New England Focus i80

Feature Story

NEW ENGLAND

January 2014 // Issue 80

Julia Morris - guest curator at

in the

Warbirds

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Issue 80 - January 2014

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Go Create!

Vicki Taylor, Jan Clark and Kath Caddy are excited about their new workshops at Go Create! New England. Their aim is to provide an ongoing centre of creativity offering an eclectic range of artistic workshops for people near and far.

Flix in the Stix at Saumarez Homestead Flix in the Stix is proud to announce Australia’s First Lady of Comedy, Julia Morris, will be the 2014 Guest Film Curator.

Julia, affectionately known as Lady J-Mo, joins the Flix in the Stix family, having recently won the 2013 Helpmann Best Comedy Performer of the Year Award. Festival-goers at the 2014 Flix in the Stix will be entertained by Julia’s 'Favourite Funny Flix', a curated collection of hilarious short films from Australia and around the globe.

Tickets through Ticketek and Carrs NewsXpress on Beardy St. Armidale. www.flixinthestix.com.au

Poker Rally.

11.

Justine and Mark Byrnes, Peta Pierce and Gayle Keene were part of the first Workmate Poker Rally in 2011 and explain how it has started to financially assist the families of two fellow Council workers and has now become an annual event.

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Julia has secured her spot in the hearts and minds of the Australian public, winning the first series of The Celebrity Apprentice Australia, with her starring role in the hit drama series, House Husbands and most recently presenting Australia’s Got Talent. Flix in the Stix is also proud to announce the appointment of their

first ever festival patrons, who include John Howard, an Australian household name with an extensive career across film, television and theatre. John hails from regional NSW and still calls the bush his home. Damian Walshe-Howling, also a festival patron, is an accomplished actor, director and writer and is well known for his role as Andrew ‘Benji’ Veniaman in the original Underbelly series, for which he won an AFI award. Flix in the Stix will see approximately 80 minutes of short films screened at every event alongside comedy exponents, The Axis of Awesome, and live music, compliments of Aussie band Eskimo Joe.

AWARD WINNING INTERNATIONAL

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SHORT FILMS

Sam Kreusler.

Born to love music, Sam tells us about his nomination for Encore and his dream to compose for film …

8 TIMES ARIA AWARD WINNING ARTISTS

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focuseditorial

in the Returning to Armidale for its fourth year, the hugely popular outdoor event, FLIX IN THE STIX, is back at Saumarez Homestead in 2014 with a whole new entertainment mix.

upported by the Commonwealth Bank and NRMA Motoring & Services, FLIX IN THE STIX is regional Australia’s only film, music, comedy and arts festival bringing internationally recognised and award winning cultural entertainment to the bush.

Featuring Australia’s Queen of Comedy Julia Morris as the guest short film curator, the 2013 Helpmann Best Comedy Performer of the Year Award winner will be handpicking her collection of films.

These will include award winning shorts from Australia and around the globe to hit the big screen for what will be the social calendar event of the year in the New England.

The 2014 festival will also see 8 x ARIA award winning artists and legends of the Australian music landscape, ESKIMO JOE, perform live on-stage. Hailing from Fremantle in Western Australia, Eskimo Joe have established themselves as one of Australia’s most recognised and loved alternative rock bands.

The band started winning ARIA awards as early as 2001 with Wake Up, but it was off the back of their third album,

Black Fingernails, Red Wine that saw the band rocket into the national psyche.

Debuting at No. 1 and spending 51 weeks in the Top 50, the album achieved four times platinum status and led to the band notching up 4 of their 8 ARIA awards to date.

Eskimo Joe recently launched their sixth There will also be album, Wastelands, an abundance of cted into which topped local flavour inje ut ho ug the show. Thro the independent ill be in w g tin January, vo record charts just rmine full swing to dete mBank a week after its m the Armidale Co r.” release. ost-a-B and winne

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Eskimo Joe will be rocking their classics and fresh new sounds at every location on the FLIX tour – an experience not to be missed!

They are hailed as Australia’s most ‘awesomest’ comedy band and creators of The Four Chord Song, one of the highest rating comedy videos of all time on YouTube, with over 60 million hits, THE AXIS OF AWESOME have blown audiences away around the world – including the prestigious invite-only Montreal Just for Laughs Festival and

four sold out seasons at the world’s largest arts festival, the Edinburgh Fringe.

International tours have taken them to the USA and Europe, selling out shows from LA and New York to London and Berlin, and their latest music video Rage of Thrones has over 1 million hits on YouTube.

This comedic trio will no doubt share many laugh out loud moments as they take to the Flix stage under the stars at Saumarez.

There will also be an abundance of local flavour injected into the show.

Throughout January, voting will be in full swing to determine the Armidale CommBank Boost-a-Band winner. The

winning artist will have the opportunity to open the Flix stage, rub shoulders with ESKIMO JOE and be in the running to win the major prize of $5,000.

Gourmet local food vendors will be on-site sharing their mouth watering delicacies and generally ensuring the Armidale Flix audience is well fed and watered throughout the 4.5-hour cultural feast. The Flix bar will be serving up one of, if not the finest range of craft beers in the country: LITTLE CREATURES and high altitude, cool climate wines from the CUMULUS Rolling range.

Tickets are on-sale through Ticketek or Carr’s NewsXpress on Beardy St. Armidale with a special Groupies Pass offer, where you can buy 5 Adult tickets and get the 6th free.

All event information can be found at www.flixinthestix.com.au or via Facebook on www.facebook.com/flixinthestix new england focus 5

focusinterview.

BRUCE STEVENSON RECENTLY MOVED TO ARMIDALE TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE OPPORTUNITY OFFERED

BY FLEET WARBIRDS. HE NOW FLIES WARBIRDS AND HAS ALSO BEEN REINTRODUCED TO HELICOPTERS, WHICH HE FLEW EARLY ON IN HIS NAVY CAREER.

here are you originally from, and what brings you to Armidale?

I was born and raised in New Zealand but emigrated to Australia in 1980, where I took up residence in Melbourne and applied for entrance into the Australian Military.

Within a year, I was accepted into the Australian Navy and undertook pilot training, graduating in 1983. During my career in the Navy and subsequent career in the airlines I have lived in every state of Australia except Tasmania and have worked in all states of Australia and many South East Asian and Pacific countries.

Most recently I have been living in Perth WA, where, for the last three years, I have been flying Warbirds part time, purely out of my own personal interest.

I recently moved to Armidale to take advantage of the opportunity offered by Fleet Warbirds. I now fly warbirds as part of my full-time job and also have the opportunity to be reintroduced to helicopters, which I flew early on in my Navy career and in which I still retain an interest.

When and why did you first become interested in this type of flying? I was first involved in display flying while operating helicopters in the early 1980s. One of my earliest display tasks was the Adelaide Grand Prix. I found it immensely enjoyable and eagerly volunteered for many other displays, whenever the opportunity arose.

I subsequently became active as a volunteer for the Fleet Air Arm (Navy) Historic Flight and spent five years promoting the Fleet Air Arm at numerous air shows all over eastern Australia while flying many different types of historic Navy aircraft.

In 2009, in Perth, I was, once again, offered the opportunity to fly Warbirds in the shape of the Chinese built Nanchang trainer. The company I became involved with operated a 'squadron' of Nanchangs as a commercial operation, providing formation flying and a taste of 'fighter combat' for mem6 new england focus.

bers of the public seeking an adventurous experience.

Where did you do your training, and what was involved?

My background provides a good basis for the skills involved in this type of flying.

I have taught these types of sequence for many years as a military flying instructor and have also had previous training in this type of aircraft while appearing on the airshow circuit.

Recent training particular to these specific aircraft types is supplied by the company in accordance with regulatory requirements and aviation industry best practice.

e Between the thre r fe of ill w types we ng ni ai tr ry ta ili flights in m fu the ll aircraft spanning post ar, spectrum pre w eras.� ar war and cold w

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Tell us about the special Warbirds that you will be using. The aircraft currently on offer are the Boeing Stearman and the T6 'Texan'. Both are military training aircraft designed and manufactured in the USA. The Stearman is a biplane and was used up to and including the 2nd World War. The T6 was designed for WW2 and used for pilot training by many countries during WW2 and right through to the 1980s and beyond. The South African Airforce was the last to retire the type, having continued to train pilots in the T6 right through until 1995.

In the near future we will also be offering a 'jet' experience with the L39 'Albatross', which is a military jet trainer designed and built in Czechoslovakia and widely used throughout eastern block countries during the 'cold war' era. It is still in active use both as a trainer and light ground attack aircraft in many countries to this day.

Between the three types we will offer flights in military training aircraft spanning the full spectrum pre war, post war and cold war eras.

What type of adventure flights will be available to our readers? We offer two types of flight but each can, to a cer-

tain extent, be crafted to cater to the wants and needs of the customer.

The nearby scenic beauty of the New England Tablelands and the Gorges of the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park mean that we can offer a more sedate adventure viewing the scenery from the unique perspective of a historic aircraft or for a more adrenaline filled adventure, we can get upside down and imagine the experience of a fighter pilot in WW2.

The biplane, in particular, offers the romance of a late afternoon jaunt on a summer's day, while the T6 has much more the feel of a WW2 spitfire or mustang fighter.

In fact, each type of flight contains some elements of the other and either adventure can be toned down or revved up to suit the tastes of the customer.

Plans for the future? I have already mentioned the most exciting future development: the L39 Albatross jet which is on its way from the USA. There is very little work involved to get it actively flying in Australia, so we are confident that it will be available for customers in the very near future.

As a new venture, the immediate future for Fleet Warbirds will predominantly involve promoting and building interest in the product coupled with streamlining and fine tuning of the operation. My focus will be on creating the best possible experience for the customer.

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Every day I come to work and feel privileged to be a part of such a wonderful school.”

Logan Principal-negs The future looks bright for New England Girls’ School, with Principal Clive Logan now in his second year at the helm. He tells us about the raft of exciting initiatives underway at NEGS that will have significant impact for both students and staff.

r Logan, with 12 months under your belt as Principal you must be delighted to see the school embark on a renewed period of stability and confidence, most notably reflected in the upswing of enrolments for 2014.

There is most certainly an atmosphere of positivity arising from the actions undertaken by myself, with the support of the whole school community, in a bid to 'future-proof' the school. When I assumed my appointment at the beginning of last year, part of my role was to address community concern regarding the future of the school.

I believe much of what was achieved in 2013 has helped turn this public perception around.

During my 30-year tenure at The King's School I witnessed many ups and downs, and these were overcome by remaining true to our vision and consistently striving to produce well-rounded, accomplished students.

Tell us about these initiatives and the advantages that these bring to the school?

Currently my focus is the roll-out of our Wellbeing program, with an emphasis on developing a culture of positive psychology throughout the entire school.

This year we will be hosting qualified speakers, workshops and activities aimed at managing negative feelings and improving attitudes to body, diet and self esteem. Designed in response to feedback we received via our 2013 student survey, the NEGS staff and support network are fully committed to empowering 8 new england focus.

students with tips on mindfulness and coping strategies and educating them on subjects such as the ethical and responOur newly sible use of Social Media. appointed Heads Young people are expert of of House are pa lty, riencing more pressure cu fa ic em the acad pport su than ever, creating imic em ad ac and tly en possibly high standards is now perman Kindergarten teacher e th for themselves, and it available to Miss Jess O’Connell is unity is our role as educators bo arding comm similarly highly qualito equip them with skills during prep.” fied, with a background to cope with and respond in Early Literacy, Numeracy to issues that emerge. NEGS is and Assessment and has put one of about 50 government and together a Kindergarten Assessindependent schools across Australia to ment program to prepare specialised have adopted positive education since 2008. programs for each student.

“

I am also continuing the push for academic growth across both the junior and senior schools. The Scholars Program and Creative Learning Initiatives will commence in Term 1.

Geoff O’Neill, our Head of English, is passionate about delivering a program that is stimulating, exciting and will change the way English is taught in the middle years at NEGS. Donella Tutt is another key member of our academic faculty facilitating a challenging, lively environment for high-achieving students.

Learning in core subjects will be enriched for students in these programs, and opportunities for in depth study are provided.

Within the junior school, St John's, Catherine McCann will introduce her Pre-Lit program for our smallest students in Transition. Mrs McCann has undergone extensive training in a skillsbased, early literacy preparation curriculum for preschool children in the year before school.

Last year marked an amazing calendar of sporting achievements, and we have committed to further lifting our sports profile. Exciting news is the recent appointment of professional hockey coach Blair Chalmers, who will train and develop our NEGS Hockey squad. Under Mr Chalmer’s guidance, NEGS will establish an indoor hockey program, pre-season training schedules as well as conduct parent and player information sessions during summer terms.

He will also coordinate the coaching and skill development of all NEGS Hockey players.

We have also upped the ante by scheduling larger scale sports events that will be open to the wider community both locally and state wide. On Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 April 2014, we host the inaugural New England Netball Carnival. With under 12 to under 15 teams coming from city and regional schools and clubs, the Carnival has been devised by a team

of experts aimed at developing girls' sporting skills, team building and bringing netballers together in a fun, competitive environment.

The boarding organisation and facilities have also not escaped scrutiny. Renovations are almost completed on Kirkwood House, providing our younger boarders with a modern, homelike environment. Our newly appointed Heads of House are part of the academic faculty, and academic support is now permanently available to the boarding community during prep. Fun and family are also a big part of the boarding experience and for the first time ever, boarders (and day-girls are invited too) will head off on a bonding excursion to the Gold Coast complete with theme parks, mini-golf and some retail therapy at Harbour Town.

Finally, because I know I am running out of time here, modern technology plays an important role in education and the school has heavily financed the upgrade of our digital infrastructure. We believe this investment will open up new frontiers and opportunities for our students via interactive learning technology, video conferencing, smart boards, high-speed internet access and full wireless connectivity.

Thanks Mr Logan.

focusinterview.

Vicki Taylor, Jan Clark and Kath Caddy are excited about their new workshops at Go Create! New England. Their aim is to provide an ongoing centre of creativity offering an eclectic range of artistic workshops for people near and far.

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hen did Go Create! New England start and why?

The purpose built studio has been established for 6 years, but workshops have been held here at The Hill for 20 years before that. Vicki Taylor, the owner of the studio, and an experienced teacher and facilitator, is excited to be joined by her daughter, Kath Caddy, and artist/teacher, Jan Clark, to introduce a new venture for the studio with Go Create! New England. Now the time is ripe for us to expand into a full-time enterprise providing creative workshops taught by artists from diverse fields.

nforms my textile art of that discipline informs art. I enjoy teaching workshops immensely in all of the skills I use for my own work.

The aim of Go Create! New England is to provide an ongoing centre of creativity offering an eclectic range of artistic workshops for people near and far. To add to the workshop package we are including on-farm accommodation within walking distance of the studio. We hope to provide a pleasant experience and atmosphere in which to work. It is early days, but if people have a group of friends with a particular wish for a certain workshop, we would be more than happy to host their workshop at the studio, far removed from the daily grind of work and home life.

Kath: My job is to manage the administration and marketing for Go Create! New England. I have ng an creativity offeri always enjoyed variation The website lists our upcoming artistic of e ng eclectic ra in my work, and here I am workshops.

We are adding to the le op workshops for pe combining my love of creatworkshop list frequently, so check near and far.” ing and art with my experithe website for updated informaence in business management. tion. Vicki and Jan have personal I have a degree in Environmental websites about their art practice and Science and run part of the Taylor regularly exhibit their work at galleries and farming enterprise in conjunction with events. office work for Ural Australia. This is a wonderVicki will be part of a group exhibiting at Gallery ful opportunity to offer my expertise still on my 126 following the Encaustics workshop in January and home ground and in a creative environment. exhibiting with Lyn Quaife at NERAM the end of 2014.

What kind of workshops will be held? We are cover- And of course, all three of us are always at the Kentucky ing a range of art and textile subjects and have invited Markets. local and international tutors to provide interesting and Thanks ladies. informative classes. The year starts with an Encaustics For more information, check out our website workshop taught by internationally renowned artist, Pawww.gocreatenewengland.com tricia Baldwin Seggebruch. This is followed by a year of

Where are you? We are situated amongst the rolling hills of Kentucky, NSW, a short drive south of Armidale on the New England Tablelands. The studio is perched on a hill overlooking sheep and cattle grazing land, which is very characteristic of the area.

Fields of specialisation? Jan I am predominantly a textile artist, but I use many techniques from drawing to painting to printing to sewing to make my textile paintings. I have recently graduated with B.A. Hons. in Natural History Illustration, and the scientific accuracy

Vicki: I work with mixed media and my art work has recently been large scale and sculptural using a lacing technique with thread and wire. Over a ten year period of regular exhibitions and teaching, I have combined my two careers, one of raising a family on a wool growing property and the other of a practising artist. There is a strong correlation between my passion for art and my involvement in environmental issues, in particular, the Landcare movement.

contemporary lace making, textile dyeing including eco dyeing, fabric manipulation, photography, drawing and heaps more. Another highlight this year will be Afrodita Hebar Kljun from Slovenia, a trained artist teaching contemporary lace making in August.

The workshops accommodate all skill levels, and we can provide materials and equipment when necessary.

We want our participants to enjoy themselves and leave energised and inspired.

How can people find out about you? If you can’t find a brochure in town: www.gocreatenewengland.com Find us on Facebook.com Email Kath: taykath@gmail.com The aim of G o to join our newsletter or for Create! New ovide enquiries.

England is to pr of re Phone Kath: 0412 351 792. an ongoing cent

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Australia Day Official Citizenship and Awards ceremony begins at 11am, with special guest Australia Day Ambassador Jim Williams, Australian Rugby Union former player and current assistant coach presenting awards, along with the Mayor.

First Saturday Chats Next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Christopher Serow and take place between 10am and 1pm at our offices on Saturday 11 January 2014. Bookings are essential on 1300 642 166.

When Saturday 11 January 2014.

Where Legal Minds Office, 157 Beardy St Mall.

Contact 1300 642 166.

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Activities will kick off from around 12.30pm: merry-go-round, jumping castle, animal farm, pony rides, face painting, kids’ games, fairy floss, Backtrack dog show, Moxon’s lamington eating contest, colouring in competition.

Band Terra Firma will also be playing from 12.30pm.

When Sunday, January 26.

Saumarez Homestead We plan to raise funds on Australia Day to support the conservation and education programs at Saumarez Homestead by offering special guided house tours for a gold coin donation, and we hope to have plenty for people to buy at our cakes, craft, white elephant and garden stalls.

We will also have our annual Australia Day hamper raffle and tickets available for our quilt raffle. We will have our Saumarez Café/Tea Rooms open and a BBQ as well. Bring your picnic basket and have a family outing in our splendid gardens and farm area. Everyone is welcome, and it’s free.

When Saturday 26 January 2013, from 10am to 4pm.

Where Saumarez Homestead, Saumarez Rd, Armidale.

Farmers M F Markets k t Visit our website to keep updated on upcoming workshops at these markets.

There are some great workshops in the pipeline!

We will be closing the markets during the winter months of June, July and August due to the colder weather and so we can recharge the batteries!

When Saturday 18 January 2014 Saturday 15 February Saturday 15 March Saturday 19 April Easter Market Saturday 17 May

focus interview. focus interview.

Justine and Mark Byrnes, Peta Pierce & Gayle Keene were part of the first Workmate Poker Rally in 2011 and explain how it has started to financially assist the families of two fellow Council workers and has now become an annual event.

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ow did the Workmate Poker Rally first begin in Armidale? The first Workmate Poker Rally was 12 Feb 2011 and was started to financially assist the families of two fellow workers who worked with us at Council. One was diagnosed with Leukaemia, and the wife of another was battling cancer. A lot of staff owned motorbikes and had supported similar events, so the idea of running a Poker Rally to raise some money was suggested. We approached local businesses for support/ donations, and the response was tremendous.

Between us we knew members of three local bands (Rough Justice, Axemen and Terra Ferma) so we asked them if they would play at the venue after the poker rally, and they all agreed and donated their time and equipment and have been on board ever since. On the back of the first year’s success, we stuck with the same idea but made some improvements that people had suggested from the first year and have continued on from there.

Tell us about the members? Our members started out as mainly Council staff, their partners, friends and a few business owners.

The Workmate Poker Rally committee are essentially motoring enthusiasts. We are just a bunch of regular people with a driving determination to help others in our community. We welcome all members of the community to join us on the executive committee, as well as lending a helping

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hand on the day or just by participating in the event. As we approach each new event, we encourage fresh ideas that will grow and improve The Workmate Poker Rally. We are proudly supported by Local for Locals.

When is your next big event? Our next Workmate Poker Rally is on Saturday 8 February 2014 from 8am at the Armidale Showground, kicking off with a BBQ breakfast, tea and coffee available. All types of bikes and cars are invited to come along and enjoy the day. The rally will leave around 9.45am and return about 3pm, at which stage there will be a show and shine, an auction, our raffle draw, presentations for the winning poker hand and the trophies for the best bikes and cars. The BBQ will be fired up again, and bar facilities will be available upon our return from the Poker Rally through ‘til midnight, with security on hand keeping an eye on proceedings. Local bands Rough Justice, Axemen and Terra Ferma will commence playing and rock on into the night, finishing up around 11.45pm. We will be running a free courtesy bus from 5pm onwards to pick people up and bring them back to the venue to enjoy the bands. The bus runs all through the night to deliver partygoers home or to their next destination safely.

We also ask that anyone under 18 years of age leaves the venue by 7pm. Important points to note are that the event has all the relevant insurances and licences, as well as the Workmate Poker Rally being an incorporated charity organisation.

Who benefits from all the fundraising year, the plan for the Workmate Poker Rally that you do? Each year we select local is to grow the event for the following year. families in need of financial assistance, and Whilst some of the community may have all proceeds raised are divided between the misconceptions about who the event targets, selected beneficiaries. To date, we have the committee is looking to grow raised over $50,000 that has gone the Workmate Poker Rally to support seven different into a family-oriented local families over the charitable event that past 3 events. The 2014 runs all throughout ate The 2014 Workm Workmate Poker Rally the day and into eeds Poker Rally proc proceeds will go to the night. This tes-Moran will go to the Ya the Yates-Moran and obviously requires milies to & Holzhauser fa Holzhauser families to a lot of peopleof the ease the burden ease the burden of the power from ggles that day to day stru day to day struggles individuals to lst batting families face whi that families face whilst community groups es” maj or health issu batting major health who are interested issues. Again, these are in raising money for both local families. local families.

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How can businesses and community members contribute?

Donations can be made in the form of monetary amounts to the committee, donations of goods and services that can be auctioned on the night or items that can be used to raffle. No amount is too small, as every bit helps – just as significant sponsorship is crucial. Our committee executives are Greg Keene, Mark Wicks, Gayle Keene, Amanda Harris, Justine Byrnes, Dave Lawrence and Craig Smith. Greg may be contacted on 0428 255 698.

Like us on Facebook or check out our web page http://workmatepokerrally2.webs.com/ Plans for the future? Whilst the committee works hard to retain a similar format each

Special Thanks from the Workmate Poker Rally ...

To everyone who has been involved in the Workmate Poker Rally past and present, we wish to extend our sincerest gratitude, for the sponsorship, donations, time, blood, sweat and tears, participation and opening of wallets. Without you all, The Workmate Poker Rally would not exist and we hope to see you all Saturday 8 February 2014, at 8am at the Armidale Show ground for another fabulous community fundraising event. If you haven't been before, treat yourself to a really good day out with a great group of fun and friendly people.

Thanks Justine, Mark, Peta and Gayle.

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focusinterview.

kreusler BORN TO LOVE MUSIC, SAM TELLS US ABOUT HIS NOMINATION FOR ENCORE AND HIS DREAM TO COMPOSE FOR FILM …

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ell us about your HSC performance that got you nominated for Encore?

Well, because I did Music Extension as well as Music 2, I played six pieces, including one ensemble piece (in which are all covers).

All these pieces were, of course, on the instrument I play: Classical Guitar. Although they call it 'Classical' Guitar, all six pieces would be classified as something else, including a combination of Latin American, Contemporary, and Australian Contemporary. l love to explore all angles of what this instrument can do, which means all six pieces I played contrast with each other. One of my favourite genres is Latin American, and four of the pieces I played were, in fact, Latin American. Yet the four Latin American pieces I play still are quite different, because of the period and the unique qualities of the composers. A nomination is decided from the entire performance in which I performed in a recital fashion. Yet, only one piece will be chosen to be performed.

Explain what Encore involves? Encore is a NSW Board of Studies HSC exhibition which showcases HSC music performers in the 12 new england focus.

Once the pieces are ‘down’and understood, there is another art, which is performing. Without experience, nerves can force you to lose control, especially with such difficult pieces.

As I would also be playing for 30 minutes, this high standard needs to be maintained, so regular public performances were scheduled to prepare for the final examination.

two parents who previously worked as profesoccasions with music. sional musicians, I developed an interest in muWill you continue with music, or have you sic from an early age. When I was a kid, I was got a different direction for 2014? I am basically informally learning from unsure if I will go straight to uni in my dad, shredding ‘70s rock 2014. However, I am looking tunes and Tommy Emat various music courses manuel grooves on the es ec pi at universities around e th Once guitar. After hearing d an n’ ow Australia. I have a love ‘d e ar Tommy Emmanuel's is e er th , od of film-making, as well to rs unde songs, I developed ch is hi w t ar r he as composing. So my ot an out a great interest for performing. With can enduring ambition es the guitar repertoire, experience, nerv ntrol, would be for one day co particularly when force you to lose to compose for film. In such multiple parts are especially with the meantime, I hope playing at once. Thus difficult pieces.” to develop my skills in when looking for more both these areas. Armidale pieces like this, I was led High has a strong creative arts into the hand of Stephen faculty and attracts students who Tafra and picked up the Classicare about Music, Art or Drama. I have cal Guitar. Stephen Tafra is a brilliant been encouraged to compose for theatrical performer, teacher and family friend. We performances at the school, which has been a are lucky to have this quality of guitar fascinating process. teacher in Armidale.

For me, generally speaking, composing is the My brother, Josh, is studying Jazz Guitar at Momost creative part of music. It is the real magic; nash University and my sister, Madeleine, plays the guitar is just a wand. How’s that for a the cello. My uncle, Andrew McCue, is also a musician and composer. So, along with my Mc- metaphor?

How did your interest begin? As a son of

Cue cousins and family, we enjoy celebrating

state to perform at the Sydney Opera House.

This doesn't necessarily mean I received a top mark, or better mark than some of the performers who weren't selected. It suggests they saw something interesting in my performance appropriate for the occasion. This is an extraordinary opportunity, because it is held in the Concert Hall, which means there will be a massive audience of adults and students from both private and public schools.

What effort went into this performance?

In the early stages, it didn’t feel like work, as I was learning these pieces purely for pleasure.

But, as time progressed, my daily practice schedule focused of both musical creativity and technical proficiency. At this point, it became hard work. In order to master these pieces, the highest technical skills are necessary.

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Thanks Sam.

focusinterview.

BRONWYN

PEARSON

Bronwyn Pearson specialises in providing human resource management advice and services to small to medium-sized businesses and the not-for-profit sector.

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ow long have you been in Armidale?

I moved to Armidale from Sydney in 1991. I have since raised my two children here – Jessica, who is at university and Joshua, who is about to begin his GAP year. I love Armidale and the New England region – it has been a great place to raise my family, and the people and opportunities, professionally and personally, are wonderful and diverse.

What do you specialise in, and what do you love most about your job?

My consulting company – Bronwyn Pearson Consulting – specialises in providing human resource management advice and services to small to mediumsized businesses and the not-for-profit sector. We partner with a range of businesses and organisations to provide specialist recruitment services, change management expertise, contract management and industrial relations advice, and workforce planning. In addition to operational and strategic HR expertise, we also provide advice and services in alternative dispute resolution and coaching.

I am passionate about what I do and privileged to work with some truly inspirational people and organisations. I love that I can go to sleep at night knowing I’ve done meaningful work that’s made a difference to the wellbeing of businesses and their staff. I’m proud to be a small business owner myself and can readily empathise with the challenges and rewards that working in small organisations provide.

When and why did you first become interested in this type of consulting?

After 25+ years in large organisations working in governance and HR leader-

ship roles, including at the University of ments, and to provide close personal New England, I recognised that there interaction throughout each process. was very little HR support available for During my time in the New England, small to medium-size businesses in I’ve also become passionate about the the region, most of whom aren’t large attraction, retention and development of enough to justify employing in-house talented people in the region. A vibrant, HR support. A poor recruitment decicontinuously developing workforce is the sion or not knowing how to manage a engine room of a sustainable, prospertricky staff situation can make or break ous rural and regional Australia. We’ve a small enterprise. While the law expects been delighted to partner with a range organisations to understand and fulfil of regional organisations to deliver retheir obligations, business owners genercruitment, change management and deally do not have sufficient HR knowledge velopment strategies that have made a and expertise to ensure compliance. significant difference to the performance That’s where Bronwyn Pearson Conand growth of those organisations. sulting can help – just as you call your What does 2014 hold for you? accountant for tax advice or On the home front, I will financial planning, so you have an empty nest in Jancan rely on us for aduary after putting Josh te vice and solutions on “ I am passiona on a plane to the UK. d all people-related It’s purely coincidental about what I do an matters. k that after farewelling privileged to wor I had also my two-legged baby I ith some truly w worked with many le op pe l will be bringing home na tio ira insp consultants over ” . ns a four-legged variety, tio sa ni ga and or my career and was in the form of a very determined to take a gorgeous Beagle puppy, completely different apa week later! On the busiproach to providing service. ness front, I’m excited to begin Many consultants came in and some terrific recruitment projects with out of organisations, often at great exnot-for-profit organisations and small pense and almost always with no lasting businesses, as well as a major change benefit. At Bronwyn Pearson Consulting, management project arising from govwe offer ethical and independent advice ernment funding reforms in the comthat is based on developing a compremunity services sector. As our business hensive understanding of your business continues to grow, I’m looking forward and partnering with you to achieve your to a year full of successful endeavours goals. As far as possible, we try to leave and rewarding partnerships. knowledge and expertise with orFrom our family to yours, warmest ganisations as part of the process. Also, wishes for a wonderful festive season because we are a boutique people soluand New Year. tions business, it means we have more Thanks Bronwyn. time to devote to our clients and assignnew england focus

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Head of Schoo

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serJsoon r M Math f ro m P L C

With the departure last month of long-serving and well-respected Head of School at PLC Armidale, Mrs Debra Kelliher, her successor, Mrs Jo Matherson, is poised, ready to take on the challenge of the role for 2014. We chat with Jo about her plans for the year ahead.

o, you have been a teacher at PLC Armidale for a few years now and have held many positions during that time. What inspires you about your new role? I have been working at PLC Armidale for nine years now, firstly as a Science and Maths teacher, Science Co-ordinator, and then more recently as the Senior School Co-ordinator. When I first started at PLC, I was struck by the girls’ inquiring nature. They wanted to learn about the world and experience all that was offered to them. Almost all of them were involved in a number of co and extra curricular activities. They threw themselves into everything they did.

Inspiring passion means that the girls get the most out of life. They also gain so much from giving back. The recent social service element during Activities week is a testament to that, where all girls from Pre-Kindergarten onwards participate.

At PLC Armidale, we have a really energised staff. The teachers are passionate about what they do and all staff, including support staff, care for and really know the girls. It is working with innovative staff that is willing to set the example and push themselves to inspire deep learning, a sense of service and commitment to all they undertake that inspires me.

PLC Armidale has an illustrious record for academic achievement and musical excellence, and has been consistently ranked as the Number 1 performing school in the New England. Can you share any secrets to its success? Girls learn best and give more of themselves when they have supportive and encouraging relationships with their teachers. An all girls environment allows them to be themselves and be uninhibited when undertaking practical tasks, answering questions in class or participating in sport and music.

In 2014, we are extending our Pastoral Care program.

14 new england focus.

This program is already well established in the Senior School to help girls navigate through the socially tricky teenage years. We aim to expand this further to ensure every girl develops skills to enhance their opportunities in the future. This includes realistic and tangible goals and leadership training for each individual.

studying Biology in my class inspired a love of genetics, and she couldn’t be happier doing what she was doing. She had previously spent time in Africa volunteering in a school there and said that she would not have We do achieve excellent academic results and musical had the confidence to do this if she had not attended and sporting success. It is a culture in the classroom, in PLC. I remember her on her first day of Year 7. She was music rehearsals and on the sporting field that encourincredibly shy and quiet and really did not know what ages everyone to give it their all. to do. Over the years she grew in confidence and became involved in music, sport, and the If you could suggest 5 things that you plethora of extra curricular activities like about PLC Armidale, what on offer. She really has become a would they be? They would defiAn all girls successful, confident and caring nitely include: environment young woman, which is indicai) The warm, friendly environbe allows them to tive of our PLC Armidale Old ment; be themselves and Girls. n ii) Watching girls arm in arm bited whe

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walking to and from classes; iii) The support one gets from other members of staff; iv) The way the school focuses on the ‘whole child’ and strives for excellence in all areas; v) Children’s laughter!

uninhi actical undertaking pr g in er sw task s, an s or as cl in ns questio ort sp participating in and music.”

Working in education for many years, you would have experienced many memorable moments. Are there any highlights that stand out in particular for you personally?

Of course there are many of these over the years. I think overall though, it is the relationships that you build with students. It is very rewarding when a student who has worked extremely hard on a concept that they are finding difficult finally understand it – that ‘light bulb moment’!

Recently I ran into one of my recent students, who is now studying Genetics at university. She said that

Your family and relatives have had a long association with the New England.

Tell us a little about your family and background? My grandparents, Sir Frank & Lady Kitto moved here in the ‘70s. Sir Frank had been sitting on the High Court for a number of years before taking up the position of Chancellor of the University of New England. I attended university here at UNE after finishing school, as I wanted to return to the country, having grown up in regional NSW. I finished a Bachelor of Science and Diploma of Education and then commenced teaching at Uralla Central School. While working there I met my husband, Paul, who is a painting contractor, owning Dreamcoat. We have four children: two girls who attend PLC and twin boys who attend TAS. Thanks for your time and insights Jo. All the best in your new role for 2014.

focusinterview.

Janelle and Priscilla from d-fine image tell us about the national Beautiful Lengths campaign, as well the foil recycling initiative they have introduced at the salon.

hat is Pantene Emily approached us with plans to donate Beautiful to the Pantene Beautiful Lengths campaign, Lengths? The after having volunteered at the local private Pantene Beautiful hospital some years ago and witnessing first Lengths campaign hand the impact of cancer treatment on was designed women and how their confidence could be to support women undergoing cancer dramatically improved by use of a wig. treatment and has been in Australia since Emily was determined to make sure her 2012. Through the campaign, both men donation would be crafted into a wig received and women with long locks are by an Australian woman, and encouraged to donate their Pantene Beautiful Lengths ponytails to be made into provided her with the wigs, which will then ly on t, en opportunity to do that. es pr At be provided free of 1% of all foil and How can our readers t recycled charge to women colour tubes ge ns. At get involved in lo who have lost their

by Australian sa lieve this great cause? e be hair as a result of d-fine image, w change.

Since September to cancer treatment. it’s time for this g in 2012, almost 7,000 cl cy re Many women We have been , 13 20 ponytails have ne Ju e our foil sinc battling cancer say g in us n been donated to gu be and have that putting on a lon.” sa in il the Beautiful Lengths fo ed cl recy wig helps them to feel campaign, and since like themselves again; June 2013, hundreds of however, a good-quality wigs have been made and real-hair wig is a luxury few can distributed to women across afford.

Australia and New Zealand. Pantene aim Tell us about Emily Kozera and her to collect 10,000 ponytails, a goal which donation? Emily Kozera is a 20 year old they are well on their way to achieving.

Armidale girl, 1st year Medicine student at Focus readers can help by donating their UNSW and long-time client of d-fine image. hair, supporting and encouraging friends and

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family who might like to do the same, and by simply raising awareness of this great cause.

You have just instigated a foil recycling initiative in your salon; tell us more about this? Every year, Australian hair salons send more than 1.5 million kilos of used aluminium foil and colour tubes straight to landfill.

That’s the equivalent of 1,000 medium sized family cars, and it takes approximately 500 years to degrade. Aluminium can be recycled infinitely without losing any of its properties, and recycling aluminium rather than manufacturing more leads to energy savings of up to 95%.

At present, only 1% of all foil and colour tubes get recycled by Australian salons. At d-fine image, we believe it’s time for this to change. We have been recycling our foil since June 2013, and have begun using recycled foil in salon. This product, created by the Australian company Refoil, has only been available since 2012.

Plans for the future? We are dedicated to making our salon as waste-free as possible, not only to care for our environment, but also to preserve the future of our industry. For us, recycling foil is a no-brainer, considering we use so much of it and it’s so easy to do.

Ideally, we’d like to see other salons in the region recycling and using recycled foil also. new england focus 15

every oďŹƒce needs a whiteboard for when a project drives us up the wall :)

where the

magic starts

the boss’ desk

for a quick getaway!

we test your websites on everything!

the colour station

design for paper and pixels 16 new england focus.

147 Faulkner St (Barney St entry) Armidale NSW 2350 02. 6772 4444

nucleo.com.au @nucleo_studio fb.com/nucleoarmidale

focusinterview.

nucleo Focus caught up with h Nucleo to see what they can do for your business ...

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hat is nucleo? Nucleo is a billboards, television commercials, internet display creative agency that offers ads – and making sure your company’s brand and design, digital and marketing message is consistent across all mediums. This can services. We are the evolution be managing databases to ensure your online shop of Webcessity, which built is sending the right products to the right people, or robust technical solutions your online booking system is displaying the most up and David Waugh Designs, which provided the region to date information, that your membership database with a premium graphic design service with quality is easy to manage, with the right people getting the typically associated with a big city firm. When the right information. We offer a broad range of services two companies came together, we realised the targeted at saving our customers time, money only piece missing was marketing, so and stress; for around the same cost as an we sourced some fantastic talent in-house resource you can have full and can now provide the region access to the expert knowledge of with a holistic service. We like our various staff for your design, ng to think of it as providing marketing and technical needs.

By havi s ad he y the quality of a big city firm man What is the go with the combined with the service with expertise in logo? The logo represents cleo and the mates rates you many areas nu a nucleus: the single cell expect in the country. is able to deliver that all life stems from. The

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eat results for ou

gr What does nucleo do? We clients” work closely with our clients to help them make more money. This can be building a stronger brand – more than just a great logo, but an attention to detail for all brand elements from colours to imagery to words to ensure the values of your company are apparent to your customer. This can be building a great website that’s easy to navigate, is responsive (looks great on desktops, mobiles and tablets) ensuring people are comfortable looking through your information or buying your products.

This can be designing brochures, newsletters,

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logo represents growth, for example, nucleo can take your company’s values and grow them into a comprehensive brand guide, or your unique products and help build a web presence and an ongoing revenue stream through ecommerce. Through our logo we are trying to show that by taking your great idea or product to nucleo, we can help build a stronger business.

Tell us about your team? We have 15 nucleoians now, split between full-time, part-time and as needed staff. The team has evolved with customer requirements and our workload! Our clients love the

convenience and simplicity of a one stop shop; they ask us about a business card and the next thing you know, they want a website and a billboard thrown in!

We have been able to find some fantastic talent locally and entice people to Armidale from Brisbane and Sydney (for the great team environment and exciting work, not the weather!) Working out of the old Masonic Lodge opposite Central Park, we have one big desk and not a wall in the office, which enables great office collaboration. When designing a website, Louise (our graphics guru) can look to the left and ask Greg (our web guru) to check if any elements of her design will cause a problem with coding a responsive website. In turn, Greg often looks to the right while he is implementing one of Louise’s beautiful designs and asks Josh (our Google guru) if there are any elements of the page which will have an impact on the ranking of the page with Google once it goes live. By having many heads with expertise in many areas, nucleo is able to deliver great results for our clients. We don’t have too many chefs to spoil the broth; we have an expert in designing, and expert in baking and an expert at putting the icing on the cake!

What are the plans for 2014? Nucleo has seen great success this year by helping our clients with their bottom line – we have aligned our goals with building our customers’ business and will look to continue this after a well deserved Christmas break! We look forward to continuing the growth of our customers in the new year, and finding more great businesses out there that need more recognition, stronger customer relationships and more sales!

new england focus 17

focusinterview.

g portin ly sup proud

Photography by Suzzane Byrnes

Seriously preparing for their ride in April 2014 here does the fitness program fit into the Tour de Rocks objectives?

prepare for the 3 day ride to South West Rocks.

The Tour de Rocks has three main objectives: • Raise funds for cancer research.

Funds that we provide go to programs similar to those that have provided the recent breakthrough in the drug ABT-199 for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CCL)

How will you know if you are making a difference in the areas of fitness and maintaining a healthy weight? Participants have baseline measurements taken at the start and end of each program. The data is then collated to determine the improvement in vital areas such as cardio fitness, BMI, fat percentage, flexibility, strength and recovery times.

• Increase the level of awareness in relation to cancer prevention through education and awareness programs, including healthy living programs, training programs and nutritional information.

The first program has been popular and well received, with visible improvements in fitness levels. When the data is collated, we will be able to determine how much difference we have made.

• Assist where we can through community programs to ease the burden for those engaged in the battle against cancer.

Are there any other benefits from the SportUNE fitness program? Participating in a group training class is fun, motivating and challenging. The SportUNE instructors, led by Mally McCormack, provide professional advice closely monitoring performance and form to ensure maximum benefit is gained from each set of exercises safely. The university has generously provided access to other facilities in the Centre such as spin classes and general gym equipment.

The awareness and Awareness and Prevention committee led by David Boundy is responsible for providing programs that educate our community in cancer prevention such as physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and nutritional information.

You seem to have started a lot earlier this year? This year we agreed that we would make a bigger difference in prevention if we were able to engage and inspire people to be involved in an exercise program that extended further than a couple of months prior to the ride. Spring was the logical start date after the freshness of winter had disappeared.

By launching the 2014 season in October this year and partnering with the SportUNE team, we have been able to provide the opportunity for our community to participate in an exercise program designed specifically for cyclists to 18 new england focus.

How did the partnership with SportUNE arise? Dave Schmude and his team at SportUNE are major supporters of the Armidale community,being significant contributors to many regional sporting and community events.

Having ridden in a number of epic charity rides raising funds for cancer research, he understands how the community benefits as a whole when we are healthy both mentally and physically.

We were looking to develop a relationship with

a partner that had the expertise to facilitate a health monitoring program that would provide data to validate the benefits of a strategic fitness program.

on dietary requirements specifically for the week leading up to the ride and on the ride.

What programs are available next year in the lead up to the ride? The second of the SportUNE programs will commence on the 3 February and run up to the week prior to the ride.

Diet would be an important factor when training. Are you able to provide any assistance in that area? We are extremely fortunate to have Gillian Woodward and Although the fitness program caters for all levels of fitness, the results are showing that Kimberly Griffith from the University of people starting from a lower base level are Newcastle to provide advice on showing the quickest improvement nutrition for training and the in overall fitness. ride. As a leading Sports Dietitian, Gillian has How do people get been facilitating a involved? Simply ly We have real registering for the ride e series of lectures at th d te apprecia d pe is the best option, as lo SportUNE focusing ve de relationship s; or ct they will then receive ru st on the importance in with the te na io the newsletters and up ss pa e of strategic they ar a g in ak to date information on m t ou carbohydrate ab ” e. nc Tour de Rock exercise re ffe di intake to maximise programs, training rides, performance during nutritional lectures and special training and recovery. events. Log on to the website or We discovered the food Facebook to keep up to date. Use groups that provided quick energy the contact us facility on the website. release, those that would provide energy over Testimonials a longer duration, as well as the importance “Great fun, informal but focused group, I of hydration prior, during and after exercise. will definitely be signing up for the February Gillian provided an insight into the science Session.” Kay Endres. behind sports drinks, optimum times for use “It is worth attending just to watch Bill and the importance of maintaining the correct Wheeler’s star jump technique.” Ziggy. formula to maximise speed of absorption and “We have really appreciated the relationship conversion to energy when need most. developed with the instructors; they are Gillian will be continuing to provide advice passionate about making a difference.” on nutrition through out the year to ensure

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we are able to receive the maximum benefit from our training session and then as we move closer to the ride, information will be provided

“This has really made a difference to my cardio performance; love the stretching.” John Sewell.

focuseditorial.

Flood mitigation av and oidance and from damming creek e th widening of l ro nt co od w ith flo vy le l al sm d an s gate bank s.”

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“Wouldn’t it if... ”

... you could go Punting in Armidale!

Idea Location Armidale.

Idea Description Inspiration for this idea has come from similar university cities in the UK, such as Oxford. It basically allows a bit of relaxed fun and provides an attraction for residents and importantly, tourists, to enjoy.

For this idea to work, Armidale will require a damming and widening of the Dumaresq Creek, with flood control gates to mitigate the flow of water during periods of heavy rain.

Community Benefits 1. Armidale beautification for better utilisation of the Armidale Creek Lands.

2. Tourism: ‘Take a Punt in Armidale’ tourism brochures and photos of bridges would help increase visitation to the town and help boost the local economy.

shops at either end of designated ignated Punting

3. Flood mitigation and avoidance from damming and widening of the creek with flood control gates and small levy banks.

Small decorative bridges over key low traffic areas (Faulkner and Dangar Streets) and potentially larger bridges over Dumaresq and Niagara Streets that continue to be subject to constant flooding.

tourists alike (there aren’t many places to

Increased activity/visitation to the creek lands may prompt the zoning of Kiosks or coffee

could be made with ongoing supporting

routes. These facilities could handle the administration for the Punt hire and provide an attractive meeting place for residents and eat in Armidale with a view, yet it is such an attractive city).

Provision for signage could be made on the Punts which would allow local businesses to sponsor individual Punts. Further, the construction and maintenance of the Punts

vote / share Visit heartofourcommunity.com.au to vote for this idea and share it with your friends!

Votes so far: 12 New England Mutual would like to thank FOCUS for their support of these inspiring community ideas.

donations to the Armidale Men’s Shed.

be inspired...

new england focus new england focus 19

NonSurgical Facial Rejuvenation Facial rejuvenation attempts to reverse facial skin damage caused by ageing, poor skin care and protection, a poor diet or due to smoking.

F

acial skin damage affects both the superficial (epidermis) and deeper (dermis) parts of the skin, resulting in blotchy red marks, brown pigmentation, hyper (excessive) pigmentation of the epidermis and loss of tone in the dermis due to compression of collagen and elastin.

For many years, surgical methods were the mainstay of facial-rejuvenation.

With the availability of injections (dermal fillers and skin-muscle relaxants) as well as Intense Pulsed Light and Carbon Dioxide lasers, there now are genuine, long-lasting methods of nonsurgical facial rejuvenation.

Injection Treatments include dermal fillers (injections into the dermis) to reduce the depth of established grooves on the face, and skin muscle relaxants, which reduce the appearance and severity of facial lines,

20

new england focus.

especially on the forehead, glabella (the part of the forehead between the medial / inner ends of both eyebrows) and ”crow’s feet" (smile lines around the outer parts of both eyes).

With IPL treatment, there is no down time as the skin surface is intact

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Carbon Dioxide laser bring about improvements by working on the basement membrane of the epidermis.

This layer contains the basal cells, which are the core skin cells and which have the capacity to “repair“ or to “regenerate“.

The extreme precision of the pulsed CO2 laser permits removal of the damaged basement membrane and replacement with a new basement membrane from cells deeper in the dermis, in effect causing “regeneration“, and with significant new collagen and elastin formation.

Repair of the basement membrane, as seen in IPL treatment, is caused by the IPL being converted to heat, which has a healing effect on sun and age damaged basal cells.

The “ improvement “ has to be seen to be believed! The treated face appears fresh and youthful, and the changes last for many years.

A course of four treatments at two or three weekly intervals brings about significant improvement in the skin, with reduction of red and pigmented marks, smoothness of the surface of skin and some new collagen formation.

The gold standard in nonsurgical facial-rejuvenation is CO2 laser full face resurfacing.

The procedure is done under general anaesthesia, and there is a 10 to 14 day “downtime“.

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, done when the skin damage is less, has a reduced downtime of about 5 to 7 days.

Armidale Acupuncture Why have you changed your clinic name?

Having returned to Armidale six years ago, I wanted to redefine myself as an acupuncturist, and the name Armidale Acupuncture says it all. I love where I work; the lifestyle really suits me, and I envisage staying in Armidale for a very long time.

What makes your practice at Armidale Acupuncture unique?

I am a unique individual ... just like everybody else. Whilst we are all different, I try to accept and love everyone just as they are. I see my role as helping all of my clients to attain the best health possible. I practice Japanese style acupuncture, which is extremely gentle and enjoyable to receive, it is also an amazing tool to help people rebalance on every level, thereby reducing pain causing factors and restoring health and wellbeing.

Where can people find out more about your practice?

My new website: www.armidaleacupuncture.com contains quite a lot of information and I am in the process of adding more informative videos and information about Japanese Meridian Therapy. People can also subscribe to my free e-newsletter, which I hope they will find interesting. Of course, people are always welcome to phone me on 6771 3964 for more information or to make an appointment.

Gentle Japanese Style

Acupuncture

for pain relief and good health

Tony Bennett B.Hlth Sc (Acu) Dip R.M. Dip C.H.

Registered acupuncturist & experienced teacher A.A.C.M.A. Fellow A.T.M.S. Member

In pain or just need a tune up... call Tony today 11 Alahna Drive, Armidale

6771 3964 www.armidaleacupuncture.com

Armidale Acupuncture new england focus 21

focus

We have now been operating for 9 years. In that time we have seen a steady growth in our customer base and our product range. Five years ago we joined Office Power, a buying group which has made a huge difference to our overall prices and product range.

Security is no longer a luxury ... but a necessity for every Australian household and business.

Whether it be priceless jewellery or valuables, office back up data or important documents, deeds, wills or photos contained in the home, New England Locksmiths can supply you with a safe especially designed to meet your needs.

We have access to a wide range of suppliers. There is a safe for every situation, fire rated safes for documents, data safes for DVDs and CDs, gun safes that comply with gun laws, filing cabinets for the office, deposit safes for shops, key cabinets for anyone who has to organise a lot of keys, also key garages that are suitable for protected outdoor areas to store keys for emergency access; for example, ambulance or carers for the elderly or just to have a spare key in a safe place.

We are continually looking at ways to help our customers and improve our product range. We carry a very extensive ink and toner range, and we can usually source these products overnight if they're not in stock. We call on businesses in Walcha, Uralla, Guyra and Inverell once a month.

In Armidale we are happy to call in and discuss your business/office needs at a time that is convenient.

We are continually s to looking for way s er om st cu r help ou r ou e ov pr im d an product range. ”

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Now that we are in the age of the paperless office, not quite sure who thinks this, but the experts tell us its true, it is very important to use a good quality paper.

We stock only quality paper. Our DCP range is very high quality paper ranging from 90 gsm to 300 gsm in both A4

Daily Ritual.

We are also committed to providing extra services, such as safe maintenance, safe delivery, relocation and removal.

NERAM

and A3 sizes. Our high quality A4 Paper is PaperOne Blue wrap, then Paperone Green and our everyday paper, still high quality Office Power A4. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call if there is something you're looking for and you're not quite sure what it is; we will be glad to help you find it.

Ph 6772 9934.

widely asked question in the coffee industry is, “How often should I clean my home coffee machine?” The question has now been answered with the introduction of the Cafetto @ home range of home formulates, a complete range of cleaning and sanitation products especially for home coffee brewing equipment. The range is the first and only one in the world with certified organic credentials. All products are registered with Biological Farmers of Australia and the Organic Material Review Institute in the USA. Cafetto @ home Eco Descaler Powder Eco-friendly and registered for organic use. This blend of organic acids will descale your home/office espresso machine, kettle and coffee brewer/dripolator.

Cafetto @home Eco Espresso Machine Cleaning Tablets Eco-friendly and registered for organic use. These specialised tablets can be used to clean a variety of espresso machines.

Cafetto @home Eco Grinder Cleaner 100% natural and registered for organic use. Cafetto @home Grinder Cleaner effectively removes coffee oils and odours from coffee grinders.

Cafetto @home Eco Liquid Descaler Eco-friendly and registered for organic use. This blend of organic acids will descale your home/office espresso machine, kettle and coffee brewer/dripolator.

Cafetto @home Eco Pod/Capsule Coffee Machine Cleaner Eco-friendly and registered for organic use. This product will clean and descale all types of pod/capsule coffee machines including Nespresso, De Longhi, Caffitaly, Map and Breville.

All Cafetto @ home products are – Phosphate free – Biodegradable – GMO free – Registered for Organic Use with BFA & OMRI

the plug!

Daily Ritual is open 5 ½ days a week, opening until 5pm Monday to Wednesday, 6pm Thursday and Friday, and 8.30am until 1pm on Saturday. Cafetto @ home is now available at Daily Ritual (Dangar St).

22 new england focus.

focuseditorial.

SUMMER SPLASH

This month, month NERAM launches into summ summer with a Splash! NERAM’s Curator, Philippa Charley-Briggs, has decided to take a summery look at the museum’s collections, and what she has chosen is aptly summed up with the exhibition title Splash!

N

ERAM is perhaps best known for its quieter latenineteenth to mid-twentieth century works from the Hinton Collection, yet in reality the collection is extraordinarily rich and diverse. In particular, works from the Chandler Coventry and NERAM collections are bright with eye-popping colour and abstract gesture. When the storeroom doors are opened, most people are taken by surprise at the vibrancy that bursts forth. This brightness and boldness underpins a celebration of the collections that seems perfect for the season.

Whilst earlier Australian artists sought to distance themselves from Europe, and turned to dusty greys and reds in order to capture the Australian landscape in paint, newer artists have looked to Australia with much brighter eyes. Tuesday Reef, 2002, a painting by the well-known designer Ken Done, captures the vivid liveliness of an underwater landscape. His work makes an interesting counterpoint to the vibrant clothing that was made so popular through his well-known designs. Equally dynamic is Joe Brainard’s Red Poppies and Butterflies, 1969, a swirling collage of vivid red, black and yellow, that leaps from the frame in colourful profusion. Splash! also captures the dynamic of gesture in works such as Denise Green’s Mardi Gras, 1988. Dramatically combining paintstick on vellum, this works brings together old and new media to create bold shape and movement, in a work where even the title is evocative.

Splash! is well complemented by contemporary artist Val Allen’s exhibition, Reflection on Nature. Although the title may suggest

What is Keys2Drive?

that the artist is inviting a quiet moment, in reality Allen’s work presents an uplifting vibrancy. Allen is inspired by her environment – the changing colours, mood and variety of landscape that holds within it so many layers of time. Her bold and expressive works capture the essence of coastal and inland landscapes. With bright days and the holiday season before us, her work captures perfectly the long days of summer fun. And if you’re looking for some summer fun for the kids these holidays, check out the art workshop ‘Plants that Pop’. Artist Kerry Wilson will help kids create their own vibrant work inspired by works from NERAM’s current exhibitions.

Where: New England Regional Art Museum, Kentucky Street, Armidale.

When: Splash! and Reflection on Nature until 2 February 2014.

NERAM Storeroom Tours: $11 per person; pre-bookings essential.

Plants that Pop: Friday 10 January, 10:00am to 3:00pm, suitable ages 5-12, $50.00 per student.

Book online at www.trybooking.com/EBFU Images: 1. Val Allen, 2013, Summer, acrylic on canvas 2. Ken Done, 2002, Tuesday Reef, acrylic on canvas

K2D aims to foster a relationship between learners, parents or supervising drivers and an accredited driving instructor to reduce P plate harm to zero in the first 6 months of solo driving with a 'train the trainer' approach and a learning method called FIND YOUR OWN WAY for the learner.

FYOW encourages learners to ask questions, better recognise risk situations and then find and fix their own mistakes.

The problem is that there is a 30 times higher crash risk on P’s due to under-preparedness of P plate drivers, so there has to be a different learning experience.

The solution is to replace outside helpers with inside thoughts. Learners are encouraged to think like their own instructor by self assessing, self instructing, self supervising and deep thinking to anticipate and recognise risk and then take control.

Ask Chilli Driving School about a FREE K2D lesson*.

Check out K2D website www.keys2drive.com.au conditions apply.

the plug!

Holiday opening hours: closed 23 - 26 December, 30 - 31 December, 1 January.

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Lo c a l D e n t i s t j o i n s R ota ry C a m pa i g n

T

he Rotary Club of Armidale Central have been providing breakfast twice a week for Drummond and Sandon Primary Schools under the guidance of Rotarian David Hobbs and his wife Janet this unitive commenced this year. The principles and staff have seen the benefits of this program with their students.

Being a Dentist and a fellow Rotarian in the club Dr Chris Cole could see that eating those breakfasts was great but the children not brushing their teeth was perhaps not a good thing.

He therefore put together a dental hygiene kit for the students. This comprised of a toothbrush (naturally) toothpaste (supplied by Oral B) instructional advice and some stickers.

The morning 23 November was a great success with about 60-70 kits handed out. new england focus 23

New England

Lamb Rack from Whitebull Hotel STEAKHOUSE Restaurant.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android mobiles. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 24 new england focus focus.

eat.

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Prue & Olive The team at Prue & Olive is committed to providing a unique and specialised café experience for its customers. From the moment you walk into the Moore Street café, customers are made to feel welcome by the friendly staff, including Jules, Prudence and Sarah. The menu at Prue & Olive is seasonal, with local and fresh produce utilised by chef, Oscar the Magnificent, to create delicious meals. Prue & Olive is dedicated to creating a distinctive café atmosphere through the presentation of food and drinks, staff uniforms and the overall ambience of the café. The café is also happy to provide high tea and catering for special occasions and private functions. Come into Prue & Olive and make your next café experience an enjoyable one!

Shop 2/ 14 Moore St, Armidale t 6772 6262 fb www.fb.com/prueandolive Twitter + Instagram @prueandolive open Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm. Sat: 8am - 2pm.

Prue & Olive are happy to provide high tea & catering for special occasions.

PRUE +OLIVE We came to Armidale three and half years ago, primarily for education. Prudence, my daughter (as in Prue & Olive) had been accepted into UNE – her university of choice for primary education.

U

NE has a reputation of excellence for this course and also offers amazing overseas study options, which Prudence has gratefully taken advantage of. My two eldest sons had been boarders at the truly caring and brilliant Armidale School, so the town was familiar to us. A tree change appealed to us all as a family.

amazing behind the scenes job, updating and liaising with social media and is responsible for our quote of the day, which is looked forward to by many of our customers. The lovely and hardworking Tom Garry and Nikki have joined the team as well, always happy and smiling.

We believe that Prue & Olive provides food of a high standard, whether it be a simple Purchasing a café has been a long dream of muffin or Oscar's sensational meals. Our mine – something many friends have coffee is freshly roasted, cakes are made suggested over the years. I love in-house daily, with many choices baking and caring for people. for all ages and taste buds.

Friends have supported my Our Mickey Mouse ears are cooking and encouraged loved by the young and a Our aim is to be this dream, for which I young at heart. Overall, l na io truly except ls ca will always be grateful. lo Prue & Olive always g in café , provid ho visit w ts Hospitality can be es have something gu and ty with our beautiful cipe to incorporated in so scrumptious to a friendly escaviting many ways; nursing treat and tempt our a warm and inoviding pr (my past life) and lovely customers ... ambience, tea, food now a café owner are always made with care great coffee, and service.” both industries requiring to please. Providing caring for consumer needs. individual choice of fine Doing your best at what you china tea cups is another way choose is what is important. of us wanting our visitors at Prue & Olive to feel special.

Our staff are Supercalifragilistic-

“

Whitebull Hotel STEAKHOUSE Restaurant The award winning Whitebull Steakhouse Restaurant has a cosy double fire and lounge, creating a romantic atmosphere for a ‘special’ dinner with that ‘special’ person in your life.

Renowned for its full flavoured meals, using quality local products where available. Serving mouthwatering steaks that are second to none, including the ‘BULL’ Hereford Prime Scotch Fillet Steak on the Bone (min size 500 grams). Reasonable prices, served by happy and helpful staff, and boasting a great selection of local wines, Premium Penfold wines and a selection of bubbles so that your life is ‘NEVER’ flat.

And for any celebration, to watch a sporting event or a conference where you require a private space, then our upstairs private function room can cater for your needs, having a private bar, comfy leather lounges and access to the outside verandah.

Call Michelle for all your function needs on 6772 3833.

117 Marsh Street, Armidale t 6772 3833 open Monday to Saturday from 10am, until late.

Sunday opening times are from 11am until 10pm.

expialidocious! Oscar, our brilliant chef, creates amazing food using seasonal, local produce where possible. All condiments served, from yogurt, chutney, jam and even butter is made in-house – something Prue and Olive are very proud of. Prudence (State Hospitality Award winner) and Sarah are our friendly expert baristas, waiting to make the best coffee ever. Lilla, our junior with a wonderful attitude, is learning quickly. Olivia (as in Olive, daughter no. two) performs an

Our aim is to be a truly exceptional café, providing locals and guests who visit our beautiful city with a friendly escape to a warm and inviting ambience, providing great coffee, tea, food and service.

Our longer trading hours (open 'til 5pm Monday - Friday and 8am - 2pm Saturdays) also give options to many for afternoon treats or coffee appointments. Please visit us at Prue & Olive; we aim to make you happy that you did. new england focus 25

A r m i d a l e

Events Season Armidale hosts a variety of events through the year with something to suit everyone – music, culture, sport, film, horticulture – the list is long and varied. The range of events reflects the cosmopolitan nature of the city and is why we are fortunate to call Armidale home.

D

ay On The Green was undoubtedly a highlight. The second running at Petersons Winery was enjoyed by a sell out audience, including many visitors from out of town. Paul Kelly, Neil Finn et al entertained the crowd, the weather was kind and it is rumoured a few bottles of Petersons best vintage added to the atmosphere.

The Autumn Festival followed some weeks later, with the laser light show attracting a big crowd.

Sport, as usual, accounted for some major weekends, including the 2013 Rugby Union Reunion with current, semi retired and retired players taking to the field. Parramatta Eels training camp, 12Hours in the Piney mountain biking, veteran women’s hockey, NEGS equestrian events all ran successfully and brought visitors to town.

Armidale shone for the visitors to the Keep Australia Beautiful November weekend, hosted following Armidale winning the Overall NSW Sustainable Communities Award 2013.

January – April is often referred to as Armi-

dale events season. What have we to look forward to in 2014? Australia Day kicks the year off and will be held at the Racecourse Make sure that , with Ambassador, Rugby you get involved joy!

Union legend, Jim Williams. have fun and en nds ie fr te vi in t Keep an eye on the local no Why t of ou press for the full schedule of and family from stay d an e m town to co the day. For the film buffs, gland Day On The Green is to enjoy New En Flix in the Stix and Cinema High Country.” perhaps the largest under the Stars will be taking event; what is planned place in February. March is for the weekend? The always a busy month, with Day On main event will take place again The Green, Armidale Show, Autumn at Petersons Winery on Saturday Festival and 12Hours in the Piney accounting afternoon, and it is planned that the party for the first four weekends. Add to that UNE atmosphere will again extend across the whole Graduation and the Tour de Rocks fundraising weekend. Access All Areas will run across the ball, and there will be much partying on each weekend; retailers and coffee shops will be weekend. April will see the TAS Rugby Carnival, open for business. Sunday morning will have Easter Cutting Bonanza and the Back to Armithe Sunday Markets and live music then for the dale Easter Golf Carnival. Keep an eye on the events page at www.armidaletourism.com.au for afternoon entertainment, head out to the races, show your Day On The Green ticket and gain events throughout the year.

“

free entry.

Now is the time to start planning your Autumn Festival Parade float. This year’s theme is 'Autumn in New England High Country'. The Grand Parade is always a spectacle, with some 70+ floats; now is the time to get your Float Application form completed. Contact Stephanie Kentish (skentish@armidale.nsw.gov.au) or telephone on 6770 3828 for further details and forms.

All in all there is a lot happening; make sure that you get involved, have fun and enjoy! Why not invite friends and family from out of town to come and stay to enjoy New England High Country.

Want to be involved in this year’s festival ‘Autumn in New England High Country’?

2014

26 new england focus.

Application forms for floats and stalls available now.

Contact: Stephanie Kentish on 6770 3828 or skentish@armidale.nsw.gov.au

House with no steps In 2012 we celebrated elebrated our 50th anniversary, anniversary and today we provide support to over 3,000 people across NSW, ACT and Queensland. In 2014 we are set to provide services to more people than ever before. working in the sector means at this time.

I

n recent years we have established services and support in the New England and North West regions, and demand for House with No Steps (HWNS) as the provider for choice for indi individuals and their families and interest in our inno innovative self-managed models are growing.

We hear House with No Steps is recruiting?

To h help us meet the increasing demand for our services and finding just the right people, HW HWNS has partnered with HR services specialist Bron Bronwyn Pearson Consulting to recruit two new roles in Armidale and Tamworth. We are emb embracing the new world of individualised and selfself-managed services and are seeking staff who are committed, capable and willing to take on the exciting opportunities and challenges that

So tell us more about the new roles? We are seeking to appoint a Support Manager, based in Armidale, to provide leadership, management and coordination for a specialist disability support accommodation service as well as additional individual services, which includes supervision, mentoring and development of a range of support staff.

We are also seeking to appoint a Team Support person, based in Tamworth, to provide coaching and administrative support for the HWNS Villa living facility in Tamworth, including training of a range of support staff and assisting in the day to day needs of associated programs.

We are interested to speak with people who are committed to: • Putting the people we support at the centre of all we do; • Coaching individuals to support personal growth and achievement; • Connecting with communities to share skills, knowledge and ideas; • Being flexible and trying new ideas; • Developing their skills and creativity and;

• Loving their work and inspiring and motivating others; What makes House with No Steps an employer of choice? Our people make our organisation. Our staff are highly motivated coaches; self-directed people whose commitment to their work is underpinned by integrity, respect and a willingness to empower others. They are resilient, flexible and compassionate, open to change and embrace HWNS vision, mission and values.

Our diverse organisation means we provide career advancement opportunities in a variety of areas and we offer a healthy work life balance, substantial training and professional development and a wide range of staff benefits.

How can people get information about roles with House with No Steps? For further information about the new roles in Armidale and Tamworth, please contact Bronwyn Pearson, from Bronwyn Pearson Consulting on 0412 400 206 or bronwyn@bronwynpearson. com.au – you can also find more information about other roles and career opportunities on the House with No Steps website at www. hwns.com.au

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focus on Guyra.

Welcome to

Guyra The coolest festival in summer has to be the Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival, under the splendid Elm trees that line the New England Hwy. The annual festival being held now for its 28th year is a must stop and see on your way to or from the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

The Festival opens daily for famous ‘Big Brekkie’ and continues through the day with around 40 boutique stalls under the trees, with lamb and potato dishes served up for lunch and dinner.

Music daily, with special events on the final weekend ... antique machinery rally, military vehicle rally, car Show n Shine, train rides, model train display, main street window dressing and much, much more ... 15 to 27 Jan 2014.

g

CT Electric.

High On Bikes @ Rafters Cafe and Restaurant.

CT Electric is the local sparky store in Guyra able to assist for either residential, commercial or industrial work. For the home, CT Electrics stocks many home appliances, such as toasters, vacuums, sandwich presses, hair dryers and straighteners, heating, washing machines and dryers. For commercial or industrial work, full service electricians are available with level 2 contractors for essential energy works.

Rafters Restaurant and Café is a family friendly environment, whether you would like a sit down meal or take away ... even a degustation. Along with being the bike hub of Guyra with ‘High on Bikes’ that excels in service and sales, Guyra is the place to be, and it all starts at Rafters. From the morning coffee to the midday ride and afternoon drinks or maybe even a meal, you will always be welcomed with a smile at Rafters of Guyra and High on Bikes.

Phone. 6779 1273 Address. 101 Bradley Street, Guyra.

Phone. 6779 1876. Mobile. 0403 468 598. Address. 87 Malpas St, Guyra.

Emails. raftersofguyrainfo@bigpond.com or highonbikesguyra@gmail.com

Landmark Guyra.

Black Mountain Nursery.

Josh Lawlor, Branch Manager of Landmark Guyra offers the complete package – not just for the farmer. These include: finance, a full range of merchandise products, fertilizer, livestock, wool, insurance for 2014, gas and a dedicated local team that prides themselves on customer service.

Phone. 6779 1025. Address. 27 Booralong Street, Guyra.

The Black Mountain Nursery 1 km north of the Black Mountain Roadhouse has been operating a cool climate nursery since 1985. Owned and operated by Gordon and Pam Youman and three part-time staff. We stock trees and shrubs in various sizes. Seedlings, potting mixes, fertilizers, pots, ornaments and much more. Gift vouchers are available. Relax and browse around out in the country, with many different birds to see. Open 7 days a week from 9 to 5 or have a look at our website ... blackmountainnursery.com Phone. (02) 6775 0117 Address. Forres, Black Mountain.

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Boutique Beauty by Pip.

Guyra Fresh Hot Bread.

Boutique Beauty by Pip prides itself in understanding that every skin is unique and requires individual attention. That is why they use a custom blend skin care range, which ensures each facial is exclusively designed for your particular skin care requirements. They also offer a full range of beauty services, including jane iredale mineral makeup. Local owner Pip has over 15 years’ experience and is one of Australia’s only certified oncology skin therapists. Mention this article to receive a complimentary Skin Analysis valued at $49. Promoting healthy skin.

This little bakery has the best ever meat and vege pies, sausage rolls, scrumptious cakes, pastries, breads and rolls, plus a huge selection of sandwiches, salads, wraps and foccacias and more. Do yourself a favour when passing through Guyra; go down the main street and try for yourself … Proudly supplying lamb pies for the annual Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival.

Phone. 6779 1866 Address. 124a Bradley St Guyra

Phone. 6779 2320. Address. 118b Bradley Street, Guyra.

Professionals Guyra.

Ramage Engineering.

Professionals Stock & Land Guyra are a locally owned and operated stock & station agent and have been part of the Guyra community for many years.

We offer an excellent service when buying, selling, renting or leasing property or buying and selling livestock. Our agents are an experienced, enthusiastic group who are ready to assist our clients. Whether you are looking at buying or selling property, or even livestock, we can assist you in finding the best outcome for you.

Ramage Engineering is run by Rod and Denise Ramage, boasts a great team, and the company has been in business since 1995. In that time, Ramage Engineering has built up a reputation for high quality manufacture of products designed for livestock handling and weighing across Regonial NSW. Ramage Engineering specialises in livestock handling equipment such as cattle crushes renowned for their durability, V cattle race, weigh crates, loading ramps (for both sheep and cattle) and portable and permanent cattle and sheep yards.

Phone. 6779 1777 Address. 100 Bradley Street, Guyra. Web www.professionalsguyra.com.au

Phone. (02) 6779 1958 or 0407 211 896 Address. 262 Falconer St, Guyra.

Café 627.

JoJo’s on Bradley.

Café 627 in Guyra’s main street is now under new management. Chris Geddes and Jolene Cole have made the move up the hill from Tamworth to take over the running of the café. They are focused on providing good, fresh food with friendly service and are open from 6am to 7pm every day with extended trading hours at weekends and during daylight savings. So why not drop in and meet the new owners and enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat?

JoJo’s on Bradley is a small family run business aiming to offer a simple but comfortable place to enjoy a quality coffee and a choice of homemade cakes and biscuits for morning and afternoon teas. On offer also is a delicious breakfast and lunch menu, dine in or takeaway seven days a week. Small bookings will be catered for on request, with a choice of menus available.

Stop in and enjoy lovely open air style dining during our fresh summers, or have a warm drink by our open fire in the brisk winter.

Phone. 6779 1600 Address. 110 Bradley St, Guyra NSW 2365

Phone. 6779 1759 Address. 126 Bradley St, Guyra.

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range

G

uyra has a lot to offer, with much to see and do in January. The Lamb and Potato Festival kicks off on 15 January and runs until 27 January.

You can’t miss it driving through Guyra, nestled under the magnificent Elm trees along the New England Highway.

Stop and stay in Guyra in January (or year y round!) and enjo ty au be l the natura .” ea ar e th of

“

The festival features musicians playing daily, shearing demonstrations, the ever popular rail trike rides to the rail museum, various car clubs and the annual antique machinery display and swap meet, which is one of the biggest in Australia. The festival aims to showcase local

30 new england focus.

produce; the whole purpose of the festival since its inception has been to promote the lamb and potato industries in our region. The best thing about the festival is enjoying the local lamb and potato culinary delights.

Be sure to make your way down the main street to enjoy a unique shopping experience. Along Bradley Street you will find a blend of quaint shops offering a distinctive range, cosy coffee shops to relax and replenish, and friendly service with a smile.

The Australia Day long weekend in Guyra is action packed, with Guyra Shire Council providing exciting events and fun activities for

the whole community to enjoy. There are free movies in the park too in January. In conjunction with Guyra’s other iconic event, the Lamb and Potato Festival, the activities give everyone a reason to celebrate being Australian in a rural community.

The awards ceremony on the eve of Australia Day is our opportunity to acknowledge people in our community who dedicate their time and effort to community and sporting pursuits.

It is important to recognise members of the community who go above and beyond to make Guyra extra special. It is these people that make Guyra an attractive place to live and visit, ensuring Guyra retains its sense of community and friendly nature.

Stop and stay in Guyra in January (or year

round!) and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The magnificent Mother of Ducks lagoon is teaming with spectacular wildlife. Why not bring your bicycle and tour around to each of the small villages surrounding Guyra, each with its own unique personality and picturesque landscape. If cycling is not your thing, you can always cast a line and enjoy some of the brilliant fishing in the area. There are many other natural sights to visit within an hour’s drive of Guyra, such as Ebor Falls and Copeton Dam. Alternatively Green Valley Farm offers a bit more excitement and adventure for a fun family day out.

For more information on things to do while you are in Guyra, pop into the Council or phone 6770 7100.

New England

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Samantha Brady and Patrick Crick Popular locals Samantha Brady and Patrick Crick tied the knot on Saturday 7 December. We thank them for sharing their special day with FOCUS. here are you both originally from? I am originally from Armidale and moved away to London for 8 years after high school.

Patrick was born in Western Sydney and then moved around with his family before moving to Armidale in the mid-nineties. We both went to Duval High, although I was a couple of years above Pat.

W

How did you and Patrick first meet, and how did he propose? Although we both knew of each other in high school, we didn’t actually meet until a mutual friend of ours introduced us on my first night back in Armidale after returning home from London. From that night, we started dating and then moved in together. Pat surprised me by proposing in Coffs Harbour when we had gone there for his 30th birthday. Upon arriving at our hotel, he had planned everything from the champagne in the fridge to having both of our parents there as a surprise for me. It was incredibly romantic and an unforgettable moment.

How did you plan your special day? Being an Event

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Planner by trade, I knew that setting the date and booking the location was my starting point. It was then a question of figuring out what we wanted our day to be like. We had a large guest list, so we were limited to options as to where we would have our reception, but as both of us work at the Armidale City Bowling Club, we knew that this was the perfect location for us. We also wanted to use Saumarez Homestead as our ceremony venue, and after using the Jackson centre as a venue for some clients’ receptions through the Club, we thought this could be a great place and also somewhere different. I have also had quite specific ideas about decorations and theming, so I then went about collecting and ordering what I needed to complete the look of both the ceremony and reception.

Tell us about the local businesses that helped make your wedding day so perfect? Armidale is a great place to arrange an event, as not only do we have a great location with some amazing venues to choose from, but we also have a lot of suppliers in our area that can help make

focus wedding feature.

e Pat surprised m in g in os op pr by hen we Coffs Harbour w his r fo e er had gone th n po U . ay hd rt 30th bi l, he te arriving at our ho hing yt er ev d had planne gne in from the champa both ng vi the fridge to ha ere as a of our parents th ” e. m r fo surprise

“

your day come to life. Flowers were a huge part of my day, with not only bouquets, but also centrepieces being assorted arrangements of flowers, and Rosemerin were able to get hold of everything that I was after. My cake was made

by Aemelia George Cake Design, and it was wonderful to know that I was in good hands and I knew that the finished product would be just what I wanted. I was able to develop a closer relationship with both Main Hair Design and Ella Baché as not only did both Nat at Main and Stevie at Ella Baché make me look and feel great on the day, but helped in preparation to get my hair and skin glowing. Simon Scott, our photographer, has a style that both Pat and I love, and his pictures speak for themselves – classy, elegant and timeless. Bling is something I love, and my ring that was made by Elizabeth Lloyd and RJ Andrews Jewellery Design was just what I asked

New England

for and perfectly complements my engagement ring. On top of these businesses, there is also a need for suits, bonbonnieres, nails, entertainment and all the other finer details that make a wedding come together, and there are plenty of suppliers in Armidale that were accessible.

What was the highlight of the day? Where can I start? To me, the day was perfect. The weather was great, and although I was very nervous throughout the morning, once I saw Pat at the end of the aisle, I was so excited as I was finally marrying the man I love. I made sure I took a moment to soak in the atmosphere, as it all goes so quickly!

Plans for the future? We are looking at taking our Honeymoon early 2014, and I honestly can’t wait, as I am exhausted after such an emotional, exciting time.

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Myles and Anne LeMessurier Childhood sweethearts, Anne Heagney and Myles LeMessurier were married on Saturday, November 9.

They share their special day with us.

New England

ell us about your upbringing in Uralla?

Myles and I both grew up in Uralla – me on a property and Myles in town. We both attended St Joseph’s Primary School in Uralla, so knew each other from an early age. Although in different grades, we were always good friends.

T

Myles went on to attend O’Connor, and I went on to Duval. We reconnected in our teens, as we both holidayed in Port Macquarie.

Myles and I often reminisce on how lucky we were to be brought up in a small town and somewhere as friendly and community minded as Armidale and Uralla. We do miss it living in Sydney, but get back often to visit family.

ul It was a beautif e er w e w d day, an e th g in ch sitting wat hen waves come in w ring a ed Myles produc e to m d ke box and as amazed; as w I . m hi marry lm all ca Myles had been took ly ite fin day, so it de .” se ri rp su me by

“

How did you and Myles first meet and how did he propose? Myles and I have known each other all our lives, so we can’t remember when we first met. However, we didn’t start dating until our late high school years.

We had been dating 6 years when Myles proposed. We live in Sydney, and on weekends we like to do day trips, exploring the surrounding areas, so it didn’t seem odd when Myles suggested we head down the south coast for the weekend. We drove down, visiting at all the towns along the way, with Myles’ plan to stop at Seven Mile Beach just south of Kiama. It was a beautiful day, and we were sitting watching the waves come in when Myles produced a ring box and asked me to marry him. I was amazed; Myles had been calm all day, so it definitely took me by surprise.

How did you plan your special day? Both being from Uralla we wanted to get married back home, but this was difficult from Sydney. We were fortunate to have the help and support of our families (particularly our mums) to help organise things for us.

We were also fortunate to have the help of Samantha Brady from the Armidale Bowling Club, who did much of the planning and organising for us.

Tell us about the local businesses that helped make your

34 new england focus.

wedding day so perfect? Getting married at home was very important to us, and we wouldn’t have been able to do it without the help of local businesses in Armidale. We decided early on that we would like to hold our reception at Saumarez Homestead, and it is the best decision we could have made.

Samantha Brady and the team at the Armidale Bowling Club orchestrated the entire day and were completely open to different ideas and tailoring the wedding to what we wanted. Sam was particularly helpful, given we were planning the wedding from Sydney.

Hanna’s provided the suits for Myles and the groomsmen, and they all looked very handsome. We also used a music system from Blackdot Music, and Emma Monk from Oogee Hair Studio did mine and the bridesmaids’ hair. Our beautiful bouquets and buttonholes were supplied by Kentucky Roses. Also, a big thank you to Tim Barnsley, who photographed our day.

What was the highlight of the day? Just one?! The highlight of the day would have to seeing all our friends and family. We were so grateful to have the most important people in our lives there on the day, cheering us on. The day was exactly what we wanted – a fun celebration with plenty of dancing!

Plans for the future? Myles and I both have fairly new jobs in Sydney, so for now we are focusing on settling into those roles.

In 2014 we hope to do some travelling; Myles has never been overseas, so we hope to do that.

New England

Weddings @ the Armidale Jockey Club Unique Weddings If you are looking for a wedding venue that is a combination of beautiful scenery and exclusive facilities, a wedding at the Armidale Golf Club might just be perfect for you.

We are situated in picturesque countryside and have immaculately maintained grounds, meaning your guests can enjoy an alfresco glass of champagne as they admire the view.

You can have your ceremony and reception at the same place. You could ask to borrow a golf buggy to transport you and your new husband around the course. As well as some fantastic photo opportunities, this adds a fun element to your wedding, and may save you a few dollars at the same time.

The Function Room is available for small or large functions.

Shenanigans at the 19th will design a menu with you to meet your budget and to suit your taste. Select from finger food, BBQ, buffet or Ă la carte options.

Make the Armidale Golf Club your own club and enjoy the comfortable facilities and friendly atmosphere. You will always be made welcome. To make a booking or find out more contact our friendly staff on (02) 6772 5837.

Welcome to the Armidale Jockey Club. Set in the heart of the New England Tablelands, Armidale is ideally located midway between Sydney and Brisbane on the New England Highway and two and a half hours from the Coast along the scenic touring route of the Waterfall Way. Enjoy a traditional country race meeting at the Armidale Jockey Club. With regular events you can view the spectacle from the historic grandstand or gardens while enjoying the bar and catering facilities. The Racecourse is situated in town and only 2 blocks away from the centre of town, making it an easy walk to the races. Click on our links page to get all the nominations, weights and acceptances for our race meetings through the various racing sites and check out what the weather will be like on race day.

The Armidale Jockey Club is also an excellent venue for your next wedding, function, conference or expo.

Come to Armidale and enjoy the Magic of Racing.

Mon 27 Jan 2014 - Walcha Cup Prelude Race Day Sun 2 Mar 2014 - Guyra Cup Day (Free Entry to people who go to the Day on the Green. Must present Day on the Green Ticket at the Gate) Mon 17 Mar 2014 - Armidale Cup Day Mon 7 Apr 2014 - TAB meeting Fri 25 Apr 2014 - Anzac Day Race Meeting

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New England

Kingfisher Bay Resort

Take The Plunge On The World’s Largest Sand Island – Fraser Island.

Chesterton Smith Photography

QUEENSLAND: Fraser Island’s Sunset Beach, Great Sandy Lookout and Kingfisher Bay Resort’s Bush Chapel are ‘natural’ choices for brides wanting a beautiful destination wedding. But, this World Heritage icon offers much more than just sand and surf – with bush, lake and resort locations offering equally stunning venues to tie the knot.

Kingfisher Bay Resort is situated in a natural sand amphitheatre on the island’s sheltered western side. The resort’s wedding and events team can assist in making the ceremony and pre and post events a romantic and memorable experience. In-house coordinators work closely

with the bride and help organise everything from the celebrant to the honeymoon, leaving the happy couple time to relax and enjoy their special time with family and friends.

Kingfisher Bay bride, Emma Baird, chose Fraser Island for her destination wedding after growing up in nearby Hervey Bay. “My husband-to-be and I were looking for an outdoor setting for our wedding – a place where we could have our family and close friends gather to celebrate with us in a unique and stunning location,” she said.

“We didn’t want just a day of celebrations – we wanted our guests to mingle and get to

Island to say “I do” Fraser Island’s pristine wilderness and Kingfisher Bay Resort’s wedding know-how combine to provide an idyllic natural location for beach, bush and island weddings.

Add our new bush chapel and a range of stunning indoor locations for ceremonies and receptions into the mix and you’ll have the makings of a gorgeous natural wedding, no matter what the season.

KBRV1093

Mango-coloured skies over Sunset Beach, lush forests and a gorgeous jetty also provide perfect wedding picture opportunities – all within a stone’s throw of the resort.

07 4120 3311 or email weddings@kingfisherbay.com www.fraserislandweddings.com.au Chesterton Smith Photography

36 new england focus.

know each other before the wedding – and for our loved ones to stay on and enjoy some quality time together.”

“We had so many comments from our guests about what a stunning place we’d chosen and how nice it was to have everyone stay over at Kingfisher Bay.” The resort, on Fraser Island’s sheltered western side, caters for all types of wedding events, from hens’ and bucks’ parties to informal ceremonies, cocktail parties, barbecues, or elegant dinners.

Receptions can be held in the spacious airconditioned ballroom, on the deck overlooking the pool or in the truly magical, outdoor beach setting. The resort’s signature restaurant, Seabelle, is perfect for small, intimate wedding suppers for those who just want closest friends and family and for couples who have eloped.

Before the ceremony and when the celebrating is done, the bridal party and guests can retire and enjoy the award winning resort hotel or self-contained villa accommodation and

facilities; relax with a cocktail by one of the four swimming pools; play tennis; bubble away in the heated spa; indulge in a massage or beauty treatment; savour good food and wine; or just go fishing and get our chef to cook your catch.

According to Weddings and Events Manager, Corey Law, there are also plenty of options for wedding guests wanting to explore the destination.

“Our Resort Rangers are on hand to take group or personalised tours around Fraser, or guests can hire a four-wheel drive and make their own adventure,” he said. “You could say that Fraser Island’s coloured sands, majestic forests, and lakes rimmed with gold set the scene for a great destination wedding – and the resort’s dedicated wedding team just add the finishing touches with events and activities.” www.kingfisherbay.com or call +61 7 4120 3314 for competitive rates on ceremonies and guest accommodation, winter wedding specials or special honeymoon packages.

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 new england focus 37

Revolution by LUXE Chique Hair Face Body Chique Hair Face Body is a unique hair and

range of Vu2Tan colours, so you look healthy,

beauty salon situated on a quiet corner,

sunkissed and sexy.

secluded from the hustle and bustle of the

Having had specialised training under Australia’s

main street.

top hair stylist, Sharon Blain, and celebrity make-

Our professional salon specialises in many hair

up artist, Rae Morris, we are able to advance

and beauty services, so that we are able to offer

our skills and strive for excellence, allowing us

you the perfect look on your wedding day. We

to give our customers the most up-to-date and

tailor packages to suit each and every bride and have a price range for everyone. We have a full-time European Colour Technician, who can perfect your hair colour weeks out from your wedding.

Our new and exclusive Italian skin care range, Bioline Jato, will have your skin glowing with our signature facials. Masquerade, our professional range of cosmetics, are designed for theatrical

unique experience.

"First of all Chique Hair Face Body did the girls hair & makeup. As soon as I walked into Chique the morning of the wedding I knew they were in safe hands. Not only was this a gorgeous salon, friendly happy staff but the makeup they created was so natural and stunning! Thanks guys for such an amazing job!" — Karissa Tuckwell

and everyday use. This allows you to wear it with

Photography.

confidence, knowing it's not going to fade away.

Find us on Facebook at Chique Hair Face Body.

We are all trained and qualified spray tan

TAKING BOOKINGS FOR 2014 NOW.

specialists, offering you the most gorgeous

PH: 6772 9090 – 173 Brown Street, Armidale.

38 new england focus.

Calling all Brides to be! Did you know that Revolution By LUXE expert makeup artist is mobile and ready to come to your home or hotel to do your bridal makeup?

portant to me that I give the best results to every one of my clients, which is why I use the best.

Revolution By LUXE Professional Makeup Artistry is an innovative new business bringing only the best to our clients. With an experienced Napoleon Perdis trained Makeup Artist, LUXE brings Quality, Sophistication, and Glamour to your makeup experience.

I work extremely hard to achieve the perfect tailored look for all of my clients. As I am a freelance makeup artist I have a fully equipped kit that includes a portable professional makeup station.

This allows me to transport my extensive range of products to any occasion being anywhere from beach to bush. I also provide makeup tutorials for people who want to become more confident with their own makeup application. It gives me great joy to be able to pass on my knowledge and teach people the art of makeup application.

I have always loved and been incredibly inspired by fashion and beauty and the work of makeup artist to the stars, Napoleon Perdis. This inspiration led me to train with the man himself alongside his creative team at the Napoleon Perdis Makeup Academy in Sydney. After a well felt out exercise, this Academy experience led me to become a qualified Napoleon Perdis Professional Makeup Artist and establish Revolution By LUXE. I solely use Napoleon Perdis prestige range on all of my clients. I believe this product has an amazing line of makeup to suit all skin types. It is im-

Besides, every girl needs her own cinderella moment.

I have and always will enjoy highlighting the beauty that is in everyone. At Revolution By LUXE, I believe that every person should feel beautiful and special. Working with a woman on her special day is such an intimate and exciting experience and an absolute honour for the makeup artist.

COUTURE STUDIO WEDDINGS

Armidale Laundry Service Armidale Laundry Services can supply top quality table cloths, serviettes, chair covers, sashes and Ffounces for your wedding reception.

We have many colours of sashes and if we do not have the colour you require, we can order the colour of your choice in for you.

We have been supplying chair covers and linen for weddings for many years to the local community, we work closely with C2C, Armidale Ex Services Club and Moore Park Inn, Armidale Golf Club and many other venues to make your wedding reception go as smoothly as possible.

We can cater for receptions up to 300 people and are willing to supply linen etc. to meet our customers requirements.

Please call in and see our friendly staff at 156 Miller Street to discuss your wedding reception.

Armidale Laundry Service are also proud members of Locals 4 Locals.

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new england focus 39

JANUARY 2014

WITH TERRI 35(6%<7(5,$1 /$',(6¡ &2//(*(

$50,'$/(

Aspire to more?

:Ĺ˝Ĺ?Ĺś ĆľĆ? Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161; W> Ć&#x152;ĹľĹ?Ä&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻÄ&#x17E; ĎŽĎŹĎ­Ďą ^Ä?Ĺ&#x161;ŽůÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ć?Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ?Ć&#x2030;Ć? Ć&#x2030;Ć&#x2030;ĹŻĹ?Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x;ŽŜĆ? Ĺ˝Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ĺś Ď­ Ä&#x17E;Ä?Ä&#x17E;ĹľÄ?Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

September 24 - October 23

Your leadership qualities are likely to be drawn on this month in the workplace. You have brilliant arbitration skills and a very strong sense of justice or fairness. You are also very inspirational to those who may be unmotivated, and have the ability to pull the team into action to achieve the best result. You will also notice personal confidence growing. Have fun.

Lapis Lazuli is great for clarity of thought and direction.

Choices bring total change into life, as you know it can be expected. Setting some fresh goals will be beneficial at this time also. Your manifestation ability will also be amplified, so have fun and give yourself permission to succeed. A peaceful atmosphere will be essential, as your mind is likely to be working overtime.

Citrine attracts abundance; try wearing some.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

February 20 - March 20

June 23 - July 23 Ju

A lot of people will be drawing on your strength and wisdom this month. Protect yourself by thinking you are inside a bubble, as this will create a barrier between their stress and your divinity, allowing you to offer guidance at no personal cost to your energies. You will hear yourself speak wise words; hear these for your guidance also.

Turquoise is a great crystal for communication.

Carry some when counselling.

Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;Ä&#x17E;ĹľĹ?Ä? Ͳ zÄ&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ć? Ďą Î&#x2DC; ϲ Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;Ä&#x17E;ĹľĹ?Ä?Í&#x2022; DĆľĆ?Ĺ?Ä? Î&#x2DC; sĹ?Ć?ĆľÄ&#x201A;ĹŻ Ć&#x152;Ć&#x161;Ć? zÄ&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ć? Ďł Ͳ Ď­Ď­ Ć&#x2030;Ć&#x2030;ĹŻĹ?Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x;ŽŜĆ? Ä?ĹŻĹ˝Ć?Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2014; &Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ç&#x2021; Ď­Ď° &Ä&#x17E;Ä?Ć&#x152;ĆľÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ç&#x2021; ĎŽĎŹĎ­Ď° Ç&#x2020;Ä&#x201A;ĹľĹ?ĹśÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x;ŽŜ Ä&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2014; DŽŜÄ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ç&#x2021; ĎŽĎ° &Ä&#x17E;Ä?Ć&#x152;ĆľÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ç&#x2021; ĎŽĎŹĎ­Ď°

Ä&#x161;ĆľÄ?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x;ĹśĹ? Ć?ĆľÄ?Ä?Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ć?Ĩƾů Ç Ĺ˝ĹľÄ&#x17E;Ĺś ĎŹĎŽ ϲϳϳϏ ϭϳώϳ Ç Ç Ç Í&#x2DC;Ć&#x2030;ĹŻÄ?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;ĹľĹ?Ä&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Í&#x2DC;ĹśĆ?Ç Í&#x2DC;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161;ĆľÍ&#x2DC;Ä&#x201A;Ćľ -2,1 86 21

Time to stimulate that quick thinking brain.

You may be feeling a little intellectually bored at present and since your brain is like a muscle, it needs to be used so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lose it. Find an interesting topic, book or a class to satisfy yourself and have fun learning something new passionately.

Record Keepers are fantastic for holding and retaining information.

October 24 - November 22

Try paying attention to how gifted you are at creating what you desire. The quicker you recognise this gift, the more success you will experience in manifesting. Try finding a place in nature you feel safe in, remove your shoes to earth yourself and think about what you want. Fill yourself with the excitement of already having it, then think a BIG thank-you to the universe and let it go.

Citrine will assist in creating.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

November 23 - December 21

An opportunity to access something from your past will be likely to present itself. Be prepared for it by identifying what it may be and write a list of all the things required, then take action and get some things from the list so you can achieve full success. Avoid sabotaging it by thinking, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Too hard; canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t doâ&#x20AC;?. This opportunity will greatly benefit your self-esteem and self worth.

Citrine is a very powerful motivator carry some.

40 new england focus.

Relationship bliss can be anticipated, as your personal confidence reflects your love life.

Validate your partnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strengths and be compassionate toward their weaknesses, as you are both helping each other reach your full potential. Joy will be experienced in the quality of giving that your connection offers. Enjoy!

Rose Quartz, the crystal of love, will amplify your heartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contentment.

Self worth and a sense of deservability may need a little personal attention this month, as the universe has some special rewards aligning for you. However, if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know you deserve them, you may be vulnerable at sabotaging them. Try smiling at your reflection as often as possible each day to reinforce a knowing that you do deserve great things.

Clear quartz is a powerful amplifier for reinforcement.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

Justice for any unresolved issue from your recent past could be anticipated. Identify any fear that may have been triggered and release it. Thinking of its answer or opposite will replenish a sense of justice and empower you. A knowing that you are creating every influence in your life will give you more confidence and ownership of your reality.

Selenite shatters negative thoughts and fears.

You will benefit enormously by looking inward and reflecting on all the qualities and attributes you chose to bring into this life, as this will keep you impervious to conflict or anxiety. Your sensitivity is amplified at present, so tune into your nurturing qualities for inner peace and calm.

Playing in nature with animals or the garden will benefit you incredibly.

Aquamarine will keep your energy light and conflict free.

If you have been feeling unsupported lately, this is because you are required to recognise how strong and independent you already are and how little you need from external sources.

Identify what emotions you feel you want from others and wake them up inside by breathing them through every cell. This will replace neediness with a knowing that no hurdle is too big for you push out of your way.

Ruby aids in building personal confidence.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Listen to your â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;gut feelingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, as they will lead you into an exciting experience that is a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;meant to beâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; one. You will enjoy playing with gifts or talents that will relate to this opportunity and your confidence and self-esteem will benefit enormously. Have fun discovering something new you are already very good at.

Apophyllite is a great crystal for aiding in reaching full potential in projects.

new england focus 41

focuseditorial

Icing on the cake with Susie Dunn

Icing ON

cake

make to everyone’s benefit.

connections is a given requirement.

LP Hartley said, “The past is another country; they do things differently there”. When times start to rock’n roll – that’s when the opportunities open up.

Today we often seem to paint ourselves into corners with so many regulations that are driven by fear of legal action and the well-intentioned OH&S restrictions that can limit so much public recreation. There are marvellous adventure playgrounds for children being installed in other cities and towns.

So much can be achieved. And if Council is open to standing back and then facilitating and fast-tracking their legal requirements, good new ideas from businesses and property owners can make us proud of the heart of our city, while still honouring its past.

In creating a vibrant atmosphere, individual ingenuity can accomplish great results when a group becomes enthused about a project. Let’s hope individuals, Locals 4 Locals and the Chamber of Commerce can light the fire.

They say that the magic of first love is your ignorance that it can ever end.

Passion first and ‘can do’ next. That’s what makes things happen: after the passion comes the accountability and market evaluation. The Costa tomato farm at Guyra, already with 20 hectares (and counting!) is currently producing 12 m tonnes p.a. of glasshouse tomatoes. An inspiring example.

I

Interesting new surveys in Europe are showing that shopping where you can ‘touch and feel’ is important to younger people. Face to face shopping is a social, human experience with an immediate satisfaction evaluation. If the service and delivery are right, the tills can ring.

t goes without saying that life is made up of changes, rites of passage, exits and entrances, births and deaths.

At the beginning of a new year we start afresh. Last year was packed full of both joys and sadness; I’d like to think that this year we’ll shake off the negative thinking that doesn’t advance anything.

2014 is ours to make the most of: thinking laterally and looking ahead to the future, rather

than bemoaning an inevitably rapidly receding past. Life in the city centre will re-invigorate for those businesses which anticipate the needs of customers and adjust: perhaps holding less but more original stock, co-operating with each other, tailoring opening hours to the market, rather than expecting the market to fall in with them. And property owners need to think laterally about new models in the mix. We need to welcome restructuring, rather than seeing it as a threat.

Working together reinforces the impact we can

Legendary

The fact that Armidale has the NBN is an incalculable advantage, particularly for business, and gives us a 21st Century edge to exploit which many elsewhere can only envy. Complementary pressure from us to improve our aviation

Sculptures are popping up all over Australia and can add so much to the flavour of place. If other Councils can welcome them, we should be more open to approving them without assuming always that people will climb and fall or vandalise! Other places seem to run with the possibility.

It’s a fact of life that funding models cannot automatically be expected to happen and local government can mostly do little more than facilitate. In past times so much was given to towns by their own citizens, and that aspect of philanthropy is again being encouraged in Australia. Bill Dangar’s sculpture of Signor Vertelli is a case in point.

In today’s jargon there’s a lot of talk about ‘silos‘, as in self-contained activities. At the same time as there is so much information concentrated in this vertical image, there is also a worrying and rather sad personal flattening of communication via computer with pre-digested availability on the net. Actual human contact is where clever retail will always have its place, plus the location of a new mix in the services available.

Funny world. But very exciting if we run with it – nothing succeeds like success!

Susie Dunn.

The Nambucca Valley

deals

Midway between Sydney and the Gold Coast, the Nambucca Valley has long offered families great holiday value and the perfect climate to relish the great outdoors.

online

Relive the simplicity of holidays gone by - where kids are kids – building sandcastles on family friendly beaches, swimming in clean and uncrowded waterways & having the freedom and space to run, to laugh and to explore.

Create new family memories when you experience all the Nambucca Valley has to offer such as surfing, fishing, kayaking, waterskiing, bushwalking, mountain biking & so much more. Rediscover the Nambucca, you’ll love it!

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no

Fantastic discount coupons for accommodation and attractions available now at

legendarybeaches andbush.com.au

42 new england focus.

Summer Adventure

Planning for our Future

New England, summer is here and it’s

or Mt Kaputar: lazy streams, sun drenched

now that time of year to kick back with

river rocks and scenery so good you’ll be

family and friends and soak up as much

able to start a business selling post cards! Or

sun and adventure as possible!

kick back and explore some of the closer to

The shop will still be there providing

home offerings ... take the kids fossicking at

inspiration and gear for our upcoming trips

Uralla (who knows, they might strike it rich)

and last minute items, but our minds will be

or check out the tank traps near Ebor for a

following the local trails and daydreaming

quick history lesson and when it all becomes

of swimming holes. Inspiring our kids and

too much, throw on a sprinkler in the back

disguising our trips as educational to justify

yard, invite your friends round, fire up the

getting out and about is the name of the

barbie and start you own backyard ashes

game.

series!

While everybody is suffering through the

From me and the Armidale Outdoors team,

holiday traffic on their way to the coast, why

enjoy the season ... and remember: IT’S OUR

not head west to Warrabah National Park

OUTDOORS!

The growing population of the North Coast is stimulating an increase in the demand for renewable building materials, of which timber is the most environmentally friendly.

On the North Coast, industry expansion and the push towards a low carbon economy is being hampered by a lack of access to renewable wood supplies.

The industry-led North Coast Forests taskforce believes that it is now time to change the many misconceptions about this truly sustainable industry. Visit the website (www.forestmatters.com.au) or our Facebook page www. facebook.com/NorthCoastForestsTaskforce) for good news stories about this most important local industry.

Of course, illegal logging is a major contributor to tropical deforestation and forest degradation. Australia is currently considering legislation to prevent the importation of illegally logged wood. But even if the legislation passes, we will still be faced with identifying the origin of imported timber. Fortunately, DNA technology is on the way, enabling fingerprinting of various species of trees.

But the most compelling means of all is through credible voluntary certification schemes such as the Australian Forests Standard (AFS). The Taskforce is also investigating adding a local branding to all timber products grown, harvested, processed or retailed within this region.

new england focus 43

Felt Tip Theatre Company Tell us about Felt Tip Theatre Company. Felt Tip is all about arts facilitation in the local community, which is why I am acting as the creative director for the Armidale Drama and Musical Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s upcoming season of short plays, Favourite Shorts. Another core principal of Felt Tip is youth engagement with theatre, which is where the Youth Division program of drama classes comes in.

What classes do you offer? Youth Division has a primary and secondary class which help students develop communication and performance skills, as well as building confidence and having fun. There are also one-on-one speech and drama classes which focus more on the interpretation and presentation of dramatic monologues and poems. In 2014, these classes will take place at The Armidale Playhouse.

What is your next show? Rehearsals are now underway for our full-scale show of The Wind in the Willows. This will be the second OutDoorDrama (ODD) event, after our hugely successful production of The Importance of Being Earnest.

Willows will be performed in the Moran amphitheatre, which backs onto the creek behind NERAM. The show features some Felt Tip veterans, as well as a large contingent of students from my Youth Division classes, who will bring a lot of fun and energy to this well-loved classic.

44 new england focus.

Vaughan Tuition When and why did you open your business? I took over this business in 2007, so we have been running as Vaughan Tuition for seven years in 2014. After completing a teaching degree in 2001 and teaching in Brisbane, I came back to Armidale in 2005. I started working at Kip McGrath Armidale and in 2007 took the business over and re-branded it as Vaughan Tuition.

What subjects do you specialise in? We offer Primary and Secondary Maths and English â&#x20AC;&#x201C; literacy. We also offer Secondary Sciences up to HSC Level.

Tell us about your staff? Currently we are Jenny (owner), Luke, Bob, Cerry and Nick (tutors). All tutors are working either in schools or are completing teaching degrees at UNE. We are also a member of the peak body, The Australian Tutoring Association, which is based in Sydney.

This membership allows us to explore up to date ideas and developments in tutoring Australia wide. Currently the ATA is launching a tutor accreditation scheme, which is something we will be looking into in 2014.

We are also expanding our reach through the use of SKYPE one on one lessons for students who can't get to Armidale easily.

This has the potential to be a huge benefit for students on rural properties outside Armidale and also for students in towns such as Glenn Innes, Guyra, Uralla and Tamworth.

O'Connor Catholic College 2013 highlights The first year of operation of the The Trade Training Centre has been a huge success and will be of great value to all students in the future.

Don't Stop Believing was a special event where students were able to showcase their creative and performing talents.

The introduction of iPads this year for all of Year 8 was the first step in maintaining our strong focus on e-learning and teaching.

2014 will see the programme include all of Year 8 and 9 students using iPads as part of their every day learning.

The U/16 Hockey girls had huge success in becoming combined Catholic Colleges State Champions.

Olivia Moore, school captain for 2014, has been awarded the Zonta Club of Armidale's Young Woman in Public Affairs Award.

Brendon Lowe under 15s and Ben Snell under 17s won gold and silver medals respectively in an Australian wide weight lifting championship.

Isaac Selvey and Harry Lye (both from Year 8) had success at the annual GRASS Science competion; they investigated how well sounds travel through different string materials in 'cup phones'. They achieved 1st place and the Ian Potter Junior Scientist of the Year award, each receiving $300 for their efforts.

Also, Sam Frazier and Drew Thomas (both from Year 8), did their investigation on the amount of methane produced by different leaves as they decomposed. They achieved 2nd place in the Junior Primary Industry section of the competition, each receiving $100 prize money for their efforts.

For the second year in succession, the O'Connor Chess Team won the regional chess competition. This success lead them to participate in the state championships.

Hayley Gollan received an Australian vocational student prize in Business Administration. This is the fifth year that an O'Connor student has received an award in this category.

new england focus 45

focusinterview.

Dr Chris Cole Dr Chris Cole has been practising dentistry in Armidale for over 15 years. FOCUS catches up with him to find out how the Digital Dentistry International Conference in Singapore October went.

ell us about your practice and how it differs from other practices in the area. That’s a very interesting question to answer.

I think perhaps it is one we should ask the patients, as I did not seek them out; they chose me. I guess, to try and give a fair assessment of the patient’s situation with their oral health and encourage them to improve on this. In my opinion, if you do not try to improve a patient’s oral health, treatment becomes ‘supervised neglect’. You may just do the fillings and watch things get worse. I ‘pick on’ patients in order to make them lift their game with their oral hygiene. The only oral hygiene that anyone gets growing up is their mother saying, “Now Lynda, go to the bathroom and brush your teeth, and do a good job because I will be checking!”

My mother told me the same thing. Luckily, unlike my brothers who lost most of their teeth, I became a dentist and learned what to do to save my teeth: “Mother didn’t know best”. I try to impart this knowledge to my patients, using what I think is the greatest educating tool I have, the Intra-Oral Camera. This allows me to take absolutely wonderful, high definition photos of the patient’s problem, and therefore educating them on how their oral hygiene can be improved. “You can’t fool the camera”.

People are living longer; therefore, teeth have to last longer. Therefore as a dentist, we have to try to get to this goal. I only see the patient on a very periodic time; therefore, I have to instill into them the need to look after oral hygiene better.

They are 100% of the problem and 99% of the cure. My 1% is to get them to do it.

Also over the years I have had some wonderful young girls work for me. Apart from the interaction with the patients, it has been gratifying to watch these young 'kids' grow in confidence and maturity. They go from being scared of situations to having the ability to confront and deal with stressful situations. I try to give them strategies and sit back and watch. They learn, and these are lessons in life. That will stay with them

46 new england focus.

forever. That is as satisfying as their professional service for me.

You have new staff joining the team ... tell us about them and what they bring to the practice. I have a succession plan. I left Sydney Uni in 1974, so 40 years is a pretty good time.

This is pretty well a normal succession plan. I have a young enthusiastic graduate from Brisbane with a familiar name, Dr. Bing Lee, joining the practice in January. Dr Lee graduated in Queensland. He is part of a group led by Dr. Andrew Chan; Andrew graduated from Griffith People are Uni in Queensland. nggeerr;; on living lo Both have the qualih have et te e, or theref ties of being young, s A to last longer. keen, enthusiastic the CAD crowns system ve ha e a dentist, w practitioners who is about 4 years ago. I have th to t ge to try to want to learn and be over that time completed go al.” active in the dental over 1,000 crowns. I have profession and the learned with this experience community. I will hopethe vast number of opportunifully ease out, with these ties where we can utilise with the young dentists eventually taking system. over the practice full-time. The legacy The Digital Dentistry Conference in Singapore of good service will carry on. was quite an eye opener. Apart from the imI was, as you get with age, getting more plant dentistry, this (CAD) dentistry would have complacent with my time, winding back with to be the fastest growing section of dentistry. my days and hours. That was time for me, but, The precision, which is what we are aiming for, the practice needed some invigoration and is astounding. The accuracy of the digital age is these young dentists will bring this in, with improving all the time. There are now 3D x-rays extended days and hours. They will be workwhich give unsurpassed accuracy and local ing Friday, which I did not do. Also, they will definition. be offering a service that will be popular with Also, there are new components for the blocks working people: Saturday mornings. I think in from which the crowns are milled, which give this modern working world this flexibility will be a new dimension in strength and a bit of 'flex', very popular. Living in Armidale, I have joined which in some situations might give a bit more community groups; I am an active member of resistance to fracture.

Armidale Central Rotary and also Locals 4 LoWe now have a bonding system which chemicals, which encourages the community to shop cally bonds to the inside of the crown. Another locally and utilise local services. layer bonds to the surface of the prepared You attended the Digital Dentistry Internatooth. The 'cement' then bonds to these two tional Conference in Singapore in October. layers, so that the crown is virtually laminated How did your clinical presentation go? onto the tooth. It is extremely strong and almost Any new technologies on the horizon? Our impervious to leakage. practice was the first in the area to purchase Your practice is the leader in crown tech-

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nology in the area. Why is this technology so important to patients? Why is it important to patients? Well, just the accuracy of the fit. One section of the community are type II Diabetes sufferers. With this condition, they suffer a lot of inflammation around the gums, producing 'ringbarking' decay around the gum line. Utilising the CAD system, I can seal off the tooth around the gum line, making it much easier for patients to keep teeth clean; otherwise, it was a ‘chase-your-tail’ problem, trying to prevent this ringbarking from getting any worse.

Also in the geriatric patient, where treatment can be stressful, I can sometimes 'take some photos' of a broken tooth and re-engineer a tooth, bond it on, and it's finished. Otherwise, the only option was extraction, which for an 'eighty year old' is … well, they just don't need that in their life.

The CAD system is truly the best fun I have had in dentistry. The scope for treatment is only in the mind's eye.

Plans for the future? Anyone who knows me, I have a plan a day ... millions of them. It frustrates my wife.

Workwise, while I enjoy dentistry and while I think I can help these young dentists, I will be there.

Thanks Dr Chris.

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focusTourism.

Tourism New England Garden World Reopened!

Now under new management and with some of the same old faces, this locally owned nursery has reopened its gates and our qualified team is ready to help make your garden the envy of your neighbours.

Don’t forget to stock up on Sugar Cane mulch in these hotter months. It is essential to lock in as much moisture as we can to keep those New England Garden World plants healthy and looking fresh.

Come in and see our exciting range of fresh stock, including topiaries, wonderful hanging baskets, cottage garden lines and roses.

We have a wide range of high quality plants carefully selected for our cooler climate.

New England Garden World is committed to providing a wide range of quality plants and garden products. With our experience and knowledge we can help you make your gardening and landscaping easy and enjoyable.

Stocking a wide range of Searles products, New England Garden World has all your potting mixes, fertilisers and composts readily available.

We also have all your pest and disease issues under control, with a great range of products.

So come on in and visit Jay, Polly, Adam and Jo for all your gardening needs at New England Garden World, at 151 Marsh St, Armidale: (02) 6772 5533.

Happy gardening!

Katrina George January is a fantastic time for Armidale locals to become a ‘tourist’ in their own town. hether you have friends or family to visit or just spending time with the kids, here are some ideas to ensure you enjoy your holiday break.

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Aboriginal Experience: the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place has an excellent collection of Aboriginal history and artefacts, as well as their Bush Tucker Walk. Mount Yarrowyck, located 30 km west of Armidale, has red ochre Aboriginal art paintings. Wedge-Tailed Eagles are often seen soaring over the mountain.

All Things Thunderbolt: the last of the NSW bushrangers, Frederick Worsdworth Ward, better known as Captain Thunderbolt, ruled the highways and byways of New England High Country for much of the 1860s.

Thunderbolt’s grave, Thunderbolt’s statue, McCrossins Mill Museum, Thunderbolt’s rock and Thunderbolt’s cave will delight and capture children’s imagination.

Animal Encounters: wayward Jerseys Farmstay and Sunhill Goats both offer a farm tour experience, and WIRES in Uralla provide an opportunity to pat koalas, kangaroos and other native wildlife. The Dutton Trout Hatchery has aquarium displays, fishing workshops, as well as opportunities to hand feed trout whilst you learn about the breeding and rearing of Brown and Rainbow Trout. Dumaresq Dam is stocked with Rainbow Trout and for those wanting to experience canoe fishing, canoes are available for hire from Armidale World of Hire. Are you aware that Deer Park Motor Inn feed their deer at 5pm each day?

Arty Experience: NERAM has colourful ArtPlay boxes that have been designed for preschool kids. Each box contains materials such as magnifying glasses and pencils that can help teach children about the wonderful colours, shapes and patterns found in artworks. Walcha has an extensive Sculpture Trail to explore, with internationally renowned artists including Stephen King,

48 new england focus.

who recently won Sculpture by the Sea in Sydney.

The Way We Were: Armidale has an excellent selection of museums to visit; these include 12th/16th Hunter River Lancers History Room, The Armidale Folk Museum, Hillgrove Museum and the Printing Museum at NERAM. Located at the University of New England are the Zoology Museum and the Museum of Antiquities.

National Parks and Waterfalls: our nature playgrounds are there for everyone to enjoy at anytime of year. One of the favourites for children of all ages is Weeping Rock in the New England National Park, providing a fun and adventurous walk through the moss-covered Antarctic Beech Forests. If you have children with an abundance of energy these holidays, take them out to Cathedral Rock and challenge them to complete the Rock Scramble. The views from the top of Cathedral Rock are spectacular.

Outdoor Experiences: this January, why not try something new? There are an abundance of outdoor activities on your doorstep, such as blackberry picking, fishing, fossicking, golf, tennis and even mountain biking. Blackberry picking is available at Daisy Farm; fishing spots include Dumaresq Dam, the Oakey and Serpentine Rivers. For those interested in fossicking, pans are available for hire from the Uralla Visitor Information Centre, and Wooldridge Recreation Reserve is a great fossicking, swimming and picnicking spot. Mountain bikes can be hired from the Armidale Bicycle Centre and Bicycle Central on Marsh.

Information on the various trails is available from the Visitor Information Centre and Bicycles Central on Marsh.

If you would like more information on any of these holiday ideas, please come and visit the Armidale Visitor Information Centre.

We are open throughout the holiday period (closed Christmas Day), 7 pays per week from 9am – 5pm.

New Year’s Resolution No.1 January is a great time to stop and think about many things that need to get done in the New Year, including reviewing your insurances! We realise this may not be at the top of your New Year’s Resolution list but it is so important to protect yourself and your assets and to gain peace of mind.

Conducting a review of your insurances needs to be done professionally by someone who acts for you to avoid underinsurance and inappropriate covers. This will ensure that you are paying for what you actually need.

At Oracle Insurance, we act on your behalf and in your interest. John has over 30 years’ experience in the insurance industry and is up to date with new products and legal requirements to protect you, the client. We have access to a wide range of insurers and their respective products, so we can truly tailor cover and payment options to your specific needs.

Contact John Nash on (02) 6772 8008 for a full review of your current insurance.

That’s one less thing for you to worry about in 2014. Happy New Year from Oracle Insurance.

ASH WILLOUGHBY UQ Racing, The University of Queensland’s Formula SAE Team, recently visited O’Connor Catholic College whilst en-route to the 2013 Formula SAE Australasia competition in Melbourne. UQR’s Technical Director, r, Ash Willoughby, is a former O’Connor student. sh joined UQ Racing when he started at The University of Queensland in early 2009, studying Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

At the start of 2012, Ash took the role of Technical Director of UQR and has overseen the team’s technical development during the following two years – a period where the team’s competitiveness has increased to where UQR will be challenging for a top-five overall competition result.

In total, over 450 teams worldwide compete in Formula SAE. There are over ten annual competitions held in seven countries, allowing teams from different regions of the world to compete against one another. Each competition spans several days and features a variety of static and dynamic events. The static events feature industry experts and professionals who judge the design, cost and marketability of the competing cars. The dynamic events test the cars’ acceleration, handling abilities, their reliability and fuel efficiency.

There has also been a focus on the UQ Racing was established in 2001, and management of the team during this time, competed with its first Formula SAE race car at as Ash has led the team to put together a the 2001 Formula SAE Australasia competition. roadmap for continual development The team currently consists of and future success. Ash has approximately 35 undergraduate graduated from UQ at students from across the the end of the 2013 University of Queensland, academic year, and with a range of There are over ten annual has been accepted backgrounds including ld into a postgraduate engineering, business, competitions he ies, in seven countr position in the commerce, marketing from allowing teams Advanced Motorsport and IT. s of different region Engineering program te pe UQ Racing provides the world to com r.” at Cranfield University he ot students with an e on t ns ai ag in the United Kingdom practical educational – a centre of development opportunities, to gain for motorsport professionals real world experience in worldwide, including Formula 1. project management, teamwork,

“

Formula SAE (FSAE) is a student design competition organised by the Society of Automotive Engineers. The competition requires student teams to design, develop and fabricate a small Formulastyle (open-wheeled and open-cockpit) race car while adhering to a set of general design requirements and regulations.

financial and resource management, detailed engineering design and handson manufacturing in a highly competitive environment. All aspects of UQ Racing are managed by students.

These general design requirements and regulations are open enough for different teams to develop and implement varying race car design philosophies. In addition, it challenges students to think of new and innovative ideas, and ensures the safety of all competitors.

This was a good indication of a brighter future for UQ Racing. Building on this momentum, UQR has spend 2013 designing, building and testing a brand new competitive Formula SAE car, which was shown to the students at O’Connor Catholic College on Monday 9 December.

FSAE Australasia 2012 saw UQ Racing win the Presentation event and placed third in the Acceleration event.

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Take your tastebuds out for a treat with the new menu at McDonald’s Armidale; there’s something for everyone.

Where can you stop in Armidale for a delicious bite to eat and great tasting coffee?

McDonald’s Armidale is the perfect choice, with new menu items to choose from and the convenience of quality espresso coffee.

and Chicken & Honey Soy McWrap, for just $6.95 each, while the Warm Chicken Salad and Crunchy Noodle Chicken Salad retail for just $7 95 each $7.95 each. All are available with a choice of either crispy or grilled 100% Australian chicken, as well as Italian, Sweet n ke ic Ch m ar W Sesame Soy, Portuguese ur O Salads and or Balsamic dressing.

Armidale residents looking for new flavours, more variety, better quality Chicken Crunchy Noodle r our and bigger taste need McDonald’s Armidale fo e ad m Salads are g in us not look further, with also features a y da customers every ix m d the new Real Choices McCafé with a wide a revitalised sala cos and sh fre range of salads and selection of sweet of up ead m shredded McWraps. Made and savoury treats to iceberg lettuces, age.” only from the freshest accompany its barista carrot and cabb ingredients and dressings, quality coffee, all at great the new salads and McWraps value prices. are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Treat yourself to one of the new

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“Our Warm Chicken Salads and Crunchy Noodle Chicken Salads are made for our customers every day using a revitalised salad mix made-up of fresh cos and iceberg lettuces, shredded carrot and cabbage. We have also added ripe grape tomato, red onion and cucumber to make them a great option that provides more than three serves of vegetables,” said Benita Johnson, McDonald’s Armidale Licensee.

The Real Choices range offers the Chicken & Aioli McWrap, Chicken & Spicy Mayo McWrap 50 new england focus.

Turkish Bread Sandwiches now offered in the McCafé for just $5.95 each. These sandwiches come in four delicious varieties: Sweet Chilli Chicken, Chicken and Pineapple, Veggie Pesto, and Ham and Relish. Another great option is the new range of Frittatas, Veggie and Chorizo, available for just $4.95 each.

So if you’re after a filling, great tasting meal or a quick snack on the go, take your tastebuds on a tour of the menu at McDonald’s Armidale.

Thinking Conveyancing with the Legal Minds Team

THINKING

CONVEYANCING Thinking Conveyancing – with the Legal Minds Team he Office of State Revenue has a number of grants available for first home buyers and those relocating to live in Regional areas. The current First Home Owner Grant New Homes scheme (FHOGNH) entitles eligible first home buyers to apply for a grant of $15,000 to purchase or build a new home or build their home. The $15,000 grant however is only available until 1 January 2016 when it will be reduced to $10,000. The grant is only available for the purchase or building of a new home up to a capped value of $650,000. Eligible purchasers buying a vacant block of residential land will pay no duty on vacant land valued up to $300,000, and will receive concessions on duty for vacant land valued between $300,000 and $450,000. In addition, the $5,000 New Home Grant Scheme (NHGS) that was introduced on 1 July 2012 continues to be available to purchasers of new homes, homes off the plan and purchase of vacant land that will have a new home built on it.

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For those planning to move from metropolitan areas for a tree change to Armidale or other parts of the New England, the $7,000 Regional Relocation Home Buyers Grant (RRHBG) still applies for home owners and long term renters; and, from 1 January 2014 the new Skilled Regional Relocation Incentive (SRRI) of $10,000 will be available to those relocating from metropolitan to certain regional areas secured to employment rather than home ownership.

Further information can be found at the Office of State Revenue web site at http://www.osr.nsw. gov.au/grants Before buying a new home or considering the benefits of relocating from a metropolitan to a regional area and accessing the OSR grants there are a few matters that a prudent purchaser of a new home should consider: • Receive legal advice as to whether you are entitled to any of the current OSR grants.

• Decide if you want to purchase the property in your sole name, jointly or as tenants in common.

• Ensure that you have sufficient funds to cover the deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price) to exchange contracts or discuss options with your financial institution or mortgage broker if a deposit bond is required.

• Consider seeking advice from your accountant

and /or a financial planner as to your capacity to service any mortgage.

• Discuss mortgage options with your preferred financial institution or a mortgage broker. Discuss the content of the loan offer and your mortgage documents with your solicitor or conveyancer to understand the extent of your liability.

• Develop a relationship with our local real estate agents who will be able to keep you in mind if the type of property you are looking for comes their way.

• Ensure that you make provision in your budget to insure the home that you buy after exchange of contracts.

• Before exchanging contracts consider the advantage of having an independent building and pest report on the home.

• If purchasing a strata unit, a strata report should be considered in addition to other certificates that your solicitor may suggest you obtain.

• Your solicitor will assist you in understanding general matters including local environment issues, zoning, covenants, development consents, restrictions on use, heritage and make necessary searches to check that the named Vendor is entitled to sell the property to you.

Whether you are a seasoned investor or buying your first home, engaging a solicitor to carry out and oversee the conveyancing of your purchase or sale is an important consideration. It is also a good opportunity to review your Will and consider appointment of a Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardianship. Take advantage of receiving local professional legal advice to assist you in making your decision, keeping you informed and ensuring that your transaction can take place without confusion or unnecessary delay.

Christopher K C Serow Principal, Solicitor Director, Notary Public Migration Agent (MARN 0854319) Navneet K Mullee Solicitor Jane C Pfister Solicitor Louise McPhie JP Conveyancing & Administrative Services Officer new england focus 51

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focusinterview.

Jeremy Staples: the creator of the arts and culture book ‘Bizoo’ and Elouise Quinlivan, journalist and Bizoo editor, will be at the New England Regional Art Museum in January to facilitate two exciting hands on workshops to celebrate the launch of the Bizoo Book, ‘The Best, The Worst and the Trash That Never Made It’.

irst up, what is the Bizoo book, and what’s it about?

Bizoo began as a black and white photocopied zine out of Toowoomba, Queensland that came out every few months back in 2001. Toowoomba didn’t, and still doesn’t, have a street press to cover touring bands, exhibition openings and local events, so I decided to start up my own publication with the help of a few people. Then it grew over time to include colour covers, bigger print runs and national distribution with more than 60 contributors from around Australia. We made it to 25 issues before calling it a day in 2005, then reviving the publication, updating and redesigning the whole thing, which became the free Bizoo Book.

What’s a zine? A zine is a do it yourself platform to showcase, highlight or document anything with endless possibilities. Being uncensored and unedited topics, they can be raw and real straight from the source. There are no real rules. The subject matter can range from zines on personal life, politics, feminism, a travel adventure away, or no subject at all. Bizoo started life as a zine. Once they’re made, zines can be easily copied and let loose on the community, as a moment-in-time snapshot of creativity.

What can participants expect out of the workshops? The Cut Copy P&ste Zine workshop participants will be empowered to express themselves through writing, collaborating and creating their own mini-publication in one session using a range of analogue and nearly forgotten recourses like stamp sets, typewriters, embossing machines, as well as getting messy cutting up magazines to make ransom letters or new designs.

This will be the first opportunity to pick up a copy of Bizoo’s final release: The Best, The Worst and the Trash That Never Made It, as well as meeting the creators. For five years, Bizoo woke up a sleepy town and brought to life a thriving arts community. Bizoo gave the folk of Toowoomba an outlet to create, collaborate, and connect, while supporting the development of their regional town. This is the idea behind why we travel to other regional areas and encourage participants to start up their own zine community.

Have you produced any other zine titles since finishing Bizoo? The most memorable would have to be my American travel zine Whenever I See A Bearded Hobo On The Street, I’ll Think Of You And Smile. It is full of travel notes from my three month misadventures, interviews and heaps of photos along the

way, ending up in an emergency room back in Australia with a penetrating eye injury.

great zine will be passed around and swapped, and who knows where it will end up.

How did you progress from editing I’ve been slowly working on a Bizoo to delivering workshops? bilingual zine with around The progress was completely 15 Japanese contributors. organic; I would have never It’s been sidelined for al There are no re dreamt that I’d be travelling a little while, but I’ve t rules. The subjec throughout Australia delivering already received e from matter can rang life, skill share workshops. As I kid contributions ranging al zines on person a I loved making things by hand from comic strips m, polit ic s, feminis or ay and loved learning new skills. aw to an article on e travel adventur ” I learnt the basics of layout, l. the process of what no subject at al design and distribution via Bizoo happens when you’re the hard way, then progressed three minutes late to work to putting on my own festivals and in Japan. I haven’t set a real events, which led to teaching others. I’ve theme, but I’m keen to simply been delivering workshops now for roughly a highlight Japanese culture straight from decade.

I use Bizoo as an example of what can the people who live there. be achieved if people work together, irrelevant to Why do you travel with the book and your location. not just distribute it in book shops? Without zines, I wouldn’t have been able to travel across the plug!

Australia and experience the beautiful small towns along the way. I love travel zines, as well as Cut Copy P&ste Zine Workshop & Bizoo Launch DIY zines. Zines give you a glimpse into someone Where New England Regional Art Museum else’s life which hasn’t been edited down to fit When Saturday 11 January 10.30 am - 12.30pm into a newspaper, blog or magazine. Being raw, Cost $20 pp All Materials & Supplies you can feel and see how they made the zine, Bookings & pre-payment essential (limited places) and you’ll be able to read why they made it. A (02) 6772 5255 or www.trybooking.com/EBIU

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focusinterview.

Chef Robin Croft of Savouries with a twist and winemaker Vinny Dingle of Raleigh Wines are just two of a group of chefs and winemakers offering their wares at Tastes of the Coffs Coast evenings during Festival of Sail.

FESTIVAL

NOW is the time for sitting outdoors with friends, enjoying a fine wine, sampling seasonal dishes and tapping your feet to lilting gypsy tunes.

dd in the sea breezes and great views on thee Coffs Yacht Club lawn, the buoyant sailing crowd d competing in the Coffs-Pittwater race series, and d you have the ingredients for perfect summer evenings. enings.

Tastes of the Coffs Coast is a focus of this year’s Festival of Sail, and some of the coast’s bestt chefs are competing for your taste buds with tempting taster platess at just as tempting prices.

Choose one or up to three nights (January 7, 8 and 9) of sampling mpling the best local produce, paired with award-winning wines from m regional wineries under the Festival of Sail marquee.

Entry to the marquee for Tastes of the Coffs Coast is just $10 0 for table dining in the cool evening breezes.

Select from dishes prepared by Simon Chladil of Coffs Harbour ur Racing Club, Novotel’s Tony Gill, Eddie Delves of Ed’s Tucker Box, Robin Croft of Savouries With A Twist and Spare Chef’s Chris Freeman, man, all while dining in the one perfect summer location.

Wine makers from three local wineries – Raleigh Wines, Two Tails Wines of Nana Glen and Bago Vineyards in Wauchope will bee shar-ing their best drops, several of them award-winning creations. s.

Taster plates range from $3.50 to a maximum of $15, making g Tastes Tastees of the Coffs Coast an affordable way to sample the creative skills off some of our most talented chefs.

Acoustic guitars, mandolin, violin and traditional drumming combine to create the lilting gypsy-folk and Latin sounds of the Northern Rivers Romaniacs band, which will provide live entertainment ment for Taste of the Coffs Coast diners on each of the nights.

Tastes of the Coffs Coast will open in the Festival of Sail marquee quee on the Coffs Harbour Yacht Club lawn from 5.30 - 10.30pm on Tuesday, January 7, Wednesday, January 8 and Thursday, January uary 9. Tickets are $10 for this over 18s event, with live music by the Romaniacs.

You can find out more about this and other Festival of Sail events vents at: www.coffscoastfestivalofsail.com.au – tickets are now on sale at Coffs Harbour Yacht Club or phone Kim on 6658 6666 between tween 9am - 3pm, Monday to Friday. Numbers under the marquee are limited, so be sure you don’t miss out on these perfect summer mer evenings.

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TASTES OF THE COFFS COAST MENU Tony Gill, Novotel Coffs Harbour Pacific Bay Resort Grilled garlic and cheese focaccia: $6.50 Grilled field mushroom topped with Manchego cheese green salad: $10 Prawn and crab spring roll and riberry dipping sauce: $10 Tandoori Milly Hill lamb fillet yoghurt dressing: $10 Strawberry mille-feuille: $9.50 Banana caramel tarts: $9.50

cous-cous with harissa yoghurt: $8.50

Eddie and Liz Delves, Ed’s Tucker Box Handmade Peking Burrawong duck spring rolls with soya, citrus, ginger and chilli dipping sauce: one: $3.50, two: $6, three: $8 Duck pâté with port jelly and thyme served with crispy croutons: $7 Famous Burrawong duck san choy bow served on cos lettuce: $8 Goujon of lamb fettine - fingers of lamb crumbed in fresh rosemary, garlic and parsley with rocket, pear and parmesan salad with a lemon olive oil dressing: $10 Cantonese pork skewer with fried rice: $10 Shiitake mushroom, tofu and haloumi fritter with rocket and wasabi aioli: $8

salad: $8.50

Chris Freeman, Spare Chef Catering Pulled pork soft tortilla with goats cheese and avocado: $9.50 Grilled haloumi on Greek salad lemon and olive oil dressing: $9.50 Moroccan lamb skewers on almond

Coffs banana daquiri with white rum lime and coconut: $7.50 Corindi blueberry and watermelon margarita: $7.50 Robin Croft, Savouries With A Twist: Canape tasting plate: $10 Turkish chicken: $10 Fillet of salmon: $10 Pumpkin & sweet potato stack with a toasted pine nut dressing on a mescalin Profiteroles: $10 Blueberry hotcakes: $7 Simon Chladil, Coffs Harbour Racing Club Finger foods sampler; Szechuan lamb kebab, chilled Vietnamese prawns, curry lamb fillo, spinach & ricotta fillo, vegetable korma puff, Thai prawn kebab; three pieces: $4.50, four pieces: $8 Mini Tex-Mex chicken burger: $4 Greek lamb kebab includes baby spinach, fetta cheese, tomato and yoghurt sauce: $10 Dinner sampler of two finger foods, Greek lamb kebab and dessert: $15 Kim’s strawberry cheesecake: $5 Karen’s chocolate raspberry gateau: $5 Simon’s orange and almond cake with lemon curd cream: $5 Dessert sampler: three mini serves of above: $8

PARTICIPATING WINERIES PART V Bago Vineyards Wauchope’s 28-yearwin old winery collected some more medals the display case in the recent for their En New England Wine Show, the Small Winem Winemakers Wine Show and the North T Coast Tourism awards. Their best-performin wines in awards are the Bago forming Vineya Vineyards Red Boot sparkling rosé and Silver Boot B Silver sparkling chardonnay.

Two Tails Ta Winery Nana Glen’s welTwo coming vineyard grows Chardonnay coming and Villard Vil and Blanc grapes for their white a Chambourcin and Jacquez wines and for the red and liqueur range, which include sparkling varieties. The winery includes ca are open seven days in school and café holiday only 10 minutes from Coffs holidays, Harbou in the Orara Valley.

Harbour Raleig Winery First planted 30 years Raleigh Ra ago, Raleigh Winery grows Chambourcin grapes for their red and Villard f their white ranges, which Blanc for include ports and brandy crémes. The Austra Australian Small Winemakers Show aw has awarded several bronze medals to Ra their Raleigh Fox Gully dry white. Their d cellar door is open seven days in school holiday just 15 minutes south of Coffs holidays, Harbou Harbour.

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embracing life with confidence, compassion and creativity

Transition to Year 12 Enrolling Now NEGS Offers: • Co-Educational Junior School • WellBeing Program • Scholars Program & Creative Learning • Boarding improvements, additional academic support • State of the Art Equestrian Centre New England Girls’ School & St John’s Co-Educational Junior School Uralla Road, Armidale NSW 2350 e: enrolments@negs.nsw.edu.au p: 02 6774 8700

www.negs.nsw.edu.au