customers and directs nt ie cl ve ha value of $20k each.

Darwin.” the customer to the correct d an We developed a person within our organisation who 25HP power unit to can best help them. Sue looks after operate module builders our record keeping and keeps the place (others used up to 100HP) for running smoothly. the cotton industry – 50 units supplied up Ken Clayton – Ken is our newest employee, to $25K each. and he looks after the day to day repair work i.e.

We also developed and designed transmission hydraulic cylinders. Ken also assembles valves and drive and ancillary hydraulics for Olive Tree Harmanufactures hose as replacements or for new vesting (Shaker) – 4 machines built at $60K each. systems.

Tell us about your staff ...

We also presently have a vacancy for a fitter Stephen Fletcher – our longest serving emmachinist. ployee, 19 years plus. Steve looks after the day New England Hydraulics are distributors for to day business of manufacturing replacement HYDAC International – world leader in Fluid hydraulic hoses and supplying parts to our many Technology. distributors in NSW. Operating in over 50 countries with more than Brad Ferris – Brad is our Workshop Foreman.

6,000 employees, HYDAC offers an extensive Brad is in charge of our WHS and ensures jobs product range to cover all areas of Fluid Power flow in and out within a reasonable time. He also products: Hydraulic Filtration, Accessories, Aclooks after the repair of hydraulic cylinders and cumulators, Valves, Electronics, Process and hose manufacture, and testing prior to dispatch/ Compact Hydraulic Systems. With unmatched pickup. expertise and service, HYDAC is the competent Sue Anne Veale – Sue Anne is our first contact partner throughout all industries worldwide, such

“

as mining, oil and gas, construction, agriculture, power generation, pulp and paper and defence, just to name a few.

The demands that each of these industries place on machinery vary depending upon the application; however, all types of equipment and systems share one thing in common – the need for improved performance in a cost-effective manner. At HYDAC, we respond to such requirements by maintaining our position as a fluid power leader and satisfying the ever-changing needs of our customers. We pride ourselves in reacting to customer demands through a concentrated distribution channel.

One of HYDAC’s objectives, ‘global presence, local competence’ demands partnerships with reputable service partners. HYDAC International and New England Hydraulics represent the perfect partnership, where two companies work together in reaching and providing for customers in a wide range of industries. With the aid of our designated field engineers who specialise in key products and industry, the HYDAC network, along with its distributors, are able to offer solutions for any occasion, any place, anytime.

Congratulations to Bernie Harper and everyone at New England Hydraulics We are proud to have assisted you in establishing and building your business to what it is today. We look forward to working with you into the future.

The leading people in Accounting, Business and Financial advice.

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Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor Catholic College N E W T R A D E S C H O O L

52 new england focus.

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O’Connor Catholic College

NEW TRADE SCHOOL The construction of the new Trade School at O’Connor Catholic College has just been completed. Principal Charlie Allen tells us about these amazing new facilities. hen did the initial planning for the works begin?

Planning began in 2008 when the Australian Government announced that provision for secondary schools would be made to apply for funding to establish a Trade Training Centre within school campuses.

Shortly after the announcement, a number of schools in the Armidale region met in a spirit of cooperation and collaboration to discuss the Australian Government initiative. As a result of these meetings, it was decided to form a consortium and submit a joint application that included Catholic, Private and NSW Department of Education schools. The consortium was named the Armidale, Regional, Government, Independent and Catholic Schools Trade

Training Centre (ARGICS).

College over the past 25 years.

In August 2008, we submitted a combined What new facilities will O’Connor gain proposal and ARGICS received notification from the project ? of the success of our application in New facilities gained by the project include December, 2008. a commercial kitchen to support Following a competitive student learning as they undertake tender process, Baxter Certificate II Hospitality courses t is “ This projecns e Building were awarded within the Australian Quality iv te ex the most d the contract to undertake Framework. The project also construction an refurbishment ken the construction of included the building of a large project undertatholic the TTC and extensive construction workshop to allow Ca r no at O’Con past associated works delivery of the Construction College over the 25 years. ” at O’Connor. On 20 Pathways Certificate II Course, December 2011, the again within the Australian Quality groundbreaking project, for Framework which provides students the O'Connor component of the with dual accreditation. This accreditation consortium, began. This project is the most contributes both to students’ Higher School extensive construction and refurbishment Certificate Award, as well as contributing to project undertaken at O’Connor Catholic the completion of the first year of an Australian

DESIGN + PLANNING

Apprenticeship.

As well as the commercial kitchen, a food technology kitchen was constructed which includes state-of-the art equipment and technologies to support teaching and learning.

There are several advantages to having the commercial kitchen and the food technology kitchen in close proximity – not least because it allows the sharing of resources within the new learning spaces.

Subsequent gains for the College include an upgrade of the school’s central quadrangle, landscaping within and around the quadrangle, designated car parking spaces for students and teachers and new pupil amenities that reflect contemporary design research that has a focus on providing a safe and supportive student environment.

CONSTRUCTION

continued over

PROPERTY ASSET MAINTENANCE new england focus 53

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O’Connor Catholic College

NEW TRADE SCHOOL continued from over

Who has contributed to the project?

The funding of the project comes from a number of different contributors, including the Australian Government, some contribution made by the College, The Catholic Parish of Armidale and the Diocesan Priority Committee.

We are grateful for each contribution and recognise the value made by local contributions through parish communities and the Catholic Schools Office.

This is a very large project. Who have you been able to call on for assistance?

The scope of the project encompasses teaching and learning classrooms and workshops, environmental improvement, state-of-the-art student facilities, landscaping, as well as the infrastructure that will contribute to both the look and feel of the College for decades to come. Part of our vision at

54 new england focus.

O’Connor Catholic College is to: • Prepare students for life by guidance, example and the experience of the Gospel values of tolerance, patience, kindness, gentleness and self-control; • Highlight the relevance of one's faith to life and contemporary culture; • Welcome and value every student; • Share the values and traditions of the faith community and provide the community with the best possible educational opportunity.

This project does much more than contribute to the physical environment of our College. It allows us to provide pathways between school life and work life for students. It provides safe and efficient spaces for learning, curriculum and social aspects for all students at the College.

In terms of those who have assisted with

does “ This projectan th e or m much e contribute to th nment physical enviro It . ge lle Co r ou of ide allows us to prov n ee tw be s ay pathw ork school life andtsw ” life for studen .

the project, I would like firstly to acknowledge the invaluable support of the Armidale Catholic Schools Office, who have provided advice and assisted in negotiation throughout the development of the project.

Secondly, while the project has been a team effort, I would particularly like to recognise that the appointment of Regional Project Management Australia (RPMA) has proven invaluable in ensuring that every effort has been made to keep the project on time and within budget.

Finally, I would like to recognise the staff at the College who maintained their focus on teaching and learning throughout the

construction phase of the project. Anthony Bamford, our groundsman, has also been instrumental in communicating and assisting with the Project Manager, Mr Neil Manglesdorft from RPMA. How is the finished result?

Already the benefits of the project can be appreciated because of the improvement in the outdoor environment in the College’s quadrangle, which is an aesthetically pleasing environment for both teachers and students in which to congregate. The teaching and learning spaces will further contribute to the diversity of learning experiences available to students at the College.

The interiors of the new building are spacious and ergonomic and will positively contribute to

O’Connor Catholic College

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O’Connor Catholic College

NEW TRADE SCHOOL both the learning and teaching experiences of members of our College.

What opportunities will the Trade Training Centre provide for students?

The facilities in the Trade Training Centre will contribute to the education of students entering traditional trades and emerging industries. The facilities will also help reduce skill shortages that are experienced by some industries in regional NSW as well.

Further to these advantages, partnerships can be established between schools, training providers and businesses. Already, during the negotiation phases of the project, collaboration between schools within the Armidale region, has proven to create bonds between the different systems of education that cement ongoing relationships. Educational partnerships enhance regional education.

Plans for the 2013 school year ...

One of our most exciting plans for the upcoming year includes the implementation of an iPad programme. iPads allow for

personalised learning with quick access to apps required for particular learning tasks. iPads in education at O’Connor will enable reinforcement and rote learning of basic concepts for learners at all levels, but they will also support the higher learning skills of creativity and critical thinking. We look forward to supporting student research and information fluency through aspects of education that include annotation of novel studies. iPads at O’Connor will also be used as text book repositories for students. This term, teachers have been trialling the use of iPads in their teaching and 2013 will see the exciting step for using iPads to support student learning.

A word from Baxter Building Baxter Building was proud to be chosen as the builder to work on the historic O’Connor Catholic College. On a site of such significance to local history, it was appropriate to work to the client’s design. Baxter assisted the client in controlling costs and working closely with

them to achieve the best possible outcome and suppliers wherever possible. The Baxter by providing cost effective solutions, while team working on site at the college are all maintaining the quality and workmanship from the Armidale and New England region, deserved to such a noteworthy location. including Michael Smoother, who completed Baxter Building were responsible for full Year 12 at the College in 2011. Michael started construction management of the project, in January 2012 as an apprentice with Baxter which included building of new Building, and his first job was working state of the art Trade Training on the Trade Training Centre Centre facilities, student project! Of the sub contractors amenities, a new car park and suppliers working on am “ The Baxter te area, demolition works the training centre job, e at th working on site m fro to unused buildings, in excess of 85% are l al e college ar d alterations and from the New England the Armidale an region, New England ha refurbishment to existing region, supporting local el including Mic ho buildings, extensive employment, the local w , er Smooth 12 at garden and landscape economy, and local pride completed Year 11. ” the College in 20 areas, and extensive in the completion of the environmental remediation project. works.

As testament to a satisfied Baxter Building have been client, Armidale Catholic Schools operating in the New England district for six Office has engaged Baxter Building for a range years now, and it has been company policy to of additional works throughout the New engage the local workforce, sub-contractors England region.

new england focus 55

St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Transition to Year 6

2013 enrolments now being accepted For more information contact Alice on 6774 8752 or email: enrolments@negs.nsw.edu.au

learning with spirit

Uralla Road, Armidale NSW 2350 Australia T +61 02 6774 8700 E info@negs.nsw.edu.au www.negs.nsw.edu.au