Feature Story Stanley Vale
NEW ENGLAND
February 2014 // Issue 81
season
s
engl of new
and
2 new england focus.
focus team.
Welcome to the February edition of New England FOCUS. e have another great
W
true.
and olive oils, homemade jams and
lineup of local talent for
Many of us wonder about the day in the
preserves, terrines and paté, honey, free
you, our loyal readers,
life of a farmer, so we caught up with
range eggs, homemade fruit cordials,
this month!
Kevin and Tim Bower, who share their
superb locally roasted coffee and of
The first New England Bach Festival was
legacy - which is a property called Stanley
course, great local wine, champagne and
in 2003; Benjamin Thorn, Artistic Director
Vale, just outside Uralla.
beer.
lets us know about this year’s festival.
Zonta Armidale is approaching 40 years
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Our avid collector this issue is Rebecca
since inception, and Linda Andrews tells us
In the New England we boast a huge and
Bastin, who has a love of penguins.
more about the work of this organisation.
diverse range of female professionals;
Our lovebirds this month are Brian and
ON THE COVER
Gail Barrett, better known as The Pure
This month’s cover is dedicated to the first
Spring Water delivery couple ... who have
ever Seasons of New England event to be
worked and played together for some
held in Uralla on 8 March. Thanks to local
time. Their daughter, Sandy Marshall, tells
butcher, Dale Goodwin, Merilba’s Shaun
us why they are still lovebirds.
Cassidy, NE Brewing Company’s Ben and
New England Girls’ School and St John’s
Tara Toomey, with her son Jacob posing
FINAL WORD.
Junior School have been busy rolling out
for this shoot. Passionate Uralla local Tara
“Those who don’t believe in magic will
nearly $100k worth of infrastructure
Toomey tells us about this special first time
never find it” - Roald Dahl.
around the schools’ campus; we find out
event.
about the improvements. PLC Armidale
On offer is a great range of food, all New
Junior School believes that the foundation
England based and including talented
for growth can be discovered right from
bakers and confectioners, some wonderful
the very beginning in the Pre-Kinder
local gourmet sausages, garden produce,
program, and the results are shown to be
smoked trout, organic doughnuts, olives
contacts. Looking to advertise in FOCUS? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS: 5/164 Beardy Street, Armidale PHONE: 02 6771 5551 FAX: 02 6772 5551 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/focus.ne TV: www.focustv.com.au
therefore, for the fourth year in a row, we are again showcasing the successful local women in our region. Some have started a new business, some are well established, and some have just been a big part of a local business.
ADVERTISING MANAGER: Tracy Le Messurier
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable
tracy@focusmag.com.au
joey@focusmag.com.au
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lynda@focusmag.com.au
michael@focusmag.com.au
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GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Annalise Montgomery
merry@focusmag.com.au
annalise@focusmag.com.au
PHOTOGRAPHER: Tim Barnsley
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tim.barnsley@gmail.com
jeff@focusmag.com.au
ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont
ACCOUNT MANAGER: Louise Beaumont
jay@focusmag.com.au
louise@focusmag.com.au
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SUB EDITORS: Jo Atkins / Reg Brookhouse
dylan@focusmag.com.au
jo@focusmag.com.au / reg@focusmag.com.au
FOCUS IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THESE GREAT COMMUNITY EVENTS AND PROGRAMS.
Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders.Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. New England Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications Pty Ltd ABN: 62128786005. Material in New England Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications Pty Ltd 2012 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.
new england focus 3
inside this
Issue 81 - February 2014
9.
Stanley Vale. Kevin and son Tim Bower share the family legacy, which is a property called Stanley Vale, just outside Uralla.
Bach Festival.
11.
The first New England Bach Festival was in 2003. Benjamin Thorn, Artistic Director, shares the musical treats of this year’s event.
15. 12. 42.
Love Birds. Brian and Gail Barrett, or better known as The Pure Spring Water delivery couple, work and play together ... and have for some time. Their daughter, Sandy Marshall, tells us about her parents and their lovebird relationship …
usual suspects.
the
10. what’s on for February 24. eat featuring local restaurants 40. star guide e with Terri
No matter where you are in the world, d, read Focus for free online every month nth @
www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/ne.focus w www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat
4 new england focus.
focusinterview.
seas
new e ons of
ngland
Uralla local Tara Toomey invites FOCUS readers to attend Country Living Seasons of New England in March. aving been a stallholder at various markets around the region for a number of years prior to opening our B&B at Aurelia’s Farm in Uralla in April 2012, I felt there was a unique opportunity to create a forum for New England based makers and producers to showcase what they do through a bi-annual market day that had just a bit more to offer through dining experiences, as well as great fun for children. My own business has grown out of my love for baking and confectionery, and I have also been making fabric covered cards for a number of years now – I love fabric, and my current range uses Liberty of London fabrics. I wanted a place to sell both types of products, somewhere that included great produce, food and wine, as well as allowed creative people to come along with their products too. And there had to be a local and seasonal dining experience – something more than just a meal – at the end of it all. Seasons was the result. After lots of research into other market and festival events around Australia, I built a website, hired the Uralla Showground, found an exceptional chef to cater for our first dining experience and started to recruit stallholders. There were lots of conversations with people, including Uralla Shire Councillors (we are so lucky to have such a proactive Council), my extremely supportive husband, children and parents, stall holders and anyone who was happy to bounce some ideas around. The first Market + Fair Day is being held
on Saturday 8 March from 8am – 3pm, followed by our Twilight Dinner from 5.30pm – all at the Uralla Showground in King St. As a location for this type of forum, Uralla is pretty hard to beat. Right on the New England Highway, halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, Uralla has a wonderful café, restaurant and weekend culture that means we already attract a growing number of travellers, and New England locals, who have discovered what a great place it is to hang out. And to top it off, we have a fabulous showground with a full bar facility just one block from the Highway and right next door to our train station. What can we expect to experience at the first Country Living Seasons of New England Market + Fair Day on Saturday 8 March? A great range of food, all New England based and including talented bakers and confectioners, some wonderful local gourmet sausages, garden produce, smoked trout, organic doughnuts, olives and olive oils, homemade jams and preserves, terrines and paté, honey, free range eggs, homemade fruit cordials, superb locally roasted coffee and of course, great local wine, champagne and beer. A selection of some of these delicious products will also be available for sale in our Producer’s Crates – purchase in advance through our website, and collect your crate on the day. There will also be a great range of quality hand made products, including skincare and home decor products, children’s clothing and accessories, hand dyed wool, native trees and gardening advice, candles, handmade toys, end
grain cutting boards and other timber products, New England Brewing Co, Aurelia’s Farm B&B as well as a range of beautiful handmade jeweland online at www.seasonsofnewengland.com. lery. au To add to that Fair atmosphere there will be Transport from Armidale to Uralla return for lots of fun for children, with pony rides, face the dinner has been organised, but seats are painting, showbags, giant bubble wands, vintage limited, so be sure to book directly with Seasons. games and a Teddy Bear’s Picnic from 11am. As Uralla is also on the train line, it is a very relaxTickets for the picnic are just $5 each and ing journey for anyone wanting to come are available directly from the Uralla from Tamworth, Newcastle, Sydney Neighbourhood Centre on - or anywhere in between. 6778 3277. The train arrives in Uralla ss And it wouldn’t be at around 5.15pm each My own busine a Market + Fair Day day, and the station has grown out of ng and without lots of great is just a very short my love for baki and I have local music. We have walk from the Uralla confectionery, g fabric also been makin number some wonderful Showground. Finding ra covered cards fo New England talent a place to stay couldn’t , ic love fabr of years now – I nge coming along during be easier, with links to ra and my current the day and on into accommodation found on nd Lo uses Li berty of the evening, includon our website. fabrics.” ing The Jug Addicts, Toni So how do FOCUS readSwain, WirryCow and Fabio ers join in the fun? Tolli. The music is free and runs Entry to the Market + Fair Day until 10.30pm. Come and enjoy a is absolutely FREE! So just come on drink from the bar from 11am and some down to the Uralla Showground on Saturgreat food from our stallholders on into the day 8 March any time from 8am; stalls will all evening. be trading right up until 3pm, and there will be And the dining experience? a great range to wander through. With tasty opOur Twilight dinner is being catered by the tions for lunch and then the Twilight Dinner from talented Rowan Tihema of NERAM Harvest. He 5.30pm, it’s a great excuse to make a day of it is preparing a very special 3 course meal + share and sample the New England in Uralla. plates, all local and seasonal produce and set www.seasonsofnewengland.com.au in a harvest table style dining experience at the www.facebook.com/seasonsofnewengland Showground Pavilion. Tickets are $70 per person info@seasonsofnewengland.com.au and are on sale now at NERAM Harvest Café, 0434 408 163.
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focusinterview.
for negs and St John’s Junior School
Over the Christmas break the IT department at New England Girls’ School and St John’s Junior School has been busy rolling out nearly $100k worth of infrastructure around the schools’ campus. IT Manager David Rose and System Administrator Ismo Viljamaa tell us about these exciting developments.
o what sort of improvements have you been rolling out over the last month? Our main focus has been in the classroom but the school data network and server systems which support the whole campus have had an extensive overhaul as well. In the classroom we’re adding to our existing fleet of interactive data projectors so that every classroom in both schools has a unit, complete with stereo sound, HDMI input and a wireless module. This nifty device allows any laptop or wireless device in the classroom to connect directly to the projector so students and teachers will be able to present work from their desk without the need for cables. By 'interactive' we mean that all the functionality of the computer desktop is available on the projection surface, in our case, ordinary whiteboards, with special stylus pens. The laptop’s desktop can be shown and worked with, and progress can be saved as image files. The image can be flipped over to a 'virtual whiteboard' at any time, with the same saving capability. These saved images can be distributed to the class for later revision or uploaded to the school’s Learning Management System, 'Moodle', to support lesson resources for that subject. Of course, the whiteboard can be used as normal, with or without projection. We’ve even hung two of these clever projectors on trolley mounted whiteboards in our Art and D&T Studio. They can be wheeled 6 new england focus.
about to where they’re needed. limited in terms of speed, data allocation What other gear have you rolled out? and pricing. Basically the story of regional Keeping with the classroom focus, we have Australia. Thanks to Armidale getting fibrealso deployed an extra twenty wireless access to-the-door NBN, we can now access the points (WAPs) or 'base stations' around the same range of deals for speed and data as teaching campus, bringing the total number metropolitan schools. This gives us viable to about 45 units. Every classroom has its own access to an expanding range of quality unit, so that no matter how many devices educational resources that need fast internet are using the system, the demand is evenly to successfully deliver. Our new video managed. We’ve also added extra units to conferencing suite will allow class groups our boarding houses for after hours to visit and participate with other study or prep. The wireless schools from around the footprint is now quite world, but also provide impressive and fast. the opportunity to The units can share connect with the The laptop’s be n the load among increasing number desktop ca ked with , or w themselves so there of educational d an n ow sh n be are no bottlenecks. experiences being and progress ca files. The Thanks to promoted by a saved as image pped over image can be fli upgrades in the surprising range tebo ard' to a 'virtual whi server back end, of Australian the at any time, with lity. ” new switches and and international bi pa ca ng vi same sa wireless bridges, institutions. the whole network More school and IT is running at gigabit management services are speed. Coupled with our fibre available on the 'cloud' and connected super fast NBN service, increasingly user software is sliding a whole new world of educational towards a 'hire as you need from the possibility has opened up. cloud' scenario. NEGS and St John’s are now We’ve also installed a charger 'hotdesk' ready to tap into these innovations. in the school and secure charging docks in the We’ve already mentioned our LMS Moodle. boarding houses so that every laptop arrives in This is the same system used by the UNE class each morning at 100%. for all its students and has been around for You mention the NBN; what has this many years, however in 2014, we’re pushing service meant for your school? harder than ever into the system. All our Prior to the NBN rolling past the door, students, day and boarding, whether they’re our internet access options were frankly on excursion or exchange, home sick or
“
being keen on their holidays, can access all the resources, class notes, assignments and other stuff they need for their subjects, or participate in blogs, online tutorials, take a quiz and submit work through the Moodle website. About half your students are boarders; how do you manage their IT needs? You’re correct in saying that we, the school, act as the de facto parent for about half our students, but of course we support our day students 100% as well. From our point of view, we therefore have to look after hardware needs, manage software upgrades, organise repairs as required, and make sure that there’s an appropriate balance between the core business of education and recreation, by managing access to certain websites. We also take our duty of care responsibilities very seriously and block or filter undesirable content as much as possible. To this end, we offer a one to one laptop program from Year 5 to 12. Two excellent local repairers can turn around most fixes in two days and the machine integrates with both our network and access management systems seamlessly. We also throw in extra software and an insurance program to provide a very useful educational tool. In summary… NEGS and St John’s are both fully equipped to meet any IT requirement in the curriculum, from the business end to the creative, across the whole school. Whatever develops in the future, the system we are taking into 2014 has the flexibility to deliver. Thank you David and Ismo.
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Zonta Armidale is approaching 40 years since inception. Linda Andrews takes us behind the scenes ...
emind us what Zonta International is? Zonta is a global organisation of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. With more than 30,000 members belonging to more than 1,200 clubs in 65 countries, Zontians volunteer their time to support local and international service projects, as well as scholarships aimed at fulfilling Zonta’s mission and objectives. Tell us about the Zonta Club of Armidale ... Zonta Armidale is approaching 40 years since inception. We meet on the fourth Wednesday each month for our dinner meeting at Armidale Bowling Club. We have a diverse membership of interesting women who work together on fundraising, advocacy and education issues. We make time for social events, which include our husbands, friends and family. What are some of the achievements of the Zonta Club of Armidale? Our local projects also include supporting local charities – buying tools for the Women’s Housing Group to teach residents to maintain their own properties; cash donation to Backtrack to fund a program to teach young women how to cook for themselves; providing Christmas gifts for children to give to their mothers and other disadvantaged women in the community; partnering with the ASPIRE group at UNE to fund a joint birthing kit assembly day; partnering with the Rotary Club of Armidale Central Leadership Circles program; serving as mentor to the O’Connor Catholic College Z Club; and more. Our district projects include the production of breast care cushions to give to women recovering from breast cancer related surgery. These cushions are distributed to all local hospitals and are also provided to the McGrath Foundation nurses to assist their patients. The Zonta Club of Armidale sought grant funding from the Cancer Council to cover the purchase of the materials, and students from PLC and O’Connor Catholic
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College have sewn the cushions as school activities. Tell us about some of the recent awards received in our local area ... Zonta Club of Armidale has many local projects, including cash awards for the following: Year end prizes to 5 local high schools for Awards targeting young women; Achievement Award for a young indigenous woman recognising her commitment to completing Year 12; Woman of Achievement Award - recognising a woman who has contributed significantly to the local community through service beyond her paid occupation; Sabine Altmann Memorial Award (honouring Sabine Altmann, who worked tirelessly to improve the fight against women suffering domestic violence and who was unfortunately killed in a car accident). The Award is given to a third or fourth year UNE student who is completing a degree in Social Work and plans to work with women who are victims of domestic violence. Maths, Science & Engineering Scholarship – awarded to a Year 12 girl who is planning to enrol in a Maths/Science degree which leads to a non-traditional female occupation. In the last year our Awards have recognised the following women ... Zonta Achievement Award for a Young Indigenous Women – Celine Naylor. Celine completed Year 12 in 2013 at Armidale High School whilst completing a Certificate II in Business Studies as a school-based traineeship during Years 11 and 12. She undertook on-thejob training at a bank, which meant that she worked during her holidays as well as one day a week throughout the school year to complete the required number of hours. Celine is a highly motivated young lady who plans to have a career. Women of Achievement – Dr Victoria Howell. Here is a summary of the citation from her colleagues upon which the award was given ... When Dr Howell was in a practice which without warning disintegrated due to the
principal doctor leaving town, she immediately In Alana’s first placement, she worked with recognised what the loss of this practice would many women who were victims of domestic do to the town and to the doctors who were violence and experiencing the cycle at various left without work. Vicki worked very quickly to stages and found that the high number of support these other doctors and took on the encounters with victims of domestic violence was responsibility of starting a new practice and concerning. Alana chose domestic violence as inviting these doctors to join her. It was she who a focus for a small research project she worked organised everything and made it happen, all at on during her first placement, researching its her own expense. prevalence, indicators and impacts. Vicki is a tireless worker for the improvement Alana believes that domestic violence is of medical services in Armidale. She lobbies an issue which needs to provide clients with politicians and medical peak bodies in order to education and knowledge, along with a get her message to people who continued support network. She hopes to could make a difference. She promote further to our community has a long term vision that that domestic violence does not her practice will be a only happen to women, but e place for teaching men also and that domestic We have a divers membership of for both medical violence does not only en students and general mean physical violence, interesting wom on er who work togeth practice trainees. Dr but that it can occur vocacy fundraising, ad Howell puts in many emotionally, sexually and . sues and education is social hours of her time financially. r We make time fo to ensure that all Alana Bennett, e ud cl events which in nds students placed with recipient of the Sabine ie fr , ds our husban the practice grow from Altmann Award with Zonta .” ily and fam their experience. She Club President Karen Tromp. teaches medical students Young Women in Public on campus at UNE and always Affairs – awarded to a Year 11 gives above and beyond what is girl who displays an understanding of expected of her. international women’s issues and shows Vicki works hard on providing quality leadership in her community. patient care and in looking after the health How can locals become involved? and happiness of her colleagues and staff. We welcome interested women to join us for a Vicki is actively involved with the Waldorf Dinner Meeting and get a taste of what Zonta school and the Ascent Group in Armidale. is about. Contact Club President, Karen Tromp, Dr Howells’ colleagues find her a pleasure 0427 748 411. to work with and believe she is worthy of Plans for the future? recognition for her efforts. In 2014, our aim is to raise the profile of Sabine Altmann Memorial Award – Alana the issue of Homelessness in women over 45; Bennett. continue to educate about domestic violence; Alana is completing her final year of Bachelor increase membership; compile birthing kits for of Social Work and hopes to undertake her third world countries; sew breast cushions for second and final placement at Tamworth Base local women who have suffered breast cancer; Hospital. She will work with one of their many and collaborate with other service clubs. social workers, who work closely with clients who Zonta members say No to Domestic Violence. have experienced domestic violence. Thanks Linda.
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focusinterview.
Stanley Vale K e v i n +
T i m
B o w e r
Kevin and son Tim Bower share the family legacy, which is a property called Stanley Vale, just outside Uralla.
ow long has the Bower Family lived on Stanley Vale? The Bower family emigrated from Germany in 1854 on the ship 'Helene' and moved to Yallaroi Station at Warialda. In 1865 Henrich Bower moved his family to Uralla, where he purchased three blocks of land, ten kilometres east of Uralla, which he named Stanley Vale. Henrich Bower was a keen sheep/wool man. He purchased a mob of ewes and rams from Gostwyck Station around 1872, and that was the beginning of the Bower family's association with wool. Self sufficiency was very important for survival in those days, and the Bowers also had a dairy, laying hens, they grew wheat and lucerne for their stock; during the 2nd World War they grew navy beans for the government to feed the soldiers. Tim (5th generation) is currently managing the farm; however, his father Kevin (who turns 90 this year) still has a keen interest in the daily operations; his vast knowledge and experience in farming and wool production is invaluable, and they share a common love of the land and sheep/wool. Tell us about the property and what type of wool you grow ... 'Stanley Vale' is situated in the beautiful New England in an area known as Big Ridge, ten kilometres east of Uralla. The property is a mixture of flat to gently undulating hills. The soil is mainly basalt. As it sits on top of the ranges, Stanley Vale depends on its water supply from dams and one windmill, which feeds all the water troughs - this windmill was divined in 1895 and is halfway up the side of a hill, is 84 foot deep and was dug by hand through pure rock and has thankfully
never run dry. horse to a motor bike, from shearing using clippers to Since the purchase of the first sheep in the 1870s, electric hand pieces. the Bowers' aim was always to improve their flock The most significant changes have been in the use of through careful breeding. Tim and Kevin have always computer technology, the use of Artifical Insemination had one aim: to breed superfine merinos which have to optimise sire potential and minimise the risk of excellent conformation with wool that is soft handling, disease and modern day stock handling equipment. stylish and bright. Stanley Vale's wool is mostly However, when it comes to the production of purchased by Italian wool mills to make quality wool, the hands and eyes are still men's suits. the best, with direction taken from Describe a typical day in the computer tests. The most life of a sheep grazier? February is a big month for significant There is no typical day local ram sales; tell us more en in changes have be r te on the farm, depending on about this year's sales? the use of compu e of us e th the season whether we Many of the local ram studs , gy lo no tech ination to are shearing, drenching, have their sales this month, Artifical Insem tential crutching, lambing etc. There with all the studs allocated optimise sire po e risk and minimise th ern is always something a sale day so rarely is there od of disease and m g to do, whether it is a clash. Armidale hosts the lin nd day stock ha animal husbandry, farm Northern Merino Ram Show and equipment.� maintenance or sowing pastures. Sale on 4 and 5 February at the At the moment with this drought, Exhibition Centre, which attracts the Tim, like all other farmers, is struggling top studs from NSW. Approximately 100 to keep good condition on his sheep and rams are put up for auction. Stanley Vale oncattle - his daily routine consists of feeding the property follows on Friday 7, with 60 rams and 600 stock grain and hay and checking water levels ewes for sale. in dams and water troughs and often rotating the What do you love about what you do, and what stock into different paddocks. Any excess stock are does the future hold? sold. Our annual ram and sheep sale is on 7 February, The love of breeding sheep and the production of so there are preparations of the rams and classing the good wool is in both Tim and Kevin's blood; they are sale ewes. passionate about constantly trying to improve. What are the biggest changes you have seen over The superfine wool industry is currently experiencing the years in this industry? a turbulent time. However, history has shown that it will Kevin has probably seen the greatest changes recover. Kevin and Tim have high hopes for the wool throughout his 90 years - from the use of draught industry and will continue doing what they do. horses to tractors, from mustering on a push bike or Thanks fellas.
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A ROU N D T H E R E G ION //F E B RUA RY 2014
22 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. 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. All event information can be found at www.flixinthestix. com.au or via Facebook on www.facebook.com/flixinthestix
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23rd Annual Gem & Craft Show
Walcha ha Fa Farm Farmers rmers Markets rm Tour de Rocks registration and information sessions
Next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Christopher Serow and take place between 10am and 1pm at our offices on Saturday 1 February 2014. Bookings are essential on 1300 642 166.
Held over 2 great days this year. There will be something for everyone! See spectacular gems, jewellery, craft, gifts, leather, woodwork, lapidary supplies and much more on sale. Lucky dips, laughing clowns, ice creams, gem hunt for the kids. BBQ breakfast/lunch and refreshments available. Raffle tickets on sale – 3 great prizes. Stallholders most welcome. Contact Event Coordinator for more info.
When Saturday 1 February 2014. Where Legal Minds Office, 157 Beardy St Mall. Contact 1300 642 166.
When Saturday 15 March 2014 from 9 - 5 pm and Sunday 16 March 2014 from 9 am – 3 pm. Where Armidale Show Ground with FREE entry. Contact Kerry Tasik 6778 5122 (a.h).
When Saturday mornings - February 8, 15 and 22 Feb, 9am - 11am. Where Downstairs at the Hub, 146 Marsh Street, Armidale.
First Saturday Chats
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Come along and find out how you can join this community event, all registration and participation questions answered, help with electronic registration and computers available. Merchandise orders, raffle tickets available for pick up. Sausage sizzle.
Third Saturday of every month at McHattan Park, Walcha, 8.30am 12.30pm. Over 30 food, produce and plant stalls. Visit their website to see upcoming gardening and cooking workshops. When Saturday 18 January 2014. Saturday 15 February Saturday 15 March Saturday 19 April Saturday 17 May More info (02) 6777 2448 www.walchafarmersmarket.org.au
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THE FIRST NEW ENGLAND BAC H F E S T I VA L WA S I N 2 0 03. B E NJA M I N T H O R N , A RT I S T I C DIRECTOR, SHARES THE M U S I C A L T R E AT S O F T H I S Y E A R’S E V E N T.
hen and why did the New England Bach Festival first begin in Armidale? The first New England Bach Festival was in 2003 and was organised by organist Terry Norman, who thought Armidale was an ideal location for a baroque music festival, given the presence of several local musicians, the university’s reputation for early music, and several fine organs. Since 2004, the festivals have taken place every two years, and 2014 is the seventh. What is your involvement with the festival? I have been the artistic director since the third festival in 2006. I am responsible for deciding on the program and co-ordinating musicians, and also the somewhat less fun aspect of seeking sponsorship and grant funding, without which the festival would not be viable (or at least the performers would not be reasonably paid). This year we are fortunate to have received a grant from Arts NSW, the funding arm of the NSW Government, and we have a number of local donors and sponsors. I also do manage to do a little performing
in the festival. One of the great things is being each pub, you get a short organ recital in each able to work with local and visiting musicians church before moving to the next one. of high calibre. Other visiting musicians are the Sydney What can we expect to see at Consort, Stan and Monika Kornel the Bach Festival this year? and Hans-Dieter Michatz, who We’ve got what we will perform on their own think is a fantastic and also participate in a program that concert that combines He is one of the s combines local and the Brandenburg best improviser d he will visiting musicians 4, a Handel organ in Australia, an the spirit playing Bach and be channelling concerto, some ram in of Bach in a prog ram other baroque Bach arias and og which half the pr using masters and Elena Kats-Chernin’s ed will be improvis also new ways of Reinventions, which e th by themes provided looking at Bach and reworks material from pu blic .” his legacy. Sydney six of the two part organist David Drury is inventions of Bach for coming. He is one of the recorder and strings. We’re best improvisers in Australia planning to have a different and he will be channelling the spirit recorder player for each reinvention. of Bach in a program in which half the Eleanor Streatfeild will perform a Bach program will be improvised using themes cello suite in a concert with EphenStephen, provided by the public. David will also who will be playing music by Rameau. present an improvisation workshop for NECOM Another fascinating concert will be a new and be part of the Armidale Organ Crawl arrangement of the Art of Fugue for violin, we’re so lucky in Armidale having four good electric guitar, horn and cello with Margaret organs within two blocks, and the organ crawl Butcher, Alastair Finco, Sofia Debus and Steve is like a pub crawl but instead of a beer in Thorneycroft, who is also responsible for the
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arrangement. As part of this I’ve completed the last unfinished fugue, so there is another new aspect as well. Warwick Dunham is co-ordinating a Bach Jazz concert, which should provide an exciting way of looking at and performing Bach’s music, and we also have our traditional dramatised version of the Coffee Cantata in Hanna’s Arcade and the Festival Evensong, which includes a Bach cantata, both of which are free events. How can our readers book their tickets? Tickets can be booked through any Community Mutual Credit Union branch, and we’ve also set up an online booking system through TryBooking.com - the link for a season ticket ($150/$100 concession) is www.trybooking.com/EDXW; you can find tickets to single concerts on www.trybooking. com if you type nebf into the search bar, or you can get a direct link from our website: www.ne-bach-festival.com Plans for the future? We’re hoping that the festival will continue to thrive. Funding is always tight, so there are no guarantees, but at the very least we’ll be running annual organ crawls. Thanks Benjamin. new england focus
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O'Connor Stage Three Enrichment Program
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professional advice. We ensure our advice is representative of you. If you consider what is at stake, it is your family’s financial future and welfare; is that worth risking on a nonIf anyone in your social circle is contemplating life insurance options or would like to review their current cover, speak to John Nash, a specialist Adviser who will undertake a detailed analysis of your situation and provide
The Stage Three Enrichment Program (STEP) has been running successfully at O’Connor Catholic College for many years now with a great level of interest from students and the parent body. STEP is a series of experience days in which Stage Three students from our Catholic Feeder Schools as well as any Year 6 students from the State schools who are interested in learning more about what O’Connor has to offer, come along and take part in activities to give them a taster of what high school is all about. The first STEP day is held in Term 1, the second is during Term 3 and the last day held in Term 4 is for those students who have
enrolled at the school for the following year. The STEP days include participation in peer support activities run by our Lasallian Youth Leaders from Year 11 and Year 10 students. These activities allow the students to work in small groups enabling each to get to know each other a little better and become more familiar with the older students in the school who become mentors for them the following year. Micro lessons are conducted during the STEP days from a wide-range of subjects offered at O’Connor including Technology, Agriculture, Science, HSIE, Indonesian, Maths, Religious Education, English and Creative Arts.
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focusinterview.
PLC Pre-Kinder PLC Armidale Junior School continues to grow from strength to strength. The foundation for this growth can be discovered right from the very beginning in the Pre-Kinder program. We chat with Pre-Kinder teacher Michele Kennedy about what makes her class unique.
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e keep hearing about how special the PreKinder program at PLC is. Share with us some of
the reasons for this? Our Pre-Kinder program is inspired by the world-renowned Reggio Emilia approach. The approach enthuses educators to recognise children’s powers of initiative and provide opportunities for them to pursue their own ideas. They view children as protagonists of their own learning, as naturally curious and capable of pursuing what they want and need to find out about the world. In short, we don’t run the same program from year to year; instead, we offer a dynamic, flexible, ever changing interest-based program. Central to this educational philosophy is children are viewed as competent thinkers and meaning-makers. An essential goal is to build and maintain supportive relationships between children, parents and teachers in every direction that lead to genuine, mutually empowering learning. Our Pre-Kinders are the directors of their own learning. They work to co-construct their learning experiences with their peers, teachers, families, school and the wider community. By encouraging the children to learn together, they reflect, as a group, upon what they see, what they are curious about and what they are thinking. They hypothesise and discover new meanings, leading the children to surprising levels of symbolic skill and creativity. Our Pre-Kinders develop thinking skills in order to strive for understanding, to figure out complexities, truths and possibilities, through creative hands-on exploration of a variety of materials. By having the opportunities to do so, they consolidate their ideas and are motivated to seek meaning and transfer their knowledge to other contexts. They feel confident in their approaches, as they know their contributions are valued. Ultimately, we engender thinking as a habit of mind within the children. The educational approach nurtures democratic dispositions: openness to different perspectives, deep and curious listening, 14 new england focus.
fluency in many different modes of expression ‘100 Languages’, and critical thinking skills. The learning process excites the girls, as they are exploring projects of their interest in great detail. This enthusiasm for knowledge, combined with the ability to experience project work in detail, fosters a predisposition for ‘life-long’ learning. Michele, you have a wealth of early childhood teaching experiences and have been teaching Pre-Kinder at PLC for some time now. What developments have you seen in your time, which have directly benefitted the children? There are many wonderful developments that have taken place over the 5 years I have been part of PLC Armidale. Pre-Kinders are fortunate to have the largest indoor classroom environment within the Junior School. Care has been taken to ensure the environment is beautifully set up, offering diverse learning experiences and more space for the girls to display their learning and workin-progress. We have enhanced our family focused program, offering more ways families can become involved in the Pre-Kinder program, along with flexibility in the days our Pre-Kinder students attend to suit family needs. We have made many outdoor improvements too! We have a new sandpit and dry creek bed in the heart of our playground, and in 2012 our Pre-Kinder and Year 3/4 class established a Global Vegetable Garden. Our students direct this ongoing project in partnership with families, our School Gardener, Maintenance Team and local community members. Their sustainable garden facilitates a greater appreciation for the environment, healthy eating, gardening skills, as well as awareness, understanding and appreciation of local and global issues. We have a dynamic, innovative and experienced staff and view ourselves as active researchers. Our role is to engage in cocreating experiences through observation of, listening to, thinking with and extending the thinking of the students. Staff professional development is highly valued at PLC. In April 2012 I was fortunate to attend a study tour in Reggio Emilia, Italy
to further my experience and understanding of the Reggio Emilia educational project. I had the privilege of being 1 of 81 Australian delegates, joining 380 participants from 28 countries. I visited an Infant Toddler Centre, Preschool and the Loris Malaguzzi International Centre School where I observed the children in their environment interacting with peers, teachers and learning materials. The beauty of the learning environments amazed me. This was an incredibly enriching experience to see first hand the Reggio Emilia approach in practice. I have been inspired in so many ways since returning. I have seen greater potential in the resources available to us here at PLC and within the wider community. I have concentrated on listening more deeply to the children and ensuring larger blocks of time are offered for the children to engage in meaningful explorations. I am motivated to explore more ways of recording the children’s learning and making this visible throughout our school and the wider community and providing more opportunities for the children to revisit their work and to reflect on their learning before, during and after a project. The trip affirmed that what we do at PLC Armidale is rich and meaningful. It also validated why we embrace this exciting approach and teach according to its principles. How does being part of a Pre-K to Year 12 School enhance opportunities for the girls? Many opportunities for peer support are offered within a Pre-Kinder to Year 12 School environment. Through combined class projects, buddy reading programs, our Global Garden, whole school sporting events and performances, the girls develop relationships across year groups. These opportunities assist in building confidence skills and familiarity with the entire school. Our students also have access not only to specialist lessons including Music, French, Physical Education, Library, Religious Education, Pottery and Swimming, but also to the skills and knowledge of all Junior and Senior School teaching staff. Our Pre-Kinders often seek other teachers’ assistance as part of
their research into inquiry projects. We are so fortunate to have such diverse teaching skills at our fingertips. Our Pre-Kinder students make a smooth transition into Kindergarten, as they are confident, resilient and enthusiastic about learning. They are absolutely ready for a terrific Kindergarten experience and beyond! It is obvious you are passionate about your role; what are some of your favourite highlights? Every day is exciting and fun! The adventures we embark on can take many different turns, as the children test their theories. The emergent richness and high levels of symbolic skill and creativity our students demonstrate throughout the year always amazes me. I love watching and guiding the children; their desire to acquire knowledge, their capacity for curiosity and yearning to create relationships with others is wonderful to be a part of. It is fulfilling to see a big smile on a child’s face when they have discovered something new through exploration. I also love the sense of community and togetherness. Project work allows children to learn what they want with the help of their peers, parents, teachers, and the community. I just love sharing the opportunities our students have to appreciate and engage with nature. Participating in regular nature walks and gardening on a daily basis is a wonderful way to connect students with the natural world. We participate in a lot of community events too. One that stands out in my mind is our ‘DAHLicios Day’ (Junior School Open Day), where students, teachers and visitors dressed up as Roald Dahl characters and participated in fun afternoon activities and a shared meal. If you are looking for a program that recognises your child’s rich potential, then this is it. Come and see our program in action! Simply contact Fiona Mullen, our Enrolments Manager, on 6770 1727. Visit our blog plcprekindergarten.wordpress. com and plcprek2014.wordpress.com Thank you for your time and sharing your experiences Michele.
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Brian and Gail Barrett, or better known as The Pure Spring Water delivery couple, work and play together ... and have for some time. Their daughter, Sandy Marshall, tells us about her parents and their lovebird relationship …
Brian and Gail Barrett.
Lovebirds
here are your parents originally from? My dad, Brian, was born in Auckland, New Zealand and moved to Australia when he was around 18. His visit was initially a holiday and he really wanted to find and buy a Ford Mustang. He ended up living here for good and instead of a Mustang, he ended up with a wife and daughter. My mum Gail, was born and raised in Armidale. How did they first meet? I’ve only heard this story once, so I may have forgotten a few details. They first met when Dad was working at the Armidale Bowling club and Mum was in there having dinner with her family. Mum went up to the bar, and Dad asked her out. Mum said if he was really serious about it, then he would ask for her number and ring her up and ask her out properly. Dad waited until they went home, and rang up and asked her out again later that night! Tell us about their family ... My parents married on 11 March 1978 on Sydney Harbour. On 15 February, 1987, I was born. Mum has one brother, who lives with his family in Nambour.
Ta My Dad’s Mum lives in Taree, and my parents frequently visit her. Why are they still lovebirds today? When my Dad bought the Armidale Pure Spring Water business in 2005 and Mum retired from teaching, they started doing the water run together. This consists of numerous hours together in a truck, a few stops for cups of coffee and then going home and spending time with each other at home! As well as working, to Mum went upad they also share a all the little things. D d an ar b the hobby - dragon m u What makes them so M asked her out.re boating. This ly al special to the family? said if he wast it , then takes up most of It’s great they still love ous abou ri se r her their free time each other after nearly he would askrifong her and weekends, 36 years of marriage, and number and er out but it’s great they up and ask h they are both great to be have another thing properly.” around. People are always they can do together. commenting how they are still Another passion holding hands, and that makes of theirs is travelling, me very proud to be their daughter. although they’ll need to find Final say ... more time for that. They visited They are my relationship role models and if numerous different countries before I was born my husband and I are half as happy as they are and a few countries with me. It’s not just one in another 30 odd years, I know we’re doing thing in my mind that makes them lovebirds; it’s something right!
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Gallery 126.
Contemporary Twist on Ancient Technique
Five artists are uniting to share their passion for the ancient art of encaustic wax painting. eld at Gallery 126, the exhibition, entitled Wax impressions: New explorations into the ancient art of encaustic painting, features artists Patricia Baldwin Seggebruch, Liz Priestley, Vicki Taylor, Mirella Vassallo and Hayley Ward. The exhibition coincides with visiting American artist and facilitator Patricia Baldwin Seggebruch’s encaustic workshop being held at The Studio, Kentucky from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 January 2014. Trish has been sharing her love for this melted wax medium for nearly 10 years, teaching students all over the world and imparting the passion and knowledge she has acquired and developed in her forage into this rich and diverse art form. “My goal, what inspires me, is not simply encaustic. My reason for getting into the studio, stepping onto another plane, experimenting with a new, intriguing material, is to enliven and inspire artists and craftpersons, enthusiasts and admirers worldwide,” she says. Manilla artist Liz Priestley began using encaustic with oils about 5 years ago as merely a vehicle to add texture and layering to her
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work. As she became more comfortable with the medium and realised its amazing properties, Liz began to use it as the base medium for all her work. “Encaustic has a unique combination of characteristics which I love: it hardens immediately, so there’s no drying time, it is semi-transparent and so layering can bring out lovely images, and it can be sculpted into ... not to mention that you can transfer images onto it, polish the surface, collage onto it and use multiple other mediums with it!” she explains. Vicki Taylor, who lives in Kentucky, only recently began experimenting with encaustic wax in her textile and lace work, using it as a stiffening medium for sculptural pieces. She then decided to take a class with Patricia Baldwin Seggebruch to find out how to use the wax properly and to further explore this intriguing medium. “I am still experimenting and still need some tuition to hone my skills using this fascinating technique.” Local artist Mirella Vassallo is also a recent convert to encaustic wax painting. Attracted to the luminous quality of the medium, Mirella also enjoys the translucent properties allowing her to reveal something in each layer. Inspired by
nature and its cycle of growth and degradation, caulk joints and for waterproofing; pigment was Mirella creates her works by using transparent then added and patterns created on the hull of pigments and mixed media incorporated within ships. Greek artists then used the technique for the waxy layers. easel painting and 3D sculptural works. A long time veteran of When the Greeks migrated to Egypt encaustic wax painting, in the 2nd Century, the local Hayley Ward has been population adopted some of y I especially enjo creating and exhibiting the cultural practices using c ni the innately orga her art works for encaustic to paint funerary edium quality of this m rb so nearly 20 years after portraits. Encaustic wax ab and its ability to s It’ . ls ia er learning the technique painting continued on until a variety of mat d an , ile at rs at art school. Inspired the 7th Century, where it incredibly ve its g in or pl ex ill st both by natural and fell out of favour and the I feel I’m l.” ia man made elements, technique was lost in the potent Hayley works intuitively by Middle Ages. Rediscovered creating layers of colour and in the early 20th Century, the texture, scratching back into method has grown in popularity with the surface and adding powdered contemporary artists, who delight in its pigment to the surface. She explains, lush translucent properties. “I especially enjoy the innately organic Wax impressions: New explorations into quality of this medium and its ability to absorb the ancient art of encaustic painting will be a variety of materials. It’s incredibly versatile, at Gallery 126 from 24 January until 1 March and I feel I’m still exploring its potential.” 2014, with the official opening on Friday 31 Encaustic wax painting is an ancient technique January, 5 - 7pm. You are warmly invited to developed in Greece over 2,000 years ago. the opening to chat with the artists about this Originally beeswax was used by ship builders to unusual and beautiful medium.
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focusinterview.
R NE COR
Rebecca B a s t i n A love of penguins makes our collector this month, Rebecca Bastin, an easy girl to buy for …
i Bec. How long have you How many do you have? lived in Armidale? ts, I think all up, including soft toys, ornaments, Hi Merry. I moved to clothing including my penguin onesie, linen, Armidale in 2009 from a small jewellery, movies and crockery, I would have at town called Wootton, least over 100 different ones. about 40 km e in Tell us about the favourite piece south of Forster on the Mid your collection? North Coast. ome I have a few, and some come ns ui ng Pe r I started studying at with funny stories. I have a Empero huddle together UNE in a Bachelor of ts of huge penguin that is lots d take when it’s cold an r; once Communication Studies ck different A4 pages stuck care of each otheate, they majoring in Media and together to make one large m r they find thei as r ve re fo Culture, which I have or er picture. It was made for me th ge stay to nguins since finished and now w by my co workers a few well. Emperor Pe are definitely mywhen work within the Armidale ish years ago. I used to finish favourite; I like it the ice community at Dewhurst early on Thursdays, and I they toboggan oning.” dl ad Dental, which I love. came into work on Fridayy instead of w When did you start morning to find almost a whole collecting penguins? wall of my office taken up by this d I’m not too sure exactly, but I huge penguin. We all had a good think it was around 10 years ago, during laugh; I loved it, and it left when I leftt that high school. job. o Why penguins? Is your collection growing, and where do I love penguins, because they can be goofy you find your items? ery and fall over on the ice or ground, yet they can be My collection is constantly growing. I am very majestic and elegant when they’re in the water. easy to buy presents for ... anything penguin, of Emperor Penguins huddle together when it’s cold course! My fiancé got me a pass to go inside the m for and take care of each other; once they find their penguin enclosure at the Melbourne Aquarium g and mate they stay together forever as well. Emperor a Christmas present one year. They have King ching Penguins are definitely my favourite; I like it when Gentoo Penguins, and there were chicks hatching they toboggan on the ice instead of waddling. at the time. I learnt a lot about the enclosure
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and got to see them up really close. Our house is pretty much taken over by them; every room has something penguin in it. I surprisingly find them available to buy everywhere; they’re especially popular around Christmas time. Plans for the future? We are getting married in September this year, and at the moment it is pretty penguin free. There is only one small thing that is just for me ... unfortunately, I don’t think my fiancé likes them as much as I do! Thanks Bec.
are you a collector? We want to know about you! Let us know what you collect, and you might just be our next Collectors Corner guest! e. louise@focusmag.com.au ph. (02) 6584 7433.
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g portin ly sup d u o r p
Local Businesses Get Behind
Tour De Rocks AVID SCHMUDE DIRECTOR OF SPORTS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, CEO SPORTUNE. How did you become involved in the Tour de Rocks? Initially through riding with other local riders in the Tour de Cure, and then over a coffee with Bill we looked for ways that Sport UNE could assist to engage and inspire our community to raise awareness, increase fitness whilst raising funds for a very worthy cause. Have you been following the distribution of the funds raised in last year’s event? Yes, it is wonderful to see the articles in the local press as the funds are distributed to local programs. I am aware that over $150K was allocated to local regional projects in 2013, and the appreciation from the local cancer organisations has been humbling and rewarding. Do you see a difference in staff attitude, motivation and excitement levels following the successful completion of the ride? I am very lucky to be around highly motivated staff in this “healthy lifestyle” area. I expect that after we complete the ride and meet our fundraising targets as a team we will be closer and have a greater respect for each others individual contributions. We are looking forward to being able to relax on the ride, have a yarn to others on the ride and understand why they are involved. > SCOTT SULLIVAN - ARMIDALE SERVIES CLUB How did you become involved in the Tour de Rocks? The Armidale Ex Services Memorial Club was approached by the fundraisers for 18 new england focus.
sponsorship, and during our discussion we thought kicking off the start of the ride at the car park at the SerVies Club was a great link to show our support for the riders and the cause. What was the club’s major motivation for The prefect body ey decided that th e becoming a major th t or pp sponsor? would like to su e in iv at iti in s Tour de Rock We look for real al a major sponsor , but so support of Luke and significant ts’ en ud st or organising a e th e nc to enha community causes of the g in team from your nd ta rs de un or organisations rsonal, organisation? sease and the pe l di to support in our iona TAS has been social and emot ith it.” w area, and we believe ed at ci so as costs a sponsor of Tour the Tour de Rocks is a de Rocks since 2012. great cause. For many of The school’s prefect body us, cancer has touched us in takes responsibility for the some way or another, uur families, fundraising for the sponsorship, staff and members, and it is for this reason whilst each rider commits to personal that we think it’s important for our club to fundraising. An event like this, which support our members and the community combines adventure with community service with sponsorship and participation in these and charitable fundraising, aligns with the fundraising events. We want to give back to school’s aim to produce young men of spirit, our community in the best possible way we conviction and compassion. can. > PAULA WILLIAMS > MARK TAYLOR - TAS NEW ENGLAND MUTUAL How did The Armidale School become How did you become involved in the Tour involved in the Tour de Rocks? de Rocks ? In 2012 the school was touched In 2012, we had one rider participate in the personally by the impact cancer can have Tour. 2013 was the first time we submitted a on a community, with the death of Year 12 team from New England Mutual, and we are student, Luke Brown. Luke passed away looking forward to continuing this in 2014. one week after his Valedictory day and During 2013, our team were quite hands celebrations. The prefect body decided that on during the school education program, they would like to support the Tour de Rocks assisting to pack the student giveaway bags. initiative in support of Luke, but also to Awareness and funds for cancer research enhance the students’ understanding of the and community projects run dear to my heart disease and the personal, social and emotional due to family, friends and work colleagues costs associated with it. being affected by cancer. What was your motivation for becoming
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Has you organisation set any objectives for this year’s event? We wanted our entire network to be involved, so we put an invitation out for riders/support members for the 2014 event, which had a great response, and now have one rider from Glen Innes, one support crew from Inverell, one support crew from Guyra and a number of New England staff involved in the fundraising committee. We want our network to feel a part of the event, so we are auctioning each rider to branches to be a slave for a day. This then gets the word around on what TDR is and why NEM is involved throughout our entire community. > MARK PIGRAM - ILLUMINATE CONSULTANTS How did you become involved in the Tour De Rocks? My brother in law rode in the 2012 TDR and convinced me to join him on the 2013 ride with my nephew. What was your motivation for becoming a major sponsor or organising a team from your organisation? It's a great way for me to stay in touch with Armidale, the town where I was born, and so many of the people who live there. The community feel in Armidale is second to none, especially when it comes to TDR.
Welcome to
autumn AUTUMN AT ITS BEST - ARMIDALE AT ITS BEST! THE AUTUMN FESTIVAL THEME – ‘Autumn in New England High Country’
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hen did the first Autumn Festival begin, and how has it grown over the years? The Autumn Festival began in 1992 and has grown with the population to become a highlight and celebration of the year for Armidale’s community. What are some of the event highlights? Some of the event highlights include the night markets, laser light show, traditional breakfast with the band, grand parade, carnival atmosphere, stalls down at the Creeklands, race and to finish off a wonderful weekend, Armidale Cup on the Monday. This year we are hoping all the floats will run with the idea of Autumn in New England High Country and tune into a relevant theme for their organisation or business. Why is this year going to be bigger and better than ever? This year the committee are in the early stages
of planning and already have some exciting new attractions, including a bigger laser light The Autumn show, which was spectacular Festival weekend last year. We are hoping to nd for is a great weeke grow our grand parade, ste ta a t ge to visitors which we might add was ity un both the Friday night m m co r of ou bigger than the Tamworth hing yt er ev markets and Saturday d an it ir sp for.” Cavalcade in 2013. afternoon at the Armidale stands How do the locals get Creeklands. involved? Why is this a great The Autumn Festival is all weekend for visitors? about the locals and without our The Autumn Festival weekend locals, the Autumn Festival wouldn’t is a great weekend for visitors to get happen. Locals ‘show off’ everything they are a taste of our community spirit and everything proud of, from the international students, Armidale stands for. Armidale looks its best in schools, sporting clubs, businesses – it really autumn, especially with the corridors of trees caters for the whole community. There are great changing colours, the atmosphere of the parade opportunities for local businesses to showcase and relaxing down at the Creeklands for the their products throughout the weekend at afternoon, having a shop, enjoying the food and
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listening to music. When is it on this year? This year’s Autumn Festival is packed into four days of family fun activities, starting on Friday 14 March with the night markets and laser show through to Monday 17 March with Armidale Cup Day. To keep up to date with the progress of the Autumn Festival, you can find us on Facebook – www.facebook.com/armidaleautumnfestival If you would like more information on holding a stall or entering a float, please contact Stephanie Kentish on (02) 6770 3828 or aaf@armidale.nsw.gov.au
Register for floats & stalls Want to be involved in this year’s Autumn Festival? Application forms for floats and stalls available now. Contact: Stephanie Kentish on 6770 3828 or email: aaf@armidale.nsw.gov.au
March 14 - 17 • Armidale fb.com/armidaleautumnfestival
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focusinterview.
David has photographed the likes of Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush. FOCUS catches up with this talented photographer, to find out what brought him to Armidale ... hat brought you to Armidale? My new family. My wife, Annabel, and her three children brought me to Armidale from Washington DC in 2008. Our home is located a few blocks from the centre of town, and we really enjoy the convenience of the cafés and shopping so close to where we live. We also appreciate With Armidale's the outstanding great tradition opportunities ly al re of sport, I have for education ts or sp expanded my w in Armidale. My no ch hi w k, photowor g in ph ra wife attended og ot ph includes orts: sp e) UNE as a full-time m (to w ne two y.” gb ru d student, and our an t ke ic cr three children have all achieved great academic success in Armidale's public high schools. The many varied opportunities for sport, music and drama tuition avail-
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able in our town also make a wonderful environment for our children to grow up in. So you are from Washington DC? Yes, by way of Virginia Beach, Virginia - my home town. Tell us about your photography life in DC? In DC I was a corporate photographer for the Library of Congress and Marriott Hotels International. In both positions I needed to be skilled in all areas of photography: events, portraits, architecture, public relations, travel and studio still life. My profession, my passion, has given me great experiences, from assignments in places like New York, Hong Kong and Costa Rica, to photographing people like Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush. My most interesting assignment was photographing the contents of President Lincoln’s pockets the night he was assassinated while working for the Library of Congress. All these experiences I bring to Armidale. What do you love most about New England? I love the contrast from my previous life (and photography) where I lived and worked in an urban area to living and working in country Australia. I appreciate how the local landscape and seasonal changes complement my photography; in particular,
the strength of the light in autumn and spring. Also, I have really enjoyed photographing my family - especially my children, in their activities from music to drama to sports. What types of photography do you specialise in? Working in the New England area demands flexible and broad ranging photography skills. Event and commercial photography helped me establish my business in the New England area. I take portraits in my Armidale Mall studio or on location, and currently I am photographing products for an online clothing website and gift website. With Armidale's great tradition of sport, I have really expanded my sports photowork, which now includes photographing two new (to me) sports: cricket and rugby. I document art and was privileged to record the Hinton and Coventry Collections for NERAM. Ahead this year, I am expanding my wedding photography and will continue to develop my overall videography work. How do we see your work and contact you? Samples of my work, studio location and contact information are available on my website: daviddoylephoto.com Thanks David.
tour de rocks Chandler School Visit As part of the Tour de Rocks education and awareness program that presents to primary schools in the region, the team recently headed for Wollomombi and presented the Be Fit, Be Healthy and Be Happy message to the kids and teachers at the Chandler Public School. ustine had the Tour de Rocks flags recognition of their contribution to the helping and education packs set out for the of the Tour De Rocks ride by allowing us to arrival of the Tour de rocks riders, use their facilities on the first day morning tea being myself, Bill, Lee Boundy, Jane stop over. Bill presented this to Mel Wood, the Boundy and Kay Endres, to ride into the principal of the school and thanked her on school with all the kids lined up our behalf for the help they give giving us the high fives. our cause. The presentation of the Kath also gave us some Chandler Pu blic Be Fit, Be Healthy, Be Tour De Rocks T-shirts to school. although Happy message went give to the children and of the small, had some like clockwork, with the the teaching staff, which to the best responses whole team joining in was warmly accepted ncer questions on ca s with the kids. by all. ol from all the scho ing Chandler Public The morning was a be we have visited, over l school, although small, huge success. I would like ta around 20 in to s.� had some of the best to thank Bill, Kay, Justine, ar the last 2 ye responses to the questions Lee and Jane for taking the on cancer from all the schools time and making the effort we have visited, being around 20 to come along and see what a in total over the last 2 years. rewarding experience it is for us to be Our partners, Tour de Cure, had able to go into these schools and present given us an iPad with the Stick Man the Be Fit, Be Healthy, Be Happy message. presentation app to donate to the school in Dave Boundy.
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SUPERMOTO's
DAVID LEDINGHAM
CANCER HAS BEEN FELT BY ALL AND DAVID LEDINGHAM IS NO DIFFERENT, BUT HE IS ON A MISSION TO HELP OUT.
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or the next month he will be sporting a bright pink mohawk for the second year, with all proceeds going locally to Tour De Rocks. However, the Hawk will stay as long as donations keep coming in; he is hoping up until the ride this year. David has had great involvement in the past in raising money for cancer. The collection point in Armidale will be Supermoto and in Walcha, Café Graze, Foodworks, West End Store, Commercial Hotel, Mountain Motors and the Royal Café. David would especially like to thank Amanda at Barber Shop Walcha for the haircut and Alysha at Blown Away Hair Design for the colour.
Long before anyone had even heard of global warming and climate change, a pioneering plumbing supply company based in Perth decided that the sun was the best source available to heat water in Western Australian homes. SW Hart & Co. had been in the plumbing business since 1901, but it was in 1953 that they pioneered solar hot water systems in Australia, and Solahart was born. Today Solahart has manufactured over one million solar hot water systems installed in 80 countries on every continent around the world. As Australia’s solar pioneer, we also offer a range of high performance solar power systems to help households and businesses reduce their energy bills and their impact on the environment. One of the keys to our success over the years has been the relentless pursuit of innovation. Our research capabilities and our solar testing laboratory are recognised internationally as Australia’s finest. We have developed a ‘Centre of Excellence’ approach for advanced technologies, with an enviable Research & Development team across our manufacturing locations committed to developing the next generation of solar water heaters and assessing the latest solar energy technologies. Lachlan has been in the solar industry for 2 years now and can explain how PV and SHW can save you money and the environment; call today for your free in home solar assessment.
STORIES WE TELL
FILM F E S T I V A L
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ell us a little about the Armidale International Film Festival ... Caroline - The Festival is always held on the first weekend of August, so this year opening night is 2 August. It is a window on the world! There are 13 highly acclaimed films from Western and Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, Asia, South America, Africa and the Middle East. All films will be subtitled. What is the history of this festival? Linda – It is our 10th birthday this year! The first festival was held in 2004 and was organised by the School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics at the University of New England as part of the university’s 50th birthday celebrations. It has established itself as an important annual cultural event in Armidale’s calendar and since 2006 has been a community project. The aim of the festival is to increase cultural awareness and to gain valuable insights into other cultures through the medium of 22 new england focus.
A Window on the World: An International Weekend! film. The connection with UNE still remains strong; our current patron is Mary Barber, and we continue to have the support of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Martina – We are celebrating this year with some wonderful films from Bollywood, thrillers, dramas, to documentaries. This year’s films have it all! We will be seeing these films in the new, upgraded and spectacular 2K digital format, which is being installed at the Belgrave Cinema. What makes it so special? Martina - This is the only foreign language film festival in regional NSW and is a unique opportunity for people in the region to have access to films of this calibre. These superb films are rarely shown in regional and rural areas. Caroline - It is also a wonderful community event - most films are sold out, so there is an amazing atmosphere in the cinema. It's the perfect way to spend an Armidale Winter’s weekend for New Englanders to come in from the cold,
put their feet up and enjoy a feast of international films. Do you have sponsors for this festival? Linda - We are fortunate to have the support of the University of New England, UNE Services and the Belgrave Cinema, and of course, the Armidale community that comes to our festival each year. And we would also like to acknowledge our promotional media partner - ABC New England North West. So where do we get the tickets? Martina - Festival Pass Tickets go on sale at 8am on 1 July at the Belgrave Cinema. Festival Passes are for the 13 films and cost $150 ($140 concession). These are limited and seating is numbered for Saturday and Sunday. Last year, patrons were queuing outside the Cinema before 7am ... once all Festival Passes are sold, individual tickets are then made available. For any further information, go to our blog http://blog.une. edu.au/aiff/ where you can also sign up for any festival updates.
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THE WHITE CONNECTION
February 7 sees the opening of six brand new exhibitions at NERAM and the start of a promising year of exciting shows.
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he permanent collections are being displayed in What’s Your Angle? and Mrs Newling’s Drive into the Country alongside exhibitions of the work of local artists Frances Alter and Tony Sevil. George Baldessin’s surreal and darkly fantastical works will also be on display in Creative Power: The Art of George Baldessin. The highlight of the February program, however, is the result of collaboration between NERAM, the Armidale Folk Museum, UNE’s Heritage Centre, Booloominbah house, the National Trust property of Saumarez and the
Hunter River Lancers Museum: The White Connection. The White family were prominent members of the Armidale community from the late 1880s, who left a lasting legacy of influence, both public and private, that survives in the city to this day. The White Connection exhibition connects the threads of the White family throughout Armidale and highlights their involvement in local life, from community activities to family affairs and supporting soldiers during World War I. But more than just being a dry history
lesson, The White Connection will showcase an engaging array of objects, photographs and art works which will connect and concentrate the influence of the Whites in all spheres of Armidale and New England society.
the plug! NERAM opening hours: Tuesday- Friday 10am to 5pm Saturday-Sunday 10am to 4pm For more information www.neram.com.au
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Steph Cunningham talks Retirement Retirement: the time in life when you stop working - not the time you stop working at life.
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s active citizens we want to be productive, instrumental cogs in the wheel of society. We feel challenged, fulfilled, and rewarded every day just by successfully tackling what life demands of us. That place of energy, motivation, and purpose is called a state of FLOW. But what happens when retirement sets in? Where does that FLOW of life go? The sudden stop prompted by retirement can be overwhelming and disappointing. Finding a state of FLOW in retirement isn’t impossible and doesn’t need to be experienced alone. It requires redefining our strengths and embracing new challenges. Skills that may have been forgotten can be incorporated into our retired lives. Stephanie Cunningham, founder of Spirited Retirement, has embraced the art of finding FLOW in retirement. For the past six years, she has helped others find their FLOW through coaching sessions, lifestyle evaluations, and developing personal retirement plans. Help yourself by meeting with Stephanie to harness the depth and breadth of skills you possess to define your purpose in retirement. Stephanie Cunningham can be reached by calling Spirited Retirement at 0448 091 756 or emailing info@ spiritedretirement.com new england focus 23
New England
Passionfruit Mousse with Strawberry Sorbet from Azka Restaurant, Wine & Tapas Bar.
eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android mobiles. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 24 new england focus.
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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.
Azka Restaurant, Wine and Tapas Bar Azka Wine and Tapas Bar is a stunning, designer space with an exciting range of boutique drops. Match your wine with a tempting selection of modern tapas – perfect for casual and social dining. Azka Restaurant features beautifully cooked dishes with subtle Mediterranean influences that will appeal to every taste. The menu focuses on fresh seasonal produce from the New England.
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 and catering for special occasions.
Head Chef David Hill.
Quality Hotel Powerhouse, 31 Marsh Street, Armidale t 6772 7788 w www.powerhousearmidale.com.au open Azka Restaurant – 7 days for breakfast, lunch and dinner ‘til late. Azka Wine & Tapas Bar – daily from 11am – late.
Whitebull Hotel STEAKHOUSE Restaurant
Spinnakers Restaurant + Bar
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.
Summer time and the living is easy! Nothing says summer like fresh seafood, a glass of vino, sunshine and fresh sea air – head to the marina with family and friends this holiday season to take advantage of all the coast has to offer. Be tempted by our Spinnakers Plate featuring succulent Grilled King Prawns, Scallops, Calamari, Salt and Peppered Tofu, Pickled Vegetables and Asian flavours – $29. Summer Special: Order a Spinnakers plate and receive a bottle of Fork & Spoon Semillon Sauvignon Blanc Angaston, SA for just $15* (Normally $30 per bottle) *Please note: Offer valid whilst stocks are available, one per table, during dinner service only.
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.
Open 7 Days - Breakfast - Lunch - Casual Dining - Dinner - Live Music Wed & Fri from 5pm
Located inside Sails Resort Port Macquarie by Rydges. Park St, Port Macquarie at the roundabout, opposite Settlement City t 6589 5200 open 7 days, breakfast, lunch, casual dining and dinner from 6.45am
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YEARS
ARMIDALE AND NEW ENGLAND SHOW W
HILL 2014 marks 138 years of the Armidale and New England Show and celebrating our regional community …
Introducing David Hill, the new chef at Armidale's AZKA started my career when I was 19 in a beautiful hotel called Llangoed Hall In the Wye Valley in mid Wales. It was a 36 bedroom hotel with a restaurant that sat 40 people. In the time I was there, we achieved a Michelin star and 3 aa Rosettes. After I left Wales I moved to Shakespeare Country, Stratford up on Avon. The hotel I started work at was called the Welcombe Hotel and Golf Course. It was a bigger property with over 60 bedrooms a restaurant seating 70 people, function room and a good size bar. In the time I was there, I learnt a lot more about running a kitchen, as I was moved around a lot doing the larder sauce pastry and doing functions. This was I challenge I could really sink my teeth in to. After being at the hotel for 2 years, I was offered a position as sous chef at a small property in Birmingham with a larger restaurant seating 100 people. Having input into the menus and running the kitchen on the chef's days off; I just loved it. It was a way I could spread my wings and do my own thing, to a point. In the time I was at Nuthurst Grange, we achieved 3 aa Rossettes. After 5 years I left to go back to Stratford up on Avon. Again, I went back to a big hotel called Ettington Park. It had over 60 bedrooms, a large restaurant and big banqueting. The position I held was sous chef. This property was the first place I started doing degustation menus, so this I found really interesting. I left the hotel to become head chef. This was massive for me. I went back to Wales to a beautiful old pub converted to a restaurant with rooms. It was a 60 cover restaurant with a brigade of 4 chefs. I loved working at the Bell. I stayed for 4 years, and in that time we achieved so much. Winning gastro pub of the year in the Michelin guide, we came 56 in the top 100 restaurants in the UK and retained 2 aa Rosettes. This is where I discovered my style of cooking. I called it modern British, using local and seasonal produce, catching my own fish for the menu. After leaving the Bell, I took some time off so I did some temp work for a while - this is 26 new england focus.
Hottel.l I went wentt when I started work at the Angell Hotel. in as sous chef for a few months, but ended up staying for a year and then being asked to be head chef. This was a demanding role, as it was a beast of a place. Massive banqueting - very busy for lunch and dinner. I stayed for another 3 years, until I was offered the job at the AZKA. This was a big deal in so many ways. Breaking the news to my family was hard, but I knew they would be fine with it, as they have supported me on everything I have done. This where I just grabbed the challenge by the scruff and said to myself, "Let's do this". AZKA has been such great fun and a good learning curve for me, having to deal with 24 hour food service working with casual staff. In the UK you don't have casual staff in the kitchen, so it's been interesting doing rosters, learning the food hygiene laws, creating a new style of cooking. The style of food we do at AZKA is a modern Mediterranean with a Moroccan twist. I have a great team in the kitchen, starting with Albert, very good, an experienced chef who runs the kitchen on my days off. Nick is a young chef, who is awesome, and Jordan, is a kitchen hand we are training to cook. At the moment I don't really have too many plans, apart from rebuilding the AZKA restaurant up with the help of my team and maybe doing some travelling, as I haven't seen much of Australia yet. Besides work, I am looking forward to doing some fishing at some point, as apart from cooking this is my biggest passion and I know Australia has some of the finest fishing in the world.
hat is the history off decorated cake display. the Armidale and The agricultural shows are a unique e event New England Show and provide entertainment for more of Society? The show is the Australian population than any other a celebration of our event. Our local show is an opportunity to regional community. The first Armidale Show showcase the wonderful contribution our was held in March 1865, and this year we community makes and allows us to celebrate celebrate 138 years of providing entertainment this amazing community. Our Poultry Section to the Armidale Community. Ten acres of land will have breeds available for viewing on was dedicated to a permanent showground Friday, and judging will be on Saturday. The in 1877, and this is still the venue Caged Birds, Animal Nursery and today. The show has survived Pet Show, together with the economic downturns, Poultry Section, showcase the depression, wars, e our smaller animals This year we ar droughts, floods and and birds. All Junior again focusing on ildren’s rural recessions. Over Judging events are Friday being Ch ed the ov the years it has Day and have m scheduled for Friday, e th n intro Children’s sectio evolved from horsen and all cattle and ry er M Trade Pavilion. drawn buggies to n ai ag s sheep events will be ha w Twemlo inment rta te motor cars and has en d se ni conducted at the ga or rest for added sideshows, and items of inte , and Livestock Centre. nd the whole weeke fireworks, a e th Three rings will run view we invite you to demolition derby, .” non-stop in the main children’s entries trade exhibits and arena, with horse events, extensive entertainment. including show jumping,
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What can our readers expect at the 2014 show? This year we are again focusing on Friday being Children’s Day and have moved the Children’s section into the Trade Pavilion. Merryn Twemlow has again organised entertainment and items of interest for the whole weekend, and we invite you to view the children’s entries. The main pavilion will again host our regular sections: Photography, Farm Produce, Needlework, Fine Arts, Spinning and Weaving, Knitting and Crochet, Nursing Homes and Hostels, Jams and Preserves, Wool, ScrapBooking, including a re-vamped flower section, with a bonsai display and native flowers section. Adding to the cookery section is a
western pleasure and many others. The Canadian Lumberjacks, Whip Crackers and Wood Chop events will again be our major entertainment, with the Demolition Derby, Saturday, and Fireworks, Friday, rounding off the night. We invite the readers to share in our celebration of our regional community. Is there anyone who needs to be thanked? The Armidale and New England Show Society Inc. is run entirely by volunteers, who donate their time and talents to enable the show to be a success. We are always in need of extra helpers. The financial support given also by many businesses within our community is overwhelming, and this enables us to run the show.
This seemingly sleepy country town is in fact a buzzing urban centre with an impressive catalogue of galleries, museums, music gigs and theatre performances�
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armidaletourism.com.au
Editor Georgia Rickard said “the list was based on domestic travel trends over the past 12 months and feedback from a recent survey of more than 1000 Australian travellers”. Quietly sitting 475 kilometres north-west of Sydney in the NSW Northern Tablelands, Armidale is the dark horse of 2014. With a rich pastoral history, Armidale balances a city-esque vibe amid a country landscape. This seemingly sleepy country town is in fact a buzzing urban centre with an impressive catalogue of galleries, museums, music gigs and theatre performances. There’s a bounty of cafés and restaurants, many of which focus on local ingredients, as well as picturesque national parks, majestic waterfalls and plenty of walking trails to get your fill of country air. Suffice to say, its cover has been blown.
“Armidale is an unusual choice but, surprisingly, it kept popping up across the board,” she said. “It has a reputation of being just another country town, and not necessarily a particularly sexy one. But in fact it’s a stunning place with a thriving food culture, beautiful architecture and it is so close to some gorgeous natural surrounds.” Neil Keene - Daily Telegraph
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THE KIMBERLEY She’s rugged, wild and isolated in Australia’s far north-west corner; and the Kimberley is also, without doubt, the country’s number one hot spot – taking the title of ‘Ultimate Dream Destination’ for the past two years. Plenty of the region’s accommodation is ge ing rave reviews, such as El Questro and Kimberley Coastal Camp, though we’d like to see local secret, Mornington Wilderness Camp, Wildernes ne s Camp gain more a ention. If you haven’t seen the Kimberley yet, now is the time… quick, before someone decides to asphalt the Gibb River Road.
ÀREADERS’ CHOICE AWARDS THE BEST TRAVEL EXPERIENCES OF THE YEAR
FRASER ISLAND Spectacular secrets
BYRON BAY LUXURY WALKING IN
TASMANIA VICTORIA’S BEST
SECRET BEACHES
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O en overshadowed by the famous Red Centre, the Top End is set to shine in 2014. Already famed for its spectacular Kakadu National Park and increasinglycosmopolitan Darwin, there have been a few new additions of late set to give the region an edge, like new luxe stay Cicada Lodge in Nitmiluk National Park (just outside of Katherine). But it’s the far north-east Arnhem Land Lan that has us spellbound, and the area is set to soar in popularity, with Venture North starting some very exclusive trips here in 2014. Watch this space…
Quietly si ing 475 kilometres north-west of Sydney in the NSW Northern Tablelands, Armidale is the dark horse of 2014. With a rich pastoral history, Armidale balances a city-esque vibe amid a country landscape. This seemingly sleepy country town is in fact a buzzing urban centre with an impressive catalogue of galleries, museums, music gigs and theatre performances. There’s a bounty of cafés and restaurants, many of which focus on local ingredients, as well as picturesque national parks, majestic waterfalls and plenty of walking trails to get your fill of country air. Suffice to say, its cover has been blown.
Despite a somewhat tainted reputation in recent years, with talk of an unfulfilling restaurant scene and a, ahem, rather unrestrained local dress code, the Goldie is making a comeback with a polished new look and a host of new openings. Having been open barely 12 months, The Fish House has already won many awards for its top-notch seafood with a wine list to match. There’s also match the swanky new QT Gold Coast, where “nostalgic surfer chic meets Miami cool”, and the even swankier Bazaar Restaurant downstairs, not to mention Justin Lane’s Pizzeria & Bar down the road. Oh Goldie, we’ve missed you...
THE TOP END
ARMIDALE
THE GOLD COAST
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VICTORIA’S FOOD REGIONS If there’s one thing we learnt from your responses, it’s that you love Victoria’s foodie destinations. From the Yarra Valley’s bounty of berries and stonefruit, salmon and game meats; the Mornington Peninsula’s many vineyards, olive groves and chocolate makers; to the High Country’s famed Milawa Cheese and Prosecco Road win wine route… not to mention the boutique stays. Joining the company of three-ha ed Royal Mail in Dunkeld and Lake House in Daylesford is The Provenance B&B in Beechworth, with a restaurant that’s already turning heads with its two-hat status. Best not pack anything fi ed.
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The City of Churches has already been tipped one of the top10 cities to visit in the world according to Lonely Planet’s 2014 travel guide, and we’re inclined to agree. Thanks to a calendarfull of increasingly popular events such as Adelaide Fringe Festival, WOMADelaide and Adelaide Fest, Radelaide has finally shaken off its quiet reputation for a thoughtfully cool image, and it’s well-deserved. The new year will also see newly refurbed Adelaide Oval open, as well as a growing catalogue of impressive eateries and bars.
The word is out; Whitsundays institution Hayman Island Resort is undergoing a multimillion dollar revamp before relaunching as One&Only Hayman in April. And piquing interest even more than its promised new pool area, restaurants, health spa and revamped accommodation is the new name. Only seven other One&Only properties exist around the globe, including Reethi Rah in the Maldives and Palmilla in Mexico – a regular haunt for holidaying A-listers – so we’re expecting big things.
ADELAIDE
READERS’ CHOICE Hot DESTINATIONS AWARDS 2013
HIDDEN TREASURES OF
of a 2013 winner
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What to expect, where to go and what to see in the year ahead
FOODIE DELIGHTS OF
TROPICAL CAIRNS
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Amazing places to visit in 2014
TASMANIA Tassie topped our last two travel trend countdowns, and there’s no slowing down for the Apple Isle. MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) remains a major a raction for travellers, pushing boundaries (and stomachs) with its displays centred around death, sex and the human form. Meanwhile Hobart continues to add to its impressive menu of restaurants and bars, gaining interest from industry bigwigs across Bass Strait. And Tassie’s wilderness walks are just ge ing be er, from the endangered Tarkine Wilderness in the west, the awardwinning Bay of Fires Lodge Walk in the east, plus the new Bruny Island Long Weekend experience.
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FLEURIEU PENINSULA Just south of Adelaide, ju ing out into the Great Australian Bite, lies this unassuming and underrated quiet achiever. But for all its stellar beaches and award-winning wines, the Fleurieu is finally on the cusp of ge ing the recognition it deserves – particularly at li le seaside town, Port Willunga. Famed for white-sand beaches, chilled-out vibes and foodie institutions like the eclectic Star of Greece Café, the town has been described as the laidback key to the good life. Although largely crowd-free, it’s become a popular holiday destination for winemakers from nearby McLaren Vale… with more of us to soon join them.
FOR F 2014
MEET WA’S STUNNING BEACH VILLAGE, DENMARK
Maureen Chapman
play
THE READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2013 IS SUPPORTED BY
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Congratulations @experiencehighs: #Armidale is honoured to be named number 3 of ‘Australia’s Hottest Travel Destinations’ by @AustTraveller Tenterfield Tourism
“I am amazed and proud that Armidale rated no 3. I am a local and I moved to the Gold Coast in my early twenties but moved back later in my twenties as it is such a lovely place to live. Friendly, very diverse, lovely food, great music scene and a great place to raise a family. I wouldn’t live anywhere else.” Tanya Scales
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Suffice to say, its cover has been blown.
“I moved here 24 years ago from Sydney with the intention of staying maybe a year – needless to say the beautiful countryside, the friendly and diverse population, the art and culture and so much more have kept me here. It’s home now and always will be!”
The perfect summer escape
come up and
The dark horse of 2014
Australian Traveller | www.australiantraveller.com
Here we have it, the cream of the crop in Australian travel according to the savviest travellers of all – you. A total of 1183 of you shared your favourite destinations, most-loved adventures and ultimate dream getaways, and now we’re passing on the good word with this, AT’s 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards. Get your planning pen ready…
WHERE NEXT?
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ONE & ONLY HAYMAN
Australian Traveller | www.australiantraveller.com
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City up there
with the best City up there with the best -THE blonde beaches of the Gold Coast, the aweinspiring natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef or the unspoilt wilderness of Tasmania. If you boarded a mystery flight tomorrow, most of us would be happy to touch down at any of those tourist destinations. But if you walked out of the plane and found yourself at Armidale Airport, would your smile be as wide? According to a survey of 1000 Aussie travellers, it should be. In a stunning coup, one of Australia’s topselling travel magazines has ranked the New England city as the third-’hottest’ tourist destination of the year.
“You could also add (for Armidale) the magnificently colourful deciduous Autumns and the network of awesome gorges carved out of the New England tableland...”
Ranking ahead of a host of tourism mainstays such as the Gold Coast, the Whitsundays and Tassie, judges lauded Armidale’s ‘city-esque vibe amid a country landscape’. It’s priceless publicity for a city that’s long lived in the tourism shadow of neighbouring Tamworth. And it sends a message writ large to every regional city in the nation – market it and they will come.
Armidale’s heady rise from ‘grungy’ uni city to tourism titan hasn’t happened by osmosis. Only through persistent and targeted marketing by council, the state government and tourism operators – augmented by some clever social media campaigns – has it won the hearts and minds of visitors. These campaigns have rightly played up the city’s greatest virtue – its uniqueness. Australia is awash with sun-kissed beaches, but there are few destinations boasting Armidale’s mix of culture, food, natural beauty and history. And in an increasingly travel-savvy world, Armidale still oozes authenticity. It’s so far off the traditional tourist trail that seasoned travellers can feel like they’ve ‘discovered’ something new. The region now has a golden opportunity to leverage off Armidale’s booming tourist trade and feel the flow-on benefits. Northern Daily Leader
Paul Wright
It’s phenomenal Anne Thackway, who along with husband Michael has spent about 20 years running a farm stay just outside of Uralla, said the result was astonishing to say the least. “It’s phenomenal,” Mrs Thackway said. “Armidale has come of age and grown and matured into a really beautiful place.” Northern Daily Leader
Armidale’s recognition within the top three hottest travel destinations in Australia for 2014, according to Australian Traveller, is a much-deserved coup for this vibrant city in country NSW. Armidale has much to offer travellers, from stunning nature experiences and expansive green spaces, to great cafes and restaurants focused on using fresh local produce, and an impressive arts and culture scene.” George Souris Minister for Tourism and Major Events Destination NSW Insights Tourism and Events Industry News
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Congratulations to Armidale Tourism for their foresight in branding Armidale in a truly appropriate way. Our region n is now officially recognised as providing an environment that is as appealing and exciting as any in the nation. Tour de Rocks is unique to Armidale and is proud to be working so closely with the community” Bill Wheeler, Tour de Rocks
It’s not every day a regional city is named as a tourism hotspot for its natural beauty and charm. Armidale should keep the momentum rolling, take advantage and ride the tourism wave that follows.” The Gorges we’ve known it for years, and we are now seeing some results. Congratulations to all who have been promoting the region.”
Matt Nicholls – News Editor, Armidale Independent
Lachie Onslow, Fleet Helicopters
A beautiful drive here via Waterfall Way. Stunning - we thought the truck might not make it up the hill!” Edwina Bartholomew, Sunrise Weather, Channel 7
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“Wouldn’t it if... ”
You are greeted by a sea of l fairy lights, loca ng lli se rs to bi exhi cal their delicious lo e, in w d le food, mul .” es to ta po jacket
“ Armidale had a Winter Wonderland
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dea Description The Winter Wonderland will be the talking point for all visitors and residents in Armidale - a winter ‘hub’ of activities that encourages us to embrace our beautiful winter period, not hibernate through it! New England’s Winter Wonderland would see an ice skating rink developed on Curtis Park. The entire creeklands would come to life with food stalls, market nights and exciting activities to keep the young and young at heart active. Imagine this ... It’s zero degrees on a Friday night in the middle of July – you get your best winter jacket on and head down to the creeklands. You are greeted by a sea of fairy lights, local exhibitors selling their delicious local food, mulled wine, jacket potatoes. You start by perusing the array of winter clothing stalls and
then you spy the ice rink – a vibrant white rink full of smiling faces! Families learning to skate, music playing in the background. This is the kind of Friday night families yearn for during winter – what a great way to start a weekend! Community Benefits The Winter Wonderland is enjoyable for families and a fantastic health and wellbeing activity. It would also act as a night market, allowing local vendors to sell their wares. New England boasts some of the best local produce around, including our local wool products (cue warm clothes!) The rink itself can host exhibition displays such as ‘roller derby on ice’, or corporates can book the rink for functions – a dinner dance on ice, perhaps. Why not start a winter ‘get active’ program and teach curling, ice hockey or simple
skating skills! The possibilities are endless and with the support of the community, anything is possible. Surrounding businesses would benefit from the extra foot traffic in town during what can sometimes be a very quiet time of year. Local businesses could partner with transport companies to provide a Winter Wonderland package, encouraging visitors to enjoy the festivities and also dine and stay locally. How can you help? To get this off the ground, hands on help is required. Businesses wishing to participate in market stalls, winter sport gurus willing to volunteer their time, any locals who think this sounds like an event they want to be involved in need to make themselves known! Like and comment on this idea – go to: heartofourcommunity.com.au today!
vote / share Visit heartofourcommunity.com.au to vote for this idea and share it with your friends! Votes so far: 25 New England Mutual would like to thank FOCUS for their support of these inspiring community ideas.
be inspired...
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Your perfect holiday destination We are located at Park Beach with 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with a 4 bedroom Penthouse; whether it’s a weekend away for a couple or a family for a week, there is a unit to suit everyone. All apartments are fully self contained, so you can either enjoy a meal out or cook your own in your unit. Located in a fully secure building, with a secure car park. Our apartments are close to all tourist attractions, clubs, restaurants, sporting facilities, entertainment and shopping centres, with the very popular OP 81 Café next door too. Simply the ideal place for your getaway. Our Facilities Include: Swimming pool with BBQ area, WiFi, lift access to all floors. Managers on site, attractions within walking distance, Dolphin Marine Magic, Coffs Creek - great for walking, relaxing, and picnics with BBQ areas. Coffs Harbour Marina and Jetty - about a 1.5 km scenic walk away. The Jetty area has a child friendly beach and many restaurants, cafés, BBQ facilities and parks along the foreshore, with beautiful views of Coffs Harbour from the top of Mutton Bird Island. Close by is Park Beach Plaza Shopping Centre – North Side Shopping Centre – Restaurants – Park Beach Bowling Club and Surf Club, with the beautiful Park Beach across the road.
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Digital Colour Australia I’ve been working for Digital Colour Australia for over 2 years now. My passion of working with my customers is to provide them with our best knowledge and solutions for their business and help them to increase their productivity with the most cost effective technology and equipment available today. Digital Colour Australia is a locally owned and operated company and has been Our A3 MFP I based in the Northern NSW Range Wins BL r fo district for the past 25 ar Ye e th Line of Fourth years. Our core business is Unprecedented supplying, maintaining and Straight Year!.” and operated commercial servicing major contracts printer that will benefit the in government, corporate, community in many ways. We education and commercial have assisted The Ascent Group businesses. Our core product is in upgrading their equipment, and this Multi Functional Printers and software has allowed them to provide a wide variety solutions that enable companies to streamline of finishing options and improve their service their business processes and realise significant capabilities. cost savings. Customers’ expectations are very important We are expanding our production printing to us, and we aim to go above and beyond range, and we are excited to share the news their expectations. It is very fulfilling when this about our recent partnership with The Ascent is recognised. Group. Armidale now has a truly locally owned
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Meet Kyle from The Ascent Group Kyle Booth, Coordinator Print Pack Post , The Ascent Group How long have you been a part of The Ascent Group, and what is your role in the business? I started working with the Ascent Group three years ago. As the coordinator of Print Pack Post, my role is to liaise with our customers and produce all job requests while ensuring customer satisfaction by completing all work on time to the highest standard. My role also incorporates ongoing training of our supported employees within the workplace. Tell us about your services and how they have expanded in 2014?` Print Pack Post offers an extensive range of printing, packaging, collation and mailout services including but not limited to: general printing, business cards, flyers, brochures, newsletters, saddle stitch booklets and educational folders.
In late 2013 we saw the need to upgrade our equipment to allow us to meet our customers’ needs by providing higher quality printing with quicker turnaround, as well as perfect binding. So we chose local company Digital Colour Australia to assist us in sourcing the best equipment to allow us to meet these needs. How has your business relationship with Digital Colour made these services possible? The Ascent Group is committed to providing all services locally, so it was essential that all servicing of equipment was able to be reliable and provided locally. So, we contacted Digital Colour Australia, who came to assess our operational needs. David and Rachel from Digital Colour Australia took the time to discuss our equipment requirements, they did some initial market research for us, they arranged for us to go to Sydney to see the latest Konica Minolta equipment and helped us decide on a whole new range that will allow us to offer more services than ever before.
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Surgical facial Rejuvenation & Correction With constant exposure and the wear and tear of daily living skin “ages” SURGICAL FACIAL REJUVENATION Melanin, a pigment in the epidermis (superficial layer of skin) and collagen, a protein' building block ' in the dermis (deeper layer of skin) protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light and give strength and tone to the skin. With constant exposure and the wear and tear of daily living, skin “ages”, showing up as thinner skin, loss of a bulk in subcutaneous (beneath the skin) fat and muscle and resulting in drooping skin, affecting both appearance and function. The eyes are first affected, with stretched and droopy skin (blepharochalasia), prominent pockets of fat, and often drooping of the upper eyelid (ptosis), causing difficulty in keeping the eyes open. The face shows the same changes. With skin drooping, the natural grooves in the face become more prominent and reduction in the volume and “show” of
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the lips which then appear thin. Due to skin thinning, the skin of the nose slides downwards, making the tip less prominent and showing the shape of the cartilages beneath the skin. The neck is a major concern to many, with droopy skin, accumulation of fat and the presence of longitudinal bands, due to the midline separation of muscles. The brow/forehead is also affected, again with drooping of skin and eyebrows. SURGICAL CORRECTION Modern surgical methods, used in the correction of the above problems, are more about restoration of function and appearance, rather than resection (removal) of skin and fat. In most of the affected areas, the skin and deeper tissues droop downwards and correction is achieved by restoring deeper tissues to their original positions and draping skin over the restored deeper tissue, with minimal skin
resection. This gives a very natural facial rejuvenation, compared to previous corrections where the emphasis was on skin-tightening alone. The neck is slightly different in that it has a “corset” made up of the two Platysma muscles, which hold the contents of the neck in position. When these muscles come apart in the midline, their edges show up as longitudinal bands in the central neck. In a neck lift, this corset is restored (corset platysmoplasty), in addition to removal of fat and skin. Corrective and restorative surgery is sometimes done in isolation, eg. eyelid surgery, but often in combination, eg. face and neck lift. Surgery gives good results which lasts for many years. For operative details of the above procedures, please visit our website. www.pclscoffsharbour.com.au
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BINGWEI LEE Focus catches up with Bingwei to find out what brought him to Armidale, and the exciting new things in store for Chris Cole Dentist.
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ell us about yourself ... I was born and grew up in Singapore, before heading to Australia for my dental degree. I graduated with honours from the University of Queensland, Brisbane and have experience working in both the public and private dental sectors. I believe in providing the right dentistry at the right price – that is, to provide a high level of care whilst ensuring that the patient doesn’t go through excessive financial strain to achieve those goals. I also find great joy in the interaction that goes on with my patients to help each one of them achieve a state of dental health worth smiling about. When not in the clinic, I indulge in photography. Armidale and its surrounds have such wonderful scenery, and I can’t wait to break out the tripod and take some landscape pictures! What brings you to Armidale? I yearned for a different pace of life after growing up in a densely populated country like Singapore. When a job opening in Armidale came up, it was an opportunity I seized immediately. It has been a great choice coming here. You’re from Brisbane; have you noticed any differences in practicing in the city versus the country? To be honest, there isn’t much difference in the way that we practice
dentistry; we use the same materials and techniques. However, there is a huge difference in how I am treated by my patients. My patients have been so friendly, and I have been made to feel very welcome to Armidale. What do you bring to Dr. Chris Cole Dental? I bring a different perspective, as well as youthful energy to the practice. As Dr. Cole seeks to spend more time tending to his property, I will be taking over some of his patients. I will also be able to see emergency patients on the same day. Patients have also told me that they prefer to see the dentist after working hours to avoid taking time off work. I have therefore extended the practice’s operating hours in response to this. The practice will also be open on Saturdays, but this will be by appointment only. You’ll be assisting Dr. Cole with the new rotary endodontic (WaveOne) procedures and being trained in the sophistication of the CEREC crown system. Can you tell us more about this? The WaveOne and CEREC systems demonstrate the latest in dental technologies currently used by dentists, and I am very excited to be able to offer this to our patients. These new technologies have led to a dramatic decrease in the number of appointments required, and I am sure patients will
appreciate that. WaveOne is the latest generation of a rotary endodontic system that allows endodontic treatment to be completed using fewer files than before. What this means for patients is that they will not have to sit in the dental chair with their mouths open for excessive periods of time. CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) allows for crowns and onlays/inlays to be fabricated and inserted in one appointment. This allows patients to avoid having to take time off work or family for multiple visits for the restoration to be completed. As the name also suggests, this system allows for accurate and aesthetic-looking, ceramic restorations that do not contain any metal to be fabricated. Patients are often surprised at how accurate we are able to fabricate these restorations and how well they fit. Another big advantage of this system is that a digital impression of the teeth is taken instead of using traditional impression material, which patients prone to gagging find to be invaluable. Any plans for the future? Although it is still early days, I am optimistic that we will continue enjoying the level of support that Dr. Cole has experienced over the years. There are exciting things coming from the surgery.
new england focus 35
focuseditorial
Icing on the cake with Susie Dunn
Icing ON
cake Apparently there is a basis in the law concerning the history of Breach of Promise for the concept “it’s a woman’s prerogative to change her mind”. For a man, it was a legally binding contract.
M
y curiosity and interest led me to want to write about so much here, but I changed direction this month to start with something perfectly simple and perfectly lovely. Late last year for one day, from 7am to 7pm, Armidale artist Genevieve Taverner placed her thousands of different coloured origami butterflies on threads above the walkway between Boobooks and Tatt, where they
danced in the breeze, lit by the sun. The magic art installation was created by Genevieve - with lots of little helpers from St. Mary’s Primary - to celebrate the International Day of People with Disability. She took her inspiration from the Japanese schoolgirl Sadako who, dying of Leukaemia in Hiroshima, tried to make 1,000 paper cranes. A thousand is a lucky number in Japan and as about one in five Australians have a disability and 25,000 people live in Armidale, Genevieve set her
Legendary
target at five thousand. Some expressed disappointment that the butterflies only flew for a day. The very ephemeral nature of the installation was part of what Genevieve wanted to create and helped make it all the more special. Genevieve is, herself, legally blind. She was supported in her plan by ADC’s Public Art Advisory Panel, chaired by Cr. Chris Halligan. The Panel is open to assessing other self-funded public art projects. (A declaration of interest; I‘m on the Panel). I couldn’t agree more with the media support for sport in Armidale. We’re reminded that the first game of cricket was played in Armidale in 1863. Sport is FUN! The Armidale Sports Council is very active in pursuing events for the city, and the facilities provided by the university are a bonus on top of those in the city itself. The money such events pump into our economy is an asset that those involved in the presentation of our city i.e. the Central Mall particularly, should be doing everything to maximise. Retailers, remember also that in 2013 online domestic sales were less than 2% of domestic retail sales, so don’t be bluffed! Bricks and mortar are still winning. The recent news that the magazine Australian Traveller voted Armidale third in ‘Australia’s hottest travel destinations in 2014’ is a bit of a flag moment. For heaven’s sake, property owners and retailers, let’s get this city centre fizzing and buzzing and meet the market with what the market is looking
for! It’s all here – let’s make sure we’re ready to show it off and share it. Blow the bugles to bring a new wave of business people stepping up to shape the future direction of this city. Serious lateral thinking is needed for the Mall – perhaps summer outdoor movies, concerts and winter ice skating would pull people to the space? All feasible ideas should be considered. Remember, when things are changing, that’s where opportunities lie. Recently it occurred to me that music in all its forms was everywhere in our lifestyle here. It’s the most generally practised cultural leisure activity, although other arts are conspicuously well represented. These are attractions to our city and as Judith Ross-Smith has pointed out, a reason to treat the plan for a Civic Precinct with performing spaces as a serious contributor to the overall picture of our economy. As well, good convention facilities are needed. The stream of live offerings through the Armidale Club, touring groups at SerVies, the Day on the Green at Petersons, etc. give marvellous variety to the flow of events, added to the programmes of the Conservatorium, Symphony Orchestra, Opera New England, the Armidale Drama and Musical Society and countless groups - including performances of marvellous quality in private homes. And our schools encourage their students to know the range of rich pleasures that come from music. We’re already in 2014, Armidale; if you’re not off the mark already … ready, set, go! Susie Dunn.
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focusTourism.
Tourism Katrina George n e w
e n g l a n d
Fossicking Focus catches up with Kerry Tasik from the New England Lapidary and Fossicking Club Gem and Craft Show.
H
ow long has the Annual Gem the first ever Gem and Craft Show at Legacy and Craft Show been held? House. There was no provision for outside 2014 sees the 23rd year of this traders at this location. At C.W.A. Hall event. It has been held at a variety there were 6 – 8 stalls inside the hall and of locations in Armidale, starting at Legacy only 3 outside traders. The event has been House in the early 1990s then moving to the slowly growing since relocating to Armidale C.W.A Hall, before expanding to our current Showground. We are expecting up to 20 location in 2009. traders in the Hall and 20 - 25 When and where will the outside traders in 2014. This 23rd Annual Gem and year is shaping up to be the Craft Show be held? biggest and best annual It will be held over 2 Gem and Craft Show to be ill w Stalls great days - Saturday th date. bo ed at tu si the nd March 15 from 9am Who hosts this ou ar d an inside Entry n. – 5pm and Sunday lio event? vi Pa e ad Tr e via March 16 from 9am – New England will be availabl Kennedy 3pm at the Armidale Lapidary and Fossicking Dumaresq and s.” Showground. Stalls Club Inc. have hosted Street entrance will be situated both an Annual Gem and inside and around the Craft Show in Armidale Trade Pavilion. Entry will for the last 23 years. The be available via Dumaresq and club currently has 70 members; Kennedy Street entrances. Wheelchair the executive works tirelessly year access is available, and Gem and Craft round to promote and foster fossicking Show entry is FREE. and the Art of Lapidary. We also participate What can you see and do there? in many local events, including the Uralla A spectacular array of gems, opals, rocks, Show, Thunderbolt Festival and Australia Day crystals, jewellery, crafts, gifts, lapidary celebrations. equipment, books and supplies will be on sale. Would you like to thank any sponsors? There will be something for everyone! Lots of Yes. New England Lapidary and Fossicking fun for the kids too: laughing clowns, lucky dips Club Inc. (N.E.L.F.C) would like to thank the and gem wash stall. Kids can fossick and keep Community Mutual Group, Gary Wilkie gems - sapphire, zircon, topaz and many others. Australian Sapphires Direct and René Pauvert Three great prizes raffled - 1st prize: gold and - René on the Mews Restaurant - for donations ruby ring; 2nd prize: $50 René On the Mews towards this year’s event. restaurant voucher; 3rd prize: Gemstones of the How can people join your club or have a World book. Uralla Lions Club will provide BBQ stall at the Gem and Craft Show? breakfast and lunch, morning/afternoon teas Enquiries regards joining New England and cold drinks over the weekend. Stall holders Lapidary and Fossicking Club Inc. or having a are most welcome to attend. stall at the Annual Gem and Craft Show can be Tell us how this event has grown over the directed to Club Secretary Kerry Tasik on 6778 years? 5122 after 6 pm or email nelfc@hotmail.com In 1991 a small number of traders attended Thanks Kerry.
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2014 has started with a bang, with the announcement that Armidale is NUMBER 3 in the ‘Hot Destinations for 2014’ as voted by the Australian Traveller Magazine Readers’ Choice Awards.
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hat is behind the Kimberley and the Top End, but ahead of such destinations as the Gold Coast, Adelaide, Hayman Island and
Tasmania! The article says: “Quietly sitting 475 kilometres north-west of Sydney in the NSW Northern Tablelands, Armidale is the dark horse of 2014. With a rich pastoral history, Armidale balances a city-esque vibe amid a country landscape. This seemingly sleepy country town is in fact a buzzing urban centre with an impressive catalogue of galleries, museums, music gigs and theatre performances. There’s a bounty of cafés and restaurants, many of which focus on local ingredients, as well as picturesque parks, majestic waterfalls and plenty of walking trails to get your fill of country air. Suffice to say, its cover has been blown.” We are astounded and excited to have received this rating, and we encourage you to share this information and promote this to your family, friends and customers, and on your Facebook and website pages. If you would like to find out more, you can visit the Australian Traveller website and follow the excitement on our Facebook Page: http://www.australiantraveller.com/post/ australias-hottest-travel-destinations-in-2014/ http://facebook.com/experiencethehighs Saumarez Homestead will once again play host to the Flix in the Stix on Saturday 8 February 2014. Tickets are on sale now through Ticketek or Carrs Newsagency. There will be a world-class line up of talent. including 8 times Aria Award winning artists Eskimo Joe, the famous comedy act The Axis of Awesome, and Julia Morris will be here to present her selection of award winning international short films. A Day On The Green is quickly approaching, and Petersons Armidale Winery are gearing up for another fabulous event. Tickets are available from ticketmaster.com.au and General Admission tickets are available from Armidale Dumaresq Council building on Rusden Street. Edwards Coaches will be running buses to
the venue on the day, and tickets can be purchased from the Edwards Bus Depot. The party atmosphere will continue on Sunday, with Sunday Markets in the Mall, live music, boutique shopping and the coffee shops will be ready to serve their gourmet breakfast delights. The Armidale Races will be running on Sunday afternoon, commencing at 12.30pm. All Day On The Green ticket holders will receive free entry into the race course; remember to keep your ticket. The inaugural Country Living Seasons of New England Market and Fair Day will be held at the Uralla Showground on Saturday 8 March from 8am – 3pm. There is a fabulous line up of stallholders ready to showcase some of the New England’s finest local produce, wine, food, beer and art and hand made products. Current stallholders include Altitude Coffee Roastery; Amanda Rose Creations; Ann’s Little Cake Shop; Aurelia’s Farm; Calamity Jane; Charlie Ray’s Food Fusion; Dale’s Downtown Meats; Deano’s Spring Water Smoked Trout; Didjes with a Difference; Dylan’s Organic Doughnuts; Eco-Sense Toys; Glen Olives; Happi Hens and Woodside Bee Farm; Honey by Andrew Sewell; Kentucky Tree Nursery; Kiri Steele Designs; Lazy Magpie & Pukeko Preserves; Loving EcoSystem Services; Massage with Raylea’s Touch; Merilba Estate; New England Brewing co; New England Pastured Eggs; Pastrygene; Poppymay Handmade Accessories; Sisterspice; Sunhill Skin Essentials; Toppers Mountain Winery; Ultimate BBQ; Uralla Arts; Uralla Garden Maintenance & Life-Force Seeds; Uralla Wool Room and Vera Thora. The Seasons of New England Twilight Dinner will be held on Saturday 8 March. A local menu inspired by seasonal produce and local talent, prepared by renowned Armidale chef Rowan Tihema and hosted at the Uralla Showground will commence at 5.30pm, with local wine and beer available from the Pavilion Bar, moving on to tasting plates and then a 3 course meal. Tickets are $70pp, available online at www.seasonsofnewengland.com.au new england focus 37
Learn to Drive. What is Keys2Drive? 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. FYOW encourages learners to ask questions, better recognise risk situations and then find and fix their own mistakes. How do our readers receive a free Keys2Drive lesson? *Conditions apply. Register online at www.keys2drive.com. au to receive a lesson ID, then call Chilli and book the lesson - K2D encourages learners to think like their own instructor by self assessing, self instruction and self supervising. It works! Research by the University of NSW found participating learners have half the crash risk of learners who don't participate. What is the Armidale Training Centre? Chilli utilises these excellent training facilities comprising a 2 hectare concrete skid pan and a 1.2 kilometre highway circuit for teaching foundation skills in car control in a traffic free environment. This proves advantageous for many learners to build confidence before moving on to training in traffic skills.
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Northern Technical Services Northern Technical Services is a locally owned and run business. We are a service company with over 40 years' experience, offering support and service to businesses, home users and students within the New England Area. We are fully Apple Authorised Service Centre with 2 Apple Certified Engineers. We also sell and service a full range of cash registers and Point of Sale equipment, printers, computers (Windows and Apple) and general office equipment. We offer training and support on all Apple products. 2014 Plans Broaden our existing service base within neighbouring towns, with expansion to Tamworth and Inverell. Increase our sales presence within the New England.
focus_travel
with Vicki Kembery from Travel 195
Vicki Kembery In November I was lucky enough to head over to Morocco for 8 days and then onto the UK for another week, so I thought I’d share my experiences with you for this month’s column. ’d never been to Morocco before so was really looking forward to it, because it had always looked like a really interesting destination – and I wasn’t disappointed. In fact, I loved it and I definitely want to go back and see more of this great country. So what were the highlights of this trip?
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Firstly – Marrakech. Marrakech is a feast for the senses, with amazing scents and brilliant colours of the spices, carpets, food and entertainers in the Medina. At night there are singers, drummers, dancers, snake charmers, fortune tellers, storytellers and jugglers to entertain you. And that’s even before you get totally lost in the maze of alleyways (or souqs) full of stalls selling an array of goods – pottery, woodwork, leather, carpets and spices. I did a walking tour while in Marrakech, which was a great introduction to the city and highly recommended. Then there were the mountains! We travelled over the High Atlas Mountains a few times on this trip up over the country’s highest pass, the Tich and Tichka, at 2226 metres spectacular views, reminding me a bit of the Grand Canyon in the USA. And the roads are a motorbiker's paradise, winding their way up and over and through. We visited and stayed in a couple of smaller towns at the base of the mountains, which were interesting. One town we stayed in was where many movies have been filmed, including Gladiator with Russell Crowe! Our host for the night took us on a fascinating walking tour of the town and proudly spoke of his cameo roles in the movies! Next was a camel ride in the desert followed by a 4WD trip out to our overnight camp in the Sahara. It was fascinating driving toward the desert through seas of sand occasionally punctuated by lush oases of date palms.
The drive through the desert in the 4WDs was great fun, and we overnighted at the base of the massive Erg Chigaga dunes, one of the world's classic landscapes. The nomad-style camp was a pretty simple affair with two large fixed traditional nomadic-style woollen tents with mattresses and blankets, and the camp had fairly basic toilet facilities. But the drivers prepared a great feast, so all we had to do was climb the dunes to watch a breathtaking sunset. The accommodation was really interesting and varied, with nights spent in hotels and riads (traditional noblemen's houses), the overnight camp in the desert, and we also stayed in a lovely family run mountain home (gite) perched up in the mountains on a rocky outcrop, where we had an incredible view from our terrace of North Africa's highest peak - Mount Toubkal. Getting to this mountain accommodation was either a fairly strenuous 45 minute hike up the mountain or on the back of a mule – guess which one I did! Yes, the mule made it! After days of mountains and deserts, we then headed toward the Atlantic Coast and the town of Essaouira, which was a lovely picturesque town within stone ramparts. This fishing port town had whitewashed houses with bright blue shutters, and its pretty harbour is filled with tiny colourful boats. And lastly, there is the food – great tagines with couscous or rice. I couldn’t decide if I preferred the chicken-based tagines with plums or the lamb ones with vegetables, so just had to have both! Morocco is definitely a country I want to revisit. And now just a reminder about the Walking Trip to the UK that Neal is taking in September this year. Starting on 15 September, this 13 day/12 night tour takes in the best walking areas in Britain. Please drop in, email or call us for more details. new england focus 39
FEBRUARY 2014
WITH TERRI
AQUARIUS.
GEMINI.
January 21 - February 19
May 22 - June 22
September 24 - October 23
You can expect good news regarding family matters. Home influences will bring opportunity to celebrate. A feeling of being on top of things can be anticipated, so make the most of this time and keep gratitude in your heart as strong as possible to receive maximum benefit from all the blessings you will be receiving. Rose quartz enhances love. Wear some.
New career changes are likely to challenge your comfort zone, but will lead to growth in your confidence. Throw yourself into new opportunities, as this will give you positive reflection time. You are much more able than you acknowledge. Don’t judge yourself; just say yes and fake it until you make it. Amethyst is great for connecting to our higher qualities and life’s purpose.
PISCES.
CANCER.
SCORPIO.
February 20 - March 20
June 23 - July 23 Ju
October 24 - November 22
A nice feeling of personal satisfaction can be anticipated this month. The opposite of feeling you need support from others; in fact, you are quite chuffed with yourself and independent. You are very inspirational to others, as when you are confronted with challenge, you have the ability to rise above it and only allow it to make you more powerful. Garnet will enhance your passion for living.
Avoid stressing over finances, as this stress is blocking your ability to create wealth because your current belief, which is there isn’t enough money, is being lived out. By tricking your subconscious into believing there is more than enough, you will create that path by which to live. Look at how money always finds you when you need it and know this will always be the case. Citrine creates an abundance. Carry some in your wallet.
Avoid stressing over finances; everything will be fine for the short term, as well as the future. Focus instead on how much you enjoy what you do and stay intellectually stimulated. You are good at keeping your word; make a commitment to yourself and stand by it. This will strengthen your will power, and your confidence will grow. Citrine attracts abundance. Carry some in your wallet.
ARIES.
LEO.
March 21 - April 20
July 24 - August 23
An opportunity to travel will present itself. Not only does it come at an opportune time, but you can also expect a balance of your mind, body, spirit and emotions. However, at the time of hearing this offer, you may be feeling financially vulnerable. You have previously learned how to stretch your money, so make your choice without fear. Ruby shatters fear. Wear some for a few weeks.
Now is a good time to keep your thoughts productive and positive; find something intellectually challenging and throw yourself into it. A bored mind is a dangerous thing for a fire sign, so have fun learning. An important speech is looming. If you remain silent, conflict is likely to follow; if you stand your ground and communicate lovingly, all will be good. Turquoise is great for positive communication.
TAURUS.
VIRGO.
April 21 - May 21
August 24 - September 23 A
Avoid being caught up in how you will be able to support yourself comfortably in the future; you have always been able to progress from one opportunity to the next with perfect timing, so see this as a gauge in how you manifest and thank yourself for being self sufficient. Avoid placing emphasis on negative possibilities. Turquoise sustains our confidence.
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LIBRA.
Avoid being caught up in feelings of abandonment or rejection; you are much loved and appreciated by all who know you. If you experience feelings of being unwanted, connect to your God belief for comfort. This influence will not be long lasting, and good news will follow. Celebrations will be likely to be on the agenda soon. Clear quartz will help maintain strong positive thoughts.
You have recently been summing up life and have made conscious choices to move into the future with only positive attitudes and influences. Now you need to stand your ground and break any lingering habits that impede this choice, to ensure your happy outcome. You can have the strongest will when you need it, so don’t be afraid to use it. Clear quartz enhances our energy making choice easy.
SAGITTARIUS. November 23 - December 21
Your leadership skills are being drawn on for your recognition. Work changes will be requiring these qualities to be practiced more. By seeing what a natural leader you are, so will others, and career advancement will follow. Your ability to offer win/wins when arbitrating will be used more frequently also. Turquoise assists in recognition of one’s higher qualities.
CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20
Adventure is in store for you. You can anticipate finding an opportunity that will benefit you enormously on your return home. To access the best of what this journey will present, it will benefit you to have a chat with your inner child. Ask what they need and listen telepathically to your answer. Then just think the answer to them. Herkimer diamonds help record our joyous experiences for future memories.
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Dr. Wendy Simpson and the team ell us about your career so far as a General Practitioner? I commenced training as a GP in 2006 at a very busy practice in Wollongong. In 2007 I went back into the hospital system to do some additional training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, as well as spend some more time in Accident and Emergency.
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I went back to General Practice in 2008, but spent 6 months in the small south coast town of Narooma before heading back to Wollongong, where I have remained in General Practice until now. What brings you to Armidale? In 2013 I decided it was time to move to the country - something I had wanted to do since first starting medicine. I have
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Integral Health
some cousins in Armidale and some other relatives in surrounding towns. My children and I have always loved visiting Armidale. It is a beautiful town with great facilities for the kids to enjoy, including excellent schools. So, the decision to choose Armidale as the site of our tree change was an easy one. What are you looking forward to most in joining the practice at Intergral Health? I am looking forward to working at Integral Health particularly because of its friendly and supportive atmosphere. I have been amazed by the support that Dr Howell and the other staff have offered me already. I am also excited about working in such a new and very enthusiastic practice.
In your opinion, why are women GPs so sought after in regional areas? To be honest, I am not certain why women GPs are so sought out. I can understand the reason for some women’s health issues, but I think people feel we are also willing to spend a bit more time with our patients and listen. Plans for the future? I’m not sure what’s in store for me after the big move to Armidale. I want the children and I to settle into country life.
I My children and d ve lo s ay w al ve ha a is It e. visiting Armidal ith great w n w to ul tif au be ds to ki e th r facilities fo cellent ex g in ud cl enjoy, in ci de sion schools. So, the ale as the id to choose Arm ange was ch ee tr site of our an easy one. ”
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Down the track I would like to get more involved with teaching medical students and GP Registrars. Wendy Simpson.
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My role at Harvey Norman is mainly the Returns Clerk. So with all the products that customers bring back that are either faulty or they are unsatisfied with, the goods are sent back to the suppliers.”
Tracey Geddes Harvey Norman Electrical Armidale Tr ow long have you lived in Armidale? I have lived in Armidale since March 2007. We moved here from Lithgow, where I also worked for Harvey Norman.
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time, which I really enjoy. Cameron is 9 and also plays rugby and has taken up little athletics.
Tell us about your family ... I have been married to my husband, Scott, for nearly 21 years. We have 3 beautiful children, who keep us both busy running them around for sport. Stuart, who is 14, plays rugby in the winter, and has just taken up little athletics, and has also become part of the Viper training squad for running. Tahlia is 12, our only daughter (lucky her) and is involved in the Armidale Physie Club, where we do some travelling to other clubs for competitions - some of these can be a bus trip for the weekend, and it allows us to have some quality mother daughter
Products you can find in the Electrical Department cover items from your kitchen with all your cooking needs from toasters, kettles to your larger items, microwave ovens, stoves and cook tops. Or for that job that nobody wants to do … 'the washing up', we have dishwashers. For the laundry there are the washing machines and clothes dryers, then for the horrible part, the ironing, we have irons and the ironing boards. The section that appeals to the men the most are the TVs, ranging from 19 inch all the way to 80 inch. We also have vacuum cleaners. We have the personal care
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Tell us about the products we can find in the electrical section of Harvey Norman.
section, which has a range for men who like to do a bit of man scaping with the razors, trimmers and hair clippers and for the women, we have hair products that will do straightening, curling and drying to ladies' razors and epilators. My favourite area is the coffee machines; we have a range of manual machines and pod machines. We have a couple of machines that are up and running as demo models, so we can make our customers cappuccino or lattes. Mind you, I sneak one in the mornings to get me going. What is your role at Harvey Norman Electrical? My role at Harvey Norman is mainly the Returns Clerk. So, with all the products that customers bring back that are either faulty or they are unsatisfied with, the goods are sent back to the suppliers. I have to raise claims and
get return authority numbers for approval to send back, or chase up old claims that are still sitting in our warehouse. Also when needed, I try and sell on the floor. As I’m still learning, I do not have as much product knowledge as I would like, so I’m not that confident on the floor. Plans for the future? Eventually I would like to retire somewhere where it is much warmer than Armidale, like the tropics. I don’t do the cold winters that well and I know I am a bit grouchy in winter until the warm weather comes. So, I am loving it at the moment with all this hot weather. But as Scott has the electrical franchise, it is hard to make plans too far in advance, as at any time head office could move us and it may be to anywhere (let's hope to the tropics!)
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I have always enjoyed working with people, so working in an organisation that has such fantastic values, a focus on service and a genuine passion for the wider community makes it easy to enjoy my work. In my current role, I interact with staff from all of our 33 branch locations, and we do our best to support departments, individual employees and the communities in which they live.”
Michelle Edmonds
Executive Manager Human Resources and Corporate rate Services
ow long have you been at the Community Mutual Group, and what is your role there? I started 16 years ago, as a teller at the Armidale Branch, which was known then as the New England Credit Union (now New England Mutual). Since then, I have worked in a number of management and leadership positions in the branch, Service Support Centre and at our Head Office at Technology Park. After completing a Bachelor of Business (Human Resources) along the way, I am now part of the Executive Management Team for the Community Mutual Group (CMG), and I am responsible for both Human Resources and Corporate Services.
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Tell us about your services? I have seen
our product range grow and adapt to meet the financial needs of our members. I am proud of the quality of service and product that we offer to regional communities. These days, CMG is a one-stop-shop for all financial needs and services members across Central and Northern NSW. From Singleton in the Hunter, to Cobar in the Western Plains, and up to Tenterfield in the north, CMG provides a range of financial products and services to meet the needs of business, personal and community groups. These include savings, investment and loan products, as well as wealth management services, insurances, credit cards and community partnership accounts. What do you love about what you do? I have always enjoyed working with people,
so working in an organisation that has such fantastic values, a focus on service and a genuine passion for the wider community makes it easy to enjoy my work. In my current role, I interact with staff from all of our 33 branch locations, and we do our best to support departments, individual employees and the communities in which they live. My husband and I grew up locally, so it has been wonderful to have the opportunity to combine such a challenging and rewarding role with raising our family in Armidale.
other. I am constantly amazed by our staff
Tell us about your team? CMG now has 260 employees, located throughout our 33 branches and Head Office. We have an excellent and diverse leadership team and fantastic employees that care about their members, their communities and each
My three children are all living at home
- they never fail to support someone going through a tough time. Plans for the future? I will continue to develop my knowledge and skills at work. Recently I had the opportunity to act in the CEO's role. This was a great experience and has certainly contributed to my own personal development. As the organisation continues to expand, there is always something new to learn, which makes it exciting. and studying at UNE, so no major changes planned in the next 3 - 4 years. My husband and I are both working on achieving some personal fitness challenges this year though, so we keep pretty busy.
*Where membership balance exceeds $5000. ~Excludes CTP Greenslips and CCI. Orana Mutual is a trading name of Community Mutual Ltd ABN 21 087 650 360 : AFSL 241167. Terms, conditions, fees, charges and normal lending criteria apply. The prior information does not take into account your Änancial situation and personal needs. Community Mutual Ltd. is the issuer of the Access Savings Account, Direct Pay, Phone Banking Service (24 hours), Web Access and Mobile Banking Services. General Insurance is provided by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited [Allianz] AFS licence No: 234708, ABN 15 000 122 850 (Allianz). In arranging this insurance, Community Mutual Ltd. acts as an agent for Allianz, not as your agent. Product Disclosure Statements (PDS) are available for these products. You should consider the PDS for these products before acquiring them. You can obtain a copy of the PDS by contacting us on 132 067. Community Mutual Ltd Financial Advisers are licensed through ClearView Financial Advice Pty Ltd (ClearView) ABN 89 133 593 012, AFSL 331 367 offering professional advice tailored to your individual needs. ClearView holds an unrestricted dealer’s license from the Australian Securities and Investment Commission. Community Mutual Ltd does not accept any responsibility for any acts, omissions or advice of ClearView and its Änancial advisers. ClearView may also pay Community Mutual Ltd referral commission of 0% to 80% of any entry and/or ongoing fees in respect of members referred to ClearView.
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At the Armidale Tree Group we pride ourselves on excellent customer service and high quality plants.”
Emily Wade and Emily (Molly) Bullen.
Horticulturists
What is the Tree Group, for those who
the retail shop and customer service for the
don’t know? The Armidale Tree Group is a
business.
community run, self-financed initiative set up in
What do you love about your jobs? The
1983 in response to dramatic tree losses across
work here is great; we get to work outside, and
the New England region due to die-back. We
we have a great team here. The Tree Group is a
have a fantastic native plant nursery, as well as
business that aims to make a difference, so we
a range of vegetables and herbs. We also do
enjoy helping build awareness of native plants
landscaping and farm tree plantings.
in the community. We love helping people
What does your role include at The
with their gardening challenges, whether it
Tree Group? We are both experienced
be a garden in their backyard, farm trees or
horticulturists, and we learn every day as we
small to large revegetation jobs. We like to see
go. Our work has many aspects to it. Firstly,
happy customers and thriving gardens! Being
we grow lots of local and cold adapted native
gardeners ourselves, we also love providing
plants, including eucalypts, bottlebrushes,
advice to people who are growing their own
wattles and other shrubs for sale in our nursery
vegetables and herbs. The nursery has a
and for farm plantings. We also grow and
wide range of vegetables and herbs that we
sell a wide range of herbs and vegetables for
grow and sell. At the nursery, there is always
the home gardener. We are responsible for
something different!
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The Team.
Brennan and Smith
Sue Nelson Sue was born in Armidale and has lived here all of her life. She has been manager of our store for 18 years and is an Optical Dispenser and Practice Manager for all 4 stores.
care and love of helping our patients. Sonya
Sue’s caring and friendly nature, her love of the local area and her wealth of knowledge makes her a favourite with our patients. Sue is the backbone for each store, travelling to each on a regular basis in order to improve operations, interactions and relationships with the local community and patients.
Sue Armatage
Sonya Farrant Sonya combined her love of the health industry and interacting with different people when she took her position at Brennan and Smith Optometrists 17 years ago. Sonya’s passion and loyalty is demonstrated every day through her
sure that you are 100% happy with our
loves to select the latest trends in fashion eyewear for our store and helps make sure that we can find a frame that suits all of your needs perfectly. Suzie A has been a valued member of our team since day one over 25 years ago. Sue is a qualified optical dispenser. Sue loves being involved with the process of helping patients gain better vision. Her love, care and friendship ensures that Sue will take the time to make products and service. Suzie is our mechanics guru and is willing to help in any way she can. Often travelling away to participate in courses and classes further enhances Suzie’s knowledge about the optical and financial industry.
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W increa With increasing numbers of o women pursuing more formal and degreedegre education focused educatio paths, a variety of executive and management corporate manag and leadership roles ro part of are possible as pa career a professional ca path.”
Elisa Thompson.
Hannons Mountview Pharmacy
How long have you been at Mountview
A 'know your numbers' health check
Pharmacy?
is a three step process that helps you
I have been at Mountview pharmacy for
understand your risk factors of stroke, heart
nearly 1.5 years.
disease and type 2 diabetes and steps you
I started off working as a pharmacy student
can take to reduce your risk.
here at the pharmacy when I was at UNE
Plans for the future? Once completing my
doing my Bachelor of Pharmacy, which I
intern training at Mountview Pharmacy, I am
completed at the end of 2013.
hoping to remain working at Mountview
I am now completing my one year intern
Pharmacy as a Pharmacist.
training to become a qualified Pharmacist.
This will allow me to continue to gain
What is your role there?
knowledge and experience from the
Currently at Mountview Pharmacy I am
wonderful Pharmacists currently at
completing a free Pharmacy 'know your
Mountview Pharmacy and to expand my
numbers' health check initiated by the
skillset to include home medicine reviews
National Stroke Foundation. High blood
and diabetes management.
pressure and type 2 diabetes are important
My long-term goals are to manage or own
risk factors for stroke and heart disease.
my own pharmacy.
Denise Aldridge.
Area Manager
How did you first become involved in working in the disability services industry? I enjoy being active and outdoors, and I was fortunate to meet a diverse group of people through these pursuits, some who had a disability. It was then I realised I could combine my passion with assisting people with a disability to become more involved in recreational activities to enhance their own health and wellbeing. This month I am celebrating 30 years in the industry. How have you seen the potential for a career for women change throughout your time? In our disability system history, women were generally seen as ‘carers’ and were assigned to direct support roles under the misguided belief that people with disabilities need to be ‘taken care of’. The vast majority of management and leadership position were held by men, again, a common practice of the era. Thirty years on,
we’re thinking about this entirely differently, and roles are matched to what attributes and skills individuals bring. With increasing numbers of women pursuing more formal and degreefocused education paths, a variety of executive and corporate management and leadership roles are possible as part of a professional career path. What unique contributions do you see that women can make in disability services? Women contribute significantly to the effectiveness of disability services. Our unique and culturally supported feminine traits such as conversing and communicating with people, the ability to work effectively both on our own or as part of a team, and the capacity to juggle multiple priorities that are people focused, all go a long way in making women skilled to successfully manage the intricate aspects of working in this industry.
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I am very thankful to have lovely clients whom om I also consider my y friends.”
Julie Rowlings.
Hats Off
Tell us about your business ... complex we also have some complimentary It is a dream come true to have expanded businesses - a wonderful beautician, a my business after 20 years of doing what I massage therapist and a takeaway store with love. I’m so very proud to have an fantastic coffee. amazing salon to work in, and Tell us about your staff ... I have I am very thankful to have Donna, Mandi and Dimity. They lovely clients. Our goal is are all honest, creative and It is a dream ve ha to work on having every friendly staff who go above come true to client leave the salon and beyond to make Hats expanded my feeling like they have Off the business that it is business after 20 years of doing had the absolute best today. what I love. in treatment. We hope Any plans for 2014? My that they will then pass the goal for this year is to attend message onto their friends, to Unite Seminar in San Diego and come in and see how our service come home with a new sense of compares, as we look forward to motivation and ideas to share. We focus meeting new clients. Unite and Pravana on providing superior client satisfaction, and are beautiful products to work with, and we are constantly updating our knowledge in our clients enjoy using them at home. In our this ever changing industry.
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Gillian Williams.
Fabrics Naturally
Fabrics Naturally is all about soft furnishings for your home, both custom made and off the rack. We are a small, friendly business in Armidale, New South Wales, which was started in 2007 by Gillian Williams. Located a block south of Centro on the corner of Rusden and Jessie Streets, Fabrics Naturally is next door to The Goldfish Bowl Bakery and Café. Gillian and her team – Interior Designer, Jemma Tombs, and Shop Assistants, Kerie Mann and Trudy Hancock – offer advice and assistance in choosing fabrics, a measure and quote service, manufacture and installation of top quality curtains, Roman blinds, cushions and other window coverings, as well as colour advice and placement and choice of furniture. We take great delight in helping our customers work out stunning decorating solutions. We also work closely with Alan Pringle of New
England Shutters and Blinds, who provides custom-made wooden shutters and venetian blinds. Most of us who live in the New England love its variable climate, which brings us four distinct seasons. Due to our cooler winters, however, we do have to think more seriously about window coverings to minimise heat loss. We also have very strong summer sun, which fades furnishings and can make our homes very glary. The glass in windows allows a lot of heat in or out of a house, and window frames can also let in a lot of draughts around the edges. Just stand by a window in the winter, and you can feel the cold. Modern trends in building have encouraged large windows to let in winter sun and light, but unless properly covered, they can also allow loss of heat in winter and gain of heat in summer. Come in and see us and our beautiful range of fabrics, soft furnishings and giftware.
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Sue Lennon.
Owner/Operator
Arna Henry.
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Property Management Specialists
How long have you lived in Armidale? I am a born and bred local.
How long have you been in the Industry? I have been in the
Tell us about the products we can find in your store? I stock a large range of brands and products, including SoLite, Eminnent, Bazaar and the Pierre Cardin Luggage, and all your travel needs, IE Looks, travel pillows and adaptors for all countries.
Canberra in both sales and property management. My family has
industry for over 14 years locally and in city areas of Newcastle and over 72 combined years’ experience the real estate industry, with my grandmother being one of the first women in real estate. What qualifications do you have? I am a fully licensed agent with an additional Certificate IV in Property Management, which I received from the University of New England. I also have a Bachelor
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In my handbags and wallet collection I have Milleni, Gabee, Cobb & Co, and I also stock the eel skin leather wallets and handbags and Italian leather. I also have the new range of Guess handbags, wallets and luggage.”
of Education that was completed at UNE Armidale. What additional services do you provide? • We offer online agent login for all owners. • We are affiliated with Barclay MIS debt collection agency and for a low fee of $55 per year, you can save thousands in court costs and sleep easy at night. • VERY competitive commission rates as many other Real
I have great back packs for all ages, ready for back to school.
Estates in town charge city fees when in actual fact it costs less
My newest stocklist in are Serenade (Beverly Hills Collection) and Franco Bonini, which is Australian leather.
to manage property in Regional NSW. Why pay more for less?
Plans for the future? My plans for the future are to go to the trade fair in February, so I can keep up with all the new fashions and colours coming through.
tenants, this means that you will avoid bad experiences.
As everyone has different tastes and needs for their handbags, wallets and luggage, if I don’t have it in stock I will try and find it for you.
we look after. I take great pride in the amount of trust that our
• A member of TICA - Australia’s largest national database for default What do you love most about what you do? As the director and owner of the business I have a personal interest in all the properties landlords put in us. I love that I can offer a high standard of services that many others cannot.
Donna Smith.
DJ’s Fruit Market & DJ’s Foodie Bliss
How long have you owned DJ’s Fruit market and what inspired you to open DJ’s Foodie Bliss next door? We have owned DJ’s Wholesale Fruit Market for 10 years. Over the years we have added the deli and gourmet products to our range, which has been well received by our customers. With the positive feedback on what we were doing (and the lack of shelf space to fit anything else in!) when the old corner store closed it seemed the perfect time to expand on my love of food and coffee. What do you love about what you do? I love finding new products, then adding those products into our meals in the café so our customers can try them. The café has become quite a meeting place for the local area, with such positive feedback from them. Tell us about your team? To be quite honest, I think we have one of the best teams around. They are all focused on pleasing our customers, and they have great ideas to improve what we are doing. There is always plenty of laughter and teasing to be heard in both shops. Plans for the future? Have a holiday! Increase our gourmet/cooking range. Move into a bit more catering. I’ll keep listening to our customers and see where it takes us.
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I aim to provide the best possible service and pampering experience for my clients while catering for their individual skin and beauty needs.”
Olivia Schaefer.
Cedar Nursery
How long have you had your business, and how has it grown in this time? I have had Cedar Nursery + design up and running for 6 years now. It started as a small native farm tree nursery, to its current retail profile backed by a wholesale nursery which grows natives and exotics here in the New England. What do you love most about what you do? Every day I’m outside doing a multitude of different things with people I love working with; it is very rare for a day to go past without laughter. Working with plants is such a rewarding enterprise, especially here in the New England with our four seasons. In a week my jobs can range from running the retail with the girls, landscaping with Ben to designing a garden with Jen - all very rewarding and unique in their own way. What’s new at Cedar Nursery? Cedar Nursery has just undergone a new extension, doubling its previous size; it is now more spread out and easier to stroll around. Cedar Nursery retail now has the capacity to display the range of plants that we have grown ourselves at the wholesale. It also has the added benefit of displaying the plants and gift lines distinct with each other, just as in a garden setting. It all adds to the shoppers’ experience and defines Cedar Nursery + Design.
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Pip Koch.
Boutique Beauty by Pop
When did you open your business? After living and working in major cities both in Australia and the UK, I returned to the New England region in 2007 to pursue my dream of opening my own salon. The New England was familiar to me, having been educated in Armidale and having a sister living in Guyra and when a business opportunity in the area came up, I took the chance and opened Boutique Beauty by Pip. Tell us about your services? I choose to use dermaviduals, as it is a custom blend range of skin care that enables me to treat all skin conditions and skin barrier disorders. Each skin care program begins with a full skin assessment, so we can target the leading cause of skin conditions and treat the problem using individual ingredients. I offer a range of pampering packages including hot stone massage, relaxing facials, as well as all beauty needs. I have a strong reputation both locally and in Melbourne as an eyebrow shaping specialist. Furthering my knowledge and maintaining currency in the skin care and beauty industry is incredibly important. I recently completed training in oncology skin care and am one of Australia’s only accredited oncology skin therapists, enabling me to treat and support the skin while it is undergoing changes from cancer treatments.
Ingrid Rothe.
Vivid Marketing Services
Since launching in early 2013, Ingrid has worked with a diverse range of small business clients. Her projects include market research, strategy development, branding, brochures, and several professional websites. A customer centric focus is a key component of effective marketing. Tammy Homewood of Healthy Inspirations says, “Ingrid encouraged me to start by finding out what my members really wanted through customer research. This has made my decision making process so much quicker and more effective. I now know exactly what my members want and need.” Ingrid formed Vivid Marketing Services with the intention of making big business marketing expertise accessible and affordable for small business. Ross Patch of the Daily Ritual says utilising Ingrid’s services has saved him time and money. He says, “We found the service that Vivid provided to be good value for money. We adopted a new image that was bright and informative to show our customers what our business was all about.”
In November I employed my first apprentice, Jayde, and I’m looking forward to working with her to achieve her dream and sharing more than 15 years’ experience and knowledge in the industry with her.
Bronwyn Pearson worked with Ingrid to develop her brand strategy prior to launching her consultancy, and she hasn’t looked back since. Bronwyn says, “The outcome was a perfect alignment between my business values and mission and the brand messaging. It was an enjoyable, fascinating and highly rewarding experience. What’s more, the response and results have been tremendous.”
Any plans for the future? I love living and working in such a supportive, friendly and welcoming community, and I’m looking forward to growing my business in Guyra.
Importantly, the project doesn’t end when the last invoice is paid. Ingrid takes a partnering approach with all of her clients, and all Vivid clients are provided free of charge with a follow up review.
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The e Team.
Johnson & Kennedy
Johnson & Kennedy currently have five (5) women involved in the business. Nikki has been with us since June last year. She has many roles in the Mann Street office. She co-roles with Adam managing the office. Reporting and dealing with shortages and proof of delivery also play a large part of her role. Maureen can also be found in our Mann St Depot. She has been with J&K since 2006, and her role is customer service and data entry. Sarah has been here for a couple of years; she is located in our Mann Street depot. Sarah does a delivery run to the UNE on weekdays and a local pickup run in the afternoon. Any time in between that, she is generally in the office with Nikki. Kerrie has one of the most important and challenging jobs in
Maree Burr.
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I think everything you do has things you love, and others not so much ... I enjoy meeting new people and catching up with customers when I get the chance, but as I spent most of my childhood not wanting to polish cutlery, I feel I am being paid back tenfold. Tell us about your exciting new chef and menus for 2014? Sam, our new chef, specialises in Mediterranean and international dishes - which is exciting, because most of us are busy people, so it is nice to be able to go out for breakfast or lunch and have someone who has put a huge amount of passion into what he does cooking for you. I have worked with a number of chefs over the years and can honestly say Sam is one of the top three chefs for commitment to his food and professionalism.
Karyn Herbert.
Get Stitched
How long have you had Get Stitched? I took over this existing business, then called ‘In Stitches’, in 2002; in total, this small business has had its doors open for over 20 years. Who would your classes suit? If you can sew a straight line - or not - you can make a quilt! Classes are on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings and are fun, flexible, and rewarding. Some projects can be made in a day; some take weeks. There really is something for everyone. Tell us about your services. We offer a range of haberdashery, as well as ribbons, DMC stranded threads, ric-rac braid, velcro, wadding and kits. There is a large range of 100% cotton patchwork fabrics. Wander through the hallway to the back of the shop; it’s the heart of the store, where the classroom is surrounded
her job is paying the wages. She has been doing this since
I am also thrilled we are now licensed and can offer our customers a glass of wine or beer with their meal.
June 2009.
Plans for the future?
Patchwork and quilting classes are held 3 days a week,
Sam also works in our Niagara St Depot. She has been with
I am not a great believer in making long term plans, as I think life has a way of redirecting us onto paths which often far exceed any limited plans we may have.
our workplace. She works out of our Niagara St Depot, and
us here at J&K for 20 years. She and Trevor do all of the accounts in Niagara St. Customer service is a big focus in
by a rainbow of prints and colours. Tuesday to Thursday mornings and have limited vacancies. What do you love about what you do? The design process and then making that come to life in fabric - that’s what I love the most.
the majority of her day either answering phones or serving
To quote John Lennon: “Life is what happens while you are busy making other plans”.
customers.
But, a holiday would be nice.
intricate quilts, which have developed a good following.
the retail part of the business, and Sam spends probably
Plans for the future? To continue to design the large
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Leanda Cochrane.
Studio 22 Photography
Lisa Whitty.
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Jane Hannon.
Gifts with a Difference
How long have owned your business? I started
How long have you owned your business, and tell
It’s official! Gifts with a difference is here to stay.
Studio 22 Photography 4½ years ago. I am the only local
us about your team ... Almost 3 years now. We have an
photographer who specialises in photographing families
amazing team. My husband, Ken, does measures, quotes
with newborns and young children.
and sales, and I am our office manager. In sales we have
Seeing Studio 22 Photography grow from such small
Trish Hunt, with her extensive knowledge and experience.
beginnings into the thriving business it is now has been
Jamie Starr is also in sales and has a speciality in window
quite incredible.
furnishings. In the engine rooms, for our windowing
Tell us about your services and what it is you love
furnishings, we have Adam and Glen, ‘our blind men’,
about your business ... I offer maternity, birth, newborn
and Barry, our ‘master of all’. For floorcoverings we have
and family sessions. I can be with my clients every step of
two exceptional teams, Pete Dade and Daniel Westbury, and
For the past two years it has annually been known as ‘Christmas With a Difference’, but due to huge support and encouragement from locals, it is here to stay year round. Jane Hannon is not just a local; she is a local who is passionate about where she lives, but she is also very passionate about the Armidale Centre Mall and sees great potential in it. Gifts With A Difference will be complementary to the other unique Armidale stores already in the Mall like Country Concepts and Lily N Lotus.
the way, as they welcome a new little person into their
Mark Faulkner and apprentice Jack Doran.
life!
Tell us about your services and personal rewards you
Being a boutique service means I take on a limited
gain from your business? We will recommend products
number of clients each month. This allows me to give
that are suitable for your needs and that will last. Each job
each client the one on one attention they deserve.
is considered on its own merits and products recommended
Having clients invite me back into their home to photograph their 2nd or 3rd baby is such an amazing
reflect this. Flooring and window furnishings are two of the most important decorating aspects of a building.
experience. It’s a real privilege to see how their family
Plans for the future? We will continue to support the
has grown and changed. To document it for them,
Armidale area providing quality products, services and
capturing memories that will be passed down to the next
workmanship and will also continue in sponsorship of
generation, is very humbling.
community events and sporting teams and promoting the
Plans for the future? I have awesome clients, what
Armidale district. It is very satisfying to see customers’ ideas
more could I ask for? Although, lots more snuggles with
come to life and have them smile at the end and say ...
beautiful babies would be lovely!
I Love It!
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What can we expect to find in store? Jane has stocked her store with the unique and exclusive ranges of fashion jewellery, original homewares, occasional furniture for inside and out, artificial flowers, Australiana and of course, gifts for all occasions. As she has done the past two years, leading up to Christmas, Jane’s unique taste for all things such as Christmas shall appear in store. Plans for the future? Our plan is to continue delighting and exciting our customers every time they visit through our range of products and always providing friendly, helpful service to our very loyal customers. Jane is heading off to the gift fairs in February so if there is something you would like to see available in Armidale, post on the Facebook page: fb.com/pages/christmas-with-a-difference
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Jenny Wild.
Rapid Clean
How long have owned your business? Greg and I have owned Rapidclean for almost 16 years, and before that we had our own cleaning business servicing the local area. Tell us about what you love about what you do? The cleaning industry is full of really genuine hardworking people; our customers are either small business owners or householders all the way through to Councils, nursing homes and corporate clients. We have people from all backgrounds and lifestyles. We have the regulars whom you establish really nice relationships with, through to first time renters often just out of home and keen to do things correctly. The most rewarding part is when our customers come in and thank us for solving a problem for them. Once I had a lady call me from Walcha who said we had “saved her life”; she was just about driven mad trying to keep her floor looking nice and after years of trying things, she finally came in to see us. We helped her with the right solution, and it was such a load taken from her. Plans for the future? Greg and I will attend the ISSA cleaning show in Amsterdam. This is the biggest event in our industry worldwide and coincides with the Inpacs group’s ten year anniversary, so it will be very special. The show itself goes over 4 days and there is so much to see in innovations and emerging trends, that you are full-time trying to absorb as much as possible. While new products and services are always a bonus to see, it is also comforting to see that despite our locations and differences, the circumstances of cleaning are very similar.
Julie Dorrian.
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b u s i n e s s
Spar Supermarket
My husband, David, and I purchased Lynches Rd Store back in 2003. It was originally a small corner store which we have built up over the years. I have developed great friendships with our regular customers. In July of 2012 we reopened our new store, SPAR Express Lynches Rd. We knocked down the old store and built a totally new bigger, fresh exciting store! Now we are part of the Spar family. Our offer includes a larger quality range of groceries, freezer chiller and fresh fruit and vegetables. I am very proud of the new store, and we work hard to offer all the convenience items at supermarket prices. Our specials change weekly; however, we like to run a ‘Red Hot Special’ longer! The other side of our business is our quality takeaway! Fresh, large juicy burgers! Bacon and egg rolls. Chicken breast fillet burgers (crumbed on site), moist BBQ chickens, salads, fish and chips! Value meal deals, 5 star coffee, fresh cut sandwiches, salad rolls, baguettes, and so much more. Our staff are also friendly and dedicated and when I’m out socially, the feedback about our staff is always positive, with comments about how friendly and helpful they are - which is really pleasing! We are always increasing our range and love trying new things. With the takeaway, the emphasis is on quality home style freshness and flavour! I love the fact that I work alongside my husband. Our boys, Sam and Blake, also work in store. Trista, our little princess, also enjoys helping daddy at the registers. It’s definitely a family business!
new england focus 53
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Focus Advertisement Representatives
Mary Sutherland.
Principal Armidale Physio Plus
Mary Sutherland of Armidale Physio Plus has been a respected name in New England physiotherapy and health for over 31 years. Liz Moffit and Emma Gray are Senior Physiotherapists and Pilates Instructors at Armidale Physio Plus. We provide a wide range of Physiotherapy services, as well as Clinical Pilates and Feldenkrais Method. These subtly rewire and re-educate the brain to use more effective movement patterns. Our team takes a holistic approach and uses effective hands on treatment, education and advice to help you move and feel your best. We provide assessment and treatment for: neck and back pain, headaches, sports injuries, musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction, neurological and spinal rehabilitation, work injury and exercise rehabilitation, pre and post natal care. Most of us are unaware of how we move. We usually pay attention to where we are going or what we are doing, but not how we are moving. Often our movement becomes habitual and automatic, and we tend to repeat the same movement over and over, without thinking or noticing. As well as treatment, we provide classes in Clinical Pilates and Feldenkrais Movement. Everyone can benefit, regardless of age or physical ability. Discover greater ease, improved performance and less pain with Physio Plus.
54 new england focus.
Merry Abrams. How long have you worked at NE FOCUS? I have been with FOCUS for almost a year, and I am very thankful to be in such a position, after completing a Bachelor of Communication Studies through the university here a few years ago, and recently a Graduate Certificate in Marketing through Newcastle University. What do you love most about what you do? We have a great team at FOCUS, and we are proud of and love what we do. I love meeting new people, whether they have been a local for years or travelling through. We really do have a job where we learn something new every day. Our clients are more than a client or business associate; they become our friends. I love helping people with their business and love how excited they are about being a part of FOCUS. Why should businesses choose FOCUS to advertise in? FOCUS is a fabulous product because of the presentation, design, creativity, and because it delivers.
Tracy Le Messurier. How long have you worked at NE FOCUS? I have been with New England FOCUS almost seven years now. I work with the best group of people ever ... What do you love most about what you do? I love the people! Every client becomes much more than a business associate; friendships are formed every day. I love that our readers love FOCUS and look forward to it each and every month. Every issue that I have every worked on, which is 81 now, has a special meaning to me. If someone asks me if I can remember a particular advert or story, I can always tell the what month or year that it was published off the top of my head. Why should businesses consider FOCUS to advertise their business in? Even if I was not a part of this great team, I would have to say that it is the best print media product in regional NSW. We are a positive media and news service. FOCUS is easy to read and beautifully presented. Our designers always deliver creativity, and we always keep our promises. To be seen … choose FOCUS.
Lynda Lynch. How long have you worked at NE FOCUS? I have worked at FOCUS for almost 2 years. It has been a fantastic role with two amazing ladies, Tracy and Merry. We have a fantastic time at work. What do you love most about what you do? Every day we are meeting someone new; that makes our job so interesting. We get to go to new and exciting businesses to see what the business is bringing to the New England. Why should businesses choose FOCUS to advertise in? FOCUS is an amazing GLOSS magazine that is a monthly product. I am so proud when our product comes out. It’s a great read and keeps the community up to date with what’s going on, what’s new and what’s up and coming.
Thinking Litigation with the Legal Minds Team
Thinking Litigation – with the Legal Minds Team he official opening of the new Court house in Armidale on 17 January 2014 has unleashed opportunities for greater access to justice within the region. With state of the art facilities the new Court House provides an environment for Court users, police officials, lawyers, judiciary and registry staff to more efficiently and effectively deliver legal services to the community. When alternative dispute resolution such as mediation, assisted negotiation, arbitration or collaborative law cannot resolve matters in dispute, a party may decide to seek relief by way of litigating their matter. The new Court house is the newest regional location in which litigation can be processed. What is litigation? Litigation is where one or more parties ask a Court or Tribunal to decide the outcome of their dispute with a binding and enforceable decision. Litigation is commenced by way of an initiating application. Preparing such a document requires careful attention, skill and expertise. Legal proceedings are often very complex and while individuals may represent themselves, it is prudent to retain a solicitor to process the plethora of forms, research case law and legislation, ensure compliance with Court procedures to be adhered to, and prepare Court documents in admissible form. Litigation may require parties to complete many pre-trial procedures before the matter is decided at a hearing. It is usually at least six (6) months before a matter is determined from the date that proceedings are commenced. Proceedings can often stretch to twelve months or even several years depending on the nature and complexity of the proceedings, the conduct of the parties and the caseload of the Court or Tribunal. When should a party litigate? If matters cannot be resolved in any other way a party may seek to litigate their matter. If you have decided to stand your ground with unwaivering tenacity then retaining professional support and at least initial advice from your solicitor is essential. Often clients are faced with the prospect that their opponent is unresponsive, fails to comply with orders, refuses to accept documents or is not able to be found. Legal practitioners have access to experts and other professional services and experience and skill within the legal system to apply for subpoenas and make other interim applications as part of the litigation process. When faced with a recalcitrant opponent, a party may have to litigate if they want to receive compensation, damages, specific performance, injunctive or other relief. Careful planning and preparation must be undertaken in order to lay down the solid foundations for success in Court. Retaining Legal Practitioners. It is often necessary for your solicitor to retain Counsel (a Barrister) on your behalf to advise on your matter
T
and assist in preparing pleadings before embarking on filing proceedings. The relationship between a solicitor and barrister is similar to that of a medical GP and medical specialist. A solicitor will take instructions from you, note observations and legal issues that may apply and prepare a brief with relevant documentation for Counsel to consider in preparing your case. Counsel will continue to be assisted and instructed in Court by your solicitor. Not surprisingly litigation can be very expensive due to its complexity and time-consuming nature. Unless a party is entitled to Legal Aid, there is no Medicare equivalent in the legal system. Preparing to meet with your Solicitor. To assist your solicitor in preparing and presenting your case to a Court or Tribunal there are many things that one can do. Such action may reduce the time involved for a solicitor and lead to savings in costs as well as increase the likelihood of achieving your desired outcome. Some things you can do include: 1. Prepare a chronology of important dates and events relevant to the matter – this can be extremely useful when trying to remember dates from months past and provide the ground work for your statement. 2. Prepare a statement of what happened from your point of view – this should “flesh out” your chronology and provide quotes as to what was said during important conversations and greater detail about what you saw, heard, smelt, tasted or physically felt in relation to the matter. 3. Collect all relevant documents and organise them in a clear and easily navigated manner. Documents that collaborate and provide proof of your version of events may increase your chances of success. 4. Collect the names and contact details of any witnesses to the incident(s) or events. 5. In the case of any matter involving an injury to you, collect the names and contact details of any Doctors, therapists or other medical practitioners you have been treated by in the past as well as your previous employers and their details. If you have suffered a wrong or loss as a result of another person or entity’s conduct, or if a dispute or claim is being made against you that cannot be resolved, you should contact your solicitor as soon as possible. Statutory time limits apply for all claims, with some as short as 21 days. Early action may enable you to recall events more clearly and when combined with careful preparation and professional advice the prospects of successful litigation or avoiding unnecessary costs and delays can be achieved. Christopher K C Serow Principal, Solicitor Director, Notary Public Elizabeth M. Stahlut Solicitor Navneet K Mullee Solicitor Jane C Pfister Solicitor new england focus 55
embracing embracing life with confidence, compassion compassion and creativity
NEGS
SCHOLARSHIPS available for 2015
Academic, Music, Equestrian, Visual Arts & Design Registration Closing Dates: • Equestrian - 1st March • Academic - 7th March • Music - 15th March • Visual Arts & Design - 30th April 2014
For more information contact NEGS Enrolments Office on 02 6774 8752 or visit our website
negs.nsw.edu.au