New England Focus i84

Feature Story

NEW ENGLAND

May 2014 // Issue 84

S U P E R A IR A U S T R A L IA CELEBRATING

The Salvation Army

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focus team.

Welcome to the May edition of New England FOCUS. he FOCUS team would like to welcome you to our May edition for 2014. The team would also like to extend its best wishes to all the mothers out there; if you’re not sure what to get Mum, check out our Mother’s Day feature for some ideas.

OUR COVER Our May cover is dedicated to SuperAir. Superair Australia is the largest Ag Air industry in Australia and was established in 1964 by a group of graziers located in the Armidale area for the aerial application of superphosphate throughout the New England. In May they celebrate 50 years in business. How lucky are we to have such a successful business like this in Armidale!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Kathie Marquadt tells FOCUS readers about TOUR DE ROCKS AND THE CANCER

AWARENESS CENTRE currently operating out of the Armidale Private Hospital.

A love of classic picture books brought together Christmas Press, and we talk to Sophie Masson to learn more about it.

The House With No Steps has come a long way in the New England & North West region, so we chat to Hannah Rodrigues, the newly appointed Support Manager for the New England, to find out what’s happening.

On Sunday 18th May the Armidale & District Poultry Club will once again be staging their Annual Show, which is the major event held by the club each year and will see poultry fanciers from a wide area of New South Wales exhibiting their birds.

Barry Simpson and Anne-Marie Davies tell us more about the club.

For the first time, award-winning country

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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

music artist Amber Lawrence will be at the SerVies performing all of her hits. Amber shares her career journey so far.

This Mother’s Day, PLC Armidale would like to recognise hard working PLC Mum, Donna Keeping, who has four daughters at the school this year. We chatted with Donna about her experiences.

FINAL SAY “Rudeness is the weak person’s imitation of strength” – Eric Hoffer.

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

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

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

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inside this

Issue 84 - May 2014

9.

Donna Keeping.

This Mother’s Day PLC Armidale would like to recognise hard working PLC mum, Donna Keeping, who has four daughters at the school this year. We chatted with Donna about her experiences.

Amber Lawrence.

13.

For the first time, award-winning country artist Amber Lawrence will be at the SerVies performing all of her hits. Amber shares her career journey so far ...

14.

Christmas Press.

A love of classic picture books brought together Christmas Press. FOCUS catches up with Sophie Masson to learn more ...

usual suspects.

the

12. what’s on for May 24. eat featuring local restaurants 44. star guide with Terri

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

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

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focusinterview.

T HE NEW E NGL AND COMMUNI TY W E L C O M E S

ASENA HEATH &

T H E S A LVAT I O N A R M Y THE NEW ENGLAND COMMUNITY WELCOMES ASENA AND HEATH TO ARMIDALE, WITH THE PAIR TAKING UP THEIR NEW APPOINTMENTS AS SALVATION ARMY OFFICERS ... here are you originally from, and what brings you to Armidale?

We are both originally from Sydney. We have spent the last two years in the Salvation Army Officer Training College. We are in Armidale, because this is our first appointment as Salvation Army Officers. If you asked us would we ever had imagined we would be living and working in Armidale, we probably would have laughed at you.

Tell us a little bit about your background ...

Asena: My cultural background is Fijian. My parents migrated here in 1979. I’ve grown up in the western suburbs of Sydney. I come from a large family; I am one of 5 children. I joined the Navy in 2001, and that is where I met Heath. We served on the same ship together, and I guess nature took its course, because we were married in 2005 and currently have 2 boys, with another child on the way! We joined the Salvation Army in 2006 in Bankstown, and that is where we had a very real calling into full-time ministry.

Heath: I grew up at Botany Bay, so the beach and ocean have always been a part of my life. So, being in Armidale is different; I can’t smell the ocean. But I am enjoying this part of Australia, which I have never visited before. Similar to Asena, I joined the Navy in the year 2002. I guess I was a struggling young man trying to find and hold a job. I saw the ads on television recruiting for the Defence Force, and I picked up the phone, and took the plunge! I can’t say I enjoyed being a sailor straight away. In fact, my first day at sea, I vomited over 10 times due to sea-sickness. But I eventually found my sea-legs, and life at sea became quite enjoyable. It was even more enjoyable when I met Asena, who to me was and is a lovely Christian woman, whom I believe God used to bring me ever closer to Him! What are some special things about the SALVOS in Armidale?

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The special thing about the Salvos in Armidale is the people! We have been received into our church community with nothing but Christian love and acceptance. We are blessed to be surrounded by loving, supporting and hardworking Christians, and so these people really make the Salvation Army special in Armidale! We are experiencing the privilege of partnering with God and His people in Armidale in sharing His love and care to all!

Tell us about what you do at the Salvation Army on a daily basis?

I guess only having been here 3 months, we would have to say that our Family Store on Beardy Street is certainly a special place to observe and be a part of. ale Not only do we have a We are in Armid is because this great and beautiful team as st appointment fir r which runs the store, ou rs. ce ffi O y rm Salvation A but we have another ld wou If you asked us, amazing opportunity of ined ag im d ha er we ev community, which receiving and working g and in we would be liv is completely free – e with people from the idale, w working in Arm no cost! community. And so the have probably would And there again, store really isn’t just a ” laughed at you. there appears to be place of work; it is from all a lot more than just appearances a place where eating going on. People relationships are made and are rediscovering community, formed, where people find purpose people are making and forming and direction for their lives. It is a place relationships, people are being encouraged, they where people come into contact with the living are being let known that they are valued, they God and experience the love and care of His are loved, they are important to us here and to people!

God! It is truly a privilege to witness and be a We would also have to say that our part of!

Community Kitchen (Café de light) is certainly As ministers of the Gospel, we have to say something that is special about the Salvos in with all conviction that Sundays are a special time Armidale. and place within our week. Sunday worship for Once again, this kitchen is run entirely by us is a priority in our week! volunteers, from the Salvos and other churches It is where we, as the Salvation Army in in town. Basically, we work together to provide Armidale, come together and put time aside a hearty lunch every Wednesday to people in the

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Salvo's

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to simply worship God, spend time in prayer and spend time in fellowship with each other.

Sunday worship is a time and place where people encounter God, and make life transforming decisions; it is where dreams are birthed, it is where tears are shed, it is where love is discovered and shared ... basically, it is a time and place where people can discover who they are and what their purpose is in the world! It really is a great place to be!

Plans for the future?

Our plans for the future we guess would have to be in line with the 3-fold mission statement of the Salvation Army, which is: To Save Souls, To Grow Saints, and to Serve Suffering Humanity!

If we can be faithful in doing our best at living out this calling and mission, we feel that our future has positive and life-affirming direction.

And we pursue this calling with the strength God graciously provides us!

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For the week of Monday, May 19 to Saturday, May 24, Get Stitched in Moore Street will be the venue for a marathon sewing effort to construct as many quilts and bags as possible for Can Assist.

Karyn Herbert tells FOCUS how we can get involved.

K a r y n

O

hat is Quilts for Can Assist? sick is isolating ... life changing. Cancer touches all Locals supporting locals. of us in some way, either personal experience or For the week of Monday, May 19 through friends, relatives, workmates, their kids, to Saturday, May 24, Get Stitched parents, siblings. A simple gift can bring a smile and in Moore Street will be the venue knowledge that someone cares. for a marathon sewing effort to Can Assist provides care, accommodation and direct construct as many quilts and bags as possible, from financial support to cancer patients in rural NSW. The 10am to 5pm each day and extended opening on Armidale branch are a dedicated group committed to Thurdsay evening. Instead of late night shopping, the provision of care, support and advocacy come and lend a hand. for country cancer patients.

How long has this event been How can the public get running? involved?

The concept started years ago In so many ways! Start is 100% cotton supporting sick kids in big city now, get creative and begin k easy to wor hospitals; the program was called a quilt or bag. They can an in es with and com Quilts for Keeps, and quilters suit any age group, pretty of e ng ra enormous , ns Australia wide made and sent er and feminine, earthy and tt pa d an s colour ade m in quilts that were then chosen masculine, bright, fun be n ca ey th but at will th ic by the kids and became theirs to or funky.

Fleece, fl annel br fa y an of time.” keep. or minkey make cozy wash well over The Quilts for Can Assist is the backings. same concept, with quilts staying Can you sew? If you can, in the area, distributed to locals of all there will be lots to do. Cutting, ages. The original week long event began piecing, quilting, binding. Start now, in 2004 and ran for 3 years. While most of the quilts or through the May week. If you don’t have were gifts, a lot of the bags were displayed at a a machine, there will be spare machines set up at the fundraising spring garden party. Most of the bags shop to use and a spare table for pinning the quilts made were sold on the day, with all funds raised going to hold the layers together, ready for quilting – the directly to the organisation so they could provide stitching on the top. much needed financial support.

You can’t sew? No problem; any and all assistance Why is this event so important to the local is welcome. There will be lots you can do to help too, community? such as ironing, drawing, pinning and cutting.

Never underestimate the power of caring. Being Donations of fabrics have already started rolling

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H e r b e r t

in, and quilts are underway. There are boxes with packs of part made projects from previous years that are calling for someone to take on the challenge and finish them.

In previous years people donated money, finished quilts, purchased fabrics to be used, brought plates of food during the sewing week. We’ve even had a quilt sent in the post from someone who heard about it and wanted to help.

Or, join us at the shop during the week in May and be part of the fun. There will be a roster available, so people can indicate the times they are available to come in through the week.

Specifics: Quilt dimensions: 100 to 120 cm wide by 150 to 165 cm long.

The quilts are of a size that would cover someone sitting in a chair. 100% cotton is easy to work with and comes in an enormous range of colours and patterns, but they can be made of any fabric that will wash well over time.

Bag dimensions: 40 cm by 50 cm, opening on the longer side. This size fits a chest X-ray film. Bag making basic pattern sheets are available in store any time, and they’re free.

Who would would you like to thank for contributing to this event?

So many people are involved in the making of these quilts and bags: the helpers, sewers and quilters.

The companies and individuals who donated fabrics, wadding and finished items and publicity. The team of volunteers who take on the distribution of them.

Thanks Karyn. new england focus 7

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Cancer Awareness Centre

T H E C A N C E R

AWARENESS CENTRE Kathie Marquadt tell FOCUS readers about TOUR DE ROCKS AND THE CANCER AWARENESS CENTRE, currently operating out of the Armidale Private Hospital.

as Tour de Rocks appropriated all the funds raised in 2013?

Yes, of the $257,000 raised, we gave $106,000 to Tour de Cure. This organisation raises funds for cancer research and education. The remaining $144,000 has been distributed to local organisations including Can Assist, Armidale and Guyra branch; Guyra Hospital; wig library; quilting group; oncology unit and the oncology clinic; and Armidale Community Cancer Assistance Fund. Funds were also distributed further afield to the North Coast Cancer Institute in Coffs Harbour. Last October we organised a three day residential workshop at Yaraandoo, with facilitators from Quest for Life. The appropriation of funds is linked to the Tour de Rocks’ objectives and is approved by the Tour de Rocks Board. We are holding another workshop which will by facilitated by Quest for Life on Monday 12 May 2014. This is for one day and will be held at the Armidale Ex-Services Club.

Anyone wishing to attend can contact Fiona Ord, Social Worker at Oncology in the Armidale Hospital, or myself.

Part of the funding from the 2013 ride is now being used to set up a Cancer Awareness Centre. This centre is currently operating out of the Armidale Private Hospital and is being managed and operated by a board of volunteers.

What is your vision for the Cancer Awareness Centre?

Our vision is that we can offer a place that is relaxing, quiet and friendly. It may be a place to wait for appointments, share a cup of coffee with a friend or meet with a group to share experiences. We hope to be able to assist by offering ad hoc services such as counselling, group therapy, meditation, exercise groups, massage, art therapy and other non-medical assistance.

How does this compare to similar services offered in the New England Area?

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offereed by patients experience. He advocated that the whole person At present there are no similar services offered any organisation known to us. We do not provide any needed to be treated, and not just the cancer. form of medical treatment for cancer nor advice on any Will the CAC be interacting with other support particular cancer or treatment. Medical treatment for organisations? cancer is provided by the new Oncology Unit We have provided facilities for the Leukaeat the Armidale Hospital. This new and mia Foundation and hope to liaise with fabulous facility treats patients from other organisations that need a space Armidale and the New England in which to hold group sessions, g in nd fu Part of the area. However, patients may also clinics or one-on-one services for is de ri 13 20 e from th a up have to travel to Sydney, Port cancer patients. This centre is all t se to ed us now being ntre.

Ce Macquarie, Newcastle and about community awareness s es en ar w A Cancer ently rr other major centres for treatof cancer support services, so cu is re nt ce This the of t ment. Our centre aims to give that those living with cancer ou g in at er op e Hospital access to non medical support feel more confident about what Armidale Privat aged and services that are increasingly services are available beyond and is being man d of ar being adopted by cancer suptheir own medical and hospital operated by a bo port networks around the world. volunteers.” pathway.

These services are principally aimed What sort of services can we at reducing anxiety and stress and imexpect from the CAC? proving resilience, so that we can provide We will have a dedicated website with our bodies with the best possible environment in links to the Cancer Council and other credible which to heal. and informative sites. Our aim is to provide awareHave you explored other models for cancer supness and easy access to information and resources that port centres? cancer patients will find helpful. We hope to have a We have visited the Royal North Shore Cansupport specific link to the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. This link will Resource Centre in Sydney. This centre provides literature, be a self referral form that will enable anyone to make a a wig library and a wide range of activities for cancer booking direct to the Lifehouse for any of their Lifehouse patients. These are available to all cancer patients and are treatments. We are very keen to hear from people who offered either free, or at a very reduced cost. We also viswould like to offer support to the centre as volunteers; ited the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse in Sydney. This Lifehouse to co-ordinate and run activities or provide services that has a vision of world class, holistic cancer care.It is a would be of assistance to cancer patients and their purpose built cancer treatment and research facility which friends and families.The services provided by the CAC are brings all aspects of clinical care under one roof. The idea available to anyone who has had an experience of cancer of this Lifehouse came about when Chris O’Brien, a head at any time in their lives. and neck surgeon, saw a need for integrated cancer care We are currently operating out of the Armidale Private in Australia.Through his diagnosis of a malignant brain Hospital on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10am to tumour, he had even greater insights into what cancer 4pm.

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focusinterview.

Mother's Day DONNA KEEPING This Mother’s Day PLC Armidale would like to recognise hard working PLC mum, Donna Keeping, who has four daughters at the school this year. We chatted with Donna about her experiences.

the Global Garden.

With all that goes on in your family’s busy life, how do you manThe P & F is a very friendly age the juggle and balance? s and group of parent With a lot of patience! No, serit to the contri butes a lo ously, Fred and I work as a team e girls school. Fred, th and do it together; I couldn’t do with and I also help it by myself.

The girls help a lot as in s the various task l well, and they are good kids. ba lo G e and around th sport of rowing at PLC, for the How will you and your family Garden.” first time. Milly and Annie (Year celebrate Mother’s Day this year?

1 and Pre-Kinder respectively) both The day usually starts with the girls comlove the outdoors. They like playing ing in with kisses and prezzies, and ends with animals and playing in the dirt, so the with the six of us (and pets) sitting around the Global Garden and the chooks in the Junior School fire pit eating dinner, toasting marshmallows, and a playground suit them down to a tee. glass of wine (for Fred and I)!

PLC Armidale encourages the partnership Thank you so much, Donna, for sharing your story. between school and home in the education of the And happy Mother’s Day! And from Melissa Watgirls. How have you and Fred embraced this partters, Head of PLC Armidale Junior School, a tribute nership? to Donna and Fred: We work very closely with each of the girls’ teachers, A child’s relationship with their parents is so imporalways communicating with them and helping in the tant. Parents provide the safe base from which children classroom in the Junior School. We also host the girls out can move out to explore the world, to learn, grow and on excursions to the farm for shearing and other farm become socially confident, responsible young people. By activities. working in partnership, schools, families and communiYou are also involved with the school’s P&F. What ties are better able to support their children in achievdoes this role entail? ing the best educational outcomes from their schooling I am Vice President of the Junior School as well as a years. canteen co-ordinator with another wonderful PLC mum At PLC we encourage parents to be actively involved in (Kim Taylor). We help with cooking BBQs at various the school. Both Donna and Fred support their children school and other events. The P & F is a very friendly group and work closely with the staff at PLC Armidale. They of parents and contributes a lot to the school. Fred, the give of their time, their presence and their talents, and girls and I also help with the various tasks in and around we really value their involvement.

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hy did you and your husband, Fred, choose PLC Armidale, Donna?

At first with Steph (our eldest now in Year 10), it was all about the small class sizes and the all girls’ environment. The girls seem to flourish and can be themselves. It is not uncommon to see the Senior girls at the Junior School playing with the little girls. Once there, we could see how happy Steph was and how much she was flourishing, so we decided to start the other girls as soon as possible. The teachers and staff are amazing!

They know how to bring out the best in each child. We love the gardens. There are lots of nooks and crannies to explore, and the new buildings are very welcoming. We also found the parents and students to be very friendly and welcoming.

Each of your four daughters has different interests and needs. From your perspective, how is the school able to cater for each of them?

Steph and Lucy (now in Year 7) are very sporty, and they are encouraged to try their best and are encouraged to go as far as possible with their chosen sports. The girls are also looking forward to being involved with the new

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I F A P I C T U R E I S WO RT H A T HOUSA N D WOR DS, then this newly developed 5 star luxury over 50s ‘resort’ will sell itself … nestled just 10 minutes from Port Macquarie at Lake Cathie, this fast growing community is changing the perception of village living. While the focus is still on low maintenance, private living for your early retirement years – nothing has been left out when it comes to lifestyle facilities and a truly luxurious resort style life. Louise Beaumont finds out more …

i John. Tell us about Ocean Club Resort ...

The Ocean Club Resort is NSW’s first 5 star over 50s resort. The Resort is pitched at seniors who are not ready to move into a retirement village. What we have created here is a young, vibrant and active community, giving them all the facilities to enjoy their early retirement years.

How is the resort different from other over 50s seniors communities?

This community will be much younger than existing retirement villages, with an average resident age in the sixties.

We are building houses as slab on ground homes, so there are no stairs, and our brand new facilities were all ready for use from day one. Also, I think that our location in this growth area of Lake Cathie is unbeatable.

What has been the response since you opened in December 2012?

Phenomenal. We’ve been surprised and delighted with the sales rate, having sold 70 homes. I’m pleased to say that our 100th resident will be moving in during May. We’re lucky to have former Armidale residents, David and Anna Wilson, move in last year (they love the warmer climate, incidentally).

The Resort has been recognised by the industry; tell us more about that.

In August we won the ‘Best Village Award’ from the Manufactured Homes Industry Association, which was quite a thrill.

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What feedback have the residents given you?

It’s very gratifying that the resort is now turning into a vibrant secure gated community full of like minded retirees. All the resident feedback has been positive – especially about the architect’s house designs, the clubhouse and the heated 25 metre swimming pool. We’ve used some of the feedback to fine tune our home designs, and the new Byron 2 bedroom double garage home is now even better.

Tell us about the key features of the homes.

For all intents and purposes, they are just like a normal slab on ground home. Nearly all of them have ensuites and large garages with storage areas. Our main focus has been to make sure the homes are absolutely private, because it is medium density living. Our unique selling proposition is that we are enabling people to live in a brand new architect designed, free standing home, but without any of the maintenance.

It is a set and forget style of arrangement – we do all of the landscaping and gardening for them.

As an all inclusive community, what other standout facilities do you have?

There is a long list of amazing facilities, which includes: a championship tennis court with a pavilion; golf driving nets and challenging golf putting area; commercial level free standing gym and wellness centre; a half size heated Olympic pool with aquacise area; we have Yoga and Tai

lling “ Our unique se we are at th is on propositi to live enabling people chitect in a brand new ar ding designed, free stan any t ou ith w t home, bu ce. ” of the maintenan

Chi spaces; and a $5 million Clubhouse building which has a private cinema, full size billiard table bar, commercial kitchen, lounge and dining areas, as well as a library and craft area.

We also have a full competition size bowls surface with the latest tiger turf carpet coming out of Europe, and will soon have secure RV and boat parking.

Tell us about what one can expect as the ‘lifestyle’ of the Resort.

It is a very luxurious, low maintenance lifestyle, which we regard as highly affordable.

So what is the price guide for a new home at The Ocean Club Resort?

Pricing starts at $330,000 and goes through to the mid $400,000s.

What made Lake Cathie the idyllic location for this Resort?

We chose Lake Cathie as it is halfway up the coast – it has the perfect climate, according to the CSIRO and is the perfect location in a new urban growth area, the beaches are pristine, plus we hear the fishing is good.

Thank you, John, for your time.

the plug!

For those interested in The Ocean Club Resort, contact Karen or Darren on 1800 462 326. www.oceanclubresort.com.au

focusinterview.

ON SUNDAY 18TH MAY THE ARMIDALE & DISTRICT POULTRY CLUB WILL ONCE AGAIN BE STAGING THEIR ANNUAL SHOW, WHICH IS THE MAJOR EVENT HELD BY THE CLUB EACH YEAR AND WILL SEE POULTRY FANCIERS FROM A WIDE AREA OF NEW SOUTH WALES EXHIBITING THEIR BIRDS. BARRY SIMPSON AND ANNE- MARIE DAVIES TELL US MORE ABOUT THE CLUB.

H

ow long has the Armidale & District Poultry Club existed?

Since it was originally founded, which was in the 1920s, there have been many generations of poultry breeders and fanciers who have been involved over the years. Many of the current members have parents, grandparents, or great-grand-parents who have bred and shown birds, which indicates just how much of a family activity the breeding and exhibiting of poultry can be.

How many members are there, and why is it so popular?

Currently the club has around 70 members, with more than half of these being Junior members. Over the past four or five years the Armidale & District Poultry Club has seen rapid growth in the number of people becoming involved in the breeding and showing of poultry and waterfowl, which is reflected in the current membership numbers.

The aim of the club is to promote the breeding and exhibition of all breeds of pure bred poultry, in addition to encouraging the participation of junior and novice members.

To further these aims, the club stages a number of events each year, including a Junior and Novice Show, a Young Bird Show, a Purebred Poultry Auction, as well as the main Annual Show and the running of the poultry section at the Armidale Show.

The Armidale & District Poultry Club is justifiably proud of what they have been able to achieve in recent years, which has not only included the rejuvenation of the club and attracting many new members, but has also included the works they have undertaken to improve the facilities they use at the Armidale Showground. This has come about through the support of many local businesses, but particularly important has been the assistance of former Member for Northern Tablelands, Richard Torbay, and the Armidale Dumaresq Council, whose contributions assisted in the club gaining a grant to carry out much needed maintenance and repairs to the poultry pavilion to bring it up to a standard suitable for the staging of major events, which in turn helps attract a large number of visitors to Armidale each year.

In addition to this, the club has also been a strong supporter of Can Assist, with several thousand dollars being donated in recent years following the annual Purebred Poultry Auction.

What type of poultry is popular in this area?

Poultry come in many different shapes and sizes, with most represented amongst those owned by club members.

The three main types of poultry are what are termed Softfeather birds, which are predominantly laying fowl, such as Australorps, Lanshangs, Sussex, Pekins and Rhode Island

Reds, to name a few. Then there are Hardfeather birds, such as Old English Game, Pit Game and Indian Game, which were originally bred as fighting birds but are now bred as exhibition birds. There are also Waterfowl, which are mainly represented by the many varieties of ducks. Many varieties of birds come in both large and bantam sizes, with bantams being ideal birds for juniors to start out with.

What is involved with getting the chooks ready for a show?

There is quite a bit to do in order to have birds ready for the show, and in the coming weeks members will be working hard to have their birds in tip-top condition. This will entail correct feeding, then washing and cleaning them, as well as training them to ensure they are quiet to handle, with the end reward being a coveted Champion sash or trophy.

How can interested readers become involved with the club?

For those interested in the activities of the club, new members are always welcome. They can contact the Secretary, Anne-Marie Davies, on 6775 2528. A monthly meeting is held at the Armidale Ex-Services Club on the first Tuesday of each month, and the club also has a website (www. armidalepoultryclub.com) and a Facebook page, where information on club activities is available. new england focus

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AROUND THE REGION //MAY 2014

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Active Ageing - Healthy Seniors EXPO

First Saturday Chats The next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Jane Pfister (Solicitor) on Saturday 3 May 2014 between 10am and 1pm at our offices at 157 Beardy Street Mall, Armidale. As this is a popular program, bookings are essential on 1300 642 166.

When Saturday 3 May 2014.

Where Legal Minds Office, 157 Beardy St Mall.

Contact 1300 642 166.

Rotary Book Fair The Rotary Book Fair runs annually, and each year may have as many as 80,000 books.

When 17 - 24 May 2014.

Where Armidale Race Course.

Contact Ian: 6772 4815.

Many services available to cater your needs.

Information for family, carers and seniors; aged and disability represented.

Free seminars, entertainment and much more.

Official Opening: 10am Thursday.

When May 29 and 30, 2014.

10am Thursday to 4pm; 10am Friday to 3pm.

Where Armidale City Bowling Club, Dumaresq Street, Armidale.

Entry Free.

Enquiries Please ring Natasha: 6772 7087.

Walcha alcha a Fa Farm Farmers' rmer rm ers er s' M s' Mar Markets arke kets ts s 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 17 May. More info www.walchafarmersmarket.org.au Phone 6777 2448.

Home of Great Entertainment Weekly Finalist draws are on Saturday nights from 7.00pm**

New menu The Mill Bistro has a new menu out now. Come check it out and tell us what you think!

Spend $10 or more in any Bistro or Bar B transaction, i swipe i your membership card and go in the draw for a chance to win a Kia Rio, $10,000 in cash, or a15 Day Family Holiday to the USA!

Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea

The Wiggles

21st May, 10am.

Come down to the Club and support the fight against Cancer whilst enjoying delicious sweets and a cup of tea, all for just a gold coin donation!

Sunday, 11th May Doors open 12.30pm. m.

Win an opportunity mber Lawrence!

Law wrence! to perform live with Amber

APPLES & BANANAS TOUR

Simply record or video a song and send it via email or YouTube link to: management@amberlawrence.com.au entries close on 28th April, the winner will be chosen by Amber the following day and they’ll be paid for 5 songs, or 20 minutes of their time!*** 3rd May, 7pm Tickets: $29 Adults, $15 Kids*

The biggest kids show is only a few weeks away. Tickets are selling superr fast, so we have opened up a second d show! Kids under 12 months free without seat. Tickets - $27.50*

Buy show tickets online! *Tickets are non-refundable. T&Cs apply. **NSW Permit No. LTPM/14/00668 ***Minimum age 15 Years and over.

2014 Finalist - ClubsNSW Clubs & Community Awards

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focusinterview.

LAWRENCE FOR THE FIRST TIME, AWARDWINNING COUNTRY ARTIST AMBER LAWRENCE WILL BE AT THE SERVIES PERFORMING ALL OF HER HITS. AMBER SHARES HER CAREER JOURNEY SO FAR WITH FOCUS.

industry so far?

I entered a talent quest I love singer d in 2004 – I came runner songwriters , an y up to Jessica Mauboy. tr Australian coun ng hi yt That talent quest was the music. I love an rs be am Ch fi rst door that opened in and my whole life from Kasey y rr Pe y at K to music for me … and it’s changed when through in ng hi yt er kept opening, which I’m my singing teacher and ev ” n! ee tw so grateful for.

In 2007 be suggested I purchase I released my fi rst album, a CD from a genre I’d The Mile – and received two never really heard before. golden guitar nominations, plus So I chose Leann Rimes – an APRA songwriting nomination, and I was hooked on country plus I was awarded the Golden Saddle music from that point onwards! award.

Then I released my second album, What style of music do you prefer?

When it All Comes Down in 2009, and this I do love modern country music – it’s time received 3 golden guitar nominations and all about the lyrics and the instrumentation I was lucky to be awarded ‘the horizon award’ to me. I like any style generally where a story at the 2010 Golden Guitars. I released my is told. So even if it’s pop that tells a great third album, 3 in 2012 – and was successful in story, I’m into it. I love singer songwriters, and having a number one hit with the first single Australian country music. I love anything from Everybody’s a Mess, as well as performing the Kasey Chambers through to Katy Perry and second single, The Man Across the Street, at everything in between! the ANZAC Day Rugby League Match half time Tell us about your journey in the music

“

W

here are you originally from, and at what age did you first find your interest in music?

I grew up in Sydney, in a house on a busy street, under the flight path in Mascot. I certainly never dreamed that I would one day become a singer – let alone a country singer.

It wasn’t until my last year of high school that I decided to try out for a part in the school musical. Prior to that I’d never sung in front of anybody, and I was way more interested in training to be an athlete, or a surf life saver.

But once I sang, I was hooked. I got the second lead role in the musical Calamity Jane, and that was the beginning of my love of singing.

I then took singing lessons for a few years,

in front of 40,000 people, as well as performing it in Egypt to our Australian troops. I’ve played the Tamworth Country Music Festival, CMC Rocks the Hunter, Gympie Muster, had sold out festival shows, performed at the Golden Guitars, entertained our troops both in Egypt and East Timor, performed in Nashville and travelled thousands of kilometres around Australia playing my songs!

Have you won any awards for your music?

Yes, I won 2009 Female Vocalist of the Year (Victorian Country Music Awards) and The Horizon Award (2010 Golden Guitars).

Tell us about your next tour, and when and where can our readers see you in Armidale?

Readers can see me on Saturday 3rd May at Armidale Ex-Services Club with my full band! I can’t wait.

Plans for the future?

I will be releasing my fourth album in August this year, and then hitting the road once again to sing all my new songs.

Thanks Amber.

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focusinterview.

Christmas

Press w i t h

SSON SOPHIE MA

A LOVE OF CLASSIC PICTURE BOOKS BROUGHT TOGETHER CHRISTMAS PRESS. FOCUS CATCHES UP WITH SOPHIE MASSON TO LEARN MORE ...

T

ell our readers about Christmas Press ...

There are four of us in Christmas Press: David Allan, Fiona McDonald, Sophie Masson, and Beattie Alvarez. We all love the gorgeous classic picture books that we grew up with ... the kind which featured retold traditional stories and beautiful illustrations, opening children – and their families – to a wealth of wonderful tales from around the world and the books you often got as presents, that made you feel like every day was Christmas. Sitting around discussing these one day, we were musing about how there just weren’t enough of them around any more.

But rather than complain about it, we decided to do something about it – and so Christmas Press was born, in Armidale, in the early months of 2013.

Our launch title, Two Trickster Tales from Russia, was released in October 2013, after we ran a successful crowdfunding campaign to help to fund our first print run. By the way, all of our books are proudly printed in Australia – we think the Australian printing industry is fantastic, innovative, and worth supporting. In 2014, we have three books coming out, and two of those have already been pre-ordered by the biggest schools distributor in Australia and will be going into thousands of school libraries around the nation – quite a coup for a very new, very small publisher. All of our titles are available in bookshops around the country, including of course, in Armidale!

We have a great list planned for 2014, 2015 and beyond.

We also produce quality merchandise based

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on the stunning illustrations from the books: signed limited-edition prints, greeting cards and postcards, mugs and T-shirts! You can buy these at Granny Fi’s Toy Cupboard in Uralla, or order from our website: www. christmaspresspicturebooks.com The greeting cards are also on sale at NERAM and Reader's Companion.

It's been the most amazing adventure so far, and we're so thrilled by all the support we've received, from readers of all ages, librarians, booksellers, teachers, reviewers, and fellow authors and illustrators. We've also had great comments from other publishers, which is nice. Actually, we are the only publisher in Australia doing this sort of book, so we've found a nice little niche for ourselves. It seems we're not the only ones to be missing those classic books!

Tell us about yourselves and how you are each involved with Christmas Press?

We run Christmas Press as a partnership, and we decide on our publishing list together ... but because we each have different skills, we tend to work on different aspects of the business. David and Fiona are our inhouse illustrators and designers, do the hard work of laying-out and really create the gorgeous look of our books; Beattie is our inhouse editor, as well as our social media publicist, including running a fabulous Facebook page (www. facebook,com/ChristmasPress). And Sophie, who as an established author, has great contacts with other authors and links in the publishing industry, concentrates on promotion, publicity, distribution, admin, foreign rights, and signing up authors for new books, amongst other things! She also wrote the

stories for our launch title. produced a fabulous audio book of this title, What type of children's books do you which includes incidental music and sound publish? effects and has also been a great hit! The We specialise in beautiful picture books reviews for both the print and audio edition for children, featuring traditional tales – folk have been fantastic, and the books have sold tales, fairy tales, legends, myths – retold by all over Australia. As with our other titles, we well-known authors and stunningly illustrated are also looking beyond Australia for the fuin classic styles that reflect the cultures the ture, hoping to sell foreign rights to our books stories come from. These A4 sized, softcover to international publishers.

32-page picture books each feature two What are the plans for 2014? stories from a particular country or This year, we are publishing culture and are designed and three new titles: Two Selkie produced to a very high Stories from Scotland, ree ar standard. We are also, told by best-selling faney Th n, this year, publishing an tasy writer Kate Forsyth entertaining , fu gic in al st no , ul tif Annual of Christmasand illustrated by Fiona au be ry much themed stories, poems, feel , yet also ve McDonald, which is e are of our time. Thes at the memoirs etc. in longer out in May; Two Tales th beautiful book s paperback form – see of Twins from Ancient ill cherish whole family w st at below.

Greece and Rome, ju – every day, not How would you retold by multi-award Christmas!” describe your children's winning author Ursula books to our audience?

Dubosarsky and illustrated They are entertaining, fun,

by David Allan, out in August, beautiful, nostalgic in feel, yet also and a special title, the Once Upon very much of our time. These are beautiful a Christmas Annual, edited and compiled books that the whole family will cherish –

by Beattie Alvarez, featuring lots of seasonal every day, not just at Christmas! stories, poems, memoirs, recipes and more by How was your launch title, Two Trickster some of Australia's best-known writers and Tales from Russia, received? illustrators, as well as new ones. That will be Really well! The crowdfunding campaign out in time for Christmas 2014.

– where people donate money in return for We are launching Two Selkie Stories from 'perks' such as signed copies of the books, Scotland on May 10 at 4.30 at Granny Fi's limited edition prints, merchandise – was Toy Cupboard in Uralla and Kate is flying up very well supported and resulted in us raising from Sydney specially for it, which is fantastic! two-thirds of the funds needed for our first Everyone is invited to come and celebrate with print run. That first print run sold out in a few us. weeks, and we had to quickly reprint. We also Thanks Sophie.

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focusinterview.

HOUSE STEPS WITH NO

HOUSE WITH NO STEPS HAS COME A LONG WAY IN THE NEW ENGLAND AND NORTH WEST REGION. FOCUS CATCHES UP WITH HANNAH RODRIGUES, THE NEWLY APPOINTED SUPPORT MANAGER FOR THE NEW ENGLAND.

W

hat do you do at House with No Steps (HWNS)?

I am the Support Manager for the New England area. This means that I manage the community living home in Armidale, as well as working with individually funded people to assist them to build and live good lives of their own choice.

How long have you been in Armidale?

My three daughters and I moved here from Sydney in December. We were in a mad rush to unpack the house and get back to Sydney for Christmas with family. Luckily, we were back in Armidale for the beautiful summer weather in January and had a great time doing lots of touristy things like going to Blue Hole, Uralla ‘Beach’ (a bit different to Bondi), Dumaresq Dam and lots of time at Armidale Pool to cool down.

Being from inner city Sydney, we are all enjoying the more relaxed pace of Armidale.

Having grown up in the small rural community of Binalong in South West NSW, I understand the joy and challenges of living outside of Sydney and hope my children can share this experience. It’s really exciting for the girls to be able to see trees changing as autumn starts and to be able to walk to school.

What did you do in Sydney?

I was the Regional President of Sydney for St Vincent de Paul. In this role I had an opportunity to meet and build individual relationships with the most marginalised people in the community through home visitation,

advocacy and building strong relationships with other community agencies. I It is really also worked at Wesley exciting to Mission in their an be working with Community Outreach is at th n tio sa ni orga Enterprise. ed tr so person-cen What made you in and really works choose to work with ith w p hi partners are HWNS? the people they HWNS shares my really means something supporting. ” passion for supporting to them.The HWNS people with a disability to team in Armidale is an find their own important place extraordinary group. It is an in their community. honour to be working with such They also share my focus on human dedicated and compassionate people. I rights and have been champions of this learn something new from them every since 1962 – I’m happy to say they’ve been at it day. a bit longer than me!

What are you most passionate about?

It is really exciting to be working with an I’m very passionate about the rights of the organisation that is so person-centred and people we support. really works in partnership with the people they At the moment I am focused on ensuring the are supporting. I think it’s great that people will people we support are involved in all decisions be able to choose the kind of life they want affecting them and their life. As a mother, I and we get to be part of them reaching their believe I have an obligation to help create a goals. fairer, more equitable society for my daughters What do you enjoy the most about your to grow up in. I’m lucky that HWNS is working new role? towards the same goal.

I love watching people achieving their goals This means that I love going to work every and dreams. It’s rewarding to see what people day and being a part of that change. I’m also can achieve when they are given the right passionate about food – moving away from tools. It’s great to be able to work in a team Sydney, and all the restaurants at our doorstep, with the people we support, their families and has meant the girls and I have had to learn to carers to visualise what they want and succeed cook. We are definitely beginners, but love in getting it. Basically, I just really enjoy seeing getting inspired at the farmers’ markets on the people we support live a good life that Sunday morning. The Armidale smoked trout is

“

a must have in our fridge at the moment.

Is Armidale ready for NDIS? Yes! HWNS is already part of The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in the Hunter, so we are one of the organisations that really understands and has made the shift to individual service delivery. Basically, the NDIS means that people with disabilities will be able to choose how they spend their money. This is great, because all the existing organisations will have to work hard to make sure they have a service people want to use.

We have a contact centre in the Hunter – this is a place where people can meet with experienced and passionate staff to work on achieving their goals and dreams. Staff will support, guide and assist to make the transition to NDIS funding as uncomplicated as possible.

How can I get in touch with you to talk about options for myself or a person I know with a disability?

You can call me on 0478 486 048 or email me at hrodrigues@hwns.com.au Or if you see me in town, feel free to have a chat!

Thanks Hannah.

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focusinterview.

FAREWELL mr. beard Farewell to Mr Beard, as he puts down the textbook after 38 years as a loved teacher at Martin’s Gully Public School.

We discuss some memorable moments from his long and productive career ...

H

ow long have you been at Martin’s Gully Public School?

I went to Martin’s Gully Public School 15 years ago, at the beginning of Term Two, 1999. My teaching career began 38 years ago, in 1976, when I was appointed to Bidwill Public School in the Mount Druitt region of Western Sydney. From there I went to Emu Plains, before moving to Armidale and teaching at Drummond Memorial in 1988 and 1989. From there I did a two-year stint in the two-teacher school at Quambone, near the Macquarie Marshes between Coonamble and Warren, before spending nine years at Uralla Central.

How has the school changed in your time?

There have been some changes to the physical environment since my arrival, including: the expansion of the P&C-built school hall, incorporating a large covered lunch area; installation of ramps and railings to allow wheelchair access to all rooms; and the BER projects of the new Admin block, student toilets and bus shelter. Interactive whiteboards have replaced chalkboards in all classrooms. I have seen seven principals come and go, all of whom have put their own stamp on the school. And because of recent retirements, the average age of the staff is on the way down!

16 new england focus.

However, some things haven’t really changed over the past 14 years. In my experience, the Martin’s Gully students continue to be a great bunch of young people: cooperative, eager to learn, appreciative and a pleasure to teach. Parents continue to be supportive of their children’s learning and still help the school in so many ways. The staff, despite the increasing pressures placed upon them, remain passionate about providing the best learning experiences that they can for their charges.

Do you have any stories that stand out in your career?

It has often been said of teaching that no two days are ever the same. I could probably fill a book with interesting situations I have experienced in my career. On my very first day of teaching, which was also the first day of operation of Bidwill School, which at this stage was made up entirely of portable buildings, the staff outnumbered the students about two-to-one, and I remember walking over duck boards to keep out of the mud! (During my time there the school grew to be one of the largest primary schools in Australia.) When we finally moved into the permanent buildings, one student commented to me, “Wow, this is just like the Opera House!” In 1977, a mother came into my classroom one morning crying hysterically something along the lines of, “What am I going to

do without him? I can’t believe he’s dead; it was so sudden” and so on. I was trying to work out what to say that might console her, when I was told she was a fan of Elvis Presley! Still at Bidwill, I remember a student asking me, “Mr Beard, when I die and go to heaven, will I be magic like God? And that’s just from my first school.

Perhaps I’ll have to write that book after all!

What is it about teaching you are most passionate about?

It is really hard to put my finger on exactly what it is about teaching that I am most passionate about. I think it can be summed up by the fact that when I see ex-students in the street they invariably go out of their way to come and say hello and often remind me of what I had taught them (sometimes MANY years earlier!) Teaching is more than just imparting knowledge to children; it is about their whole development, about treating them with respect and fairness and helping them to reach their full potential, to be the best that they can be. I am a firm believer in self-fulfilling prophecies, whether a child says, “I can do this” or “I can’t do this”, they are probably right! In fact, students are encouraged to say, “I can’t do this YET!” What are your plans for retirement?

Seven years ago my wife and I moved onto a 25-hectare hobby farm just out of Uralla. There was a partially built house on this property.

Sadly, it is still only partially built, as school kept getting in the way of our plans. So our priority is to complete this house and move into it! After that, we want to carry out improvements on the farm, including establishing a B & B with horse facilities. We also want to spend more time with our grandchildren (at the moment we have two granddaughters, who both live in Newcastle).

I am also looking forward to helping Bronwyn realise her life-long ambition of overseas travel.

And if I miss teaching too much, and/or run out of things to do, I may even do the odd day casual teaching.

A comment from the Principal, Brad Hunt: Mr Beard is an outstanding teacher, leader, colleague and friend. He is an exemplary teacher who has inspired so many young people throughout his career in small schools, central schools and primary schools.

I would like to thank Russell for his contribution to life at Martin’s Gully Public School. There are so many people in the community who have been fortunate to work with and be educated

by Mr Beard. I thank him for his professionalism, dedication and commitment to providing outstanding opportunities for young children.

On behalf of the students, staff and Martin’s Gully School community, I wish him a healthy and happy retirement.

focusinterview.

R NE COR

M ART IN CO L L INS. I moved d to Armidale in January 2004. I came up here for a tree change, swapping urban sprawl and traffic jams for 27 acres of open space, horses and cattle. I was running a technology company down in Sydney and moved up here to pursue a career in academia.

I

was clueless about living in a rural setting; it gave my country neighbours no end of amusement to watch me deal with no town water, having to fix and maintain fences, and a plethora of other rural property duties.

Laughable side stories come to mind, like the time I unloaded four one tonne bales of hay, by hand, from a truck while several neighbours, beers in hand, looked on entertained.

I started collecting Magic: The Gathering cards in 1994. At the time I was a member of a local gaming club in Hurstville, where we played role playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. When MTG came out in December 1993 as the first collectible trading card game, it created a new gaming genre. Like millions of other gamers, I was completely smitten with the new genre, but the cards were very hard to find in those days; they would be sold out the day they came into stores. It was difficult to amass a reasonable collection of cards to play with.

These days I have over a quarter of a million cards in my collection, although I tend to refer to it as an inventory. The million dollar question is, why collect them? I've frequently posed this question to myself and put a good deal of thought into answering it. I think the answer lies partly in the multitude of reasons for why any person collects anything; it seems to me that for some people collecting things is part

of the human condition. I have multifaceted workings and competitive play. Lastly, there is a reasons and motivations to persist in putting continuing story told by each new set of cards time and effort into my cards. released, and I enjoy following the story just as A couple of years ago I walked into a store one might follow a favourite TV show. in Brisbane looking for some expensive and Generally my collection has fluctuated in rare items and as I looked over their size; I have storage capacity for about inventory, it occurred to me that 300,000 cards. I tend to buy my collection was far larger cards in bulk by purchasing and comprehensive than entire collections or sets, e ar e er what was on offer. and I'm currently near th se Of cour at th s rd ca At that moment, I storage capacity. I do ite ur favo e, the lu va l ta en realised I needed to some card slinging im nt have se er played, ev I rd ca insure my asset and locally and some re ra first of power that I was essentially interstate at various or my collection r being fo running my collection events. I go through nine – so named e nine most reputed to be th own to like it was a business stages where I sell kn powerful cards inventory. or trade thousands of the game. ” Presently, I am cards; it depends on motivated to persist with how much time I have. collecting MTG cards for inAt the moment I'm heavily vestment purposes; many cards invested in my research at the accrue in value at appreciable rates University of New England and far in excess of your typical investment being head coach for Armidale Roller portfolios. I am also quite active in trading Derby. These endeavours leave little time for and selling cards with local and interstate cards, but I've managed to drum up enough gamers for fun and profit. I often have just the cash through my card business, Mind & Body desired card that someone is looking for. As Games, to sponsor the roller derby crew. a game, I have played it for 20 years; I know When it comes to favourite collection pieces, a thing or two and am pretty good at it. For there are just too many ways to go. Favourite me, it still remains an incredibly fun game that card for its play value within the context of the can be shared with friends, and it offers deep game? Probably my Chaos Orb; it's a card you strategic depth for those interested in its inner throw onto the table to ‘destroy’ any other

“

card it touches. If one has a taste for dramatic flair, use of the Chaos Orb can be a lot of fun.

Of course, there are favourite cards that have sentimental value, the first rare card I ever played, or my collection of power nine – so named for being reputed to be the nine most powerful cards known to the game. Then there are favourites for flavour: a term used within the game to describe fantasy context and back story of the game universe.

As far as the future is concerned, I'm keen to get back to my gaming roots. I have fond memories of being a member of a local gaming club and getting together to play games.

My friends and I used to congregate in a granny flat out the back of the club president's house in Hurstville all those years ago.

I'm toying around with the idea of setting up something similar here in Armidale. I'm looking to buy a new place here in town where I can set up a local gaming club in a downstairs garage, or something like that. I think it would be a nice addition to the cultural diversity of the town.

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. tracy@focusmag.com.au ph. (02) 6771 5551

new england focus 17

focusinterview.

Community of Schools

Community OF SCHOOLS FOCUS catches up with the Armidale Community of Schools and finds out why small schools are so important in our New England Community. ive us a brief history of Armidale Community of Schools ...

The Armidale Community of Schools (known as ACOS) involves 18 schools from Uralla to Guyra, Ebor and all public schools in between. The ACOS was formed seven years ago to provide a network of Principals to design outstanding programs, initiatives and events for students (K-12) in our public schools. Small schools, Central Schools, K-6 primary schools and our two high schools are all part of the Armidale Community of Schools.

How many small schools are in the Armidale Community of Schools (ACOS)?

Rocky River, Kelly’s Plains, Kingstown, Black Mountain, Chandler and Ebor Public Schools and Thalgarrah Environmental Field Studies Centre are our small schools in the ACOS group. Each of our small schools offers a fantastic, quality and inclusive curriculum in a caring and family friendly environment.

Small schools pride themselves on their multi grade approach to teaching and learning, where students can be supported and extended within the classroom.

Thalgarrah Environmental Field Studies Centre is an exceptional centre designed to teach students about environmental issues and science skills. Thalgarrah is utilised widely by schools across northern NSW. The Principal of Thalgarrah also travels to other schools to conduct lessons on sustainability, environmental issues and science workshops.

Describe the culture of the schools ...

18 new england focus.

Our small schools are vibrant, progressive such as cultural exchange programs with schools which offer a high quality education students in South Korea and language to students in a small, family like setting. The enrichment programs in Mandarin. Our educational, social and emotional well resourced schools offer needs of each and every activities such as archery, student is addressed in all canoeing, ball sports and school activities. gymnastics. In some Each small The small schools in schools, students school is part the ACOG group are gather fresh eggs of a network to very well resourced. daily from the ts provide studen The latest technology chicken coop, and to the opportunity and online programs pick fresh vegetables ch t ea compete agains open our children in their extensive g, other at sportin up to a world of gardens to use for s ill sk cultural and opportunities. cooking and preparing .” ts based even In small schools, meals. Our strong everyone gets a go! education programs are Competition is removed, enhanced through the use so all children are exposed to of technology to collaborate with and are invited to participate in a other small schools in their learning range of activities both at the school and networks. community level.

Strong welfare and discipline policies Each small school is part of a network to at our schools provide a safe and stimulating provide students the opportunity to compete environment for children to learn. Our against each other at sporting, cultural and schools use the You Can Do It! Program as skills based events. part of our personal development lessons and Their close connection to local high and whole school welfare approaches. central schools provides a smooth transition Each school has a strong focus on from primary to high school. literacy and numeracy. Smaller classes and Can you outline some of the curriculum individualised learning are key factors in choices the students have? small schools. The smaller numbers in each Our small schools are dynamic learning classroom enable teachers to work closely environments. Each school is unique and with students and support them with their offers a range of opportunities for children. individual needs.

Current connected classroom technology has Why should perspective parents choose enabled our students to link with classrooms Community of Schools for their children? outside their own and participate in programs Small schools are great schools!

“

They provide outstanding educational opportunities for children in a caring, supportive and family friendly environment.

A transition program for students entering Kindergarten is a strong focus for our small schools to provide prospective students, and their families, with a smooth transition to school.

All teachers are committed to close communication with parents, carers and their local communities. We have proactive P&C groups in each school who work hard to provide additional support for their local school. Our small schools place an emphasis on values and all are encouraged to be actively involved and supportive of the wider community. Our student populations are on the increase, ensuring a secure future for our small schools in the Armidale Community of Schools.

For further information about our great small schools, please contact the Principal.

All schools are enrolling now for 2015.

With increasing bers of women numb formal and pursuing m ore education d se degree-focu of executive paths, a varriety anagement and corporate m s le ro ip and leaderssh rt of a pa as le l are possib er path .” profession al care

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Felt Tip Theatre Company

Denise Aldridge e

Felt Tip Theatre Company is proud to announce an original work to commemorate the 450th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s birth.

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.

Shakespeare is regarded as one of the greatest people to have ever lived; his contributions to literature and culture are immeasurable. A Short Guide To Shakespeare is a production that aims to educate, enlighten but above all entertain audiences with stories of Shakespeare’s childhood, the London he worked in and of course, his plays. Mad kings, a plague infested city, a baby out of wedlock and heads on spikes will be just some of the topics mentioned in this Elizabethan escapade.

Felt Tip’s creative director Alex Robson and Felt Tip regular Nick Sinclair are the dynamic duo bringing Shakespeare’s shenanigans to the stage.

Robson said: “Not wanting to cheapen his incomparable achievements, Shakespeare was first and foremost an entertainer. His plays are entertaining – not boring – and so was his life.”

Typically celebrated on the 23rd April, Shakespeare’s birthday is actually unknown, but he was baptised on the 26th April 1564, and so a gala premiere will be held at The Hoskins Centre, TAS, that evening with free cake and champagne. The production will run until the following Saturday night.

“We won’t be conducting a history lecture,” said Sinclair. “Many people screw their noses up at Shakespeare and think his works are dated and complicated. This production aims to break down those barriers and brings to the audience a glimpse of what life was like in the 16th Century.”

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.

new england focus new england focus 19

focus_travel

focusinterview.

with Vicki Kembery from Travel 195

Vicki Kembery As I said last month, I was lucky enough to head to Oman for a week a couple of weeks ago, which I found really fascinating. haven’t spent much time in the middleeast, so it was a good opportunity to have a look around this region – especially since we now have 4 airlines flying from Australia to Europe via the middle-east. Although none of them actually fly direct to Muscat, it’s pretty easy to get a connecting flight from either Abu Dhabi or Dubai, or in fact, get a transfer by car.

Oman Tourism has an Australian Office, and they are really trying to encourage Australians to visit. I spent a few nights in Muscat, as well as travelling out of the city into the mountains and countryside.

The standard of accommodation was fantastic – we stayed at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa in Muscat, which has three different standards of accommodation – 5*, 4* and the family-oriented 3 ½*. It was a great resort with something for everyone – swimming pools, kids' areas, private beaches and a great choice of restaurants. And the part of the resort we stayed in had a happy hour each evening, which was one of the best happy hours I’d experienced. Why? Because it was free!

In Muscat we visited the Grand Mosque, which was very impressive – the chandelier in the men’s praying area has over 1,000 light bulbs! You just need to be aware of their customs, and women are required to cover their heads with a scarf and also wear longsleeved shirts and long pants when visiting the Mosque.

We also spent time in the Old Town visiting the Mutrah Souk and drove by the Sultan’s official residence and the old Portuguese forts guarding the harbour.

On the third day we spent a very relaxing day sailing on a magnificent catamaran called the Azzura, around the Gulf of Oman and stopping for a swim and BBQ – I know it’s a tough life, but someone’s gotta do it!

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One bit of interesting information I gleaned while there, was that thousands of sea turtles migrate annually from the shores of the Arabian Gulf, the Red Sea and Somalia to lay their eggs on the Sultanate’s shores. The best time to witness this beautiful phenomenon is from July to October, as approximately 20,000 turtles or more lay an estimated 50,00060,000 eggs each year.

The next day we drove into the heart of Oman stopping in the ancient capital of Nizwa, where we visited the very old and impressive Jabrin Castle before heading up into the mountains to Jabal Akhdar, meaning: 'The Green Mountain' in Arabic, which is part of the Al Hajar mountain range, one of Oman’s most spectacular regions.

Here, 2,000 metres above sea level, we visited the still to be completed Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort, which overlooks a dramatic gorge, surrounded by awe-inspiring views of the Al Hajar Mountains. In fact, the gorge this resort overlooks reminded me of a small version of the Grand Canyon. This resort opens at the beginning of May, and it really was very impressive. A great place to relax for a few days in a bit of luxury, or for the more adventurous there are plenty of great walks and treks you can do through the mountains and gorges.

As the Omani Tourism Board says: Beauty has an address – Oman.

On a note closer to home, AAT Kings have a regional departure for one of their New Zealand Tours this year. The 18-day guided holiday will actually start in Armidale and have pick-up points along the New England Highway to Sydney, return flights to NZ and the coach tour around New Zealand. Cost is $4,451 per person twin share. Departure date is 15th November, returning on the 2nd Dec. If you would like more information on this tour, drop in and see me or call me on 6772 2585.

YOUR MUM This Mother's Day

ENTER and WIN Direct From the USA For the first time ever, The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will perform at Lazenby Hall, University of New England on Thursday 10th July at 7.30pm. This concert will feature 26 musicians, singers, and dancers on stage, performing the unforgettable music of the 1940s, from the Golden Era of Swing. A special added feature will be music from the library of The Glenn Miller Army Air Force Band performed by the Orchestra, including the original arrangement of The St Louis Blues March. The Glenn Miller Orchestra, featuring America’s finest musicians and singers and together with The Moonlight Serenade Singers and The Broadway Swing Dancers, bring back all those sentimental memories of the 1940s – the great ‘Big Band’ hits, the original Glenn Miller arrangements, the music of The Andrews Sisters, the Frank

Sinatra Songbook, the romantic World War II melodies made famous by Vera Lynn…We’ll Meet Again, The White Cliffs Of Dover, and many more … Even after 77 years, Glenn Miller’s musical arrangements are still heard around the world – timeless icons of American culture such as Chattanooga Choo Choo, In the Mood, Tuxedo Junction, A String of Pearls, Moonlight Serenade, Little Brown Jug, Pennsylvania 6-5000 – music which captivated millions of people worldwide, now all brought together on stage in what promises to be a memorable concert. We urge you to book early. A Concert Spectacular starring ...The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra,the Moonlight Serenade Singers and the Broadway Swing Dancers.

Join us on a sentimental journey down memory lane!

•Nils Nilsson & Sons•

The Observatory Penthouse

YO U C O U L D W I N M U M T H E U LT I M AT E PA C K A G E Luxury Penthouse Accommodation at The Observatory 3 nights for up to 4 people in a luxurious Penthouse overlooking Town Beach Port Macquarie.

&

THE LONG AWAITED RETURN OF AN AMERICAN LEGEND...DIRECT FROM THE USA

Spa treatment for mum from endota spa to the value of $150

$200 Voucher to use at The Glasshouse Box Office or Gift Shop.

Total prize valued at over $1950 HOW TO ENTER

THE WORLD FAMOUS GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA THE MOONLIGHT SERENADE SINGERS THE BROADWAY SWING DANCERS

ATA Allstars AD

Mussiical Mu cal Di ca Direct reccttor re or: Ri or: Rick ck Geerrber be r be

1

Upload your favourite photo of you and your mum, along with 50 words about what makes her amazing - to our Facebook page. www.facebook.com/loveyourmumgiveaway

2

Share the photo with all your friends and get them to LIKE it.

3

The photo with the most number of likes at 5pm Saturday 8 May will WIN this amazing prize.

“A spectacular rendition of classics & upbeat favourites” Australian Stage

and fe and an feat atur urin inngg musi mu musi sic from from fr om

CONCERT SPECTACULAR 26 Musicians, Singers and Dancers on Stage Unforgettable Music of the 1940’s from the Golden Era of Swing

LAZENBY HALL, UNE, ARMIDALE – Thur 10 July, 7.30pm Book at sales@blackdot.com.au or 6772 6325

02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au

Conditions: Open to anyone. Not redeemable for any other offers, or exchangeable for cash or other goods.

Must be used within 12 months of 8th May 2014. Black out dates may apply. Check at time of booking.

new england focus 21

focuspets.

LET'S FOCUS ON PET DENTISTRY All of our 4 legged furry friends have teeth – or at least, they should have! Starting out with ‘milk’ teeth, either at or soon after birth, then cutting adult teeth which should last a lifetime.

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ental disease is a very common reason for animals being presented to the vet, and yet it is one of the most preventable conditions that we see. It’s estimated that over 85% of dogs and cats over the age of 4 have some form of dental disease, which can cause bad breath, ulcers, pain and act as a source of infection which can make your pet seriously ill. It’s relatively easy to assess your dog or cats' teeth – just ‘flip the lip’, and most conditions become apparent.

Horses also need a regular dental care programme, despite the fact they may

show no obvious symptoms. Being prey animals, they are very good at hiding pain or weakness. It may be that you notice weight loss, dropping feed whilst eating, fighting the bit or in really bad cases, a foul smell from the mouth. It’s not quite so easy to ‘flip the lip’ in a horse, so it’s important that a vet with equine dental knowledge makes regular assessments.

We currently have two equine dental vets available for horse consultations. Both Jason Andrews and our very own ‘Dr Harry’ have undertaken additional training in equine dentistry and oral surgery and

are available for consultation either at our equine facilities, or at your own property.

Dog and cats may be seen at either our Armidale or Uralla clinics, both of which are equipped with the latest IM-3 dental workstations. There is no charge to have your pet’s mouth assessed by a vet or nurse, but appointments are essential.

P.S. We are having an Open Day on May 10, 11am - 2pm, with all proceeds donated to the drought appeal. It’s a great opportunity to come and see how a radiology building becomes a vet clinic. See you there!

FASHION

PARADE

The Earle Page College Coast Run Committee has proudly raised money for the Children's Medical Research Institute in Sydney for 35 years.

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ne of our most exciting and biggest fundraising events is the Annual Fashion Parade. This year we are once again holding it at the Armidale Ex-service club, who helped us host a wonderful night in 2013, and we cannot wait build on that on the 17th of May 2014.

Coast Run is celebrating our 21st year of Fashion Parade, and theme of the night is Night At The Oscars. During the Fashion Parade, Earle Page College students, staff and members of the 22 new england focus.

community will model clothes from stores in the community, combining great performances with fun and sometimes crazy fashion. Fashion Parade is always a wonderful combination of student, staff and community involvement, and this year will be no different. We hope to get as many people involved this year as we have in the past, and it is all to raise money for such a great charity. Our previous record for one years fundraising, Fashion Parade included, is $45,000, and we are definitely looking to beat that this year.

Earle Page College and the Children's Medical Research Institute is grateful for any and all support from the community, and anyone wanting to attend Fashion Parade on the 17th of May just has to contact Earle Page College Office on 67735300 between 8 am and 4pm on weekdays, email us at epc@une.edu.au, or come and visit.

The Coast Run Committee, Fashion Parade coordinator Tamara Cohen, Earle Page College, and everyone involved in the community look forward to Fashion Parade 2014: Night At The Oscars!

focuseditorial.

GET YOUR

FACE on the wall

Minimbah Sign Up days a success

@

Why was the project created?

NERAM

Many Australians have not had their births registered and do not have a copy of their birth certificate – so found a team of volunteer students from University of New England in 2011, assisted by agencies like as

Have you ever wanted to have your face up on a gallery wall? Now you have the chance, as NERAM’s interFACE project links in with the exhibition Face to Face. Museum Collections make Connections.

Pathfinders.

Pathfinders CEO Alan Brennan observed that, "Without this 'primary' form of identification, thousands cannot gain access to mainstream services, such as opening bank accounts, enrolling in school and voting.

It's a privilege for us to work alongside talented and committed students

edia artist Laszlo Szabo will be creating digital mash-up of visitors’ faces and projecting them on the wall, so that funky dynamic images will enter into dialogue with portraits from the NERAM collections.

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The ‘selfie’ has gained considerable currency in recent times, and interFACE seeks to exploit it by generating a wonderful interactive aspect to the exhibition that can expand beyond the walls of NERAM through Facebook and Instagram. Younger people who use these technologies daily can get involved and discover how mixing old and new artistic techniques can promote wonderful

synchronicities and serendipities. But participation is by no means limited to the young – anyone who wants to be part of the mash-up is welcome to get involved.

The projections will be constantly changing, and the material generated will form the basis of a film that will be showcased on the NERAM website at the end of the exhibition. Face to Face opens on 2 May and runs through to 3 August. The interFACE project will run for the entire exhibition period, but NERAM particularly encourages everyone to come along to the museum on Sunday 18 May, to join in celebrating International Museum Day. What better way of celebrating a global day

established to encourage public awareness of the role of museums in society, than to become part of the museum’s exhibitions!

With the 2014 theme, Museum Collections make Connections, we are aiming to have up to 500 visitors on International Museum Day. Be one of the 500 and make a connection to NERAM!

from UNE, to help address what we have found to be a national issue."

What are the aims of the project?

Over the past two years, UNE students have raised more than $300,000 to fund and organise birth certificate 'Sign Up Days'. Under the program, birth certificates (which usually cost $51) can be issued without charge to children and their families through schools and other agencies, providing they have sufficient forms of identification.

The Minimbah Project team is also campaigning at a federal and state level to have birth registration of babies occur 'automatically', based on

the plug!

NERAM opening hours: Tuesday - Friday 10am to 5pm Saturday - Sunday 10am to 4pm For more information www.neram.com.au

hospital admission records of mothers.

How many births have been registered?

More than 1,600 children and adults have been issued with certificates through Minimbah sign up days over the past three years. UNE project leader Reece Trickey said, "In recent weeks we have helped to sign up 340 children and adults in regional centres. A further 1,600 are targeted this year. We aim to provide as many certificates as possible to needy Australians and are always on the lookout for further donations to help our cause."

B OW E L S C A N K I T S Sale Of Bowelscan Kits In Pharmacies Will Now Commence Saturday, May 1 And Continue Until May 31.

Sale of kits by Rotary Clubs will commence Saturday 3rd May 2014 outside Ellys Coffee Lounge, Armidale Plaza. Rotary sales conclude 10th May 2014; sale in pharmacies will continue until May 31.

How do people sign up?

Pathfinders are proud to be supporting UNE Enactus by providing support for sign up days, including Narromine (29th April), Dubbo (30th April), Narrabri (1st May) and Dubbo (2nd May). Sign ups in Inverell and other centres are also planned before June 2014.

The Bowelscan kits are new and more sensitive.

More people with a positive will be found and advised to undergo further tests.

KITS SELL AT $12.

Kits to be returned to pharmacies for two weeks until June 14 and placed in Box provided to be picked up by Rotarians ...

Kits will be collected regularly by a Rotarian.

Rotary Bowelscan, in its 28th year, has saved over 575 people with detected Bowel Cancer and many thousands with polyps being removed. Rotary thanks pharmacies in the local area for your support.

Any problems or a need for further information, please contact – Rotarian Joyce Durey.

the plug!

Coordinator: Joyce Durey Email: jdurey@bigpond.net.au Postal Address: P.O. Box 1317, Armidale NSW 2350 Phone 6771 2734 or Mobile 0407 005 910

new england focus 23

New England

Flash fried calamari & mango salad with roasted macadamia & aoli from The Wicklow.

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

eat.

The Mill Bistro The Mill Bistro - Armidale SerVies The Mill Bistro’s new head chef, Chris Kershaw, has introduced a new quality and freshness to the menu, so come and taste the difference.

New Menu Out Now Enjoy some of the new dishes out, including grilled Atlantic Salmon with lemon herb butter, or perhaps the traditional Mixed Grill (pictured left) is more to your liking – come and try the menu today! $9 Daily Special Every day there’s a new special on for just $9.

So for a budget-friendly, tasty bite to eat, lunch or dinner, pop into The Mill Bistro.

Prue & Olive

Open 7 days a week - lunch 12pm - 2.30pm and dinner 6pm - 9pm

The team at Prue & Olive is committed to providing a unique and specialised café experience for its customers. From the moment you walk into the Moore Street café, customers are made to feel welcome by the friendly staff, including Jules, Prudence and Sarah.

The menu at Prue & Olive is seasonal, with local and fresh produce utilised by chef, Oscar the Magnificent, to create delicious meals. Prue & Olive is dedicated to creating a distinctive café atmosphere through the presentation of food and drinks, staff uniforms and the overall ambience of the café.

The café is also happy to provide high tea and catering for special occasions and private functions. Come into Prue & Olive and make your next café experience an enjoyable one!

Head Chef Chris Kershaw.

Armidale Memorial Ex-Services Club, Dumaresq St t 6776 0800

Shop 2/ 14 Moore St, Armidale t 6772 6262 fb www.fb.com/prueandolive Twitter + Instagram @prueandolive

open 7 days a week - lunch noon - 2.30pm and dinner 6pm - 9pm.

open Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm. Sat: 8am - 4pm.

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

The Wicklow

Whitebull Hotel STEAKHOUSE Restaurant

Open 7 days; The Wicklow Hotel provides a warm, casual dining atmosphere with delicious bistro style meals served lunch and diner. Daily chalkboard specials include $10 lunches and a large selection of our chef's favorites to be enjoyed indoors or alfresco in our sunny beer garden.

The award winning Whitebull Hotel 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.

As the weekend winds down, come and join our friendly crew for a classic Sunday afternoon session with live music, good food and good times from 4pm.

Book your next birthday or function at The Wicklow and take advantage of our spacious function room complete with private bar capable of catering for groups of all sizes. For bookings and inquires please call 6772 2421.

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.

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

Lunch: noon - 2pm.

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

Sunday opening times are from 11am until 10pm. new england focus 25

focusinterview.

AARON LANE WICKLOW HOTEL

Aaron Lane is enjoying the renovated kitchen at the Wicklow and working with his motivated and enthusiastic team. Keep an eye on Aaron's menu offerings over coming weeks, with hearty winter warmers set to make an appearance.

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ell us About the NEW kitchen @ the Wicklow. The major renovation undertaken in February was replacing the entire kitchen floor – not an easy task!

Also, plenty of other odd jobs required some attention, like resealing fridges and repairing equipment. The kitchen itself is spacious, well equipped, and capable of catering for large numbers. I think the biggest change happening here is in the attitude of the staff. Keeping a kitchen crew happy and motivated is the key to a solid service. I believe with the right team in it, the kitchen is now better than ever and ready to satisfy the hungry masses.

What’s NEW about the menu?

We have decided to keep the menu relatively simple for now; so most of the old favourites aren’t going anywhere – just good quality pub style meals at affordable prices. A simple set menu like this gives my team and I time to focus on increasing the overall quality of our food and filling our chalkboards with delicious new specials on a daily basis. Over the coming months you can expect to see lots of hearty, cold busting curries, soups, stews and pies. I personally love the winter warmers – fun food to cook and one of the perks of the job is that I have to try every dish! We also have brand new function menus on the way and plenty of exciting food/drink promotions happening all the time.

How long have you been a chef? I have been 26 new england focus.

In the game for about 11 years now, starting as a kitchen hand at a local café. I have worked in several kitchens since from café to pub bistro to fine dining. I’m not sure which style of restaurant I would prefer to work in; I have enjoyed different aspects of each, like making gourmet pizzas with 'Addy’s on Marsh' – that was a great little kitchen to work in! I also really enjoyed the café work, breakfasts in particular, which I haven’t had the chance to do in a few years now.

Tell us about your best plate ...

Best plate is a hard one to answer. I think it’s important to constantly grow and adapt your style of cooking around your current clientele.

My 'best plate' this week may be different the next. At the moment, I’m really enjoying working with seafood and playing with different flavour combos in salads. You would be amazed what goes well together if you’re willing to reach outside the box for an ingredient or two.

But as the weather gets colder, the seafood and salad thing will probably wear off, and I think I can feel a bit of a baking/dessert phase coming next. Now that I’m thinking desserts, if I HAD to pick a dish, a few years ago I did a layered dark chocolate mousse w/ salted caramel praline and hazelnut foam topped with lots of fresh berries and white chocolate shavings. That was an amazing looking plate – a possible candidate for 'best'.

Bistro Grill Armidale City Bowling Club The Bistro Grill at the Armidale City Bowling Club is proud to release their new lunch menu.

Proving to be very popular with our customers, we have a range of meals available seven days a week for lunch between 12pm and 2pm, from roast meals, burgers, schnitzels, seafood, and a large selection of chef's specials.

And as we are the Club that keeps on giving, we are currently offering a complimentary middy of beer, glass of house wine, or soft drink with all main meals at lunch time.

Like you, we are also starting to think about spoiling our mums for Mother’s Day, and to help you we are hosting a Buffet Breakfast

from 8.30am until 10am, which includes scrambled eggs, bacon, hash browns, cereal, yoghurt and lots more for only $16 per person (kids under 12 $10; kids under 5 $5). Or, if Mum isn’t a morning person, why not join us for a Buffet Carvery Lunch from 12pm until 2pm for $16.50 per person (kids under 12 $10; kids under 5 $5). Our delicious lunch will include a selection of hand carved roasts with all the trimmings, and you can also join in the fun of our Monster Sunday Raffles and maybe treat Mum to a nice glass of bubbly.

So join us on Sunday 11th May with your mum and family; but make sure you contact us today to make a reservation, so you don’t miss out on (02) 6772 5666.

BREAST AUGMENTATION WHICH IMPLANT? WHAT SIZE? HICH IMPLANT? Breast augmentation with silicone implants has been done for over 50 years, with silicone implants first used in 1962 & saline implants in 1964.

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not a difficult decision for me to use only the best implants, namely the high cohesive biodimensional implants for my patients. I use the Natrelle (previously known as McGhan) 410 for its well established reputation for safety & quality.

Over the years, many improvements have been made by addressing problems of silicone diffusion, silicone & saline leak, rupture, deflation & migration.

These implants cost more than many others - but what price safety & peace of mind for both patient & surgeon?

Saline implants have a major problem - a valve is used to fill an empty silicone shell with sterile saline (salt water) at the time of surgery. Unfortunately, in addition to the previously mentioned problems, the saline implant has the additional risk of a valve leak in about 20% of patients.

This is probably the hardest decision for the patient! The problem is due to the fact that the same sized & shaped implant will look different on different women, due to differences in breast & chest shape & size.

Silicone gel-implants on the other hand have become better & safer, especially with the development of high cohesive gel-implants (the silicone in these implants have more cross linkages, which causes greater cohesion of the molecules of silicone) in which implant leak or migration is almost completely eliminated.

Further, the availability of biodimensional (naturally shaped) implants in a range of projections, height & width, permits "customisation" for the patient.

With all of the above changes, it was

28 new england focus.

WHAT SIZE?

Breast augmentation, while increasing size & volume, will also highlight every existing problem in nipple size & position, breast shape, position & asymmetry & chest shape & asymmetry.

There is no template or formula to follow & a photograph of a woman with implants that compliments her are not relevant to any other woman. The only thing that works is individualization & customisation.

depends on a number of factors, & the patient's compliance with the necessary postoperative care is critical. Time is well spent in going into all the details, for the patient to be well informed.

The patient is then advised to come back in a week or two, giving time for absorption of all information given.

The second consultation, at no additional cost, may be a short one, with the patients seeking some information.

If the patient has decided to go ahead with surgery she then has to choose her surgeon.

I prefer my patients to have a good think about this & want them to choose me on trust & rapport & not on price or style.

The rest is easy!

We have a good range of brassieres, fitting tops & breast-implant sizers, to take the patient through a range of implants, to help her choose the right size (or sizes, if asymmetry is significant).

HOW I DO IT

The use of a full-length mirror & a well setup digital photography studio aids in helping the patient to see herself in the mirror & in an immediately available digital image.

At the first consultation, the time is spent discussing breast augmentation, the pros & cons, the timing of surgery & the dos & dont's after surgery. The eventual result

The goal is to make a woman look good with or without clothes, to have a natural look & for her to feel happy & confident with the change in her body contour.

focusinterview.

Gallery 126.

michael brogan e

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FAY P O RT E R A N D M I C H A E L B RO GA N C O M M E N C E T H E I R E X H I B I T AT G A L L E RY 126 O N T H E 9 T H M AY.

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AY P O R T E R How long have you lived in the area?

After an early career in publishing and art direction in Sydney, where I grew up, I lived in New Zealand and Tasmania for a few years then came to the New England in the late l960s.

Describe the type of artwork you specialise in?

I don’t really think about specialisation. I think more about each group of work needing its own resolution. I do mostly draw in various mediums rather than paint, but I feel free to change. If I see something that interests me, I draw it at once. Even a quick sketch fixes the image in my head for further use. Then I start work with whatever medium seems best to answer the pictorial problem.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Anywhere and anything! There are times when suddenly I see something stunning, and

that will give me impetus to work for months (or until I have wrung everything that I can get from the original vision). Other times I have to work without inspiration, and that is always difficult but necessary. The thought of finding visual resource from everyday surroundings and objects, rather than seeking exotica, appeals to me strongly, but I find also that working in new locations from time to time is energising, brings new challenges and allows me to see my usual environment with a fresh eye.

Also, literature, poetry, music, film, the environment generally and earth sciences in particular, and the many interesting things and events that continually turn up when one lives in Uralla.

When is your exhibition at Gallery 126, and what can people expect to see?

This exhibition with Michael Brogan is opening on the 9th May. My work is about memory I have of the day after day heat and glare during last summer’s heat wave. I thought it would never end and spent the days

in the shaded house drawing the effects of any given time, either physical, ephemeral, glaring light on curtains and blinds. much of which dwells within my own memory.

MICHAEL BROGAN Other than your artworks, what are your How long have you lived in the other interests? area?

I’m a real motion picture head I have lived in Armidale for and enjoy a really good over 13 years now and coffee. never tire from knowing When is My aesthetics are influenced what a great part of the your exhibition at and country we live. from a ceramic Gallery 126, and what , ck ground printmaking ba Describe the type can people expect to k t wor in that my curren ial of artwork you see? sent is reduced to es specialise in?

Our exhibition elements.”

I don’t really specialise commences from 9th . an -Michael Brog in any particular type May through to 7th June. of artwork. However, my I’m not familiar with most aesthetics are influenced people’s expectations, for from a ceramic and printmaking most people who are familiar background, in that my current work is with my work are aware that the reduced to essential elements. dialogue between artwork and the viewer is a Where do you get your inspiration from? personal response, whether it is good or bad – Most of my inspiration is drawn from the there is no in between. landscape and the sense I have of ‘Place’ at

“

new england focus 29

THE HEART OF BUSINESS ‘ T H E H E A RT O F B U S I N E S S ’ . . . T H E AU T HO R , DAV I D H E N D E R S O N , I S A S M A L L B U S I N E S S C OU N S E L L O R W HO B E L I E V E S T H AT W H E N P E O P L E S P E A K A N D AC T F RO M T H E H E A RT A N D S H A R E M O R E H O N E S T LY, WO R K P L AC E S A R E A L O T H A P P I E R .

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he aim of this story is to encourage us all to explore love and compassion at work, so as to return these attributes to our small business heart.

Our businesses become 'stuck' in a place where people have been forgotten or at least, taken for granted, and compassionate business is lost. Stuck, perhaps, because they have been led by business heads, not business hearts.

30 new england focus.

Strategicness has prevailed over happiness and wellness, resulting in avoidable stress and unhappiness.

We should have concentrated on growing the people, growing the relationships, having faith, as a way of meeting our strategic objectives. Set aside the hardhearted business ‘lens’ and use a different way of looking at business, and personal, relationships.

Carolyn Barker, author of The Australian Institute of Management publication entitled love@work says, inter alia, “People who come to work, in any type of job, intrinsically want to belong, to be respected, regardless of the reason they are there in the first place”.

Let’s ‘unpack’ what compassionate business might mean, in our own businesses; let’s create some positive intervention that will lead to people enjoying work more, and being happier.

It might mean rethink our interconnectedness with other people, the respect we have for them, the way we treat them.

It might mean commit to do our best to treat others with openhearted love and

respect, without any expectation that the same will be returned.

We can work out what we mean by love, in this context. I love my wife, who says, "But you love chocolate, so, what do you mean, ‘love’”? What is the love we seek to weave, carefully, into our everyday business life?

Could it be openhearted warmth for and toward other sentient beings? To accept, but not to judge, to practice patience and forbearance, to let people be, even if we struggle to accept what they do and say?

Could we reach out and support others who are struggling to cope and share friendliness?

These are resulting emotions, not to be misunderstood or misused. This is open, respectful and honest.

We can weave love and compassion, carefully, into business life every day and improve the quality of our interconnectedness with others.

We have to tackle love of ourselves. This may be quite hard, to describe how we feel about ourselves, or even give it a thought.

We may not have 'liked' ourselves much, rarely satisfied that we had done our best to be fully conscious, mindful and compassionate, even though we have sought it, read about it, talked about it.

So, this is a process where we ‘self learn’ about being-ness and mindfulness. Feel more compassionate. Realise there is a better way to live life, to treat people, to make them happier, to make our businesses more sustainable.

What lies ahead is new, awaiting brave souls who venture forth. Remaining in our hardhearted, past experience bound comfort zone is too easy.

We need to 'soften', to stop looking into the past and accept that the answer to our challenge is to create a new business model, outside the place where poor communication, mental stress and unhappiness were born.

Let’s conclude, it’s time to start treating people with openhearted love and respect ... to promote this as a cornerstone, a foundation or starting point, for our business and us.

O’CONNOR STEP PROGRAMME

O’Connor Catholic College Year 11 students Mitchell Gwynne and Claudia Hargrave tell FOCUS readers about the benefits of the College’s STEP programme.

W

hat is the STEP programme, and how long has it been running at the College?

The STEP programme has been running at O’Connor for many years. It was initiated to assist primary school students in their transition to high school through a series of fun and interactive lessons to show them what high school is like.

It is designed for students in Year 6 who would like to ents The Year 11 stud experience what O’Connor are involved in Catholic College has to h throug this programme offer in a wide range of h ut Yo being a LaSallian e learning activities that es Leader (LYL). Th e for vary from in the classroom bl si on LYLs are resp re to the workshop. The tu fu e th g in introduc ol Year 6 students learn in ho sc e th to Year 7s nge of all different environments, ra e id w e th d an fers.” with activities like visiting curriculum it of construction workshops, experiencing the hospitality kitchen, as well as general classroom experiences.

Who can attend the STEP programme, and what are the activities?

Students across all schools in and around Armidale can participate in our STEP days.

The school encourages all students to attend,

“

even if O’Connor isn’t their first choice, as it allows them to experience our loving and caring environment that the school provides.

Activities include building moneyboxes with our construction students, cooking s’mores with hospitality students, as well as team building activities.

How are the Year 11 students involved in this programme and why?

The Year 11 students are involved in this programme through being a LaSallian Youth Leader (LYL). These LYLs are responsible for introducing the future Year 7s to the school, and the wide range of curriculum it offers.

These Year 11s are introduced to the Year 6s, because in the year they come to our College, the Year 11s step up and become school leaders for 2015.

As students, can you tell us how the STEP programme benefits children considering attending O’Connor Catholic College for their high school education?

As a past student of the STEP programme, it really benefited myself by letting me experience how different primary school was, compared to high school. I really recommend becoming involved with this programme, as it offers a great experience as well as how beneficial it is in the transition from primary to high school.

new england focus 31

Drummond Park Drummond Park Preschool has a long history of providing high quality care for 3 - 5 year olds in Armidale.

WHY SHOULD PARENTS SEND THEIR CHILDREN TO PRESCHOOL? Research has shown that children who attend preschool experience an easier transition to school life, both socially and academically. Children who attend preschool are more confident and adapt better to the structure and routine of the classroom.

WHAT SETS DRUMMOND PARK APART FROM OTHER PRESSCHOOLS? The NSW Department of Education awarded Drummond Park the highest rating of Exceeding the National Quality Standard.

All preschools and childcare centres are assessed against stringent criteria across key areas of early childhood education.

An outstanding achievement for Armidale’s smallest preschool.

All staff members are highly qualified.

An outsourced music teacher conducts two music classes per week. Drummond Park provides an intimate environment, with a strong focus on the individual. This fosters strong peer friendships and relationships within the preschool community.

Each term the preschoolers experience an excursion, which consolidates their learning, promotes their sense of identity and school readiness. Previous excursions include trips to NERAM, the Aboriginal Keeping Place and Autumn Lodge. Drummond Park preschoolers create large scale arts and crafts projects including felting, paper making and sculptural installations. This promotes teamwork, social skills and a sense community.

32 new england focus.

MAXIMISE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL Correct breathing, tongue position, swallowing and lip posture are critical to the optimal development of your child’s face, mouth and jaws. The team at The Orofacial Centre have the expertise and experience to help you establish the very best development environment for your children.

Maximising the genetic potential of your child’s face and mouth can also prevent the emergence of issues such as crowded teeth and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Committed to the very latest research and development, Z[HɈ H[ ;OL 6YVMHJPHS *LU[YL recently attended the international symposium, Sleep, Breathe, Grow: Dental Dilemmas and the 7HLKPH[YPJ (PY^H` ;OLYL P[ ^HZ revealed that something like 80,000 (\Z[YHSPHU JOPSKYLU Z\ɈLY MYVT OSA, mostly in the age range of 2 to 8 years. Research suggests that this can lead to behavioural problems, growth inhibition, hyperactivity and decreased school performance. ;OL M\SS L_WYLZZPVU VM `V\Y JOPSK»Z genetic code can be disrupted as a consequence of some aspects of modern society ranging from processed foods to soap! We can PUHK]LY[LU[S` [\YU VɈ ZVTL VM [OL natural feedback required by the body for correct development.

Here are some things to ensure that your child’s orofacial complex develops fully.

Breast is best Breast feeding is extremely important—evidence shows that this begins right from the delivery room. A baby’s instinct to suckle can be disturbed if washed too ZVVU PU [OL ÄYZ[ KH`Z HM[LY IPY[O! [OL desire to suckle is to some extent dependent on smell. Washing a baby (especially with soap) can disrupt the natural feedback causing them to become confused and not establish correct suckling habits.

Breast feeding position is also important with research showing that a vertical position when feeding is ideal. It enables the baby to breathe continually through its nose and feed without the need to Z[VW HUK [HRL IYLH[OZ ;OPZ TLHUZ it’s best to avoid lying down to feed. When done correctly, breast feeding stimulates optimal jaw growth and swallowing patterns.

Six months of breast feeding is probably the minimum to develop correct lip, tongue and breathing patterns. If not well established by three years of age, then

adjustments to diet and other corrective measures can produce excellent results reducing the need for later care.

Diet can be decisive Infants should proceed straight from breast milk to a solid diet without the need for processed baby foods. Food type and quality are extremely important for the optimal development of the jaws in the developing child.

Many processed, high sugar MVVKZ HYL WYV PUÅHTTH[VY` HUK WYVK\JL UHZHS Z^LSSPUN ;OPZ JHU lead to mouth breathing, under development of the facial complex and, eventually, dental crowding, facial pain and sleep issues. An ideal diet for children under six will MLH[\YL OPNO ÄIYL MY\P[Z ]LNL[HISLZ MYLZO ÄZO NYHZZ MLK TLH[ HUK U\[Z all eaten plain without dressings or condiments.

Treatments to trigger healthy growth 4VZ[ JOPSKYLU \UKLY ZP_ ^PSS ILULÄ[ markedly in their development with

Suite 4, 175 Rusden Street Armidale 2350

6772 3522

the following: 1. Hardening the diet (e.g. raw vegetables, etc.)

2. Breathing through the nose 70-80% of the time 3. Bilateral mastication (i.e. chewing on both sides of the mouth) 4. Simple exercises to build up the function of the jaw, tongue and lips Intervention is easy to implement at this age and can help prevent further negative patterns from emerging in the growth of the orofacial complex. If appliances are needed at this stage, age four is the best as it allows treatment to be completed before the child ILNPUZ [V SVZL [OLPY ÄYZ[ [LL[O H[ approximately six years of age.

0M `V\»K SPRL [V ÄUK V\[ TVYL about creating the best possible conditions for the development of your child, come by to see us at ;OL 6YVMHJPHS *LU[YL H[ +L^O\YZ[ Dental – we’d love to help! For more information see www.orofacial.com.au

34 new england focus.

HAPPY

Mother’s DAY

There has been a lot of change for women in the last 50 years ... growing equal opportunity, breaking through the glass ceiling, women’s lib. For many of us, however, there’s still the shopping, cooking and cleaning to be done, as well as family commitments.

I

t can be exhausting. What you may not know is that a great way to combat stress and to feel on top of things is by being active and exercising regularly. At SportUNE we firmly believe that regular exercise improves the quality of your life.

It not only benefits us physically, resulting in stronger muscles, body awareness, reduced body fat, greater energy and more flexibility, but has emotional bonuses as well. You will have an increased sense of wellbeing through the release of endorphins or ‘happy hormones’ into the body. It can also improve self-esteem, motivation and improve sleep, while at the same time reducing stress and anxiety that is all too common in our hectic lifestyle.

and motivating instructors. But not everyone likes to work out in a group, with some members preferring a more individual focus.

“A start up program can be provided for you, or The key is to se alternatively, you may ci er find an ex Mally McCormack, at th ity tiv choose to engage a ac SportUNE’s Gym and program or t no is it so personal trainer to help y, you enjo Fitness Co-ordinator, ng si oo ch By e. you get going.” a chor says, “The key is enjoy, u yo ng hi et m so SportUNE is open to to find an exercise ely to you are more lik the whole community k ic st and program or activity stay motivated and has so much to that you enjoy, so with it.” give all ages and fitness it is not a chore. By levels. We offer a modern, choosing something you well-equipped strength and enjoy, you are more likely to conditioning gym, 25 metre stay motivated and stick with it. indoor-heated pool, and over 50 group Saying this, it is also important to vary fitness classes each week including the your routine, to maintain your interest ever popular Les Mills BodyPump, BodyStep, and to keep achieving results. For those BodyAttack, BodyCombat, BodyBalance, who need the social aspect and peer support, CXWorx and RPM. We also provide a wide we provide group classes led by experienced

“

range of freestyle classes, some incorporating strength and conditioning techniques, while others may focus on functional fitness, or are more low impact, such as aqua aerobics and wellbeing classes like Yoga and Pilates.

SportUNE operates a free crèche each Tuesday and Thursday morning, which gives mums the opportunity to enjoy a chat and a coffee after their workout, with the knowledge their children are being well looked after.

Our great team of fully qualified, professional trainers and instructors are ready to assist you.

They run free gym accreditation and starter programs for new members to familiarise you with the gym equipment and help you feel at ease and understand how to best utilise the gear. For more information on how you can get started on your fitness and exercise program and on the road to a more balanced lifestyle, contact SportUNE on 6773 3856, email sportune@une.edu.au or visit www.sportune.com.au

new england focus 35

Retirement Living in Armidale Imagine spending your retirement years surrounded by friends, engaging in daily social activities, going on regular outings and living in a modern home with no garden or external maintenance. designs of all homes to ensure there are no steps, and minimal door way lips to avoid trip hazards, as well as limited reason for bending or reaching. For additional g in The fast expand ith peace of mind, the w , up Oak Tree Gro d he is bl village will be a gated ta es a portfolio of 12 e th ss ro ac ng community providing ni villages span ia, al tr us A of t as full security around eastern co truction ns co ce en m m the boundary will co ay 2014 in Armidale in M perimeters. “For ilt bu rpose ith a range of pu w us at Oak Tree, it is ity un m designed to suit a com low set homes, about value adding of y riet independent centre and a va to provide not just a s.” retirees looking leisure facilitie home, but a lifestyle,” for a relaxed, says Oak Tree Regional carefree lifestyle. A Manager Melissa Luck. “We Village Manager will endeavour to create an enriching oversee the day to day village environment for our residents – one activities, and the easily accessible where they can connect with fellow recreational facilities, including residents in a social atmosphere, feel safe and bowling green and swimming pool, supported by our dedicated Village Manager will have an inviting community feel. Special and ultimately enjoy their retirement years care and attention has been taken in the

“

S

top imagining: Oak Tree Retirement Villages is set to make this a reality for Armidale residents, with the construction of its newest village located on the corner of Beardy and Martin Streets. The fast expanding Oak Tree Group, with a portfolio of 12 established villages spanning across the eastern coast of Australia, will commence construction in Armidale in May 2014 with a range of purpose built low set homes, a community centre and a variety of leisure facilities. The village is specifically

36 new england focus.

in carefree style.” Priced from an affordable $260,000 for a two bedroom home and $300,000 for a three bedroom home, the 86 free standing villa development will be built over several stages – the first eight villas due for completion in late September/early October 2014.“Our affordable pricing means current home owners can typically sell their homes and buy into Oak Tree, enjoying their home and retirement lifestyle, and in many instances, still have money left in the bank; this is extremely important to today’s seniors,” said Mrs Luck.

With an intentional regional focus, Oak Tree prides itself on helping to keep seniors at home in the areas they’ve grown up in, lived in and loved. For this reason, Oak Tree Group has selected Armidale to become its newest village location.

Armidale residents ready to embrace a carefree retirement lifestyle should make enquiries today on 1300 367 155 or visit www.oaktreegroup.com.au.

HydroKleen

Armidale Care for Seniors Inc What is new at Armidale Care For Seniors Inc? There has been some wonderful growth of activities recently, with the extension of the Splinter Woodworking Group to now both Wednesdays and Thursdays. Each Splinter Woodworking Group member works on their own projects. You need not have any prior woodworking skills, as the dedicated volunteers will always lend a hand; however, you must be social, as everyone supports each other – men and women alike.

Newly established and growing each week is the Wednesday Crafters. Again, each person brings their own handiwork in, and it has formed a great platform for passing on skills. Whatever the project, again, the focus is on socialising and chatting while working away.

For those that have nestled into the couch a bit too much, there is now our gentle walking group. This group meet and then venture off on level ground at a slow and steady pace.

These are just three of the many activities we offer. If you are interested in travel, cards, trivia, board games, guest speakers or just socialising in general, we have something to offer you.

All of our activities welcome new members and once you are a member of Armidale Care for Seniors Inc. you can access anything we offer. If you would like more information on any of our activities or programs, or how to join, please contact the office on 6772 7087.

Dirty air conditioners impact your family’s health and household bottom line.

Is the air you’re breathing really clean and healthy? Did you know your air conditioner can hide great volumes of containments and bacteria in places that a standard service won’t clean?

National air conditioner cleaning franchise HydroKleen arrived in New England late last year, and operators Matthew and Leeanne McHarg have been spreading the word about the health hazards posed to homes and offices by their air conditioners ever since.

“Traditionally, manufacturers tell purchasers to clean the filters on their units, but contaminants accumulate throughout the system in places that a normal clean will not reach,” says Leeanne.

“Air conditioners then blow these bacteria and airborne particles into the home or office and can cause a variety of infections and health problems.”

An Ergon Energy study conducted in 2012 at Airlie Beach confirmed benefits of the HydroKleen Australia process.

The study proved savings between 10 and 28 per cent on air conditioner running costs and improved air quality through a reduction in airborne bacteria levels.

He says running air conditioning for heating was particularly risky, as hot-running units multiplied internal bacteria and ‘baked on’ contaminants, damaging internal mechanisms.

“The increased temperature and moisture created by air conditioners facilitates the growth of organisms and speeds up the natural decomposition processes of animal and plant matter,” he says.

“Mould, mildew and fungi accumulate deep inside air conditioners and lead to a loss of airflow, overworked motors and higher running costs.”

SAVE MONEY AND BREATHE HEALTHY AIR

LOVED. ONLINE AND I N P R I N T. Feature Story

NEW ENGLAND

Shane Paul

July 2013 // Issue 74

YEARS

Each month over 70 local businesses in the New England area trust Focus to achieve results, drive sales and provide value for money with their advertising budget.

12,000 30,000* COPIES MONTHLY

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WE DELIVER.

Each franchise is independently owned and operated

new england focus 37

Tablelands Community

Options

PROMOTING ACCESS, CHOICE, FLEXIBILITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITY. Tablelands Community Support Options (TCSO) have been delivering quality care to people in the New w England Region for more than 20 years. People with disabilities and those who are ageing are assisted to live in the community with a range of services and the individual support of a TCSO Case Manager.

CSO is a provider of Home Care Packages, which can be accessed by people who have a range of support needs as assessed by the Aged Care Assessment Team. Home Care Packages enable people to lead an independent, fulfilling life in their own home, with the support they need to achieve their goals.

Elizabeth is a very satisfied TCSO Home Care Package consumer: “Because of my limited vision, I need assistance to go out and to do many household chores. The staff understand my needs and are able to assist me in various ways, both at home and in the community.”

Elizabeth is appreciative of the support she has and wants others to know it is available.

“Having a Home Care Package enables my husband and me to remain living at home, where I enjoy spending time with my special little dog, Polly, and being in the garden.

I’m especially grateful for having my own Case Manager, Maria, who monitors my care and makes me aware of any other assistance available as my needs increase.”

TCSO has access to a broad range of contracted staff and services to provide Home Care Package consumers with the help they need. This includes help with domestic tasks, personal care, home maintenance, outings/

appointments, allied health and mobility equipment, or other types of assistance tailored to the individual.

Auspiced by the Uralla Shire Council, TCSO is a notfor-profit organisation. Working across Armidale, Uralla,, Walcha, Guyra, and surrounding areas, TCSO Case Managers have a wealth of experience and valuable community networks. Other government-funded programs ams that TCSO offers are: National Respite for Carers, supporting carers of people ple with memory loss; Elders Social Group, a weekly group for Aboriginal Elders ders in our community; Rural and Remote Respite for people with disabilities; Flexible Respite Packages for carers of people with disabilities; Community Options Project, a Case Management program for people with complex needs; If you believe you or a family member would benefit from having a Home Care Package, you can contact the Aged Care Assessment Team via the My Aged Care Gateway, on 1800 200 422, to arrange an assessment.

Feel free to ask Tablelands Community Support Options about a Home Care Package or its other programs. Call 6778 6350 and talk to TCSO’s friendly staff.

It’s what you’ve been waiting for!

Brand new villas are under construction and 50% have sold off the plan!

Make the most of your retirement by joining the wonderful community at Newling Gardens.

With picturesque gardens, leafy streets, exceptional facilities and convenient Armidale location, Newling Gardens gives you the peace of mind to live life to the fullest.

Our brand new villas are the epitome of stylish design with three generous bedrooms, open plan living, gourmet kitchen, al fresco entertaining space and electric garaging.

With only 7 villas left, this wonderful opportunity will not last long.

V I S I T U S AT T H E H E A LT H A N D S E N I O R S E X P O | A R M I D A L E C I T Y B O W L I N G C L U B | 2 9 T H & 3 0 T H M AY

Call 6772 4440 today to register your interest! www.retireaustralia.com.au

38 new england focus.

Did you know yo u s hould cha n g e yo ur

skincare in autumn?

Autumn is here, and the weather really starts cooling down.

It’s not only the time when you start getting your warmer wardrobe out, but when you have to think about protecting your skin against the change of season.

Y

our skin needs more nourishment Microdermabrasion, IPL (Intense Pulsed light) or and protection now to save it from Signature Facial treatment. feeling tight and uncomfortable MICRODERMABRASION – especially in our New England This treatment gives great results at environment with cold winds, heating and resurfacing the skin's texture, overall brightness harsh water. tone and clarity and can reduce scarring. It Dry skin lacks both moisture and oil flow, rejuvenates the skin while maintaining the which leads to a modification in the skin health of the skin. barrier, preventing it from providing effective IPL protection. As a side effect of autumn, the Intense pulsed light Systems release precisely skin will start to look and feel tighter controlled strong pulses of filtered and drier. Sebum levels will light that are absorbed by the generally decrease and can melanin in freckles, sun leave the skin more prone spots or liver spots. The They hydrate to dryness, flakiness and pigmented area absorbs the skin, repair irritation. Adjustments the light and is heated, the and strengthen to the skincare regime and is removed by skin barrier skin’s epidermal will need to be made renewal. e and contain activ t to prevent dehydration, This treatment is ea ingredients to tr sensitivity and any great for pigmentation, .” ns ncer specific skin co redness or flakiness that sun damage, capillaries can appear. and skin renewal.

Now is the time that you Autumn and winter is should be consulting a qualified the perfect time to have this Skin Therapist for a skin diagnosis. treatment.

In order to prevent dry skin, it is SIGNATURE FACIAL important to protect the skin with rich Based on our Classic skincare products, emollient ingredients. Ella Baché’s moisture these solution facial treatments address skin protectives contain an emollient complex to dryness, oily problem skin and sensitive skin deliver superior protection to moisture loss. concerns. These facial treatments are a perfect They hydrate the skin, repair and strengthen monthly treatment to have all year round. the skin’s epidermal barrier and contain active You can contact Ella Baché Armidale for ingredients to treat specific skin concerns. The more information on these treatments and for cooler weather can severely damage the skin, a Complimentary Skin Diagnosis with one of so now is the time to strengthen and protect our Skincare professionals. Our visiting laser plus ensure correct product use, so the skin is expert, Catherine, is in the salon every 4 weeks strong and healthy to survive the upcoming performing IPL treatments, Skin Rejuvenation winter months. as well as Hair Removal and Tattoo Removal.

As well as your homecare routine, also Our website details: www.armidale.ellabache. consider some treatment options such as com.au and www.laserexpress.com.au

“

new england focus 39

Armidale Community Of Schools Public schools are the schools of choice building citizens for the future of their communities

40 new england focus.

Armidale Community of Schools - Providing Quality Public Education.

Our wonderful public schools in the Armidale district make up your Armidale

Students beneÀt from the latest technologies and resources. Disciplined, caring

Community of Schools.

environments and leadership programs encourage respect, tolerance, care and

These schools, large and small, work together to offer the children of our city the

citizenship.

quality education that develops articulate, responsible and successful adults.

Both of our excellent high schools offer an outstanding selection of traditional

Our highly qualiÀed and dedicated teachers provide challenging and stimulating

vocational and extended HSC curriculum choices and have a record of excellent

learning environments to nurture the individual talents of our children.

academic achievement.

We invite you to contact your local school principal to arrange a personal tour & discuss your child’s education Kingstown Public School

Black Mountain Public School

Guyra Public School

Bendemeer Rd, Kingstown NSW 2358

815 Black Mountain Rd Black Mountain NSW 2365 P 6775 0192

Marne Street, Guyra

P 6778 9131

P 6779 0844

Ebor Public School Ebor St, Ebor NSW 2453 P 6775 9136

coffengland s coast focus new focus 341

focuseditorial

Icing on the cake with Susie Dunn

Icing ON

cake INSURANCE MARKET ... and the river was dust.

W

e are lucky to live where we can touch the real world … the natural realities of life on this little planet as it whirls

through space.

In Australia that means a spectrum from drought to flood, all on the thin old old soils of the most ancient continent.

We have come to understand Australia more than the European arrivals first did, but however much better our management of the land may be (or not), the facts of our continent stay with us. It is harder living in what I call ‘filing cabinets’ – the new high-rise towers starting to dominate skylines in the world’s cities – to get a real handle on the facts of the earth that sustains us.

And we are told by an overwhelming number of scientists that we face more and increasing climatic variations.

Judith Wright understood realities when she wrote South of my Days: “Droving that year, Charleville to the Hunter, Ninety-one it was, and the drought beginning... It was the flies we seen first, swarming like bees. Came to the Hunter, three hundred head of a thousand – Cruel to keep them alive – and the river was dust.”

Not much has changed in lots of ways for those on the land.

Local girl, Hester Fraser, has written a song for the Drought Appeal. It’s called DUST: “I see the lines on your face/ I see the look in your eye/ know the love you have for this place … And you try so hard you almost break/ and you give and give til there’s no more/ But hold on for one more day, keep holding out for that first drop of rain …”

Hester will be singing it at the Armidale Club on April 26 and it’s available on iTunes (search GOLDHEIST). Hers is one of many community fundraisers for drought relief, each working in their own way: gardeners, animal lovers, 2AD’s Appeal Fund, FOCUS, the ADC, NE Mutual…

Thank God for those who hang on for rain. It does come, sometimes more than enough, but still too late! People who don’t know the bush don’t know the love we have for ‘this place’.

John Heffernan’s 52nd book is told through 42 new england focus.

the eyes of a 14-year old boy in Afghanistan dreaming of a brighter future. He says, “This is a story about how youth can change the world”. One of his Through My Eyes series

Advertisements appear every day offering a range of different insurances and providers, making it hard to know where to start! Insurance is simply a form of finance that offers some financial security when things go wrong. Given the range of products on the market and the investment you make when buying insurance, it is important to get the right advice.

about young people in war zones, John’s world and influence spread far from his Walcha base.

Speaker for the Armidale Sanctuary fundraiser this year was Matthew Cleary, President of Medecins Sans Frontieres, Australia. ‘Humanitarian Access and the Right to Healthcare’ sound fundamental to us, but are so problematic in much of the world. MSF is a standout organisation.

With 66 contributors, the ADC’s Armidale 150 Years co-ordinated by Poh Woodland celebrates 150 years of local government – an important record and a book well worth owning.

A farewell at Tas’s Hoskins Centre for OAMs Christopher and Judith Ross-Smith: both contributed so much, particularly to theatre, in Armidale – too long to list. I refuse to say ‘good-bye’, so will leave it at ‘au revoir’.

Also at the party was the very special Sue Fell, that day rewarded by the university with an Honorary Doctorate celebrating her contribution to Theatre Studies.

We all occasionally have ‘bees in our bonnets’. A buzzing one of mine lately is wondering whether terminology works against us the way our air services are designated ‘Regional’. Aren’t we ‘Domestic’ too?

Somehow it sounds easier in the future to direct us away from Mascot and the quick city access I believe is vital. I know it’s an accepted usage, but if we don’t constantly watch developments we’ll just be Xed out of the equations.

Ending on a happier note: three cheers for the Armidale Urban Rivercare Group, doing a wonderful job for the environment and the community.

Ditto the volunteers at Saumarez, who were celebrated at the 30th anniversary of the handover to the National Trust by the White family.

Susie Dunn.

O

racle – our point of difference.

The importance of different types of Oracle was founded on the insurance depends on your own circumstances. belief that your insurance needs For this reason it is important to seek the should be considered as one, right advice to properly structure an insurance rather than having to deal with separate programme that will address both General and providers.

Life insurance risks.

While most insurance specialists focus on just A few key protection strategies all business one area, Oracle has the skills, experience owners should consider include: and access to both the general and • Income Protection (pays up life insurance markets, making to 75% of your income if you us a unique business. become injured or unwell r We feel this distinctive and subsequently cannot ne As a business ow to offering provides you t work) an rt po im it is to ce vi with the best outcome • Key Person (offers ad t gh ri e seek th an e ur ct ru and importantly, you the ability to insure st ly er prop mme that allows your risk a key person, integral insurance progra eneral G protection strategy to to the business – i.e. will address both risk s.” e nc ra su in fe and Li develop, based entirely Partner, highly skilled on your needs and employee etc) changing circumstances.

• Business Expenses Protection is everything. (provides a monthly benefit to We provide a tailored insurance cover fixed business costs if you solution with a full understanding of become injured or suffer an illness and are your personal and business risk profile, so you unable to work) can relax knowing your personal and business John Nash, principal of Oracle Insurance, assets including you and your family are has more than 30 years’ insurance industry protected under one risk manager, Oracle! We: experience working as both a general insurance • properly identify all personal and business broker and underwriter. He sees the region risks poised for further growth and Armidale well • explain the impact of life risks on business placed to service this growth. He believes with operations and vice versa such growth comes the need for the experience • have access to most General and Life insurers and expertise that the team at Oracle Insurance in the Australian market offers.

Suite 5 / 128 Dangar Street, Armidale.

• provide personal assistance in the event of a T. (02) 6772 8008 M. 0417 471 476 claim – deal with us in person, as opposed to a www.oracleinsurance.com.au stranger over a phone.

Business Owners – our specialty!

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“

Woodley’s Full Page

new england focus 43

MAY 2014

WITH TERRI

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

September 24 - October 23

Your soul is calling out for your attention.

Listen to your needs. Some personal nurturing is required. Release other people’s stress and problems, as these weigh you down. Set some personal goals and enjoy what is about to befall you.

Kunzite fills our soul with joy, allowing us to override stress.

Time for change is at hand, perhaps a change in career or a new position at work.

You have exhausted the cycle you have been in and your itchy feet are a result of still sitting idle and perhaps waiting for change to come to you. Make a choice and take action.

Garnet is wonderful for prosperity in thought as well as outcome.

Remember strength and wisdom are such powerful virtues; they will take you on the most amazing journey through life. You were blessed with these qualities and need to remember the difference between your problems and everyone else’s. Lately taking on too much has exhausted your zest.

Moldavite will transform your energy and gives flight to new opportunities.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

February 20 - March 20

June 23 - July 23 Ju

You have a wonderful opportunity to recognise your self worth. You are embarking on a journey of self-discovery.

You can expect either bright outcomes if you like yourself or negative outcomes if you don’t.

Rose Quartz is a wonderful crystal for selfesteem and unconditional love.

ARIES.

LEO.

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

You have the natural ability to manifest whatever you want. You also have the challenge of not believing in yourself adequately. Set some new goals and give yourself permission to achieve them and receive their rewards.

Clear quartz amplifies strengths; carry it or wear it.

Now is a good time to consider what you deserve. The more you think you are worth, the better your outcome will be.

Try to recognise any feelings of low esteem and turn them around using positive affirmations.

Selenite is very powerful for self esteem issues.

October 24 - November 22

Goal setting at this time will benefit you mostly. New beginnings are at hand, so make the most of this creating time. You can have what you want, but you need to know this. Give yourself permission to receive your wish and enjoy it when it gets here.

Aventurine will help you to grow very quickly.

SAGITTARIUS. November 23 - December 21

You are a natural leader. You will achieve so much more when you remain focused.

Avoid distractions at all costs over the next few months and be elated by your changes.

Turquoise is great for self-improvement.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

December 22 - January 20

Your inner strength has been challenged lately. Now is the perfect time to set some new goals for a positive future. You will enjoy some newfound talents and friends.

By walking fearlessly into your future, you will discover even more personal strength.

Azeztulite helps us to connect with alternate realities. Carry it on your being.

44 new england focus.

A gift is about to be bestowed upon you.

This was your creation through a wish made several months ago. Now all you need to do is get out of the way and let heaven help you. Romance and passion are likely to be a major influence over the next few months.

Rhodochrosite helps us find our inner child’s joy of life. Carry it for a couple of weeks.

The world is your oyster. You will soon be finishing off old business ties and making ways for new opportunities, so be prepared. Some new friends are entering the picture, which is why old relationships are fading away. Words need to be spoken to clear some old issues. Speak your truth from your heart.

Zincite helps creation of new ideas.

You can expect an apology or confession from one very close to you. Justice is being served and anything unresolved, will be forgiven. Spend some quiet time thinking about what you need and how you can muster it within yourself so you are completely independent and not needy of another.

Lapis Lazuli helps us understand our needs.

focusTourism.

Warm up your house this winter

Tourism

Once again, daylight savings has finally ended, and autumn is well and truly here.

It’s time to think of fires, throws and how to make our homes warm and inviting for our New England winter. Fabrics Naturally has a lovely range of St Albans mohair, alpaca and wool throws, plus we have a new shipment of Bluebellgrey floral cushions as well as a new shipment of table lamps. Please come in and ask our friendly staff for assistance with ideas on how to cozy up your home this autumn.

Window coverings are such an important part of warming up your house. When we hang up lovely, warm curtains, people are often surprised at what a difference they make. Combined with a pelmet, they are the ultimate window covering. Not only do they stop that expensively warmed air from going out, they help stop the cold air from coming in. Likewise, in the summer clients are often surprised at how much cooler curtains can keep their house. Custom-made and lined

curtains and roman blinds are our specialty.

Wooden shutters are another excellent way to keep warmth in and provide screening, and they go with just about any style of

Katrina George There are a number of exciting adventures that visitors and locals alike can choose to experience the beauty of Armidale.

decorating. New England Shutters and Blinds provide a great custom shutter service, and we work closely with them to bring you the best possible window coverings for your individual needs.

Fabrics Naturally is a one-stop shop for winter decorating, so please come in and let us help you add that cozy touch to your home this year.

F

leet Warbirds celebrates the golden age of aviation with an open cockpit World War I Stearman bi-plane.

Experience New England High Country from a whole new perspective, as you perform aerobatics over the city of Armidale. Alternately, you can choose a more leisurely experience and take in the beauty of the ancient gorges and the New England Tablelands. A recent visitor to Armidale had the following Fleet Warbirds experience; “The entire experience was breathtaking.

I am not usually an adventurous person; however, once we were flying over the city of Armidale, I was so excited about performing aerobatics. The plane moved so gracefully through the sky, and I felt very safe and secure in the plane under the expertise of the pilot, Bruce. The flight was tailored to my needs, and I felt very well prepared prior to the flight. This is a 'must do' for everyone visiting Armidale. Thank you for an amazing and memorable experience.”

Whether you are in Armidale for half an hour, a day or a week, Fleet Helicopters can tailor an adventure for you that you will never forget. The New England High Country is one of Australia’s hidden gems, and the best way to truly appreciate it is from the air. There are a number of tours to choose from including Gorge Discovery Flight; Flight of the 7 Gorges; West Kunderang Wilderness Adventure and Heli-Fishing.

For something different, Go Fly Armidale provides an opportunity for visitors to take the controls and fly a plane over the magnificent gorges and waterfalls. The 30 minute flight experience allows you to try your hand at piloting a modern recreational aircraft over the spectacular Dangars Gorge and the city of Armidale. The 60 minute flight experience covers Dangars Gorge, as well as Wollomombi Falls, Australia’s second highest waterfall. The Go Fly package includes high definition video footage of your experience.

The Armidale Visitor Information Centre has

a selection of new information flyers for locals and visitors alike to explore the region. These include: 10 things to do for under 25s 10 things to do for young families 10 things to do for over 50s Hillgrove, Metz and Long Point Hillgrove is a fascinating, historical mining village. Did you know that in 1888 Hillgrove boasted six hotels, four churches, two schools, several banks, a school of arts, hospital, stock exchange, court house, police station and cordial factory? Did you know that in 1888 the English Cricket team played at Hillgrove?

The Hillgrove Museum contains a fascinating collection of exhibits, and provides visitors with a unique insight into everyday life in old Hillgrove. The museum is open from 10am – 5pm, Friday – Monday and Public Holidays.

A pleasant, and informative day’s activity is to commence at Metz Gorge lookout then travel northwards on Chinamans Gully Road to Bakers Creek Falls. Continue onto the village of Hillgrove for a self guided walking tour of Hillgrove (don’t forget to visit museum). Drive onto the scenic Long Point Picnic Area – ideal for a picnic lunch. The day can then be capped off with either the shortish Cassinia Walk or the longer Chandler View Circuit. For further information, or to pick up a brochure, please drop into the Armidale Visitor Information Centre.

There are a number of exciting cultural events appearing on the May Events Calendar including: NECOM Heritage Homestead Concert at Perrott’s Chapel; Unseen Saumarez; NECOM Bach Festival; The Melbourne International Comedy Roadshow, as well as some fabulous exhibitions at the New England Regional Art Museum and the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place. For further information, or to view all events, please visit www.armidaletourism.com.au/events. new england focus 45

www.locals4locals.com.au

LOCALS LOCALS

4

Locals 4 Locals is raising public awareness of the benefits of shopping locally. Show support for your local community, by supporting your local businesses, Locals 4 Locals! So far, Locals 4 Locals have almost 50 members.

THINGS WITH A DIFFERENCE.

AOK SIGNS.

From what started as a ‘pop up’ Christmas Shop, Jane and Tania, by popular demand from customers, have stayed open as gift shop, catering for exactly what the what the shop is called‘Things with a Difference’.

Jane is passionate about shopping locally and is trying to complement what other retailers have by stocking different products, from traditional to quirky, for men, women, children and the home.

Jane joined Locals 4 Locals, as she and Greg were members at the Pharmacy. They believe in getting the message out and thinking about our local economy before shopping on the internet.

Remember, it is the local businesses that support our kids, sports, arts, theatre, charities and community organisations. These local businesses also employ a huge number of people, who all put a huge amount back into the local community of Armidale and districts.

Jane is situated at 153 Beardy St, opposite Carr’s News Agency, in the Centre Mall.

Ph: 6771 9668

ARMIDALE MOWER & CHAINSAW CENTRE

RENEE MARIE.

Renee Marie stocks a large range of brands and products, including SoLite, Eminnent, Bazaar and the Pierre Cardin Luggage for all your travel needs, backpacks for all ages, IE looks, travel pillows and adapters for all countries.

“Just in time for Mother’s Day – my newest ranges in store are Verra May, Cobb-Co Privacy Protector, Lapoche 46 new england focus.

Hi, my name is Steve McGrath, owner of Ascent Print Pack Post is a division of The AOK Signs. The business began trading Ascent Group and prides itself on being in Sydney in the early ‘80s and relocated a truly local printing business producing to Armidale in 1990. Our aim is to supply quality black and white and colour printing great products with friendly professional at the right price. We pride ourselves on service and advice. Our service includes quality and value for money. Our services traditional brushed signs, computer include printing of brochures, newsletters, cut vinyl signs and large format digital flyers, training manuals, business cards, printing. We provide most types of posters, wide format printing, collation signage, covering design and concept, full and mailouts. We also undertake a range colour banners, vinyl stickers, businesses, of fulfilment services including packaging, shopfronts, vehicles, real estate, magnetics, tagging, labelling and compiling educapromotional, corflute signs, braille signs, tion and conference packs. Other services window graphics, illuminated sign boxes, include office paper recycling and secure safety signs, A-frames and full colour document destruction. We employ local digitally printed signs. The team at AOK people and provide employment and trainSigns can advise you on the many different ing for people with disabilities. The Ascent options that are now available, as well Group is a proud regional winner of the as which sign solution may best suit your NSW Chamber of Commerce 2013 Busineeds. So give us a call about any sign at ness Awards. Please telephone 67768977 all! to discuss your needs.

Ph: 6771 1338

and Willow & Zac. I try to keep up with all the new fashions and colours coming through; however, 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.”

Shop 27-28 The Armidale Plaza 6772 1881

Mostyn and Julie have owned Armidale Mower & Chainsaw Centre for nearly 18 years. Our qualified staff – Kevin Kingdom, Mark O’Brien & Peter McFayden are able to assist in sales, spares and repairs. Over the years we have supported local sporting groups and charities within the local area. We sponsor a number of local clubs including – Armidale Blues Rugby Union, Armidale Rugby League, Armidale Campdrafting, Armidale Rodeo and Kids for Courage (Cancer) through Armidale Bowling

Club, just to name of few. We are proud to be associated with Local4Locals.

We are agents for – Stihl, Greenfield & Cox Mowers (both Australian Made), Masport, Toro and Bob-Cat. We offer a fully equipped workshop for all your repairs. Are you ready for the change in season; the nights are cooling! Get ready for winter! Stihl Chainsaws, accessories, including – bars, chains, bar oil, sharpening tools, safety chaps and helmets and lots more. Look forward to seeing you in store. Ph: 6772 5405

The more businesses involved, the better we can support and educate each other and the community.

In many cases, people don’t even know that a local supplier exists or that their prices are competitive. Many people have asked which businesses are involved, and here they are.

Keep an eye on the website to see an up-to-date list of businesses involved, as it’s increasing all the time. If you’re a local business interested in joining Locals 4 Locals, more information and a form for membership can be found on the website: www.locals4locals.com.au

ARMIDALE LAUNDRY.

MOUNT VIEW PHARMACY.

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

We have many colours of sashes and if we do not have the colour you require, we can order the colour of your choice in for you. We have been supplying chair covers and linen for weddings for many years to the local community. We work closely

Hi, my name is Greg Cotterell, owner of Mt View Pharmacy. At Mt View Pharmacy we believe in the idea of helping. We believe in helping the local community, helping our patients and helping the local businesses. Locals 4 Locals allows our team to continue to sponsor events: like the outdoor cinema at PLC; local rugby clubs; supply education and resources to local childcare facilities; sponsor school newsletters; support local fundraising charities. Locals 4 Locals is not just a motto or a marketing group; it is an idea that by supporting the local businesses, our community will be stronger for it.

Remember: we all live local, so we should think local and support local Ph: 6772 7557 MT View Pharmacy a PROUD supporter of Locals 4 Locals.

with C2C, Armidale Ex Services Club and Moore Park Inn, Armidale Golf Club and many other venues to make your wedding reception go as smoothly as possible. We can cater for receptions up to 300 people and are willing to supply linen etc. to meet our customers’ requirements. Please call in and see our friendly staff at 156 Miller Street to discuss your wedding reception.

Ph: 6772 6816

LOCALS 4 LOCALS BUSINESSES. Abtrak AOK Signs Armidale Bowling Club Armidale Golf Club Barbeques Galore Barniers Office Furniture Best Employment Bones Tyres Brennan and Smith C2C Event Hire Cedar Nursery Chris Cole Dentist Daily Ritual – Inland Fine Foods Ducats Earthmoving Pty Ltd Fast Track Cleaning & Packaging Supplies Food For Thought Forty Winks Armidale Funk Hair.Body Graham Betts Motors Hannas Department Store House Worx Independent Sports Armidale

IT Alive JobLink Plus Johnson and Kennedy Knight’s Store KL Robinson & Sons Love Paint Monk’s Health Emporium New England Autos Northern Inland Chiropractic Professionals Real Estate Armidale Renee Maree Rob Brown’s Denture Clinic Super Moto - New England The Cool Place The Electric Company Armidale Things with a Difference VIP Lawns and Gardens Adventure Travel 195 Armidale Bicycle Centre Armidale Mower & Chainsaw Centre Armidale City Signs

Armidale Ex-Services Club Armidale Laundry Services Armidale Pet Shop Armidale Town & Country Armidale Toys Armidale Wholesale Fruit Market Armitage & Chadd Ascent Group Black Dot Music Carr’s NewsXpress Armidale Cliff Wright Motors Computer Support Team Concepts of Armidale Digital Colour Easy as Coffee Face 2 Face Beauty Salon Grant McCarroll Armidale Grazag Gym Ridz Hardman Automotive Hunts Carpets Hutchinson & Harlow Real Estate Jacksons Quality Meats

K.Hickey Norco Milk Killen’s Smash Repairs Legal Minds Lockmans Doors Mount View Pharmacy Moxons Bakery My Car Sound & Communications New England Solar Power NUCLEO NTIB Armidale Office Express Railway Hotel Richardsons Hardware Ridley Mini Skips Roberts & Morrow Smith Sharpe & Abbott Sports Power Armidale Talk M Landscapes The Big Lightbulb Wards Auto Supplies Westend Sound Westside Espresso

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

THAT SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY.

www.locals4locals.com.au

new england

47

Thinking Notary– with Chris Serow

THINKING

NOTARY otarial practice is a profession of great antiquity, probably having its origin in the civil institutions of ancient Rome.

N

The office of Notary Public developed from the activities of scribes, until Notaries became independent officers. A Notary’s certificate and seal are awarded recognition internationally as a public act in the same way as a document under the seal of a Court. Since January 1986, the appointment of Notaries in New South Wales has been made by the Supreme Court in accordance with provisions contained in the Public Notaries Act 1997 (No. 98). The suitability for appointment, however, is determined by the Legal Profession Admission Board, which has made rules for the appointment of Notaries.

In some ways, the office of a Notary has many similar roles to that of a Justice of the Peace (JP).

So what do each of these appointments do, and how are they different?

What is a Justice of the Peace?

A JP plays an essential part in the legal system and in the community of NSW. Unlike the office of a Notary Public, it is not necessary for JPs to be legally qualified, and they are not entitled to charge fees for service. Two of the main functions of JPs are to witness the signing and execution of documents such as statutory declarations and affidavits and to certify copies of documents. The conduct of a JP is subject to the Code of Conduct for Justices of the Peace in NSW. Failure of a JP to comply with the Code of Conduct can result in loss of office or review.

Dishonesty or failure to fulfil statutory obligations can result in legal proceedings being brought against a JP in negligence. In Graham v Hall & 1 [2006] NSWCA 208 for example, a JP was sued for damages for alleging to have witnessed the signature of another when not in that person’s presence.

The Australian Federal Government does not appoint JPs, which is regulated by the states.

The duties and appointment of JPs in NSW are regulated through the Justices of the Peace Act 2002 and the Justices of the Peace Regulation 2003. More information on JPs can be found on NSW Attorney General’s Department website at: www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/lawlink/cru/ll_cru.nsf/ pages/jp_index JPs within the region can also obtain information and support by joining the NSW Justices Association Northern Tablelands Support Group, by contacting Peter Hutchinson on 0407 658 358.

What is the difference between a JP and a 48 new england focus.

Notary Public?

A Notary Public in NSW must be admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW and have not less than 5 years’ experience as a legal practitioner. Additional notarial practice training is required and, once appointed, Notaries are entitled to charge fees for their services.

As a guide, the NSW Society of Notaries publishes a recommended scale of fees each year. The current recommended scale is applied at Legal Minds and can be viewed at http://notary.zfweb. net/fees_scale In addition to all of the functions of a JP, a Notary is required to have the combined legal experience to draw up formal certificates and to notarise, verify, certify and authenticate documents that can be recogised throughout the world, such as debentures, affidavits for use in Court proceedings in other countries, powers of attorney, estate matters, confirming identity of individuals and even ships protests. A Notary is identified by their registered signature and their Notarial seal. When documents are notarised, a certificate drafted and executed by the Notary is sewn onto the copy of the document with a ribbon. A wafer is placed over the ends of the ribbon and sealed with an embosser.

The certificate can then not be removed unless either the paper is torn, the ribbon is cut, or, the seal is broken. This process ensures that a document is secure. A stapled certificate is not accepted by DFAT or for other notarial purposes.

To ensure recognition of the Notary’s signature and seal, registration is made with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

This is an important process, as some countries, like Australia, are contracting States to the Hague Convention of 5 October 1961 and instead of having to have public documents legalised by individual countries, documents can be sealed with an Apostille by DFAT. In those countries that are not a Convention country, individual Consulates are required to be consulted on specific arrangements for those countries, which can in some cases be more complex and expensive.

Within our social and business community the role and responsibility of JPs and Notaries are an important function to ensure the authenticity and certification of documents, to keep our day to day local and international business transactions moving.

Christopher K C Serow Principal, Solicitor Director, Notary Public, Migration Agent MARN 0854319

focuseditorial.

“Wouldn’t it if... ”

A permanent ping pong table ld in Civic Park wou d an ity increase activ ople attract more pe rde un an is t to wha ace in sp en op d se utili Armid al e. ”

“

Armidale had a Permanent Outdoor Ping Pong Table Idea Description:

competition amongst local artists to turn the

activity that people of all ages can enjoy.

Everyone loves ping pong! It's fun, physical,

table into a functional piece of art!

Ping pong promotes health, fitness and

anyone can play, and it promotes fitness and

Outdoor ping pong tables can be found in cities

wellbeing.

wellbeing.

across Europe and more recently, Australia. Cities

The best cities in the world have open spaces

A permanent ping pong table in Civic Park would

such as Brunswick and Fitzroy in Melbourne,

where family and friends can meet, and they

increase activity and attract more people to what

Surrey Hills in Sydney, Wagga Wagga and

draw people in with the activities that they have

is an under-utilised open space in Armidale.

Newcastle already have them. A vibrant cultural

on offer. This would help steer Civic Park in the

The best thing is that POPP

town such as Armidale needs an open space

right direction.

(www.popp.net.au) have already designed a

with activities for people of all ages to meet, play

How can you help?

solid, weather-proof table for this very purpose!

and have fun!

If you think it’s an idea you’d like to see

Don't think that this would be some eyesore

Community Benefits:

go forward, show your support by voting

dropped in the middle of what is a beautiful

A permanent outdoor ping pong table would

and commenting on this idea – go to

green open space. We could run a design

help give one of Armidale's open spaces an

'heartofourcommunity.com.au'

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

Votes so far: 3 New England Mutual would like to thank FOCUS for their support of these inspiring community ideas.

be inspired...

new england focus 49

“

When I first started agricultural flying back in 1998, I was fortunate to work with Peter Elliott, our chief pilot, and he was a great mentor who always put safety first ... �

SU P ER A I R A U S T R A LI A CELEBRATING

50 new england focus.

SUPERAI R AUSTRALI A CELEBRATING

David Boundy from Superair tells FOCUS about the company’s journey to 50 great years in business.

hen and why did Superair begin?

Superair Australia was established in 1964 by a group of graziers located in the Armidale area for the aerial application of superphosphate throughout the New England area. The company started with one Ceres aircraft with a capacity of 800 kilograms, a far cry from the 750 HP turbo prop aircraft that we operate today that can carry in excess of 2000 kilograms of fertiliser.

Superair operates in some of the most productive areas of Australia for fine wool, fat lambs and cattle grazing. Superair is an important tool in maintaining efficient production for the primary producers who need annual applications of phosphate and other minerals to

W

be accurately applied to the land, thereby enhancing production and returns to the farmers.

Superair’s main office is located at Armidale Airport and also has bases in Scone and Glen Innes. Topdressing operations stretch from the Queensland border, south to Newcastle, east to the coast and Narrabri in the West. This is an area of 70,000 square kilometres.

In 1971 Superair’s fleet of aircraft had grown and the company saw the need for its own in-house Aircraft Maintenance Aircraft Division. This part of the business now employs 10 people and caters for all routine maintenance and repairs and rebuilds of various aircraft for customers and insurance claims.

What are the main aspects of operations at Superair?

Basically aerial topdressing and seeding and aircraft maintenance up to twin engine pressurised turbo prop aircraft.

We carry out aerial spreading operations for Forestry South Australia and NSW. Around December each year one of our aircraft ferries up to Weipa at the top of QLD and carries out mine rehabilitation operations for Rio Tinto. We have contracts with most major mining companies in the Hunter Valley for mine rehabilitation and dust suppression.

Superair has also carried out Aerial Surveys for large mining companies in Canada and Hawaii.

Why is Superair so important to our agricultural industry?

Superair forms an important tool for primary

producers in enabling them to apply different nutrients to their pastures quickly and efficiently from the air.

We utilise the most up to date computer tracking and guidance systems to ensure an accurate spread across the property. The GPS system marks in a grid pattern. The only way you can accurately follow a GPS is in straight lines, and therefore the aircraft is the only way that can accurately achieve this across a property as a whole with all the obstacles on a normal farming block of ground. Airspread gives a better quality of the spread across the property and therefore increased productivity of the pasture.

The benefit of utilising an aircraft is that it can cover awkward areas that cannot be reached properly by ground spread e.g. Tree

new england focus 51

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

S SU PE RA IR FO RM T AN RT PO IM AN ARY TO OL FO R PR IM IN S ER PROD UC EM TO ENAB LI NG TH EN T ER FF DI Y AP PL TH EI R TO S NU TR IE NT KLY AN D IC QU ES UR PA ST OM TH E FR Y TL EF FI CI EN AI R. ”

“

belts, ridgelines, steeper country. Also, the aircraft affords the pilot an increased ability to define exclusion zones e.g. sheep camps, water courses, rocky ridges and cut these out, keeping fertiliser for more productive areas.

The aircraft also has a constant speed across the property, therefore achieving a more consistent application of fertiliser, and is not subject to the variabilities of ground spreading with heavier or lighter application rates due to uphill and downhill terrain. One of the most significant benefits of utilising the aircraft over other forms of spreading is the non-transfer of noxious weeds from one property to another.

We are proud to be in a great industry that

52 new england focus.

makes a vital contribution to agriculture and the health and wellbeing of all Australians – including those in the cities and towns that use the products we help the farmers to grow.

Ag pilots are professional – they have a big investment in education, they undertake ongoing training and they are multiple licensed and heavily regulated, and they are committed to their industry and their clients. All agricultural pilots have to first obtain their private pilot’s licence. They then go onto gain a commercial pilot’s licence and then do an agricultural pilot’s rating. For all the training and qualifications to become an agricultural pilot, it is an investment of over $100,000. Superair forms an important tool for primary producers in enabling them to apply different nutrients to their pastures quickly and efficiently from the air.

SUPE RA I R A USTRA L I A CELEBRATING

A LL O U R STA FF TA K E TI O N, R TH EI O CC U PA IS A AT W H ET H ER TH A D ER PI LOT O R A LO Y ER V , D R IV ER SE R IO U SLY.”

“ What changes have you seen over the years in this industry?

The two main changes I have seen in our industry are the professionalism of the pilots and operations. Gone are the days of what was termed in the industry as ‘cowboy’ pilots.

As well, the capital cost of the turbine aircraft that we now utilise is valued at ten times more than the original piston engine aircraft.

When I first started agricultural flying back in 1998, I was fortunate to work with Peter Elliott, our chief pilot, and he was a great mentor who always put safety first. This set the company on a track of constant improvement and a positive safety culture, which has helped the company survive through the tough times and day to day operations – which to say the least, can be very challenging.

All our staff takes their occupation, whether that is a pilot or a loader driver, very seriously.

A lot of people think that our operations are

somewhat dangerous. Someone watching us only sees the aircraft flying along at 20 metres above the ground at over 200 kilometres an hour. The aircraft then pulls up into a steep climb, turns and then drops back down to 20 metres, finishes the run and then goes back to land on what most perceive to be a rough paddock on the side of a hill. What everybody doesn’t see nor has any idea of is the amount of planning and preparation that goes into a normal day of agricultural operations. The amount of paperwork and compliance to satisfy the Civil Aviation Authority, the Environmental Protection Authority, Work cover etc. is huge. All our flying is done with GPS Guidance systems that are downloaded and a map produced after each job. This shows our clients exactly where the fertiliser has been spread, areas that have been avoided and all flight lines for the completed job. Superair is the only Australian company utilising the 750hp turbine air-

craft called the Cresco. It is the world’s most productive aerial fertiliser application platform in the world today.

All our clients can be assured that Superair prides itself with the help of the Cresco aircraft as being the most cost effective aerial applicator in Australia. This equates to lower costs to our clients than any other company in Australia doing the same job.

Superair is one of only a handful of Aerial Agricultural companies in Australia, to be certified under the Australian Aerial Agricultural Association’s Safety Management System. This SMS has recognition from the likes of major mining companies like BHP and Rio Tinto, enabling Superair to be a preferred supplier to these companies for aerial agricultural operations. This certification we pride ourselves on, and we are audited up to twice a year to maintain accreditation by independent Aviation

Safety auditors from across Australia.

Most people see a large hangar at the Armidale airport with Superair on the side when they drive down the highway. What happens in these hangars?

All of our aircraft fleet of 4 large turbine aircraft and several smaller piston engine aircraft are maintained in these hangars. We also cater for aircraft from all over Australia. We maintain aircraft from small private individuals to larger pressurised twin engine turbine aircraft operated in corporate charter.

The workshop also designs, builds and can modify aircraft to enable fitment of such things as magnetometers, airborne cameras, parachuting fixtures, laser altimeters, GPS and many other items to adopt the aircraft to better perform its operational role(s). Superair is one

new england focus 53

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

of the only companies that have the capability for aircraft welding in the region.

Superair also carries out fibreglass repairs, repainting of aircraft, either touchups or complete re-sprays, to customers’ requirements.

Tell us about the team ...

Superair is fortunate to have an exceptional team of employees. The pilots consist of: Phillip Martin and Chris Bennent based in Glen Innes; Rob Maslen based in Scone; Ryan Matheson and Stewart Hignett based in Armidale.

The loader drivers are Roger Vidal and John Young based in Armidale; and John Chaffey based in Guyra.

Our aircraft engineering division employs Dave Williams as Chief Engineer, Paul Giles as workshop foreman, Jeff Porter fitter and machinist and also aircraft welder, Wayne Memphis, engine overhaul workshop manager, Tim Stewart, Simon McLennan both licensed aircraft maintenance engineers, Tony Bianco, John Wyatt engineering staff, and Na-

Your Heading Here!

than Hewitt and Joe Edmonds apprentice aircraft maintenance engineers. Richie Rekunow maintains our fleet of vehicles, so we keep our operations in the air.

Last but by no means is least Carol Hargrave, who has been with Superair for over 25 years and basically runs all the administration on her own.

The New England is fortunate to have such a nationally recognised company; how does Superair contribute to the local community?

Superair supports in excess of 20 local charities and associations alike. We are a strong supporter of the local Tour De Rocks Cancer Awareness, prevention and Cure ride from Armidale to South-west rocks. Last year Superair had a team of 35 people that rode and supported this event. This year we are doing the ride again, and most of us are looking forward to it. Some of our new team members are a bit nervous this year about making the distance. We keep telling them it’s not the distance that’s

the issue; it’s the hills or mountains that are the problem – apparently, this doesn’t make them feel any better!

The sense of achievement in finishing this charity ride is second to none, and I urge all people, no matter what level of fitness, to become involved.

Plans for the future?

We are always looking to diversify into any area we feel will add benefits to the company and staff.

We have recently employed Stewart Hignett; he is an agricultural pilot, flight instructor and has a delegation from the Civil Aviation Safety authority to act as an Approved Testing Officer for agricultural operations.

This allows Superair to carry out flight instruction and testing of pilots from all over Australia.

We have been in business since 1964, but we find that we are constantly evolving and changing to make sure we are here in another 50 years’ time!

Your Heading Here!

100% Aussie Farmer owned If you are after, quality advice on anything related to farming, fencing, animal health or your garden just ask George Hoy and his team.

We think with their wealth of experience and local knowledge they are well placed to help you with just about anything that needs an answer or even more importantly, ‘A Solution’

Norco Armidale for all your Pet, Produce Yard and Farm Supplies

Because there’s a farmer in all of us

Norco Armidale Norco - an Australian farmer owned dairy co-operative since 1895 54 new england focus.

252 Mann Street Ph: 6771 4669 Fx: 6771 1187

7TH WAVE everything we produce is created from recycled or reclaimed materials. Christmas was Our products very busy and we haven’t on e sometimes verg really stopped since, es m co s art but it alway which is great! ’s nt ie cl With our comdown to the I d an What type of home c Ri th Bo bined experience and desires. t the ou ab and garden designs ly ng ro st feel shared interests, we at have guided th can you offer to cs hi et wanted to try somethe people? and esta blished is thing very different. I th r foundations fo We create a wide had been researching business.” variety of custom products, pallet furniture; re-purfrom very funky cubby posed, recycled furnishings houses, to patio lounge settings and designs, and thought it and oversized coffee tables. We could be done as a business here. The also provide a complete landscape and idea became a reality when we couldn’t outdoor design service. Our aim is to deliver find another business doing this sort of something unique and personal every time. thing commercially in Australia.

Can you tell us in a bit more detail about You commenced business in September what 7th Wave Creations does ... and what 2013. How has it been so far? are the plans for the future?

Surprising really; I have never been involved As a business idea, salvaged materials are used with a business start-up that has taken off so to create something new and exciting. In our quickly. We’re sure it’s because of the green case, we collect pallets and other commercial aspect of the business. People really like our building waste materials from local businesses. product designs, but more-so love the fact that

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H

i Anthony. Tell us about yourself and Ric. How did you meet, and how long have each of you lived in Armidale?

My partner, Nina, and I moved to Armidale this time last year, after buying and renovating a house here in town. Ric Scott, the other half of 7th Wave Creations, has been living here for a little longer and was looking for a new business opportunity. We met by chance late last year, and the idea of 7th Wave Creations emerged.

We are from very different backgrounds. Ric comes from a timber trades, culinary, design and therapies background. I have been involved with different areas of sustainability, alternative/green commercial construction, green roof and rooftop farm design.

So why recycled or reclaimed stuff; what was the catalyst?

We also use reclaimed timber, railway sleepers, as well as old stuff, like old pieces of machinery that might lend itself to a new life as a 7th Wave Creations design. Our products sometimes verge on art, but it always comes down to the client’s desires.

Both Ric and I feel strongly about the ethics that have guided and established the foundations for this business. We have already initiated the next stage of business development: self-contained, demountable and custom designed houses made from sea containers. Retired sea containers have become a problem, and re-purposing is what it’s all about. Special high profile, retired sea containers are re-purposed into affordable and alternative housing solutions.

Also, at some point in the future, we would like to facilitate workshops and training programs.

How can people see more of what you do and contact you?

At this time you can find us on Facebook, and our website will be operational soon: www.7thwavecreations.com.au You can phone Ric on 0407 643 434 and I can always be contacted on 0428 421 817.

Allan Golding Hi Allan. How long have you lived in Armidale?

Moving to Armidale in 2002 to attend UNE found me knowing in a very short time that this is where I wanted to live permanently.

How long have you owned your businesses, and what services do you offer? I’ve been at my current workshop for more than four years, and in that time the workshops around me have been filled with an eclectic array of artistic craftsmen; in good humour, we call ourselves ‘the Armidale craft guild’.

My passion is with timber, not in building or construction, but with carving and shaping nature’s gift of the beautiful textures, tones and patterns found in timber. Restoring furniture developed from my interests of carving and woodturning to hand caning with rattan and French polishing. There is a genuine enigmatic sensation when seeing and touching an exquisite piece of furniture. Furniture is our living history: restore, don’t replace.

Most of the furniture I deal with are family heirlooms. To restore furniture you have to have as close as possible the same timber and tools that were used originally. Going into the bush and finding a fallen rare species of timber, milling it, shipping it back to Armidale, drying it, and then cutting or shaping it to size to fit a particular job is my business.

56 new england focus.

Mammen’s Freight Chilli Driving School

Paperware What is Paperware?

Paperware is a dynamic, family owned company, established in 1978 with over 35 years of experience. We have and can supply the region with food and industrial packaging, to suit every profession and individual requirement.

We also stock an extensive range of kitchen and tableware, an extensive range of disposable hygiene gear, chemicals and cleaning supplies that will satisfy each individual requirements.

What does your tag-line ‘leading products, lasting service’ say for you?

Paperware stands on a foundation built on ultimate service, premium quality products and genuine customer relations.

We offer a reliable delivery service.

As a business we are and continue to aim to be the first choice for the highest quality leading products of the industry and to reward our customers with lasting service.

We are committed to create lasting relationships with service that rewards our customers year after year. We are just like any other business – we are as passionate about our customers as you are about yours!

Can you remember being on your Ls? Are you mindful of learner drivers when you drive?

Learning to drive can be an anxious time, so it is important for other motorists not to make life difficult for new drivers.

If you’re sharing a road with a learner, be aware that they might make mistakes. And we should make sure that we’re driving safely as well.

So if you see a learner driver: be patient, give them some space, look out for mistakes and make allowances for them.

When is the most beneficial time to commence driving lessons with a qualified driving instructor?

The earlier the better! The most beneficial strategy for learner driver training is to start them with the correct knowledge and skills early in the process, avoiding misinformation and passing on ‘bad habits’.

What is Keys2Drive – Free Lesson?

K2D introduces learners to a new approach called Find Your Own Way. (FYOW) which encourages learner drivers to ask questions, recognise risky situations and to find and fix their own mistakes. K2D improves the quality and quantity of learner driver experience by assisting parents to be more effective in their training role. Ask about a FREE LESSON with Chilli to experience the K2D program. www.keys2drive.com.au

It’s a locally owned family business at Mammen's General Freight and Crane Hire.

How long have you lived in the area, and what prompted you to open your business?

We have lived here all our lives. We have two beautiful boys who both work for us, but Michael has now joined the Army, so it’s myself and Jamie. We have 3 other casual drivers when we need them.

The main reasons I decided to open my own business was for health reasons. I now have a lot less stress, and I have never felt better. Putting all of my energy into my own business and the satisfaction of seeing it grow over the last four years is amazing.

Tell us about your services and what makes your business unique ...

We now have two trucks both with hiab cranes; one can carry four tonne and the other can carry eight tonne, plus we have two utes. We are local, and we can crane and hold things in place while being bolted, screwed, or welded. We crane and unload bulk bags into feed bins – safer than using a tractor, leaving the farmer to attend to other things.

Describe some of the varying jobs you have to do?

We cart anything from farm equipment, cattle crushes, feed troughs, fencing materials to building supplies to even the odd cubby house. We pride ourselves on being honest and reliable with reasonable rates.

new england focus 57

New England Glass & Aluminium New England Glass and Aluminium are a highly skilled and experienced team of glaziers eager to provide quality services to our customers. We pride ourselves on attention to detail.

New England Glass and Aluminium is a locally owned and operated family business.

Andrew and Heidi Inman have owned the business since September 2006, with Heidi in the office and Andrew in the workshop.

We would like to announce that we have moved our business New England Glass and Aluminium to a bigger and

58 new england focus.

better premises located at 5 Drew Street, Armidale. We supply and install Auto Door, cut glass and mirrors to order, make splash backs, showers, fly screens, double glazed windows and doors, security doors and screens, windows and doors along with a 24 hour emergency service.

For more information or an appointment and FREE quote, please contact Andrew and Heidi Inman of New England Glass on 6772 9377.

We are open Monday - Friday; 7.30am 4.15pm.

Motoring with Lynda Lynch

Toyota Corolla.

Toyota Kluger.

This month I was happy to link up with our good friends at New England Toyota and be afforded the opportunity to put the Toyota Corolla Sedan through its paces.

The Toyota Corolla is considered to be the world’s most popular small car, and I can certainly see why. On my first glance of the Corolla, I was drawn into the modern and sporty look. The matching body colour front and rear bumpers enhanced the stylish appeal.

This was very popular and accommodated the needs of all members of the family. I was also able to control many of these functions, along with my phone connection, through push button controls on the steering wheel, which was a big plus.

The Toyota Corolla came rior six with with a supe em st sy speaker audio ated od m m co ac which od iP h, USB, Bluetoot er ay Pl P3 and M functions.”

“

On entering the Corolla, I was pleasantly surprised by the room within the cabin and superior finish on the dash and trimmings.

The Toyota Corolla came with with a superior six speaker audio system which accommodated USB, Bluetooth, iPod and MP3 Player functions.

The importance of safety is still a big issue with me, and the Toyota Corolla did not disappoint. The vehicle comes with 7 airbags to offer protection to all passengers in the event of an accident.

It also has superior handling assistance features, such as an Anti-lock Braking System, Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control.

You couldn’t ask for any more to keep you safe.

Overall, I found the Toyota Corolla very enjoyable to drive and accommodating to all my needs. I highly recommend this car to anyone considering buying a new vehicle.

My friends at Toyota also this month gave me the opportunity to test drive one of their most popular SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicle), the Toyota Kluger. Like many families, I do a lot of running around taking kids to sport and attending other activities, often with additional passengers. I found the Toyota Kluger to be the perfect family vehicle in meeting many of my needs.

My first impression of the Kluger was its stylish presence and modern appeal compared to the normal run of the mill SUVs. On inspecting the interior, I was surprised by the attention to detail in the modern dash and finishings. There was plenty of leg room for all passengers and an abundance of storage space. Being unseasonably warm at this time of year, I was impressed with the air conditioning system, which allowed control for the front and rear of the vehicle, which was a big plus for passenger comfort.

The Toyota Kluger came with a six speaker

audio system which accommodated CDs, iPod, Bluetooth and AUX inputs, which met all my family’s needs.

I utilised the Toyota Kluger both in the city and on the country roads. It was very fuel efficient and the Dynamic Torque Control System, associated with the All Wheel Drive function, came into its own in providing superior handling on the dirt roads.

As usual, Toyota’s commitment to safety is also demonstrated in the Kluger. It comes with 7 air bags for superior protection. The handling of the Kluger is also supported by Anti Lock Braking System, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, Traction Control and Vehicle Stability Control. There is not much more that could be offered.The Toyota Kluger is a fantastic family vehicle that accommodates for any intended purpose. Make sure you give this vehicle a test drive when considering purchasing a new vehicle.

This is Josh.

He’s Google certiďŹ ed, and can help get things rolling for your business.