Issuu

NEW ENGLAND

March 2013 // Issue 70

Armidale Ex-Services Club

Feature Story The Date Bros.

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editor's note.

editor.

from the

suedee.

Welcome to the March edition of New England FOCUS. or the past five and a half years I have utilised my Editor’s note to talk about our content but today you will have to turn to page 6 for that information, as I need at least this amount of space to let you all know, with mixed feelings, that I sign off this issue as my last. It has been an absolute privilege introducing New England FOCUS to you all. I’ve been in the print media industry for over 25 years, and I have to say that I think FOCUS is the best regional product ever produced. How lucky am I to have been part of it all! There are far too many people for me to thank in this small space, but the absolute standouts are NEGS, who have been with us since day one, Tony Broomfield on Council (I love working with you), Rosemary Mort, forever helping me out with story content, and Liz Egan, for allowing FOCUS to sponsor the business awards each year. All in all,

contacts. Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. 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

I would like to thank our community as a whole for supporting FOCUS. As I choke on my tears, the person I need to thank from the bottom of my heart is our amazing Advertising Manager, Tracy Le Messurier! We have laughed a lot and even cried together. I will miss you the most. I have some terrific FOCUS memories that I will keep with me forever: Edward’s Aviation flew our team to the Port Cup. It took about 20 minutes to get there. Our first birthday party was a cracker! Three quarters of the business community turned up, but who remembers the embarrassing comedian who performed on the night? I could write a book about the fun times. I’ve also been through some of the saddest times of my life whilst at FOCUS. I am lucky to have had such a great job, that helped occupy my days, whilst time passed for me to heal. On some of the hardest days during my grief, FOCUS gave me a reason to get out of bed.

I thank the entire crew for their gentleness, particularly our brilliant graphic design team and the FOCUS managers. I will miss you guys. In closing, I’d like to refer back to an interview that I did in 2009 with Rob Eccles. We chose him as our local ‘father of the year’. In his interview, he told us that “children are like butterflies and as parents we need to hold the palm of our hand open at all times, allowing them to fly home and land safely whenever they need us”. I feel that FOCUS has given me my wings and who knows, perhaps one day, I’ll fly back in to flutter my wings again with this awesome team. Final Say How lucky am I to have been part of something that makes saying goodbye so hard.

Sue Dee. sue@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

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jeff@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont

ACCOUNT MANAGER: Louise Beaumont

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louise@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul

PHOTOGRAPHER: Tim Barnsley

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tim.barnsley@gmail.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable

SUB EDITORS: Jo Atkins / Reg Brookhouse

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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.

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T h e

D a t e

B r o s

The Date Brothers play Gypsy Jazz guitar. Although these talented siblings live in different countries, they are about to meet up in Australia and bring their combined talents to the Armidale Club.

an, when did you and Nigel first pick up guitars? When I was 7, my mother took me into a shop and bought me a ukulele. She said, “This will calm you down”. I played it for a year, and then I asked her for a banjo. She said, “A banjo is $70. A guitar is $30 ... you can have a guitar”. I got right into it and started earning money with the guitar when I was 14. Nigel is 7 years younger than me, and I had left home by the time he started. He was around 13 or 14. Nigel, describe the music that you and Ian play when you tour together? We both like to play all kinds of music, but when we get together we mostly play Gypsy Jazz. This was a style of Jazz guitar pioneered by the great Gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt. Ian, tell us about your music history ... I have performed and recorded with many of Australia’s Jazz greats. I have also written music for television and film and appeared on more than 70 albums. I have performed all over Australia and 37 other countries at various festivals and events. I am equally at home on the acoustic and electric guitar. My guitar playing is firmly rooted in the Jazz tradition. I have my own crafty style, and I like to bring humour to all my projects. Critics have described my playing and performances as lyrical, endlessly inventive, masterful

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and my live performances as thoroughly enterIan, how often do you and Nigel get to play taining. together? Nigel, where have you performed? We usually do a 6 week Australian tour every I have performed at festivals and concerts in year, and every other year we do something in Australia and overseas, made TV appearances, Europe. radio shows, countless weddings, bars, cafés, corNigel, tell us about your Oz tour and what porate gigs, residencies and recording sessions. we can expect at your Armidale concert? I have spent my years playing a wide We are playing some festivals and concerts variety of musical styles with lots of starting in Perth and ending in Sydney. In different musicians. Armidale we will playing just the two Ian, what's this we hear of us for an intimate evening of about you and Nigel virtuosic guitar playing. I have performed getting kidnapped Ian will no doubt sing ia all over Austral by pirates as young some songs and play some s ie tr un and 37 other co d boys? trumpet as well. We will an s al at various festiv at lly It was such a play Gypsy Jazz and some ua eq events. I am ic st ou traumatic event ... our Blues and some Latino ac e th home on y r.M ita gu parents were interstyle music. Acoustic ic tr ec and el firmly national secret agent guitars. Ian will be playing guitar playing is zz Ja e types, and they used to a Selmer guitar made in rooted in th work out of embassies in Paris in the 1930s. This is tradition.” some dangerous locations. the instrument favoured by all We were kidnapped from a the Gypsy Jazz players. yacht in the Strait of Hormuz. I Ian, your finest moments in music? remember being blindfolded and the smell There have been many fine moments. of camels, fish and body odour. I can’t say too Meeting and playing with some very fine Jazz much about it, because we are under an oath of musicians over the years, whom I learned so secrecy with the government involved and the much from. How to really play, how to make a statute of limitations has not passed ... sorry. sound, how to put the music across. These were Nigel, where do you and Ian live these days? all fine moments. I live in Balgowlah, NSW, Australia, and Ian And I will say also that the finest moments are lives in rural Ireland in County Cork. always when the music is flowing out of you and

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it is a all very joyful and sparkling with energy and sounding like you can do no wrong! I work hard to make that happen at every show. Nigel, what's your favourite piece that you enjoy playing as a duo? We have been enjoying improvising with a classical piece by Grieg, Norwegian Dance No.5 and doing it in a Jazz kind of way. Ian: How popular is Gypsy jazz music? Gypsy Jazz has enjoyed a huge wave of popularity amongst audiences and players worldwide in recent years. The technical challenges presented by the idiom, the harmonic foundations and the melodies that are used as a basis for the improvisations demands a high degree of knowledge and skill. This makes for an exciting and highly engaging experience for the listener. It is a rare opportunity to hear guitar played at this level. Thanks guys.

the plug! The Date Bros will be playing at The Armidale Club on Friday 15 March at 8pm. Tickets can be obtained at the door on the night or by pre-booking at the club.

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Leading E D U C A T O R looks to the future at NEGS THE 17th Principal of New England Girls’ School (NEGS) Clive Logan officially took the reins of one of Australia’s oldest and prestigious girls’ boarding schools in January. We speak with him about his career and ambitions for the school.

ou have worked at The King’s School for the past 30 years, the last 10 as Director of Studies, and before that at other Sydney schools. What was the attraction in making the move to regional NSW and taking on the role of Principal at NEGS? I saw NEGS as a school with great opportunity. At King’s I had a lot of contact with parents from regional NSW as a boarding house master and loved the openness of the parents and boys. Armidale is a very beautiful city as well, very similar to where I lived in England for 12 months almost 20 years ago, and so that also attracted me. After 10 years as Director of Studies at King’s, I had fulfilled my goals. Three times King’s was inside the top 50 schools in the NSW league table, so therefore I was keen for a new opportunity and challenge. During your time at King’s, particularly as Director of Studies, you oversaw tremendous improvement in academic results, especially the Higher School Certificate (HSC). Tell us about that. I’m a great believer in teamwork. It’s not about one person; it’s about empowering everyone to be able to achieve his or her best possible outcomes. There has to be a strong partnership between teachers, students and their parents to succeed and if you get the little things right, then you can make a big difference. For me, a book entitled The Tipping Point was the one ‘eureka’ moment for me, as it emphasised that in making change and building culture, the little things collectively

make a big difference. occasions to expand my and others’ thinking What unique experience and perspective ‘outside the box’. Risk taking is important do you think you can bring from your time in education, but so are guidelines. I’m still at King’s to take NEGS forward? the chair of a Board of Studies examination Good question. I want to see each individual committee and have a passion for seeing student achieve her potential. I like to learn the best from students as they respond to something from everyone, and questions under exam conditions. it doesn’t matter whether The aim is always not to it’s someone who is attempt to trick students academically proficient but to allow them to or someone whose show their knowledge, ver I’m a great belie talents lie in cultural skills and expertise. ’s in teamwork. It or sporting pursuits, My involvement with ; rson not about one pe ing or who is a polished the Board of Studies wer it’s about empo all-rounder. I try to has been a wonderful to le ab everyone to be st see the best in every experience in many be r he or achieve his ” . person. areas, but particularly es om tc ou possible As I told my first in managing teams and NEGS school assembly, enhancing individual I am eager to equip skills. students and teachers I understand you are also with the skills and resources keen to emphasise and expand they require to reach their ultimate the school’s boarding potential ... potential. I’m keen to empower them NEGS has a strong tradition in boarding to fulfil whatever they want to achieve for rural girls and a large majority of the girls and whatever they want in life. I think one attending NEGS are boarders. Parents entrust of the other areas is the academic strength their girls to the school community so they can that I have brought with me from King’s – I’m receive the best care and all round education able to bring that knowledge and strength of possible, particularly when education association with the Board of Studies to NEGS opportunities are limited in more remote areas. as well. I think living in a community, such as a You have been the Co-ordinating boarding house, teaches students a whole Supervisor of Marking for the HSC for range of aspects to do with character – various subjects and a senior marker in tolerance, understanding and empathy. It’s History for many years. What did you take not just all about the individual either; it’s away from those experiences? about how they get on with other people, They’ve all been leadership positions and their peers. I see that as important, and I want each one has developed and enhanced to ensure there are enough activities beyond my skills. I was willing to be a risk taker on what the students do in an already very busy

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schedule to make certain they learn something from all the girls with whom they associate. I’ve already been speaking to the boarders about the potential to make life-long friends here at NEGS, and it’s something I’ve seen firsthand at King’s. Tell us about the rest of your family ... I’ve been happily married to Gaylia for over 30 years, and we have two adult children living in Sydney. Almost 18 months ago, we became grandparents for the first time when our son and his partner had their first child. Gaylia is employed in an interesting role for a non-government Christian organisation that works with girls who have been trafficked, mainly in Europe. Her organisation takes the girls in, looks after them and helps them get back into mainstream society. So there’s a real passion for girls in our family, not just because I’m now Principal of NEGS. Finally, I hear that you were a very keen cricketer at school and university – any chance of you donning the whites here in Armidale? If I were 20 years younger and my body allowed me to even reach down and pick up a ball, like Ricky Ponting, I’d love to! I played a lot of representative cricket in my younger days, represented NSW Combined High Schools (CHS) when I was at school. I can even remember travelling to Inverell to play a state knockout semi-final. I still enjoy cricket immensely, but now as a spectator and would love to play again, but sadly those days are behind me. Also, I wouldn’t want to repeat the efforts of former PM Bob Hawke in having my glasses smashed while attempting a slog sweep! Thank you Clive. new england focus 5

inside this

Issue 70 - March 2013

11.

Archibald Prize For the first time in Armidale, the eagerly awaited Archibald Prize 2012 Tour will be opening at 6pm at the New England Regional Art Museum on 15 March 2013.

2013 Wool Awards

15.

Liz Foster shares her excitement as she sets the agenda for the 2013 Wool Awards ...

39.

Scott Sullivan Armidale Ex-Services Club is celebrating 60 years with a great line up of events. We catch up with CEO Scott Sullivan to find out more.

usual suspects.

the

7. whatâ€™s on for March 24. star guide with Terri 26. eat featuring local restaurants staurants

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

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A R O U N D

The Date Bros

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M A R C H

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Spectacular gems, jewellery, craft, gifts, leather, woodwork, lapidary supplies and much more on sale. Lucky dips, laughing clowns, ice creams, gem hunt for the kids. Light lunch and refreshments available. Raffle tickets on sale – 3 great prizes. Stallholders most welcome. Contact Club Secretary for more info.

Where The Armidale Club. When Saturday 16 March.

When n Saturday 16 March; 9am – 4pm. Where FREE Entry. A Armidale Show Ground. Contact Kerry erry TTasik 6778 5122 (a/h).

R E G I O N

22nd Annual Gem and Craft Show

From a Gypsy campfire to the lowdown Bluesy sounds of New Orleans to the South American street party to the sophisticated inner city salon ...

First Saturday chats

T H E

15-28 Archibald Prize NERAM

Our next First Saturday chats will be held on the SECOND Saturday in March, being 9 March 2013, between 10am and 1pm at our offices and will be hosted by Elizabeth Stahlut (Solicitor). As this is a popular program, bookings are essential.

Australia’s most extraordinary art event, the Archibald Prize, is an annual exhibition eagerly anticipated by artists and the public. It never ceases to create lively debate amongst the arts community and wider public. The 2012 exhibition is the 91st Archibald Prize.

When 10am to 1pm; Saturday 9 March 2013. Where Legal Minds, Beardy St Mall. Contact 1300 642 166.

When 15 Mar - 28 April 2013. Where 106 - 114 Kentucky St, Armidale. Contact (02) 6772 5255.

A Day on the Green - Petersons Winery

Petersons Wines Armidale is located in the South East of Armidale in beautiful New England, New South Wales. Situated on the historic Palmerston property in Australia’s newest wine region, a Day on the Green is excited to welcome this new winery venue to its national season of summer concerts. Where Dangarsleigh Road, Armidale. When Saturday 9 March. Contact (02) 6772 0422.

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Meet UNE’s Xanthe Mallett, who is currently appearing on Australian free-to-air television screens as the forensic anthropologist presenting History Cold Case – a four part series which sheds light on the history of our forebears.

DrU nXanthe Mallett iversity of New England

ow long have you been a forensic scientist? I have been doing casework since 2004/2005, but officially ‘qualified’ in 2007 at the completion of my PhD. So I have officially been a forensic scientist for 8 years, as you really need a Doctorate to be taken seriously in forensics. You are quite famous in the UK. How did that come about? While working as a forensic anthropologist at the University of Dundee, Scotland, UK, I was asked to present a new science documentary series. I was part of a team of scientists investigating the lives, and deaths, of unknown skeletal remains. The aim of the series was to learn as much as we could about the skeletons and who they were before they died. The series was called History Cold Case, and was extremely popular. We made two UK series for BBC2, each with about 2 million viewers. Following History Cold Case, I was asked to present a US series in the same format called The Decrypters. As a result of my involvement in both series, I became quite a well-known face in the UK. Did you study at the University Of Dundee in Scotland? I never studied at the University of Dundee; I joined as a lecturer after completing my PhD. I studied my BSc at Bradford University, my MPhil at the University of Cambridge, and PhD at the University of Sheffield. When and why did you move to Australia and importantly, take up lecturing at UNE? Criminology is more developed in Australia than the UK, with more career opportunities, so I moved to Australia and began my lectureship at UNE in March 2012; it’s still early days! While I love being a forensic scientist, my casework experience helped me to realise that I was becoming

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more interested in investigating the behaviours behind work in the lab, as well as all over the UK, from sites the crimes, rather than identifying the victims and as diverse (but predictable) as graveyards and museoffenders from physical evidence they leave behind. ums, to boats and castles! There really was no such As a result, I decided to move from forensic science thing as a ‘typical’ day on set. into criminology – two allied fields, as you can’t fully Normally I would be either analysing the bones, understand one without the other. or interviewing specialists looking for more informaWhat do you enjoy most about your career? tion on a specific facet of the case. Sometimes I just Each day is unique! I am nosy by nature, experienced what the individual experienced, and criminology allows me to ask lots of to get a feel for their life, like riding a questions and solve puzzles. I also horse whilst carrying a heavy sword get the satisfaction of helping to get an idea of what muscles the criminal justice system to they would have been using, e th of The aim n ar successfully prosecute guilty inor sailing in a harbour, feeling le to as w series d dividuals, and as importantly, what it would have been like ul co e w as as much s and on exonerate innocent people. to see England for the first et el sk e th t abou before e er In terms of lecturing, I like time from the sea. Filming w ey th ho w ries to be actively involved in edudays were long and tiring, they died. The se Cold ry cational outreach, with an aim but fantastic, as I learned so was called Histo emely tr to engage young people with much. Case , and was ex popular.” the basic sciences and encourDo you enjoy living in Arage uptake throughout educamidale? tional careers and on into industry. I love Armidale. It’s a small and Tell us about the current television friendly town, where I felt very welshow you are presenting? come from the beginning. It’s a wonderful History Cold Case was filmed while I was still environment in which to settle, and I love the working in the UK and is really a mix of archaeoloutdoors lifestyle. Even the winters don’t worry ogy and forensic science. On the show we take me – I came here after 5 years in Scotland, so the cold archaeological remains that we know nothing about months feel like summer! It’s great that Armidale has and apply the techniques we would use in a forensic four seasons, all of which can happen in one day – it case to see just how much we can learn. makes me feel at home. Frankly, I was astonished what we could undercover What’s next? using science and historical research – even coming I am filming a top secret new series, so I can’t give close to identification. Considering some of the bones away any details just yet. It’s not another History Cold were many hundreds of years old, I did not expect Case, although I do still get to look at bones, and that! will be travelling a lot too, which is another passion Where did you do your filming for History Cold of mine. I also hope to write a book, but all in good Case, and what was a typical day on the set like? time! Filming for History Cold Case took place both at Thanks Dr Mallett.

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focusinterview.

Access all Areas ‘Access all Areas’ sounds a bit different. Can you please explain? ost people will remember the Day On The Green weekend last year. The sun shone, music played, wine was sampled and a party atmosphere ensued. The event was, by any standards, judged to be a huge success – witness the letters featured in the local press following the weekend. Visitors wrote thanking Armidalians for being so friendly and welcoming. It was one of those times when locals felt genuinely proud to call Armidale home. That was nearly twelve months ago, and since then minds have turned to thinking what can be done to build on the success in 2013. What should we do to make the weekend even better? And better in what way? Feedback clearly identified an opportunity to extend the festivities and party atmosphere engendered so successfully by the Day On The Green at Petersons Winery to the city centre. With so many visitors, as well as locals entertaining friends and family, the clear answer was to provide interest and entertainment in the Central Business District. ‘Access

all Areas’ was born. Quite simply, the campaign is designed by Council to draw visitors in to our Malls, where they can spend time, This is our (and hopefully money), opportunity to a particularly Saturday off to show Armidale sitors vi and Sunday mornings. few thousand g like Retailers are coming on what is lookinggest becoming the bion the on board with enticing volunteers will be running party weekend ar.” offers which will run a ‘pop-up’ VIC in the Mall nd le Armidale ca from 9am Friday 8 March from where they can hand through to 5pm Monday out information, answer ques11 March. An extended PCYC tions and promote all that will be Markets in the Mall will add to the fun on the weekend. Don’t forget to atmosphere, with live music maintaining the say hello as you pass them; they will be easily party vibe. With additional road closures, parrecognised by their distinctive uniform and ticularly part of Dangar Street, there will be Armidale Ambassador passes. an enlarged pedestrian area which will work To help visitors find their way around the to connect all three Malls together. city, Access all Areas will have a town centre The Armidale Visitor Information Centre fold out map. Designed to show where the will be working hard to look after visitors. In retail offers are, it will also assist visitors to addition to the Visitor Information Centre on get their bearings and seek out the gems of the corner of Marsh and Dumaresq Streets Armidale. Copies will be available from the being fully staffed, our fabulous band of Visitor Information Centre, pop-up VIC in the

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Mall, accommodation houses and participating retailers. So head down to the Mall and join in the fun. The basics are being covered, and the final ingredient must be you! This is our opportunity to show Armidale off to a few thousand visitors on what is looking like becoming the biggest party weekend on the Armidale calendar. Think forward to 2014. If we can all look back on 2013 where Day On The Green concert tickets were a sell out, accommodation houses full, the central business district rocked and the local papers published yet more letters of thanks from happy visitors, what better start point from which to plan for 2014?

Retail therapy A weekend of special offers and great deals around Armidale. 9am Friday March 8 until 5pm Monday 11 - just look for the ‘Access all Areas’ posters for participating retailers.

Extra trading hours on Sunday Extended PCYC Markets in the Mall Live music • Great deals • Great food

It’s retail therapy for everyone - come and enjoy the party!

Further information at experiencethehighs.com.au

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For the first time in Armidale, the eagerly awaited Archibald Prize 2012 Tour will be opening at 6pm at the New England Regional Art Museum on 15 March 2013.

Maggie Beer, AM and Barry McCann The Archibald Prize Opening 2008

Tim Storrier The histrionic wayfarer (after Bosch) 2012 Archibald Prize Winner Image courtesy of Art Gallery of NSW

ustralia’s most prestigious yet controversial art prize narrates the changing face of Australian society through the evolving definitions of portraiture. Since 1919, the Archibald Prize has been awarded to the best portrait painting, preferably of a man or woman distinguished in art, letters, science or politics as specified by J. F. Archibald. The Archibald Prize has been won by a number of high calibre artists, including George Lambert, William Dobell, Brett Whiteley, William Robinson and Ben Quilty, who have won the Archibald Prize a total of 9 times between them. These artists are just a selection of Archibald Prize recipients that hold a place in NERAM’s permanent

Jenny Sages After Jack Image courtesy of Art Gallery of NSW

collections. NERAM holds the 1983 winning artwork in its NERAM Collection – Portrait of Chandler Coventry by Nigel Thomson. The 91st Archibald Prize showcases the winner, The histrionic wayfarer by Tim Storrier. The artwork was inspired by The Wayfarer, a painting by Hieronymus Bosch and is described by Storrier as “a carapace of burden … clothed in the tools to sustain the intrigue of a metaphysical survey.” The Archibald Prize 2012 Tour will also include the People’s Choice recipient, Jenny Sages’ After Jack and Archibald Packing Room Prize winner Raelene Sharp’s A Strength of Character featuring Australian actor John Wood. Visitors are also encouraged to participate

Raelene Sharp A strength of character 2012 Packing Room Prize Winner Image courtesy of Art Gallery of NSW

selected for the Archiin NERAM’s own People’s the “ To accompany , ur bald Prize and learn how Choice Award, by votTo 12 20 Archibald Prize to achieve a realistic ing for their favourite n an cC Barry and Lucy M likeness using shapes, Archibald 2012 artwork. in t will hold a Portrai tones and techniques to The exhibition entry fee on p Acrylics worksho capture the appearance is $10 pp, $5 members/ am m 10 the 6 - 7 April fro and personality of your concession. Under 12 4pm. ” subject. Lucy and Barry’s free. expertise and individual To accompany the Archiattention will guarantee you bald Prize 2012 Tour, Barry and take home a wonderful portrait of Lucy McCann will hold a Portrait your subject. Cost: $250. BYO lunch. Bookin Acrylics workshop on the 6 - 7 April from ings are essential. To secure a place please 10am - 4pm. Barry was a finalist in the Archibald Prize in 2008 for his work Simpatico fea- phone 6772 5255. The Archibald Prize 2012 Tour will open at turing Maggie Beer AM, and Simon Bryant, NERAM on Friday 15 March at 6pm. All are the hosts of The Cook and the Chef. Gain an welcome! insight from Barry into what it takes to be

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PLC Armidaleâ€™s Amy Walsh is adding â€˜another string to her bowâ€™. While many teachers were taking a long, well earned break over the summer vacation, Amy chose to spend the time teaching at two schools in Vietnam. We chat with Amy about her experiences.

Amy Walsh

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f all the places in the world, why Vietnam? I am always looking for ways to challenge myself in my teaching, and I love being able to make the most of every opportunity. When the opportunity came to teach in Vietnam, I just couldnâ€™t let it go by. PLC Armidale, along with PLC Sydney, has had a long-standing connection with the two schools I taught in. Huong, who is the daughter of the Founder of the school, Mrs Lan, went to PLC Sydney as a student. She explored with Dr Bill McKeith (former Executive Principal of PLC Sydney and PLC Armidale) the idea of starting a school in Hanoi. A scholarship is offered each year for a staff member from PLCA or PLCS to visit and teach at VAS or Le Quy Don. I was fortunate enough to teach at Le Quy Don Primary and Secondary Schools, as well as the Vietnam Australia School (VAS). Every year girls from PLC Armidale and PLC Sydney go on a service learning trip to Vietnam. It is an experience of another culture, which opens their eyes to a different world. You are so busy in your various roles at PLC Armidale. Why did you choose to spend your holidays teaching? Yes, my roles at PLC spread far and wide. I teach Year 6, Music from Pre-K to Year 7, conduct senior choir and Iâ€™m a boarding house mother in the boarding house. It is a privileged position being involved in so many different areas of the school. I work with 4 year olds one lesson, and then it is off to Year 7. Teaching is a profession in which you never stop learning, and holidays are a wonderful opportunity to expand your knowledge.

What professional benefits have you gained? I find you often learn more when you have to teach others and provide feedback. There are so many skilled teachers in Vietnam, and it was wonderful to share ideas with them and different methods of teaching. They were always so thankful and appreciative of my feedback. I am still in contact with some of the teachers there, and I hope the relationship will continue to develop. My hope is that I will still be able to provide them with helpful advice from across the seas. Did you find the children any different to teach? I find that children are no different wherever you are in the world. They always seem eager to learn new things. The children in Vietnam were a pleasure to teach, and they even understood some of my Australian humour. Children say and do the â€˜darndestâ€™ things at times. Any funny stories? Very true! Iâ€™m sure I could write a book about some of the things children have said to me. Girls, in particular, tend to notice what you are wearing, and comments do wonders for your selfesteem. Vietnam was no different. I was talking with some Year 8 girls from Le Quy Don about what they wanted to do when they leave school. One of the girls mid sentence turned to me and asked, â€œYou could have been a singer and a model, so why did you choose teaching?â€? Seeing as I never saw myself as either, I didnâ€™t know what to say to her at first. I replied saying that being a singer or a model would be fantastic, but being a teacher means that I can help students achieve their goals and reach their full

potential. Not entirely satisfied with my reply, she stated, â€œWell, itâ€™s never too late to change!â€? What were some of the other highlights of your time in Vietnam? I was only in Vietnam for less than an hour, and I was on the back of a motorbike whizzing around the streets of Hanoi. At times I thought a bus would wipe me out, but all in all it was a very memorable experience. Another highlight was spending time with the teachers. Their hospitality and kindness took me many places. A real highlight was when I was leaving VAS and the Principal (who had over 20 yearsâ€™ teaching experience herself) turned to me and said, â€œThese last 3 days having you here have been the most meaningful days of my careerâ€?. They were humbling words, as I reflected on my time there. Youâ€™ve also been involved with another international community service project in Fiji. Tell us more ... The trip to St Christopherâ€™s Home involves students from Year 8 from TAS, PLC and NEGS. Each year students apply to come on the service learning trip to Fiji, that involves service activities including gardening, painting, building, cleaning, working in the Kindergarten and local school and just last September with the generous donation of many, we installed a solar hot water system for the home. It was exciting to have one of the sisters from the home, Sister Kalo, visit Armidale at the beginning of March. Girls who have been to Fiji were able to find out how the children of the home are going now. We are all very excited about this yearâ€™s trip, as we have some wonderful projects ahead. Youâ€™re an inspiration to all Amy. Many thanks for your time.

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A word from Vicki Kembery.

Travel

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This month Vicki talks cruises – a holiday activity that seems to polarise people, as you either love ’em or hate ’em. But either way, it’s one of the fastest growing travel sectors in Australia.

ell, it’s been a few months since I sat down to write my Travel Column for FOCUS, although there was the article on my recent travels to Antarctica in last month’s FOCUS, which I hope you enjoyed reading. And that brings me to this month’s theme for the column – cruising. I can hear collective groans from some quarters and cheers from others. For some reason, the thought of cruising is either the worst possible idea for a holiday or the best thing since ... well, since holidays were invented! People either love ‘em or hate ‘em. And interestingly, it is often people who have never actually stepped foot on a ship that say they hate the idea of cruising, without ever giving it a go. ‘Boredom’, ‘nothing to do’, ‘stuck on the same ship with the same people the whole time’, ‘looking at the ocean for days on end’, are just some of the ‘reasons’ people give for being averse to the thought of cruising. And yet, cruising is the fastest growing sector within the Australian tourism industry. More and more Aussies are following in the footsteps of the rest of the world and taking to cruising like ducks to water. And, when you look around at the types of cruises you can do, the different ships you can do them on and the prices you pay, it’s no wonder cruising is becoming so popular. Value for money; you can’t go past them. With prices starting from around $100 per person per day, cruising really is one of THE cheapest holidays you can have – $100 for your transport to get you from one place to the next; 3 meals per day (and believe me, you are not going to starve on these cruises – if anything, you’ll be needing to visit the gym when you get home); entertainment, including shows, cabarets, movies, games, swimming pools, gyms (including circus schools and rock climbing walls in some instances); child minding ALL DAY; as well as the opportunity to sit back and chill out. All for 100 bucks a day!

Some of the most popular cruises are the European River cruises and cruises up the Inside Passage along the coast of Canada and Alaska. And although these cruises are slightly more than $100 a day, they are still very good value for money and give you a great holiday. The benefits of cruising over, say, coach touring or driving in Europe, is that you only have to unpack once, you get to see some of the out of the way places and visit the small riverside villages along the way, and unlike sitting on a coach for the day, you can get up and walk about the decks while quietly gliding along. Don’t just think South Pacific cruising when you think cruising – as I’ve mentioned already, you can also cruise the rivers of Europe and the Inside Passage of Alaska, but as well, you can cruise the Arctic and the Antarctic, the great rivers of Asia, including the Yangtze in China, the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia, and the Irrawaddy in Burma, as well as cruising along the coast of Asia from Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, South Korea, Japan and many others. And then there is the Mediterranean, with cruises taking in Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey and more recently along the coast of Croatia. And of course, the Americans have been cruising the Caribbean for years. My recent experience of cruising down to the Antarctic was fantastic – sure, the two days crossing Drakes Passage to get there and the same to get back was a case of ‘seeing ocean’ and little else for 4 days, but it was all part of the experience – you got the chance to meet your fellow travellers and sit back and relax and catch up on some reading (something I hadn’t done for a while). But I think a client sums it up best when asked how her recent South Pacific Cruise went: “We had a great time and are all seriously considering another. Most relaxing holiday I’ve ever had!” And that’s what holidays are all about! new england focus 13

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Gallery 126. ARTIST PROFILE

Margarete Ogonowski

Margarete's exhibition opening will be held at Gallery 126 on Friday 8 March at 5 pm. Her subjective landscapes can be viewed until 6 April. There is nothing more ing satisfying than be e lik is It e. tiv crea being in anotheru world where yo forget everything” else around you.

“

hen did you first discover your talent for painting? As far back as I remember, I always loved exploring and observing my immediate environment and responding to it by writing, drawing and making marks in my diaries. I think I used to be a very independent child, living in my own little world surrounded by imaginary characters – a kind of a fairy tale world I guess. Describe your style? I don’t really identify with any particular style of painting. I suppose my work is a continuous process of sharing thoughts of what I experience on a day to day level. Instead of using the pages of my diary, I might use paper or canvas, creating layers, working fast and spontaneously. The preparation to get to that point of immediacy can take any length of time ... weeks, months, or sometimes even years. When I go back to old notes or sketches, I often have new and different thoughts about how to depict ideas which are important to me. You could relate my visual recording maybe with the movement of Abstract Expressionism. Kandinsky promoted the idea that expression could be direct if it came from

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‘inner necessity’. He pursued the development of an abstract system to achieve this. I am a haptic painter, using my hands to ‘explore’ the materials, moving the paint around, working in a fast, process oriented and expressive manner. Where does your inspiration come from? When I paint, I think about everyday life. This could be an interview on Radio National about racism, a bushwalk with friends, cooking a meal, quality time spent with my children, a discussion with my partner, sounds and smells in nature or in urban environments, marks on walls … the list is endless. The urge to be creative is always there, but it can be difficult to find the time. People often don’t realise that art making is actually hard work; it takes energy to be persistent and is not just fun to do. I relate to the art of the Surrealists; often I remember my last dream in the morning and recall images, symbols or colours and again use my journal to record what I think is relevant for my paintings. I might go for a walk and collect

bits and pieces which tickle my imagination. I also play around with clay and intuitively create shapes, which I then draw from different sides. I might expand on them using watercolour. I also love using my digital camera to afterwards manipulate the images on the computer. What can we expect to see at your exhibition at Gallery 126? Sensitive mark making and luscious colours on canvas and board, depicting landscapes of my mind. Another person might see/understand the ‘landscape’ in entirely different ways; my art works are therefore totally subjective. I would describe the images as semi abstract and organic and sometimes relating to poetry. My friend, Phillipa Trelford, who is a local writer and poet, inspires my visual language; I love to respond to her work. What advice would you give to young inspired painters? There is nothing more satisfying than being creative. It is like being in another world where you forget everything else around you. I think it is important to not commit too soon to a certain image but take risks to surprise oneself

with an unexpected outcome. Art making is problem solving; mistakes can lead to very interesting results. Throughout the process I do a lot of research and document all of the above in my journals. I find it important to have people around who support you in your art work and who are able to give you constructive criticism. Which artist do you aspire to? I suppose they are mainly contemporary indigenous artists. I love the way they use colours and find their vibrant, unusual compositions to be full of surprises. Others who come to mind are Paul Klee, who was an excellent draughtsman and painter, and Tony Tuckson, whose work was very much inspired by indigenous art. I also admire the work of Elisabeth Cummings, who seems totally lacking inhibition in her subjective response to the environment.

the plug! The exhibition opening will be at Gallery 126 on Friday 8 March at 5 pm. It will run for 4 weeks, until 6 April.

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wool awards 2013

Liz Foster shares her excitement as she sets the agenda for the 2013 Wool Awards ... ell us the history of The Wool Awards? The Australian Wool Fashion Awards began in 1981 as the Wearable Wool Awards, under the umbrella of New England Wool Expo. In 1997 the baby had grown up; it was time to leave home and stand on its own feet. With a change of name and a change of direction, the Awards have evolved into one of Australia’s leading wool fashion competitions, with particular emphasis on secondary school and fashion college students. Our mission is to encourage and nurture young designers, while educating everyone in the wonderful qualities of Australian Merino wool. How long have you been arranging The Wool Awards? Since the mid-1980s I have been part of a team. The last few years I have had the Managing Director’s position, making the arrangements, sourcing sponsors and organising the function with approval from TAWFA Board. What do you personally gain from working on this project, and why are you so passionate about this event? My first thought is grey hairs, stress and lack of sleep! My reward is seeing young people achieve their dream. This can be winning a three year degree half fee scholarship to study fashion at Raffles College of Design & Commerce at North Sydney, one of two reduced fee scholarships to the Academy of Design based on the Gold Coast, students heading to short course drawing school at the Whitehouse Institute of Design, to being a Wool Awards model. Attending a graduation parade and witnessing one of our scholarship winners show their final collection is a proud moment. Seeing the transformation from shy uncoordinated teenagers into elegant, selfconfident young ladies showing our finalist garments on the runway on Awards Night is my

personal gain ... just knowing I have played a in a marquee in the magnificent Saumarez small part in helping them gain life skills. Homestead gardens. The Bowling Club, I’m passionate, because Don and I are wool which has a great partnership with Saumarez growers. All wool growers want to see their Homestead, will be providing food, drinks and product sold, used and shown in an innovative all wait staff. way to potential consumers. How has the Wool Awards grown and What's on the agenda this year? improved over the years? Our year began well, with a new The number of garments, the quality of appointment to our Board. We are delighted garments, the far flung corners of Australia to welcome Ian Rathbone, Finance from where entries come, and the Manager at Australian Wool international entries – this year Innovation. UK, USA and New Zealand. Ian is young, ambitious Website and Facebook , I’m passionateI and has added a refreshing have helped get our d an because Don s. All enthusiasm to our message to the world. It er ow gr l are woo want meetings; he is astounded is quite astonishing to see wool growersod uct by the passion our Board how many people (and to see their pr shown d sold, used an tive members have for wool from which countries in an innova ial and the competition. they're from) look at our way to potent s. Kristen Porter, who has site. er um ns co been with us for many years We like to spread the love. as a model and then Board Over the years we have moved member, sadly left us, taking up a around Armidale venues, with the law position in Canberra – the distance making need to change the look and production so we it difficult to continue on the Board. Her heart aren’t the same every year in the eyes of our is still with us, continuing to check on our guests. Each year we have to top last year’s progress. event. Our patrons love the surprise elements: This year we have a past entrant as a judge: what music will we use? How will we open and Josephine Nathan has her own knitwear close the parade? How will it be decorated? label, woolliwoolli, and is also a designer for The choreography? The food? Cleckheaton. Jo will join two others on the And as always – not telling! You will have to panel. come see for yourself! The 2013 theme for the secondary school Who are some of your stand out section is Alice in Wonderland. Students have contributors? been given fabric to create their masterpieces. Our competition major sponsor is Australian As many have told me, the students create Wool Innovation and The Woolmark Company. exciting, colourful, young and fabulous outfits In addition to this, many local business houses that the public and potential consumers of have supported us for many years. wool love to see – wonderful examples of what Jessie Street Drycleaners are right on the top wool can do when you think outside of the of our gold list, cleaning our garments, some square. of them several times during the year, some of Presentation Night is Saturday 16 March, them very challenging. commencing at 5.30pm with high tea as part The Supreme Award prize for 2013 is being of our Alice in Wonderland garden party. The donated by new sponsor Margot Edwina Rees parade and presentation of Awards will be Antiques and Jewellery Tenterfield. Margot has

selected a lovely piece of jewellery. The worthy winner will forever look back and remember The Australian Wool Fashion Awards and Margot Edwina Rees Jewellery with pride. Describe the atmosphere and excitement experienced during the Wool Awards? It is like Christmas when parcels are opened for cataloging ... each one looking like a winner, some humorous takes on our theme, and some just beautiful and elegant. Our competition is judged anonymously by high profile Australian fashion or media celebrities; on Awards Night, the entrants are excited in anticipation of a win, as all is a secret until the announcement. The audience are caught up in the glitz and glamour; they love dressing up for the occasion and pride themselves on being able to ‘pick the winner’! The models are nervous and excited to be taking centre stage. For me, it is the same; I hope all goes to plan with no power breaks, music problems, wardrobe malfunctions or falls and the weather is kind. There's relief when the parade is over. How can our locals get involved? We always hope locals will support us both as sponsors and by attending the night. A large number of out of town entrants, family and teachers come to our beautiful Armidale in March, when the leaves are changing. It is nice to see our locals making them welcome, offering advice as to the best coffee shop, frock shops or tourist destinations.

the plug! The 2013 Australian Wool Fashion Awards Presentation Parade at Saumarez Homestead, March 16. Get your friends together and come along to Armidale’s most glamorous event. Tickets are available from TAWFA Office, 39 Hargrave Street, Armidale. email: liz@tawfa.com.au

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Tent City arrives in time for a Day on the Green.

BY L E O NA R D O DA V I N C I

Tent City ready for A Day on the Green After sixteen years of servicing events and conferences throughout Australia, Tent City Hire has finally made it to Armidale to assist in accommodating the 7,000 plus music lovers attending the Day on the Green in early March. Since our opening, we have serviced events in every state of Australia, and this now includes a number of annual festivals. Tamworth Country Music Festival, along with Woodford Folk Festival and the Gympie Muster, has had a Tent City every year since 1996. What makes it work? "It is all about supplying comfortable, clean, well maintained and managed accommodation, conveniently situated to the event," said Brian Sansom. "Patrons travel miles and interstate to these events, and the last thing many wish to do is then travel hours each day to and from accommodation. Our option of close and comfortable accommodation has become very popular," he added. The added benefit is convenience, as the accommodation is ready to move into and takes away the hassle of packing and transporting your own.

he Saturday Magic Theatre Troupe is doing something quite different this year from its usual comic pantomimes. For Easter, the troupe of disabled actors is staging a dramatic re-enactment of Leonardo da Vinciâ€™s The Last Supper. Painted between 1495 and 1498, it covers an end wall of the dining room of the monastery of Santa Maria della Grazie in Milan. The painting captures the dramatic moment when Jesus All the key says to his friends that one of roles in them will betray him. In the roduction p e th re-enactment, each apostle, are played by except Judas, asks the same actors with an question: "Is it I, Lord?" intellectual disability.â€? Judas says nothing, but leaves When the Abbot the table and goes out into finally lost patience and the night to sell his master for 30 complained, Leonardo pieces of silver. said that he was searching for a There is comic relief in the struggle by good model for Judas, the traitor, and that the Duke of Milan to get Leonardo to the Abbot would just fit the bill. do the painting and by the Abbot of the All the key roles in the production monastery to get Leonardo to complete it. are played by actors with an intellectual Leonardo would sit and contemplate the disability. They are supported by a group wall, do a stroke or two and then depart. of musicians, singers, costume makers and

â€œ

shadows for the cast. Performances: Thursday 28 March at 5.30pm and Sunday 7 April at 3pm, Uniting Church, Rusden Street. There may even be a donkey for Jesus to ride on. Free event. Donations welcome.

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A ssoci a ti on of In d e p e nd e nt R e t i r e e s .

he Association of Independent Retirees Ltd (A.I.R. Ltd) was established in the early 1990s and currently has 68 branches around Australia. Currently there are around 7,500 members who belong to Divisions mostly arranged by state boundaries, with a national board to control the Divisions. The aims of A.I.R. Ltd are to address issues relating to partly or fully self-funded retirees. To achieve these aims, the issues are fully and carefully researched then put into submissions, which are then taken to the appropriate level of government (local, state or federal). A.I.R. Ltd provides a strong advocacy process to these levels of government in order to bring about changes and to correct inequities which unfairly affect retirees. There is also a vast amount of information provided in the areas of aged care, health, and self-managed super funds. Our members have, by and large, been diligent throughout their working lives, paying taxes and in many cases subscribing to superannuation funds, so that they are not fully dependent on government handouts to survive. A.I.R. Ltd strives to achieve a balance for its members, who are saving the governments vast sums of money annually. The Armidale and district branch holds meetings on the third Friday of each month except January at the Armidale Golf Club. Visitors are most welcome, and there are interesting guest speakers and free morning tea. For information, please phone the President, Harold Bradford, on 6772 3038 or email: harold.bradford@gmail.com

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Photo by Terry Cooke

A D R A M AT I C R E - E N A C T M E N T B Y T H E S AT U R D AY M A G I C T H E AT R E A N D T H E I R F R I E N D S .

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NERAM's 30th birthday

We cut Transponder car keys.

This year the New England Regional Art Museum will celebrate its 30th birthday. fter a concerted and long term fundraising effort by the Armidale community and matching grants provided by the NSW Government, NERAM was built specifically to house and exhibit the Howard Hinton Collection, an iconic collection of Australian Art from the period 1880 to 1948. NERAM was built on crown land, adjacent to the Armidale Teachers' College, which was the original home of the Hinton Trust. NERAM was formally opened by the Premier of New South Wales, the Honourable Neville Wran Q.C, in the presence of artists, donors and other members of the public on 26 March 1983. In honour of NERAM’s 30th birthday, NERAM will be hosting a morning tea with champagne and cake at 11am. Members of the public are welcome to attend to celebrate this occasion. ”I would like our visitors to recognise the extraordinary works we have in our collection and enjoy this small selection of NERAM’s wonderful treasures,” says Caroline Downer, Director of NERAM.

Whilst here, take a look at the current exhibition, Thirty! that showcases 30 years of NERAM acquisitions from the NERAM Collection of over 3,200 works, including one major acquisition for each year and demonstrates the incredible evolution of Hinton’s Collection from 1983 to 2012. ”As a regional gallery, we are very fortunate to have wonderful collections of art. This exhibition celebrates the development of that collection and acknowledges some of our most significant supporters,” says Downer. The celebration continues all day, with free storeroom tours at 10am, 11.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Guided storeroom tours are a unique and rare opportunity for the public to gain access to the hidden treasures from the Howard Hinton, Chandler Coventry and NERAM Collections. Bookings are essential, as there are limited places. To book a storeroom tour, contact NERAM on 6772 5255. The Museum of Printing will also be open all day for guided tours. As bookings are not essential, please enquire at the

Museum of Printing behind NERAM on 26 March for more details. NERAMharvest will be open from 12 - 2pm and are currently taking bookings for lunch. To book for lunch, contact NERAMharvest directly on 6771 2907. NERAM will be continuing the birthday celebrations all year with some blockbuster exhibitions and events, including The Archibald Prize 2012 Tour opening 15 March, the Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award opening 3 May, and the superb exhibition Capturing Flora from the Art Gallery of Ballarat opening in November. So come and join us at NERAM’s 30th birthday on 26 March. Hope to see you there!

the plug! NERAM Opening Hours: Tuesday – Friday (10am - 5pm), Saturday and Sunday (10am - 4pm). 6772 5255 for more info. www.neram.com.au

N e w E n g l an d L o c k s mi t h s Transponder keys are car keys with additional security features that help to prevent auto theft. The key is equipped with a radio frequency, enabling it to only work with the car with the matching frequency.

If you only have one key, take it into New England Locksmiths, as they are experienced in the locking and security systems used in most makes and models of cars. Depending on the make and model of the vehicle, replacing lost car keys at a dealership can cost you many, many hundreds of dollars for the service, and you will have to arrange to get your vehicle to the dealership. In most cases, NE Locksmiths can replace or duplicate (clone) your transponder car keys at a very competitive and often much cheaper rate.

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ew England Lapidary and Fossicking Club Inc. 22nd Annual Gem and Craft Show is on Saturday, March 16 at Armidale Showground, 9 am - 4 pm. FREE entry. FREE jumping castle for kids from noon - 3 pm. On sale will be a spectacular array of gems, crystals, opals, rocks, minerals and fossils. An extensive range of beads, lapidary equipment and supplies, wood craft, jewellery and gem books will also be available. There will be great fun for the kids too. They can win a prize on the laughing clowns, be surprised with lucky dips, or just have fun searching for treasure on the gem wash stall. For only $1, kids can fossick, find and keep many treasures, such as sapphire, opal, zircon and topaz. A canteen will operate on the day, with light lunch, Devonshire teas, cakes, slices, refreshments, and raffle tickets for 3 great prizes are available. N.E.L.F.C wishes to acknowledge June’s Jewellery and Gems, Les Sinclair, Mews on Moore Restaurant and Community Mutual Group for their ongoing and very generous support of our event. For details regarding club membership or selling goods at our show, contact Secretary Kerry Tasik 6778 5122 (a.h) or email: nelfc@hotmail.com new england focus 17

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Walkley

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A N D R E W

hen did you first swing a golf club? I began playing when I was around 8 years old. At that time, I was not allowed to be a junior member After doing at my Dad’s club in Sydney until I research on golf was 14 years old. This led me to the weather, the l ra ne ge d an playing a lot of my early junior course ular ic rt pa in s, ie golf in Wangaratta during school lit par 57 in a practice faci ds, ki 2 r holidays, where my grandparents schools for ou round in Sydney is dI my wife , Sam, an lived. I fondly remember my first right up there; I was a be decided it would competition, having 52 Stableford 9 under after 13 holes .” great move for us points of my 32 handicap! A lot of the and in a different world. times in Wang I would play from sunup I have also been lucky to sundown, with a lunch break in the enough to have one hole in middle, often playing up to 54 holes in a day! 1 and two albatrosses, which is What were the circumstances that led you to in the hole for 2 on a par 5. become a pro golfer? Having the chance to travel and play all around I had always really enjoyed my sport and did well Australia and a little bit overseas has also been a at some team sports from a young age, particularly fantastic life experience for me! Now though, I get as soccer. I was drawn to golf because I did not have to much, if not more, satisfaction from helping people rely on others and only had myself to blame. At the play for the first time or improve their existing game; age of 14, I decided that it was going to be my career. the smile of someone hitting their best ever shot is My school work suffered a bit after that decision, but very infectious. I certainly don’t regret it! I began working part-time Which golfing pros do you aspire to and why? at my home club Strathfield in Sydney from the age Greg Norman has always been a favourite; he of 14 and have always really enjoyed the golf club just used to strike the ball so well. I remember environment. watching him from his warm up before a round until Why have you chosen to move to Armidale? his warm down after a round not missing a shot At first it was for the opportunity to run my own for almost 6 hours many times. Coaching wise, I business and put to practice all the skills I have learnt really enjoy a mixture of all of the world’s best, with over the years. We, as a family, have also always been David Leadbetter and Australia’s Steve Bann my two attracted to living a country lifestyle away from the favourites. hustle and bustle of the cities, so it seemed like a Tell us about your pro shop? perfect fit. After doing research on the weather, the The pro shop has come a long way in my first 6 golf course and general facilities, in particular schools months of operating. It is at a point now where I am for our 2 kids, my wife, Sam, and I decided it would happy with the stock levels and variety that I have. be a great move for us. The most important thing with golf clubs it to get the What have been your greatest golfing moments? ones that suit you, and for this I have a lot of fitting There have been quite a few! Shooting a 10 under and demo clubs for people to try and be fitted with,

Pro Golfer Andrew Walkley and his family relocated to Armidale to enjoy the country lifestyle and help locals improve their golf handicaps.

“

by me, to get the best result. I always like to feel I can get anything; I don’t have to keep everyone happy! Do you give golfing lessons? I do; it has really built up well. At the moment I am lucky enough to be booked out almost 2 weeks in advance. Coaching is something that I really enjoy – just about my favourite thing to do with my business actually, and I hope it shows. I have had some good results so far and hope to keep that going; the junior clinics, both through the term in the holidays, have also been really well received. Have you noticed any locals with high golfing potential? At this stage there is one who stands out in regards to perhaps becoming a pro, but I am sure there will be many more soon! Callum Butler has reduced his handicap from 13 to almost 4 since I have been working with him. He has an aggressive approach to the game, which I like, and he is building a game to match his approach. How do you hope to make a difference at Armidale Golf Club? I hope to make a difference by providing all the services required by the club and its members and guests at the highest possible standards, always willing to go the extra yard when need be. I also see junior development as a huge responsibility, as without the kids coming through, the game cannot grow and prosper. It is also very important to me that everyone always feels welcome at the club and leaves having had a good day out playing golf! Thanks Andrew. new england focus 19

Two new faces at Invest Blue = more clients realising their plans and dreams

Invest Blue is excited to introduce two new Financial Planners in their New England financial planning team. Rob Pollard and David Gill joined Invest Blue in late 2012 as part of Invest Blue’s expansion plans to reach more New England clients. Rob Pollard and David Gill will join Steve Sewell and Kasey Patterson in the financial planning team at the Faulkner Street, Armidale office. FOCUS found out more about the new faces at Invest Blue. R O B P OLLARD Rob has over twenty years’ professional experience gained in the accounting and financial services industries. Rob graduated with a Bachelor of Business degree from University of Queensland and completed a Graduate of Financial Management at UNE. He became a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia in 2005. Rob’s family moved to Armidale in 1977 from Casino to take advantage of the educational opportunities offered in Armidale, and he completed his secondary education through The Armidale School (TAS). His early working life involved working in the hospitality industry both locally and also resort locations in Cairns and Thredbo. However, subsequent experience gained in the

accounting and finance industries combined with a stint of part-time TAFE teaching have allowed a natural progression to financial advising, utilising the skills gained along the way. Outside of work, Rob loves spending time with his Tour de Rocks 2012 (the 2013 family (wife Regina event being just around t and two boys, Lachie I am excited abouto the corner) have allowed and Harry), friends the opportunity him the opportunity to al gion and travelling, with help rural and re r give back to his local ei clients reach th ntributing a trip to the Apple co d community. an l potentia Isle – Tasmania, twelve unity.” m m co l ca lo e th to “I want to make a months ago, being a difference by developing recent highlight. He also lasting relationships with enjoys keeping fit and clients as they transition healthy by cycling, going through life and help them achieve to the gym and playing various their dreams and realise their aspirations sports over the years, including and goals.” cricket and golf. Watching his sons grow and develop into young men, combined with their D AVI D G I L L David was born in Wagga participation in various sports such as rugby, Wagga before moving to Albury for high basketball, cricket, athletics and swimming school. David moved to Armidale to attend have also been a source of great pleasure. UNE, where he graduated with a Bachelor of

“

Involvement in various committees and charity organisations over the years, such as the Ronald McDonald Ride for Sick Kids and the

Commerce Degree, majoring in Accounting and Finance for Managers, Management Accounting and Business Law.

³0RVW SHRSOH NQRZ WKH\ VKRXOG ZRUN WRZDUGV WKHLU SODQV DQG GUHDPV EXW RIWHQ WKH\ QHHG DVVLVWDQFH WR DFKLHYH WKHP´ Steve Sewell Director Invest Blue

pass on the business to our kids, a round-the-world ticket, ride an elephant. it’s possible. At Invest Blue we’re here to help. Help challenge you to dream bigger. Help your toughest obstacles seem smaller. Help you make better decisions with the support of tailored financial advice. Help you discover your own winning ways. And help you ultimately, to believe you can live your best life. Invest Blue. It’s possible.

www.investblue.com.au Armidale | Tamworth

Phone: 1300 346 837

David’s working life commenced in Cooma at Boyce Chartered Accountants, before moving to Canberra to do management accounting. Most recently David worked in London for various companies with Dragon’s Den business personality, James Caan in London’s Mayfair. David recently returned to Armidale with his fiancée, who is an Armidale local. David will be joining other Invest Blue team members in a St Vincent de Paul volunteer group that does labouring jobs for the disadvantaged in the community. David is a quiet fan of the Raiders and a more vocal supporter of the Waratahs. “I was attracted to working for the Invest Blue team because of their contagious energy and ambition. I am excited about the opportunity to help rural and regional clients reach their potential and contributing to the local community.”

focusupdate.

Video OF THE

MONTH

2:15

Watch on your smartphone

VIDEO BY: ABC Open New England North West. ABOUT: Armidale writer Teresa van der Kraan reads her contribution to 500 Words: Someone Who Shaped Me, ‘Old Photographs’.

Image of the month. "The sun sets on the Armidale Mall." Photo by: Michael Marchement. Camera: Canon 5D MkII.

WATCH AT: www.vimeo.com/57028058

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

LOCAL

READ with Robert Gasparre from Armidale Farmers’ Market

Title. Armidale Drama & Musical Society 2005-2012

AT ’ S I N

APPLES

The Armidale & District Musical Society is having a book launch! The ADMS has recently commissioned local well known photographer Terry Cooke to compile a photo book of all of its productions since 2005. Terry has been instrumental in capturing some outstanding images from these productions, and it was only fitting that we asked him once again to compile ‘A best of’ for ADMS members past and present to enjoy. Place: TAS Hoskins Centre. Day: Friday 1 March. Time: 6.30 -7.30pm. Promote your local book. Send us the details to editor@focusmag.com.au

Australian apples come in many delicious varieties. They are grown in n different areas of Australia and are picked d at different times of the year. The cooler climate of our region makes it particularly suited to growing apples. March sees new season on apples becoming available locally. You can even buy apples directly from the farm gate at some places, such as the Greenhill eenhill Orchard in Arding. A truly fresh apple is completely different from one that has been in cold storage. They are crisp isp and juicy. Apples are an antioxidant powerhouse with ith a greater antioxidant capacity than half a punnet unnet of blueberries or a cup of strawberries. I like to grate apples into salads for a sweet et tang. You can also stew them with a smallll amount of sugar and cinnamon and use the stewed fruit in muffins, on cereal, and with th cream or ice cream for dessert. WHERE

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 If you want to find out what is happening at the market, ‘Like’ us on Facebook.

nom nom. Looking for a great place to eat in the New England? The Focus ea eat. iPhone application featues a great selection of local rrestaurants and cafés, with mouthwatering professio professional images, so you can eat with your eyes. The app is up updated regularly and each restaurant includes maps, de detailed descriptions of every establishment, price guide, st style of food and easy to use contacts. And best of all, it’s FREE FR – just like FOCUS. The app is available for both the iPhone and Android phones. Readers can download the app for free by visiting www.foc www.focusmag.com.au/eat

Scan on your smartphone QR code reader to download.

Competiton Winners. Congratulations to Noeline Ward and Pam Boyd. You have each won yourselves a double pass to the Armidale Drama & Musical Society’s presentation of FARNDALE. Your tickets are coming to you in the mail.

new england focus 21

FESTIVAL C E L E B R AT I N G 1 5 0 Y E A R S O F A R M I DA L E ome of the highlights for the weekend include:

FRIDAY NIGHT Night markets, carnival rides, Armidale’s first ever laser light show, live music. SATURDAY Pancake breakfast with the band, Campus to City Canter, mass band performing in the Mall, the Grand Parade – theme this year is ‘150 years of Armidale’, carnival rides, markets and food stalls, several acts still to be announced. SUNDAY The only bike criterium left in Australia – line the mall and cheer on the riders as they take on Armidale’s CBD. MONDAY Armidale’s biggest race meet – the Armidale Cup – promises to be a great day.

The Autumn Festival began in 1992 and has grown over time to become a highlight of the Armidale event calendar, an opportunity for the Armidale community to come together for a celebration of what we have and enjoy.

Armidale’s y sesquicentenar r fo e em will be the th ival , the Autumn Fest at the and we hope th ats flo Grand Parade brace em to will be able ale id rm A of s 150 year history.”

“

They will be playing on the Saturday evening but also undertaking hospital visits, training sessions, signing sessions and being an important part of the Grand Parade.

Following fireworks over recent years, it was time to search for something new and different. Laser light shows are appearing around the globe and even muting or changing the traditional Sydney New Year Eve fireworks to a laser light show. Bring the family down to experience the laser light show first hand. The Legends of League will once again be a welcome addition to the Autumn Festival.

Armidale as a city is celebrating its sesquicentenary (150th anniversary). This will, therefore, be the theme for the Autumn Festival, and we hope that the Grand Parade floats will be able to embrace 150 years of Armidale history. Incidentally, as a point of interest the University of New England is also celebrating its 75th anniversary. The Autumn Festival is all about our

community and without our locals, the Autumn Festival wouldn’t happen. Stephanie Kentish, Council’s Event Coordinator, is planning for this year’s event and is still calling for all float and stall holders to come forward. If you are looking for application forms, they can be picked up from The Armidale Express office, Armidale Information Centre, Armidale Dumaresq Council or download the form from Armidale Dumaresq Council’s Website: www.armidale.nsw.gov.au Applications for both stalls and floats close 5pm Friday 1 March 2013. Please feel free to contact Stephanie with any thoughts or questions about the event. She is available on (02) 6770 3828 or by email: skentish@armidale.nsw.gov.au

The Armidale Autumn Festival is our community event of the year. This year is going to be bigger than ever featuring:

March 15 - 18 • Armidale

• • • • •

Laser Light Show Friday evening markets Campus to City Canter Breakfast with the Band Mass Bands in the Mall

• • • • •

Grand Parade Markets & Amusement Rides all afternoon Legends of League Criterium through the CBD Armidale Cup Day

Want to be involved in this year’s festival ‘Celebrating 150 Years of Armidale’? Application forms for ﬂoats and stalls available now. Contact: Stephanie Kentish on 6770 3828 or skentish@armidale.nsw.gov.au

22 new england focus.

www.armidale.nsw.gov.au

focuseditorial

icing on the cake with Susie Dunn

Icing on

cake

Gillian Williams.

The spin-offs from sport never cease to amaze me … (and admittedly this is from someone whose claim ‘I have no sports-related injuries’ admits to the fact that I’m no sportswoman. That’s another story.) ’m not talking here about the bad spin-off news headlines reverberating around the world lately. I’m talking the good news stories about sport, in the way it is an integral part of community life here. Sport is an important part of a well rounded life – exercise is vital for health, and sport at its best teaches a whole range of life lessons that can make us better people in a true community. AND it’s good FUN! As well as those drawcards, it is incredible what sport brings to this district. When Steve McMillan, President of the Armidale Sports Council, was declared Citizen of the Year for 2013, it was a marvellous choice. Steve is passionate about sport and about involving young people as leaders. As well, he periodically speaks out about the dollar value created by the visitors to the multitude of sporting events held in our many local facilities. Millions of dollars are generated and pass into our local economy, and at the same time we benefit from and enjoy the competition. For us locals, being good hosts, welcoming people and helping them to utilise the range of things we have to offer here – that’s good for everyone. We want visitors to take a great memory of the whole experience away with them. This is a year that hopefully will see a new emphasis on the role of the Central Mall in Armidale. Various groups have been brainstorming plans, and those that are ‘do-able’ and are initiated and supported by those with ‘skin in the game’ are the ones that historically will succeed. The ADC cannot – and should not – initiate every little thing in town, but they can stand by to facilitate reasonable initiatives within the overview for which they are responsible. Council can institute a sort of Express Lane principle to help cut any red tape for appropriate events and promotions and continue to give some support ‘in-kind’ where applicable. They can also facilitate future planning to enable cafés to have the sort of appropriate all-weather protection for their outdoor eating areas that are in use around the world. The Central Mall should be the social hub of Armidale. Updating signage and making it friendly – not always ‘NO to this or that’. Parking areas could show maps with other alternatives, noting all-day spots. This is the sort of partnership we should look to share between citizens and their elected Council in an area as important as the Central Mall, the social heart of our city. And businesses should show their

flexibility with new ideas and hours. Now, jumping to a totally different topic, it was most encouraging to hear Professor Jim Pratley, Secretary of the Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture, talking on the ABC. He was reporting on the much-needed new interest being seen in university courses in Agriculture, which should go some way to solving the national skills crisis. Currently only 750 graduate annually to fill 4,000 plus advertised jobs. He pointed out to the metropolitan interviewer that agriculture was not farming – farming was 3% of the agricultural job market that overall was 17% of the Australian job market. The range of associated jobs covers just about every interest that can be imagined in what is increasingly being recognised as one of the most important industries in the world. Good to see this letter in a national newspaper: “Year by year the advantages of living in Australia’s high country become more obvious. While global warming makes irregular weather and rainfall, oppressive heatwaves, bushfires and coastal erosion the norm, the high country of New England remains – unsmug and fingers crossed – safe and temperate. Summers are warm to hot with mild humidity and winters are increasingly warmer. The air is clean, Armidale’s water supply hovers around 100 per cent, life expectancy is high and rising sea levels just bring the beaches closer.” Good on you, Jack Bedson. I was sorry to miss the premiere of Opera New England’s first season, but apparently it was outstanding, and it is exciting to think that this could be the birth of an Australian Glyndebourne. But earlier this year I was lucky to be in Sydney for the opening of Angus Nivision: A Survey at the National Trust’s S.H. Ervin Gallery on Observatory Hill. Gus Nivison’s family have been on the land in Walcha for many generations and he still lives on the family property, although his main occupation is now painting. He is truly from the land, of the land and on the land. When the ubiquitous John Doyle opened the exhibition, he began by saying that whenever a history of Australian art was shown, it always started and worked through with reference to European art in Australia. Then Aboriginal art found its unique place in the commentary. And here, he said, in Angus Nivison’s art was art that was totally and absolutely Australian, not what we think of as Aboriginal and yet not European at all. That was both perceptive and thought-provoking. It’s a great exhibition.

Fabrics Naturally is all about soft furnishings for your home, both custom made and off the rack. We are a small, friendly business in Armidale, New South Wales, which was started in 2007 by Gillian Williams.

custom-made wooden shutters and venetian

Located a block south of Centro on the corner of Rusden and Jessie Streets, Fabrics Naturally is next door to The Goldfish Bowl Bakery and Café. Gillian and her team – Interior Designer, Jemma Tombs, and Shop Assistants, Kerie Mann and Trudy Hancock – offer advice and assistance in choosing fabrics, a measure and quote service, manufacture and installation of top quality curtains, Roman blinds, cushions and other window coverings, as well as colour advice and placement and choice of furniture.

We also have very strong summer sun, which

We take great delight in helping our customers work out stunning decorating solutions. We also work closely with Alan Pringle of New England Shutters and Blinds, who provides

also allow loss of heat in winter and gain of

blinds. Most of us who live in the New England love its variable climate, which brings us four distinct seasons. Due to our cooler winters, however, we do have to think more seriously about window coverings to minimise heat loss. fades furnishings and can make our homes very glary. The glass in windows allows a lot of heat in or out of a house, and window frames can also let in a lot of draughts around the edges. Just stand by a window in the winter, and you can feel the cold. Modern trends in building have encouraged large windows to let in winter sun and light, but unless properly covered, they can heat in summer. Come in and see us and our beautiful range of fabrics, soft furnishings and giftware.

new england focus 23

MARCH 2013

WITH TERRI

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$50,'$/(

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AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

You will have victory very soon. Words will bring a positive outcome with a happy surprise. Your wish is coming true, but first you must heal past hurts by releasing them with GRATITUDE for the positive changes they brought to you. Rose Quartz connects us to our loving beautiful self.

ÄšĆľÄ?Ä‚Ć&#x;ĹśĹ? Ć?ĆľÄ?Ä?ÄžĆ?Ć?Ä¨ĆľĹŻ Ç Ĺ˝ĹľÄžĹś Ĺ˝Ä¨ ĆšĹ˝ĹľĹ˝ĆŒĆŒĹ˝Ç ĎŹĎŽ Ď˛ĎłĎłĎŹ ĎĎłĎŹĎŹ Ç Ç Ç Í˜Ć‰ĹŻÄ?Ä‚ĆŒĹľĹ?ÄšÄ‚ĹŻÄžÍ˜ĹśĆ?Ç Í˜ÄžÄšĆľÍ˜Ä‚Ćľ

PISCES. February 20 - March 20

Your thoughts of yourself are quite destructive at the moment. Release your harsh judgment and compliment yourself regularly throughout the day, just to reestablish a new habit. Your kind words benefit so many others. Try the gift of giving this energy to you. Carry some citrine with you, it shatters negativity.

ARIES. March 21 - April 20

Your emotions have been a little over sensitive lately as you have begun a cycle of self-discovery, where you will be letting go of a lot of passed hurt. Try to recognise all of your insecurities, so you can release them and their influence from your sphere of existence. Phenacite is a wonderful stone for initiation, bringing a new level of awareness.

24 new england focus.

Relationships are likely to be on the main agenda this month. Be open with your communication to avoid any misunderstanding and know which insecurities belong to you and which ones donâ€™t. Kyanite helps build inner bridges so we can literally get over things.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23 Ju

Your action in life has slowed down as a result of not knowing what youâ€™re wanting, and youâ€™re taking life far too seriously. Lighten up by bringing back that wonderful sense of humour; think about what would make you happy, and set some goals. Turquoise gives self confidence a boost.

LEO. July 24 - August 23

You are the MAGICIAN, remember? All you need is a little clear direction. As soon as you have set some goals, things will shift and change will be yours, effortlessly. Spend some time in nature to release your tension. Blue Quartz clears the mind, energises the body and connects us to our soul.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

Even though your challenges may seem overwhelming, look at the new you that you're expressing to the world. You are a very strong person, so congratulations on owning your own power. Try a little fresh goal setting; this will ease your restlessness. Tourmaline amplifies your inner peace, playful inner child energy and settles restlessness.

Avoid arguing the point at the moment, as this behaviour is stopping you from seeing the bigger picture. Your position is far more valuable as the wise 'peace-keeper', not the enemy. Soon change will show you how important your values really are. Be kind to yourself. Clear Quartz gives our confidence a boost.

LIBRA. September 24 - October 23

Good news is on its way, more than likely bringing cause to celebrate. Kick up your heels and party; celebration is good for the soul. Your writing skills are suffering from boredom lately, so pick up that pen and put your creative self to good use. Citrine attracts an abundance of positive energy and shatters negativity.

SCORPIO. October 24 - November 22

Movement is the main theme for the sensitive scorpio. Allow yourself the freedom to make choices without guilt. Guilt arises from low-esteem, and low esteem could leave you vulnerable to self-sabotage. Rhodonite helps us discover new talents, which enriches our life.

SAGATTARIUS. November 23 - December 21

Bring back your laughter and play with life. Your freedom will be found when you take a break from every day life. There is a new friend entering the picture, who will help you find a new talent. Avoid distractions from scavenging energies. Kyanite helps us face our challenges with a joyful outlook.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Reconnect with your talent in teaching people. You are able to share the most amazing insights and experiences, yet youâ€™re afraid to speak for fear of how your words may be accepted. Focus on your intention or motive. Rose Quartz is very nurturing for all situations.

new england focus

New England

Smokey Bacon Martini 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.

focusinterview.

S v e n

B a r n a r d

AZKA Bar and Restaurant

The Wicklow Simplicity is Key The brief my chefs were given in designing the next menu for the Wicklow was simply 3 words: fresh, tasty and value.

Me Sven Barnard, the bar manager Meet at AZKA Bar and Restaurant. He ha has moved to Armidale to share his dr drink mixing passion and to show cu customers how he matches the perfect drop to individual meals.

We are not going to try and be something we are not. We are a great pub, we have an unbeatable atmosphere and we need to offer simple fresh and tasty meals that will provide the people of New England fantastic value for money. Our current menu can be found on www.wicklow.com.au And our new menu will be available in mid March.

Manager Nick.

Cheers, see you soon! Nick.

hat brings you to Armidale? Thanks to a gentleman keen to be a test Two things brought me to subject for the purposes of science and this picturesque town – the drinking, on a quiet night I created a Smokey first being my girlfriend going Bacon Martini and introduced my first to UNE here in Armidale; we both felt that it customer to the idea of a beverage outside the was great reason for a change of scenery and norm of cocktail drinks. lifestyle, as well as giving her better access to Describe your cellar ... Here in the AZKA what the UNE offers for her course work. The Wine and Tapas Bar we stock an extensive second was the job opportunity; selection of wines from around having worked at the Quality Australia and the world. With Hotel Powerhouse in a wine type from many Tamworth, this was Thanks to a famous and favoured to a chance for me to gentleman keen regions, there will be a for the continue working in an be a test subject wine to suit your taste nce and purposes of scie t night area I was enjoying and and accompany the ie drinking , on a qu Bacon very familiar with. ey ok meal you’ve chosen. a Sm

Corner Marsh and Dumaresq Sts, Armidale t 6772 2421 w www.wicklow.com.au open 7 Days. Dinner: 6 - 9pm. Lunch: noon - 2pm.

“

I created

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.

Quality Hotel Powerhouse, 31 Marsh Street, Armidale t 6772 7788 open Azka Restaurant – 7 days for breakfast, lunch and dinner ‘til late. Azka Wine & Tapas Bar – daily from 11am – late.

d my

duce Why have you The variety really opens Martini and intro e idea of th to er first custom chosen to work at up the fine dining ide the norm a beverage outs AZKA? When I moved experience. .” of cocktail drinks here to Armidale, we What other fun were just finishing the beverages do you refurbishment of the new AZKA recommend? I have compiled bar and restaurant. I saw this as an a cocktail list here at the AZKA opening to make a mark on something Wine & Tapas Bar for customers to from the start and really push myself with select something that they can enjoy. My my work, to accomplish something big for favourite to make from the list is the Court myself and the Quality Hotel Powerhouse. I Zester, a powerful citrus cocktail that is great needed a challenge to step up to, and this was for cleansing the palate after some tapas the perfect opportunity. before you head to the restaurant for the main

Susie Coventry, Maître d’

What is your signature drink? I have a few I really enjoy making and getting feedback on. Martinis are always a challenge, because people have differing preferred ways of enjoying them, from the ingredients to the way it’s prepared and served. This led me to make a martini that was undeniably its own. I’ve always liked the idea of a savoury cocktail; it’s left of centre and a blowout to the senses, so I decided to use a vodka martini as a blank canvas to work on.

course. However, I love learning new cocktails or making something that didn’t make the list. One such drink is the Mystique; it’s simple but the flavour is fun – a very similar taste to the pink Muskstik candy. I also recommend the Margarita, a lot of people avoid tequila (usually for very similar reasons) but a Margarita made with top shelf tequila, spiced orange liqueur and served in a chilled glass rimmed with lime sea salt is not something to miss.

new england focus 27

New England

28 new england focus.

focusinterview.

Ash Dell Meet Armidale’s newest photographer, Ash Dell

ell us about your upbringing? of their family or their wedding day is a great I was born here in Armidale and privilege and very rewarding. have spent all my life here. My parHow do you capture the perfect image? ents both grew up in Armidale. My It all starts with the light; I look for the best father owns and runs his own computer repair quality of light before anything else – this is business; my mother works at the New England what makes a great image. I have spent hour Medicare Local. I have always had a passion for upon hours studying light and how it falls, taking photographs and in more recent years, because it is what photography is about. Next the art of photography itself. comes the background; I look to make sure My dad has always had an interest in camthere are no distracting elements. Then I bring eras, capturing the special moments in life on in my clients; I like to let them interact naturally, film and digital media; I think this is where my and I will fine tune their positions to have the interest was born. I went to Drumlight falling on them to achieve the mond Memorial School and then prefect picture. Then comes the on to Armidale High School. camera. I have a preconceived “ I enjoy I have been involved in the idea of what I am expecting capturing the local soccer club Ex-Services and the mood of the image, since I was seven years old. and I set my camera setmoments that More recently, I have taken ting to achieve this. The last pass by in the ” e. ey part in the local triathlons and most important thing is an of k in bl and local running group. the emotion and expression; Tell us about your family? this is the key to a great image. My wife and I have been togethWithout the emotional connection er for ten years this year and married for and expression, you are just capturing a the last four. I met her the year after I finished photograph but with the emotion and expresschool; since then, we have been inseparable. sion, you are capturing a moment. Seven months ago our son, Alexander, was Final words ... born. He is the best thing in our lives; he is lots I am striving towards providing leading class of fun and can keep you entertained forever. images for the local community. Armidale has I would think he would be one of the most given me so much and so many opportunities photographed kids around. throughout my life. I want to give something What type of photography do you speciaback by capturing stunning photographs for lise in? them, whether it is of their family at a yearly My specialty is outstanding portrait and exportrait session or on their wedding day, docuceptional wedding photography. I enjoy capturmenting their commitment to one another. ing the moments that pass by in the blink of an I put my heart, creativity and everything I eye. I am drawn to the way light falls on people have into images my clients will love. A lot of differently and the scene that I am about to people can feel awkward to be photographed, capture. I enjoy that with this type of photogra- and my goal is to make the whole experience phy you get to interact with all different types as relaxed and enjoyable as possible. I am very of people at great moments in their life. And much a perfectionist, and I feel this shows in for people to trust you to capture the images the work I create. new england focus 29

focus wedding feature. New England

Your Dream Wedding The Armidale City Bowling Club – Making Occasions Memories he Armidale City Bowling Club offers several styles and venues for weddings. What are they? We have a number of spaces available at the Armidale City Bowling Club for a wedding.

There is our Auditorium, which is perfect for larger weddings of up to 260 people, and we also have our Tops Function room, which overlooks the bowling greens for weddings of up to 120 guests. For a more relaxed summer wedding, our customers can consider using our BBQ area, and for a country wedding set in a stunning location, we offer the beautiful Saumarez Homestead. Can you arrange the entire wedding reception? We were recently finalists in the Australian Bridal Industry Academy for Best InHouse Wedding Advisor, Best Club Reception Venue and Best Function Coordinator and were named amongst the top contenders in each category. As we cater for over 25 weddings each year, we have vast experience in organising our clients’ perfect day and are able to guide couples each step of the way. Do you offer varied wedding menus? We can cater for any style of wedding, from a cocktail style event, to a full service three course sit down meal. We offer a variety of

30 new england focus.

Wedding Packages that a couple can choose from to suit their style at both the Club and at Saumarez that include catering, beverages and decorations. We can also tailor a package to suit a customer’s needs and are able to help guide a couple to choose the right package for them. Can you help with wedding entertainment? The entertainment at a reception is often one of the highlights of the evening, and we can recommend a variety of entertainers, from bands to DJs and other forms of entertainment such as a photo booths or a close-up magician. We are also happy to help each couple out by providing them with names of local florists, beauticians, hair salons, car hire companies, cake makers, jewellers and all other businesses that you may need when planning your big day. What type of wedding budget do you suit? On top of being one of the most memorable days of your life, each wedding is different and special in its own way. At the Armidale City Bowling Club, we can offer extravagant, glamorous weddings to suit a larger budget, or a small, intimate wedding to suit a lower budget. Our clients simply need to let us know what they would like their

wedding to be, and our wedding planners can advise them on what would be best for them based on their budget. Final words ... What we are able to offer our wedding couples is a personal service that covers everything a reception may need. We can transform our spaces using different styles and colours of chair covers, draping and fairy lighting to create a romantic feel and centrepieces to add decoration to tables.

Our professional service and standards ensure that our bride and groom can relax and spend quality time with their guests and enjoy their wedding day. We like to make every occasion a memory, and with a wedding day being one of the highlights of a person’s life, we hope that we can take some pressure off our customers so that they can remember all the important details that they have spent so much time organising.

We encourage our clients to get some pictures and colours together of what they imagine their wedding to look like, and we are then able to help create a design that is personal to each couple.

We are more than happy to meet any couples who are interested in having us host their special day and encourage people to book an appointment for a site inspection and to meet with one of our wedding planners.

Commemorate Your New Life Together... with a special Commemorative Marriage Certiﬁcate.

Holding Hands

Waratah

Rose

Diamond Rings

Cut the Cake

Marriage Rings

Commemorative Certificates are a unique memento of your wedding day and can be displayed in a frame as a keepsake or become part of your album as an everlasting memory. Commemorative Certificates are purchased as a $71.00* package that includes a Standard Marriage Certificate (valued at $48.00) that can be used for official purposes. With each package, additional Commemorative Certificates can be purchased for $23.00 each. To apply for your certificate, speak to your celebrant, visit our website or call the Registry on 1300 655 236.

Commemorative Marriage Certiﬁcates do not contain security features and organisations may not accept them as a proof of identity document. *Prices are correct at time of printing and include postage, handling and GST where applicable. Commemorative Certiﬁcates are A4 in size (210mm x 297mm).

w w w. b d m . n s w. g o v. a u l P h o n e : 1 3 0 0 6 5 5 2 3 6

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New England

Your Heading Picture PerfectHere! Wedding at Petersons Your Heading Here! Peter Howe Celebrant. Hello. My name is Peter Howe, and I am a professional local marriage, funeral and naming celebrant. If you are planning on getting married in the beautiful New England, I would be honoured and delighted to help make your special day beautifully unique and truly memorable. Your wedding ceremony should be as personal as your commitment to each other. If you are looking for a civil celebrant who is innovative and can both guide and listen to your needs, then look no further. I am also able to renew vows as well as conduct commitment services and grief and trauma services. Pet funeral services are also available upon request. I am not limited to Armidale, as I also offer my services to the surrounding towns and districts.

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Our Wedding Packages offer you the exclusive use of Palmerston Estate homestead and English gardens set amongst the backdrop of 100 years of heritage; your ceremony and reception will be tailored to your preferences, guaranteeing a celebration with elegance and charm, whilst you share this special occasion with those who matter most. With exclusive use of the guesthouse facilities, including the guesthouse gardens for your photography, the homestead is transformed into the beautiful picture you have dreamt of with your flowers, decorations and our backdrop. Let us take care of all the hard work, leaving you to relax and enjoy the magic of this occasion. Why not start the day with one of our Petersons Champagne House sparkling wines or beautiful breakfast for those guests staying the night prior to the wedding day. Photos courtesy of James Day.

New England

Yaraandoo Your Heading The Perfect VenueHere! for Country Weddings How does the idea of the getting married in front of a spectacular backdrop of gorge, escarpment or waterfalls sound? How about Ebor Falls cascading in the background as you take your vows, or the enchantment of being in a tunnel of Arctic Beech forest at New England National Park? The backdrops and stunning locations adjoining Yaraandoo are as endless as the reception options. When you get married at Yaraandoo, you don’t have to leave your reception after 4 hours; you actually have use of the establishment for the entire weekend. Your guests can enjoy this wonderful facility, including its guided walks, wonderful swimming hole, fantastic Trout streams and outside campfire area, as well as adjoining National Parks. Your guests can relax, have a few drinks at the reception and not worry about having to drive to their accommodation; everything is provided for them on site. We have the complete accommodation range to suite every budget and individual needs. Our wedding gift to you includes a night at the Moffat Falls Cottage, with its wood fire and spectacular mountain scenery overlooking the magnificent waterfalls. Moffat Falls Cottage is only 5 km away, so you can drive back the next morning to open presents or have a relaxing brunch with your family and friends.

Your Heading WeddingHere! at Archie’s on the Park Consider Archie’s on the Park for your wedding. • Four acres of landscaped grounds • Deluxe bridal suite, with breakfast atrium and spa bath • Boutique accommodation • An elegant reception area seating up to 90 guests • National Trust listed historical homestead and chapel • Enjoy pre-dinner drinks and hors d’oeuvres in our Garden Courtyard. • A talented team of chefs offering a wide range of menus • Superior service from professional and friendly staff • An experienced management team to ensure your wedding day is a special day

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focus Weddings.

Photos: Peter Sechi

Ben and Jody Knight recently tied the knot at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort. Here they share the personal details of their very special day ...

New England

at BreakFree Aanuka Beach

ell us about your connection to Coffs Harbour? Coffs Harbour has always been a special place for me. I was born here and every holidays growing up we spent at Nan and Pop’s place. Some of my best childhood memories were created here in Coffs Harbour. I have a lot of family and friends in Coffs Harbour; it will always be my home. How did you and Ben meet? Ben and I met whilst we were both serving in the Royal Australian Navy. We met years before we actually started seeing each other, but one State of Origin night a mutual friend re-introduced us, and if it wasn’t for Ben begging my mother (who was also out with me) to make me stay out, I am not sure we would be where we are today. Tell us about the proposal? I have a large obsession with sharks, so Ben surprised me with a Shark Dive at Manly Aquarium. I had been sick with a cold that week, so I came home to have a sleep, while Ben went to our local Irish bar; I had no idea Ben had actually gone to have a few drinks to get the courage to call my dad and ask for his permission to marry me. Ben then took me to a beautiful dinner on

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Bondi Beach, before finishing off the day taking To try and relax and enjoy yourself. The whole Bella (my white Maltese dog; we are sort of a journey from the beginning to the end should be package deal) and I to one of Sydney’s amazing fun, with lots of laughs. Ben and I made every lookouts. Ben then played our song, decision together. At the end of the day, bent down on one knee and rain hail or shine, it doesn’t matter if asked me to marry him. things go wrong; as long as you He was so nervous: Ben can laugh together, that is all actually put the ring on that matters. the wrong hand and What was the highlight of d ul co ... a Aanuk y an didn’t even wait for a the day for you both? ne do ve ha t no to d di response. But it was There was not one thing ey th an th more ecial day sp the perfect end to a I could highlight; the whole e th is th e ak m wished perfect day. experience was amazing. we had always How did you plan As long as Ben and I were for.” your special day? Why together with all our friends did you choose Aanuka? and family, that is all I could I made a promise to my ever ask for. Aanuka made sure Nan when I was little that I of this and could not have done any would always get married on Coffs more than they did to make this the Harbour’s beach. My Nan had collected a special day we had always wished for. lot of different information for me, and What are your plans for the future? with some research we went and spoke to Our plans are still very open. There is still so the girls at Aanuka. I fell in love with the beach much we want to do and see together. Our life the resort and the beautiful layout Aanuka had. changes so quickly; one minute we are settling Everyone was so accommodating and so friendly, I down and the next we are on another adventure knew it was the perfect place for Ben and I to get together. We are just enjoying life for the moment married. and all its blessings. We moved overseas for the next 7 months Would you recommend Aanuka as a wedding and the girls (at Aanuka) helped me so much to venue? organise everything via email. All our suppliers, Absolutely. When our guests look back at our Aanuka recommended, and were the best Coffs wedding day, they not only remember one of the could have asked for. We were so happy; they most beautiful wedding venues and the amazing took the stress out of everything and made the day it was, they also remember one of the best whole experience enjoyable. vacations. Aanuka catered to all of our needs, and What advice would you give upcoming all of our guests enjoyed staying at the Resort and brides on planning the big day? making it their week, as much as it was ours.

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Wedding will be the word on everyone’s lips on Saturday 11 May, when brides-to-be, photographers, cake specialists, venue decorators, entertainers and more gather at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort, Coffs Harbour, for its first Wedding Open Day. at BreakFree Aanuka Beach ach

rom 11am to 3pm, Open Day guests have on a secluded beach, green grass scattered with confetti the opportunity to meet the resort’s team and flower petals, surrounding leafy gardens catching of wedding specialists, view the resort’s the fresh sea breeze, and comfy chairs decorated in crisp array of ceremony and reception venues wedding white set out in the sunshine for family and and discuss their plans for their big day friends to share the moment with you … such a dream with a range of the region’s most soughtwedding day can be yours. after wedding suppliers. That exact scene is what has made wedding ceremonies Attendees will also be offered complimentary entry, so popular at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort on the free parking onsite, a gift bag on arrival, champagne attractive Coffs Harbour coast. and canapés and will have the chance to win an With an ideal location on scenic Diggers Beach, the assortment of prizes, such as an overnight resort can make your special day everything it holiday for two people at BreakFree Aanuka should be. Beach Resort, a Finz On The Beach dinner With beachside weddings a s voucher, a free venue hire voucher and speciality, BreakFree Aanuka Beach ng di ed Catering for w e re more from exhibitors there on the kF Resort can arrange for the bride ea Br of all sizes, a rs fe of rt so day. and groom to exchange vows Re Aanuka Beach es ag ck pa ng di Plus, every Wedding Open Day on the sand, or say their ‘I dos’ ed variety of w d an s et dg bu l guest will receive a 10% discount on a choice of three spacious to suit al unning st of e ng ra a ts off their wedding’s food and lawn areas with the beach as a bo as ns, ceremony locatio ing cedar beverage account if they confirm backdrop. m including a char their wedding booking at the resort Or, there is also a charming n er od em chapel and thre ” on the Wedding Open Day. cedar chapel by a fresh water . es reception venu Couples can also make a weekend lagoon amongst native gardens. of it and enjoy the resort’s fantastic Inside, your ceremony will be flooded range of leisure facilities, including several with natural light streaming through swimming pools, an onsite day spa and beachfront stained glass windows, while the courtyard restaurant, with great rates from $159* per night in a outside features a renaissance stone fountain for that Paradise Spa Bure, including buffet breakfast for two. special romantic touch. With room for up to 110 guests, Catering for weddings of all sizes, BreakFree Aanuka the air-conditioned chapel is also a great wet weather Beach Resort offers a variety of wedding packages to suit option. all budgets and boasts a range of stunning ceremony For treasured wedding photos, everything is just a short locations, including a charming cedar chapel and three walk away to truly capture the tranquillity and beauty of modern reception venues. your special day, with the beach and landscaped gardens Weddings @ BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort offering superb locations that are the essence of romance. Memories of your wedding day are meant to last forever, Tailoring a memorable reception is also at the top of the which is why this special event in your life should be picture list for BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort, so we offer four perfect. venues to select from. Golden sand stretching out to the blue waves breaking Three boast magnificent views to Diggers Beach and

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vary for intimate gatherings under the stars with as few as 25 guests, to dancing the night away in air-conditioned comfort for up to 220 guests. Don’t stress about the details either, with BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort offering specialist wedding coordinators and a list of suppliers who come highly recommended for their quality service and products, ranging from wedding cakes and flowers to photography. When it comes to the wedding night, the newlyweds and their guests can take advantage of discounted accommodation packages from Studio Hotel Rooms up to roomy Four Bedroom Villas, including a free night for the new Mr and Mrs Married in a beautiful Paradise Spa Bure, when a reception is booked for at least 50 guests. As for honeymooners, so many special moments are to be found when walking hand in hand through the resort’s 15 acres of sub-tropical gardens, strolling on the adjacent beachfront or sharing a romantic meal at the onsite café, restaurant and bar. Relax or find your own adventure with the many resort facilities, including five swimming pools, a cave spa and water slide, three tennis courts, beach volleyball, mini putt putt golf, or head out for a day trip to see the sights of the surrounding township and coastline. BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort is located at 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour. For more information on the Wedding Open Day or to book accommodation call (02) 6652 7555 or email aanuka.events@breakfree.com.au ABOUT BREAKFREE HOTELS, RESORTS & APARTMENTS BreakFree Hotels, Resorts and Apartments offer an extensive range of over 30 properties in favourite holiday destinations and cities around Australia and New Zealand. Spacious, self-contained apartment accommodation combines value with access to the best beaches, city highlights and holiday attractions, making them ideal for leisure seekers and corporate travellers alike. See www.breakfree.com.au for more information. *Subject to availability. Valid for travel from 10 -12 May 2013.

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We look forward to the opportunity of helping more businesses in Armidale get more leads, more customers and more sales!

Crystal WebSystems ell us about your offer advertised this month? We have been getting some great results for our customers using Google Adwords to attract new customers and drive sales, so we thought this offer would be a great way to get more businesses in the area enjoying this success!

The fact is that the internet is becoming critical in making a purchasing decision; these are some stats from the US, but Australia is usually only 6 or 12 months behind in technology adoption:

For the Þrst 5 customers that call and mention this article in FOCUS, we are going to do the campaign setup and research for half price. This research is to identify the best search terms to attract new customers. It is essential, as opposed to promoting your business name and hoping someone calls your number; Google lets you target people searching for your speciÞc products or services.

79% of consumers say they use their smartphone to help with the shopping Ð 2011.

But why online advertising? It comes down to where people in Australia are looking for their information. Last month nearly 93% of web searches were through Google and 94% of mobile searches. People search Google to settle arguments at the pub, check their facts before handing in an assignment, compare features of a car they are about to buy, Þnd the best price on a new book, see what other albums their new favourite artist has released, Þnd the closest hairdresser, check what to do when their dog is sick, etc. etc. etc.

36 new england focus.

70% of people say they look at online reviews before making a purchase Ð 2009.

83% of mums say they do online research after seeing TV ads for products that interest them Ð 2009. You mentioned targeting customers; how is this done? Well, for all ads we can target on geography and demographics. For example, we have a customer that offers a premium homeware product, so we target this to women over 25. Then things get more interesting, when looking at the Google Display Network, which is where you can run graphical or video ads rather than the static text ads associated with GoogleÕs Search results. Here we can target in on interest areas, even down to speciÞc websites where you would like your ad displayed. We have a customer offering rural services, and thus make sure their ads appear on www.eldersweather. com.au

So through these methods we can really stretch your advertising dollar, making sure that your ads are only shown to the best prospective buyers. How do the results compare to traditional advertising methods? We have a customer who offers a very speciÞc service to the market. After 7 years of Yellow Pages ads without a single lead, they decided to try something new. We were actually as surprised as they were when they got their Þrst lead on the second day of the campaign Ð we really thought it would have taken at least a few weeks! Now that is a pretty speciÞc example, but we do know that all of our customers appreciate the additional accountability that online

advertising delivers. There is a direct correlation between the costs of the campaign and the number of people who see your ads, once the ads have been running for a while. Google actually offers a model where you only pay for conversions i.e. people who have actively engaged with your company or bought a product. In terms of accountability, you donÕt get much better than that! Any last comments? We look forward to the opportunity of helping more businesses in Armidale get more leads, more customers and more sales! Due to our workload at the moment we have had to limit the offer for ½ price account setup, but as a member of the Google Engage for Agencies program, we always have vouchers for free clicks!

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C E R E B R A L PA L S Y A L L I A N C E

David Earle.

ow long have you worked for Cerebral Palsy Alliance? I’ve been working here for 18 months now. My wife and I moved from Queensland to Armidale so I could take up this role. Many of our team members are locals, or people who grew up here and have decided to return to the area. Exactly what services are offered by Cerebral Palsy Alliance? Cerebral Palsy Alliance’s rural teams work with children with Cerebral Palsy from birth until the age of 18 years. We also work with school-age children with significant or complex multiple disabilities. Our main aim is to provide services that are family-focused. This means we work closely with each family to get to know and support their unique style and needs. From there, we can support them to help their children reach their full potential. Ways we do this include: therapy and exercise programs; access to specialised equipment like wheelchairs and walkers; assisting with designing home modifications; and finding the most appropriate technology solutions to overcome challenges in communication or accessing the world we live in. At our Armidale office we have a Physiotherapist, two Occupational Therapists, a Speech Pathologist and a Team Administrator. Our region covers the New England tablelands and the Northwest slopes and plains, an area of more than 93,000 square kilometres. Our team visits families anywhere from the New England Highway to the edge of the outback, including the Great Dividing Range between Tamworth and Tenterfield, the Namoi and Gwydir River Valleys of Inverell, Moree and Narrabri, to the Queensland border in the north.

David tells us that in 2004, Cerebral Palsy Alliance (then known as The Spastic Centre) opened an Armidale office in one of the buildings at the old Teachers’ Training College but thanks to the generosity of Sargents Pies Charitable Foundation, they have just moved into their own brand new building.

Our team also provides services to a number of indigenous communities throughout this region. We also offer families access to a broad range of specialist assessment and support services based in Sydney and online. Cerebral Palsy Alliance is a large organisation with a huge amount to offer in supporting families. What is Cerebral Palsy, and how many New Englanders have this condition? Cerebral Palsy is a permanent condition which affects a person’s movement. Its impact can vary from a slight weakness in one hand, to almost a complete lack of voluntary movement. In some people it is so mild, that very few people may know of their challenges, but in others it can be so severe that they require a sophisticated wheelchair to move around and need assistance with everyday activities such as eating and communicating. Children are usually diagnosed when they are delayed reaching physical milestones like crawling, walking or talking. More children have Cerebral Palsy than any other physical disability, with an Australian baby born with cerebral palsy every 15 hours. Each year we work with over 100 children with Cerebral Palsy and their families across our region. What is the history of the Alliance? Cerebral Palsy Alliance was formed in 1945 by a concerned group of parents who were seeking support and therapy for their children with Cerebral Palsy. From those small beginnings more than 65 years ago, Cerebral Palsy Alliance has grown to be a world leader in providing therapy and support for children and adults with Cerebral Palsy throughout metropolitan and regional NSW and the ACT. Despite advances in medical science, the rates of Cerebral Palsy have remained virtually unchanged. There is no known cure, and

NSW. Sargents has now donated over $7 the causes are usually unknown. In addition million since 2004, which has enabled us to to providing vital therapy, equipment and build or buy and renovate eight rural centres, support services, Cerebral Palsy Alliance is including our new site here at Armidale. directing worldwide research projects into This rural network of state-of-the-art Cerebral Palsy prevention, cure and intertherapy centres provides vital services close vention through the work of our Research to people’s homes. This reduces travelling Foundation. time and costs for families that are often How has the centre improved the delivalready pushed to the limit both financially ery of its services? and emotionally. In 2004 Cerebral Palsy Alliance (then On behalf of every family we support known as The Spastic Centre) opened an throughout the New England region, as Armidale office in one of the buildings at well as those in other rural areas, I’d like to the old Teachers’ Training College, now part extend a big thank you to Sargents for of the University of New England. But that their support. Their generosspace was less than ideal, especially ity has, without a doubt, for some of our clients with changed the lives of more severe Cerebral Palsy. k This rural networt thousands of AustraOur new centre in O’Dell of state-of-the-ar es lian families. Street is such a beautiid prov therapy centres e to How many clients ful change. It has been os cl vital services . This will your new designed with our team es m ho s ’ people time and ng lli ve Armidale centre and clients in mind. The tra s ce du re that are service? new centre is environcosts for familiesshed to the often already pu ially and Currently we see mentally and family limit both financ up to 100 families friendly. It is fully wheelemotionally.” over the course of a chair accessible with lots year. We are really excited of space and feels lovely and about having this new cenwelcoming for kids and adults. tre, as it gives us the opportunity It has three therapy rooms, an open to run more activities on site such plan office and a meeting room. It is also as our new MyTime support group for in a much more convenient location – right parents and carers. in the middle of Armidale’s medical precinct, Are you having an open day? which means we are more visible to the local Although we have already moved in and community and can establish stronger links are providing services out of the new buildwith other service providers and medical ing, the official opening will be on Tuesday professionals. This will enable us to better 5 March. We are also hoping to hold an serve families living in the New England area Open Day on World Cerebral Palsy Day on 2 and surrounding regions. October 2013. How does Sargents Pies help make a We would love people to drop in, meet difference? the team and see our new building. Visitors The generosity of Sargents Pies Chariare always welcome. table Foundation has been life changing for Thanks David. thousands of families living throughout rural

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new england focus 37

AR M I

EX-SER

C ES VI

LE DA

L IAL CLUB Diamond Jubilee

2013

Scott Sullivan - Servies Armidale Ex-Services Club

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S co t t Su lliva n . Armidalee Ex-Services is celebrating 60 years with a great line up of events. We catch up with CEO Scott Sullivan to find out more.

ow long have you lived and worked in the Armidale Region? I moved to Uralla over 25 years ago with my parents and at the time was working within the bank industry. I later left the banking industry to work for a number of years in a local rural merchandise store as a bookkeeper, but a childhood desire to become an accountant then saw me commence full-time study at UNE Armidale to obtain my degree. After finishing my degree and joining a local accounting firm WHK (then Cameron Kirk & Rose) during which time I provided accounting and auditing services to various registered clubs throughout the New England and North West, this is where I developed my interest for the club and hospitality industry. Married to my wife, Lyn, we have three children: our daughter, Peta (aged 18) and our sons, Ben (aged 15) and Kieran (aged 12). When did you first become involved with the Servies? In 2004 I was employed by the Armidale Ex Services Memorial Club (the Servies) as the club’s Accountant and worked at the club until 2006, when I left to join local accounting firm Roberts & Morrow. Whilst working for Roberts & Morrow, I continued my relationship with the Servies and was

The planned activities, and in e particular the them for ce an ch a nights, are d the our members an to ity un m wider com eras us rio va e th reflect on been that the club has to have gh ou en fortunate experienced..”

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contracted to provide off site accounting assistance to the Club. Whilst not having been directly involved with the Club in the last few years, my interest and awareness towards club activities and events remained. How do you feel about your role, and what made you return to the Servies ? I am excited about my role and whilst the club industry continues to face many challenges, as do many businesses in today’s political and economical environment, what made me return to the Servies was not only my passion for the club and hospitality industry, but more so, was the opportunity to guide and direct a large business and employer in Armidale which has some exciting plans for the future. The Servies is about to celebrate its JUBILEE. How will this be celebrated? The Servies plans to celebrate its JUBILEE with a vast array of activities, which will include: • Pete Murray Live in concert • ‘50s theme night • ‘70s theme night • ‘80s theme night • Y2K theme night

• Seniors concert • Staff reunion • ‘60s theme night The planned activities, and in particular the theme nights, are a chance for our members and the wider community to reflect on the various eras that the club has been fortunate enough to have experienced. What are the future plans for the Servies? Given I have only been back at the club in my new role for what feels like nine minutes, this is a difficult question to answer in the tenth minute, but I am hopeful that the planned motel development, which will not only supplement and enhance the Club but will also provide further employment opportunities and financial stimulation to the wider business community, can come to fruition. With any future plans and visions for the club and the fact that in the business world there are always pressure to modernise, make changes, move forward and look for opportunities, I am mindful that whilst the club is now branded as the ‘Servies’ and a much larger business when first established, the basis upon which the club was founded and the fact we are an ‘Ex Services Memorial Club’ must never be forgotten. new england focus 39

Armidale Ex-Services Club

The History. he Armidale Ex-Services Memorial mally opened the glass front door etched with a Club’s story is one of great history laurel wreath with the words: ‘Lest We Forget’. and remarkable achievement. In December 1960, the memorial fountain Never did the servicemen and upstairs was built, creating a strong link between women (when they formed an the club in peace times and the tragic war. A Australian Legion of Ex-Servicemen and Women in feature wall of blue stone recovered from the Armidale) ever envisage that the club would grow original flour mill was also erected upstairs, along from an early flour mill and laundry building with a display of Australian military badges to a club with its modern amenities and British medals from the war. The today. Club’s link with the RSL and National In 1949 a property was Servicemen’s Association are still “ A major purchased to be used as club as strong today, hosting ANZAC rooms. The then flour mill Day alongside these proud development was was purchased for £1,250. organisations every year. to construct the Work commenced on the In 1972 a further half a in w T ve ra Belg l conversion of the building million dollar extension was ca lo e th r Cinema fo using voluntary labour. opened by State Governor Sir community. ” The title for the club, then Roden Cutler. This renovation known as the Armidale Ex-Serincluded a new bar off the large vices Men and Women’s Memorial Auditorium, a Johnson River timber Club was transferred to the new comhardwood parquetry dance floor and mittee of Ex-Servicemen in January 1953. With stage. many battles to overcome with limited finance, In 1979 a further two million dollars was spent debt and difficulties obtaining a liquor licence, but on completing the downstairs area of the Club. with the assistance of local businessmen who beA large foyer entry was built, giving access to come guarantors and others that extended credit the bistro and members lounge, with the lounge or worked voluntarily, the club began to grow. posited to overlook and service the clubs bowlIn June 1960, General Sir john Northcott foring greens. The extension also included a mixed

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Armidale Ex-Services Club

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About the Club. CLUB PLEDGE lounge and first floor bar, a new snooker area and storage. The first floor saw a lobby area constructed, allowing access to the new cocktail bar and dining room with seating capacity of 120. In the final stages of the development, which was initiated by the volunteers from the 1950s and the successive Board of Directors, Restaurant International was opened on Wednesday 18 July 1979. The club could now provide restaurant and bistro food. The club has seen many extensions and renovations to meet the changing needs of our clientele. A major development was to construct the Belgrave Twin Cinema for the

local community. In 1996 with a redevelopment costing $2.8 million, the Club refurbished the ground floor, including extensions to the Brasserie, which was extended by approximately 300 sqm. A new bar and new kitchen were included in this reconstruction. Many members still remember the dedication and hard work of those many volunteers from the past 60 years.

With our ever expanding membership, the Servies has pledged to offer our members the very best: • Friendly service • Quality products • Members benefits The Armidale Ex-Services Memorial Club is Armidale’s biggest club, providing members and guests a full range of entertainment activities. The Servies is active within the community, providing support to a range of sporting and community groups with donations and other support. The Servies runs a number of sporting sub-clubs within its operations. The Club is in the Centre of Armidale in close proximity to the CBD. • Free car parking at the rear of the club

• Belgrave Cinema located next to the club’s bowling greens • Several motels within walking distance • Servies bus for pickup and drop off within the town limits

Functions Update was completed in 2008; the original carpet was replaced. State of the art audio visual equipment in each function room. New furniture was purchased to create a comfortable and relaxed environment for any conference, meeting, special occasion and weddings.

The Belgrave Cinema A major development was to construct the Belgrave Twin Cinema for the local community. continued over

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Armidale Ex-Services Club

About the Club. Club Membership

Main Lounge

OLD MILL

The Servies currently boasts a membership of over 9,000 – certainly a far cry from the original 153 members who joined in the Club’s inaugural year of membership in 1953! There are a range of benefits for being a member of the Servies, including: We have weekly Membership Draws every Thursday and Friday night and Sunday afternoons Special Members only functions and promotions. The power of your membership card allows you to earn and redeem points within various areas of the Club. Your Membership Card entitles you to discounts with the Servies’ Corporate Partners and Members Discount at the Belgrave Cinema.

Feel like that mocha or latte to take the edge of your busy day, or even an after work cocktail, wine or beer with friends to unwind? With our Main Lounge bar currently under construction, we will be able to offer members and visitors modern facilities to enjoy. Our coffee shop at the Servies Main Lounge offers great coffee facilities (available during Club trading hours. Big screens to watch your favourite sports, or listen to your favourite music on the juke box.

Open 7 days a week: lunch noon - 2pm; dinner 6pm - 9pm. Servies Big Sunday Breakfast (first Sunday of each month) 8am - 10.30am. Brian Sweeney and his team offer an enjoyable dining experience in a great family environment, with daily specials from only $8. Healthy choice options, vegetarian menu, char grill steaks, sandwich bar and 'home made' sweets and desserts. The updating menus offer variety and options for everyone.

The Green

Live Entertainment

Synthetic green was placed in 2009. The all weather green replaced the grass green.

The Club provides free entertainment every Friday and Saturday night. The Club Auditorium

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has hosted many well known artists during the years, from comedy to Country, Rock to Jazz. The aim is to continue to provide this service to our members and guests. 2013 will be kicked off with Pete Murray live.

Kids Room Want to catch up with friends but have all the kids? Great! Bring them along to the Servies, where you can relax in our comfy couches and watch the kids in the kids rooms. Lots of toys and goodies for all age groups and even two Playstations for the older kids. Better still, see who’s up for the challenge of a game of pool on one of the two pool tables.

Armidale Ex-Services Club

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LETTER FROM

RSL SUB BRANCH

y first association with the Armidale Ex-Services Memorial Club was with my father-in-law Dick Levingston. He was one of the first members and a very loyal supporter of the club and of the Bowling Club. This was in the mid 195Os. On moving to Armidale in 1977, I joined the Ex-Services Club and I also joined the Returned and Services League. The Club and the RSL enjoy a good working relationship. The Ex-Services support the RSL on many occasions. The first, of course, is the ANZAC Day activities. From early morning to late afternoon, the centre of the RSL attention is at the Ex-Services Club. The Club provides coffee and other beverages at 5am and after the Dawn Service at Central Park, breakfast is served to members. Lunch is also provided for all service personnel at a low charge. The activities on ANZAC Day depend largely on the weather. There has only been one occasion a few years ago, that I remember, where the rain made it necessary to alter the march. The Ex-Services Club had anticipated the change and at short notice provided the Auditorium for our use for the Service. Remembrance Day is also a busy time for the RSL. The Ex-Services club undertakes the selling of poppies and badges in the foyer of the Club. Although this is manned by the National

Servicemen during the day, the Club continues to sell items throughout the day and at the weekend. This also provides the Remembrance Day activities with an extended awareness. Similar arrangements apply to the ANZAC Day badge selling. When the RSL office above the library became difficult for our members to access because of the stairs, it became necessary for the RSL to relocate to the old Armidale City Council civic building in Rusden Street. Prior to this time, the RSL approached the Ex-Services Club to provide a room for use by the RSL to conduct its general meetings. A shift from Tuesday night meetings to Saturday mornings was envisaged. Our members' advancing age and the winter weather prevented them from venturing out at night. The RSL meets at the Ex-Services Club on the second Saturday of each month at 10.30am. With the 100th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli in 2015, we will be again working together to ensure that the centenary is celebrated in Armidale. The RSL is a big part of the community and with the support of the Armidale Ex-Services Memorial Club, we will continue to support the Serving and Ex Service members of our communities.

Celebration

Events

19 April – 'Happy Days' '50s theme night in Main Lounge. Entertainment by FLASHBACK.

25 May – 'Saturday Night fever' '70s theme night in the Main Lounge. Entertainment by Peter Raymond.

21 June – 'Fluro' '80s theme night. Entertainment by Sidetracked.

19 July – 'Grungie & Goth' '80s theme night.

16 August – Y2K 2000s theme night.

11 October – Staff Reunion. 12 October – 'Woodstock' '60s theme night, held in the Auditorium. Entertainment by Shake Rattle n Roll.

Congratulations Servies on your Diamond Jubilee

6774 8400 www.rm.net.au

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Aussie Rules

Ben Page gives us a run down on Aussie Rules Club, the Nomads.

hen did the Nomads begin, and who were the inaugural members? The Nomads were first established in 1999 by Jon Sargeant, who has since moved on from the club. The club has three life members, these being Ron Crump, Adrian Walsh and myself, who all have been actively involved in the club for over ten years. How has your club grown over the past 14 years? The club has grown enormously over the years. Originally established as a university side, the Nomads, whilst still aligned very closely with UNE, are now very much a New England side with players coming from Walcha, Uralla and Guyra, as well as Armidale. Where previously we were a side made up predominantly of university students, we now have just as many, if not more, players coming from town. In recent years we have really stressed the importance of involving our playersâ€™ families and friends in the club; the Nomads are not just here for the players, but for everyone who enjoys Aussie Rules football. Over the years we have had the Auskick program for children up to 12 years of age

established, and this year we will also have an as we helped celebrate 50 years since Australian Under 15 junior side compete, which is very Rules football was first played in Armidale. This exciting for the club. We have found in recent occasion saw former players and supporters travel years an ever increasing amount of enquiry from all over Australia and some from overseas from young players and the parents to come and celebrate the milestone. about an avenue for their Tell us about your 2013 prechildren to give the game a season? g try. By having the Auskick The Nomads have Like any sportin sâ€™ program for children traditionally hosted club, the Nomad on the up to 12 years of age an annual pre-season survival hinges t of or and the under 15 competition called the wonderful supp are e side available, I think Tablelands Cup. This local business. W me so fortunate to have whom we are now able to competition sees clubs sors very loyal spon achieve this. from places such as ped a close we have develo The Nomadsâ€™ finest Coffs Harbour, Newcastle, over relationship with hours? Tamworth etc. travel to many years.â€? Heading into our Armidale for a one day fifteenth season, the club competition consisting of has been very lucky to have shortened games. been able to celebrate many fine Unfortunately, the Tablelands Cup moments. On the field we have won four has fallen by the wayside the last two years; premierships, with the most recent being last year, however, with the wonderful support of UNE, who where we in fact finished the season Minor and have come on board as Major Sponsor, we are Major Premiers. Of our 14 seasons to date, we thrilled that the Tablelands Cup is back this year have in fact played in the finals in 12 of those 14 bigger and better than ever. We cannot thank Jim years, which is something we are very proud of. Barber, UNE Vice Chancellor and David Schmude, 2012 was also a great year off the paddock, UNE Director of Sports Business and Sport UNE

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CEO enough for their support and enthusiasm, as without their assistance we would not have been in a position to get this great pre-season competition back off the ground. On Saturday 23 March we will have some very strong clubs from Newcastle, Central Coast, North Coast and hopefully the Northern Tablelands coming to Armidale for what will be a fantastic day of Australian Rules Football. For anyone interested in coming to watch, it will be a great opportunity to see some very talented footballers in action. Here's your chance to name and thank your sponsors? Like any sporting club, the Nomadsâ€™ survival hinges on the wonderful support of local business. We are fortunate to have some very loyal sponsors whom we have developed a close relationship with over many years. The Wicklow Hotel has been our major sponsor for many years now, and our other major supporters include the Community Mutual Group, Sue Grills Horse racing, Armidale Freight Services and as previously mentioned, we are also excited to announce UNE/Sport UNE as our newest

focusinterview.

major sponsor. We also have some fantastic and very passionate minor sponsors, including Elders Insurance New England, Meehan’s Plumbing, McDonald’s, Armidale Sportspower, Marriott Smash Repairs, WHK, Reece Plumbing and Red Rooster. Who's coaching this year? The Nomads will have the same coaching staff that led us to a premiership last year, with Tom Granleese as Head Coach and club stalwart Adrian Walsh as Assistant Coach. The Nomads are also lucky to have quite a few very experienced individuals around the club, so it is a great environment for people to come and learn from the best. Tell us about your 2013 teams? Within our senior squad we have had a few players from our grand final team move on or retire, which will present an excellent opportunity

for some of our younger or less experienced players to further develop and push for more game time this season. We encourage any new players to come along, as we ensure that everyone gets an opportunity to learn, play and enjoy the game. The club is also very excited about the fact that this year we will also have an under 15 team competing against clubs from Farrar High School, Inverell and Tamworth. This is a great opportunity for kids to keep playing once they get too old for Auskick, or for other kids who are new to the game to come and give it a try. Auskick Program The Auskick program is a skills based initiative established many years ago by the AFL, which has spread like wildfire throughout the country. The program sees children up to 12 years old split into not just age groups, but also into groups with

children of similar size and skill level. The children are taught all the skills, including kicking, hand passing, marking and how to play the game. Auskick is available to all boys and girls and one of the exciting things is that in most years the group gets to go and play during the half time interval at an AFL game. At the Nomads we have Debbie Cartledge who manages our group. Debbie is very passionate about developing the Auskick program here in Armidale and does a fantastic job! Exciting events coming up? The club has two very exciting events coming up in the next couple of months. The first is the ‘UNE Tablelands Cup’ on Saturday 23 March. This day also doubles as our juniors and Auskick registration day, and these registrations take place from noon. Our other major event for the year is our annual ‘Nomads Ball’ at the Wicklow Hotel; this is a fantastic night of good food and entertainment which is open to all players and supporters, and

this year the ball will take place on Saturday 25 May. Why should one become a club member? Our main focus at the Nomads is to promote and encourage participation in the game of Australian Rules football. From the children in the Auskick group right through to our seniors, we invite players with any level of experience to come and have a try. We are also a family oriented club and encourage interaction not only with our players, but also their family and friends. How does one become a member of the Nomads? We have a couple of contact points for our club. All Auskick enquiries can be directed to Debbie Cartledge on (02) 6772 7716, or email her at contact.auskick@newenglandnomads.net Under 15 and Senior enquiries can be directed to either: Ben Page (President) 0429 682 001 Tom Granleese (Coach) 0432 339 008 or Email – contact@newenglandnomads.net

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Thinking Criminal Law with Elizabeth Stahlut, Solicitor

THINKING

CRIMINAL LAW With the Easter break coming up (as well as school holidays), and so many of us driving to and from our holiday destinations, it can be very useful to have some understanding of the law applying to the driving of motor vehicles. t is worth remembering that public There are also a number of offences where the holidays – such as Easter – are usually Police can immediately suspend your licence, 'double demerit' periods, where you such as certain 'drink driving' offences. And if may lose double the normal amount of a court imposes a penalty for an offence, this points on your licence, if the Police 'pull will generally result in more demerit points. you over' for speeding or certain other driving There are certain driving offences for which the offences. In some cases, you may be at risk of Court must automatically impose a minimum losing enough points to lose your licence, not period of disqualification, in addition to to mention incurring a very substantial fine. whatever penalty is imposed for the offence. There are also some offences for which your This can be up to two years, depending on licence can be immediately suspended. the seriousness of the offence and whether Obviously, the best way to keep or not this is a subsequent offence both your licence and your within a five year period. money over the holiday Indeed, if you are convicted period, is to drive of three 'relevant' offences n sensibly and obey the There are certai within a five year period, driving offences road rules. you can be declared a

“

ch the Court mus

for whi If you have never habitual traffic offender, pose automatically im committed a which would attract an od a minimum peri in driving offence, automatic minimum n, io of disqualificat r ve you will have zero disqualifi cation period te ha addition to w r fo d se demerit points on of fi ve years. 'Relevant' po im penalty is ” your record. If you offences can include any e. nc fe the of hold an unrestricted serious offence, not just driver's licence, you will serious driving offences. usually have your licence Although suspensions and suspended by the Roads and disqualifications can be appealed at Maritime Services (or the RMS, formerly Court, it would be strongly recommended the RTA) if you accumulate 13 or more that you seek legal advice, as a lawyer can demerit points on your licence within advise you of your options and what steps you a three year period. The period of suspension need to take, as well as your realistic chances can be between three to five months. of success. However, if you have a ‘P plate’ licence, A Court can impose a period of suspension you may only be able to accumulate 4 to 7 that might be greater than what the RMS (depending on whether you have a P1 or a P2 might have imposed, so it is definitely best to licence) demerit points, before your licence is get legal advice, if you are dealing with any suspended. This suspension is an administrative issues that involve the potential loss of your process by the RMS; it is not part of a court licence. process. 46 new england focus.

Dr Robert Banks World-Renowned Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit Appoints New Director he University of New England (UNE) and Department for Primary Industries (DPI) are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Robert Banks as Director of the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU).

The appointment of Dr Banks follows the retirement of Dr Hans Graser at the end of last year. Dr Phil Wright, NSW DPI's Chief Scientific Officer, and Professor Annabelle Duncan, UNE's Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, welcomed the appointment. Dr Wright said, “Dr Banks has an excellent reputation in Australia's sheep and cattle industries as a genetic innovator. His technical and communication skills will ensure AGBU continues to be the leading group for genetic evaluation in Australia and internationally.” Professor Duncan said AGBU has been serving Australian agriculture since 1976 as a joint venture between UNE and DPI. “It is exciting to announce the appointment of Dr Robert Banks to continue the role of applying the science of genetics to Australia’s livestock industries,” Professor Duncan said. “I would also like to pay tribute to outgoing

h made d an Director, Dr Hans Graser, who has enormous contribution,” she added. Dr Banks commented: “The role is a great privilege. I am looking forward to ensuring that our sheep and cattle industries take full advantage of the genomics revolution.” He added: “There will be significant challenges around ensuring that breeders, commercial producers and the community as a whole can obtain the full benefits of genomics R&D, and this area will be a key focus for me.”

There will be significant nd challenges arou eeders, br at th g rin su en ucers commercial prod ity as a un and the comm the full whole can obtain mics R&D, benefits of geno be a key ill w ea ar is and th focus for me.”

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A PhD graduate of UNE, Dr Banks has a long history in the genetic improvement of Australia's extensive livestock industries. He has worked for Meat and Livestock Australia for nearly 25 years. In the late 1980s he led the development of the genetic evaluation system for the Australian Meat Sheep industry. AGBU, a joint venture between the DPI and University of New England, is a world leader in R&D for genetic evaluation systems. The University of New England (UNE) is

Australia’s oldest regional university offering courses at undergraduate, postgraduate coursework and higher degree research levels. UNE offers, via flexible teaching and learning, a diverse and attractive portfolio of professional courses in education, health and medicine; in the general areas of economics, business and law; in the social and behavioural sciences; and in the natural, rural and environmental sciences.

pharmacy and sports science.

These courses complement the university’s considerable reputation across the traditional disciplines of the arts and sciences. In recent years, innovative new programs have been introduced in the areas of sustainability,

The Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit was established in 1976 as a joint venture between UNE and NSW DPI with the role of applying the science of genetics to Australia's livestock industries.

Since 2000, UNE has received the Good Universities Guide’s top rating twelve times for overall educational experience, more than any other university in Australia. UNE is one of the largest and most experienced providers of off-campus tertiary education in Australia and is working to maintain this position of leadership through continuous investment and partnerships in online education. Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit, University of New England

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focus retirement.

Seniors are more daring on holiday than you may think.

Risking it Seniors! Risking it: seniors are more daring on holiday than you may think. Protect your financial affairs before you head off, urges NSW Trustee and Guardian.

Ken Thompson Lodge. The Royal Freemasons' Benevolent Institution has been operating the well established New England Masonic Village in Armidale for many years.

and ducks.

It boasts well established self-care units with the most wonderful views and grounds on Cooke’s Road.

Care provision at Ken Thompson Lodge centres around caring for the whole person physically, socially, emotionally and spiritually. Family involvement and interaction is also encouraged; we have a coffee shop which opens daily for residents, families and staff.

The RFBI also provides Ken Thompson Lodge to the community. It is quite a new facility and provides all levels of care, with 24 hour Registered Nurse coverage.

We also have a fully equipped hairdressing salon with a local hairdresser visiting fortnightly who provides a full range of services to our residents.

It is a state of the art, purpose built facility which also includes a secure dementia unit. The views from Ken Thompson lodge are also breathtaking, and we have regular native visitors to our grounds, including kangaroos

Staff at Ken Thompson Lodge are trained specifically to care for a large range of care requirements, and ongoing training is a key priority of the Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution.

Younger Australians are not the only ones more likely to engage in risky behaviour on holiday – a recent survey commissioned by NSW Trustee & Guardian has revealed 40 per cent of seniors in NSW are more likely to do new or risky things on holiday than at home. In light of these findings, this Seniors Week (17 - 24 March 2013) major sponsor NSW Trustee & Guardian is reminding older Australians to make sure they have a valid and up to date Will, and an equally important Power of Attorney in place before they head off on their next trip. “While a legally valid and up to date Will helps to ensure your assets end up in the right hands if the unthinkable happens, you also need to make sure you have appointed an

impartial and experienced attorney appointed under a Power of Attorney before taking any trip,” said Imelda Dodds, CEO, NSW Trustee & Guardian. An Attorney should be a trusted person or organisation who has the ability to take care of your financial affairs with your best interests in mind. It can be quite a demanding role, so they need to have the expertise in financial and legal areas. To find out more about NSW Trustee & Guardian’s Power of Attorney and Will making services, you can contact the Armidale Branch on (02) 6772 7333 or go to www.makeyourwill.com.au

Everyone aged 18 years and over should have a Will. Making your Will with NSW Trustee & Guardian is easy and there’s no charge when appointing us as your executor. Charges apply on deceased estate administration only. You can also make your Power of Attorney with us for flexible management of your financial affairs while travelling. NSW Trustee & Guardian Armidale Branch Shops 10-11 Beardy Street (cnr Marsh Street) Phone: (02) 6772 7333 Visit: www.makeyourwill.com.au MAJOR SPONSORS OF NSW SENIORS WEEK 2013

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House with No Steps - supporting people to live a good life. Deeni Denise nise ise A Ald Aldridge ldri ridg dge explains how the Armidale branch of House With No Steps works in our community and supports people to make the most of their abilities. hat does House with No Steps (HWNS) do? House with No Steps provides a broad range of services for people with a disability across NSW, the ACT and Queensland. This includes supported accommodation, respite, day activities, in home support, individual services and employment.

families along the way. We involve the community to workk appen together and create opportunities in making a good life happen day for each person. We link with local businesses to do everyday ance things: shopping, banking, having fun and gaining admittance an learn into locally offered courses and TAFE, so each indiviudal can the things they want to learn.

Last year we celebrated our 50th anniversary. Our focus is to support people who have a disability to get the kind of life that they want. Working together with the person, their families, and other local community members, we listen for what a good life is and then provide supports and services to help make that happen. We always aim to support people in a way that strengthens real and lasting relationships, lived out in an everyday life.

We also work in partnership with other specialised supportt services, such as medical centres and other local disability service ys that providers. We’re committed to figuring ever increasing ways ving people can have more meaningful choice and control in living their own life.

How did HWNS come to be in Armidale? In 2011, NSW Family & Community Services-Ageing, Disability, & Home Care, as part of their ongoing effort to help younger people move out of nursing homes, offered the opportunity for five people to move into a new house in Armidale. HWNS expressed an interest to be part of this important effort and was granted the privilege of making that happen. A fully accessible house was built, and in the past twelve months four men have chosen to call this house their new home. Before coming to Armidale, HWNS has been providing Community Services across northern NSW. How is life in this house different to living in a nursing home or rehabilitation facility? Firstly, the house is home for the men living there, and they were too young to be living in an aged care facility. The house, built by Community Housing Limited, is beautiful and spacious with state of the art features to support the physical needs of each person. Secondly, there is increased opportunity for individualised support and independence. From the start, we have worked to find out how each person wants things to be. This has included working closely with their

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Why did HWNS choose Armidale as the city to establish their New England base? In meeting with local people with disabilities and their families, it became clear that to be our best as a support and service organisation in the New England area, we needed to be local. We are pleased to offer people with disabilities and their families another choice of service provider. Armidale is central to our other northern NSW operations, so Armidale suits perfectly as our New England home. On a more personal note, during those numerous trips to Armidale, I was shown wonderful hospitality and support by people I met here. The beauty of the city, the refreshing climate, and the welcoming spirit of the people made it easy for me to choose to buy a house and move to Armidale. As a new resident, I look forward to exploring and learning about the area so that I can better support opportunities for growth and offer people with disabilities, their families, and carers more choice in the types of supports and services that they want. What other types of support do you provide then? Currently, we are one of the approved NSW providers of individually designed services for young people leaving schools through the Community Participation Program. We are also an approved provider for the Life Choices Program (directed at people in the 25 - 54 years age group) as well as the Active Ageing Program for

people between the ages of 55 - 64 years. We know that disability services and delivery in Australia is changing for the better. People with a disability and their families are destined to have more choice and opportunity for control of the services they need. Our vision in the NE is to be responsive to those changes. Final words ... I’d like to thank the families, staff, local businesses and other community groups that have supported our establishment in our first year and look forward to continuing this positive association. If you would like to know more … you can call my mobile: 0424 036 182 or email me: daldridge@hwns.com.au I’d be only too happy to talk with you.

Toyota Access: A whole new way to buy a Toyota has arrived. GFV: Guaranteed Future Value Who decides the GFV, and how is it worked out? Toyota Finance analysts set the GFV[T14], based on what they estimate vehicles will be worth in the future. This is done through sales results of similar vehicles, new model data and economic factors, with your loan term and agreed contract kilometre usage factored in. Does the GFV equal the expected market value? The GFV[T14] is the minimum value that Toyota Finance believes your vehicle will be worth at the end of your contract term. This is subject to the vehicle being returned in a condition that meets Fair Wear and Tear guidelines and not having travelled more kilometres than the agreed contract usage. With this in mind, the GFV[T14] may be more or less than the actual value of the vehicle. Do I have to keep the car in good condition? Yes, if you want to take advantage of Toyota Finance’s offer to buy the vehicle from you for the GFV[T14]. You will be given a Fair Wear and Tear Guide before you enter into your contract. If there is a lot of damage, can I return it and claim the GFV? If your vehicle doesn’t meet Fair Wear and Tear guidelines, Toyota Finance will give you the opportunity to have

the vehicle repaired. Otherwise, Toyota Finance can organise the repairs and deduct the cost from your GFV[T14]. This adjusted GFV[T14] will then be the price that Toyota Finance will offer you if you return the car at You simply pay the end of your term. Of out your finance course, if you keep the d contract at the en vehicle, the condition ta yo To . rm of the te doesn’t matter. And if fer you Finance may of nd , you trade it in or sell it te ex the chance to the ce privately, the condition an fin vary or re t.” en will obviously impact ym final pa your sale price.

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Can I trade my car? Yes. You can trade your car at any time for a new vehicle; however, you will need to pay the remaining balance of your account and forgo the GFV[T14]. Can I keep my car? Yes. You simply pay out your finance contract at the end of the term. Toyota Finance may offer you the chance to extend, vary or refinance the final payment. If you choose this option, the GFV[T14] will no longer apply. Can I sell my car privately? Yes. Simply pay out the remaining balance of your account. If you do this, the GFV[T14] will no longer apply.

What if I drive extra kilometres? If you travel more than your agreed kilometre usage, an excess usage adjustment will apply. This will be deducted from your GFV[T14], which then becomes your adjusted GFV[T14]. Is this a lease? No. If you enter into a Toyota Access Consumer Loan Contract or Toyota Access Business Vehicle Loan, you own the vehicle, with Toyota Finance taking a security interest over it. However, if you enter into a Toyota Access Term Purchase agreement, Toyota Finance owns the vehicle until your finance contract is paid out. You may then be

given the opportunity to purchase the car.

This sounds good, but do you charge more? Toyota Access[T14] is competitively priced. As the final payment equates to the GFV[T14], the interest is higher than that of a loan with a similar amount and term without a balloon final payment. Of course, the deposit and any prepayment of monthly payments will help reduce charges. We suggest you seek financial advice to ensure this product is right for you. If I use my car for business, are repayments tax deductible? Toyota Finance does not provide business or tax advice. We suggest you seek independent advice.

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St John’s

Co-Educational Junior School

“Educating the region’s boys and girls since 1974 and growing stronger”

Anglican Day and Boarding School Transition to Year 6 Uralla Road, Armidale NSW 2350 Australia T +61 02 6774 8700 E enrolments@negs.nsw.edu.au www.negs.nsw.edu.au