New England i86

Feature Story

NEW ENGLAND

July 2014 // Issue 86

Armidale to

the barnsley family

Lana Hardman

2 new england focus.

focus team.

Welcome to the July edition of New England FOCUS. big thank you to the New England for your continuous loyal support of what we do here at FOCUS. Our cover this month features our photographer, Tim Barnsley, who, with his family, is making the move to Hanoi, Vietnam. The team at FOCUS will miss this family greatly – and we’re sure the community will as well. We wish you all the best of luck with your grand new adventure.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE We have some great interviews this month. Duval High School’s Careers Advisor has a passion for students and their future.

This year she has once again organised the Careers Festival to embrace and build a better future for the children in our local community. The aim is to promote local business, stimulate student interest and to provide an opportunity for us all to celebrate our careers, share our knowledge and guide our youth.

FOCUS also followed the journey of 500 pumpkins this month. The disadvantaged

youth in the country lent a helping hand to homeless young people in the city with the donation of 500 pumpkins. Grown at Tilbuster Station, an agricultural program run by Pathfinders in Armidale, the veggies were delivered to the Salvos’ Oasis Youth Support Network in Sydney to be made into soup. Pathfinders CEO Alan Brennan talks about the work that went into Pathfinders “pumpkin run” project.

Jim Dedes speaks with FOCUS about the New Zealand bred horse who was sought out to be a local prize and an idol for local racing, Brave Ali. Our collector articles are popular, and this month Robyn Single displays her unique collection of boots - but they’re not in your regular sizes!

Graham East talks about his business I.T.Alive – helping Armidale harness the potential of the NBN at home and in business.

Stephen Fugler is the coordinator for The Armidale Freedom Climb, a symbolic gesture and a way to raise money for

A

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

the prevention, rescue, rehabilitation and development of women and children who are exploited and trafficked globally. Find out how you can help Stephen with this very important project when you read his interview …

And we find out more about the Armidale Community of Schools, which was formed in 2007 and is now made up of 17 schools, bringing together wonderful resources, talent and expertise to be utilised further.

FINAL SAY “We live in a world where we have to hide to make love, while violence is practiced in broad daylight” - John Lennon.

ADVERTISING MANAGER: Tracy Le Messurier

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable

tracy@focusmag.com.au

joey@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Lynda Lynch

GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment

lynda@focusmag.com.au

michael@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Merry Abrams

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Annalise Montgomery

merry@focusmag.com.au

annalise@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHER: Tim Barnsley

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan

tim.barnsley@gmail.com

jeff@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont

ACCOUNT MANAGER: Louise Beaumont

jay@focusmag.com.au

louise@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul

SUB EDITOR: Jo Atkins

dylan@focusmag.com.au

jo@focusmag.com.au

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

“Wouldn’t it

RESCUE

HELICOPTER

if...”

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

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

new england focus 3

inside this

Issue 86 - July 2014

10.

Barnsley Family.

The Barnsley family have made the decision of a lifetime: to move to Hanoi, Vietnam. FOCUS catches up wtih Tim, Cindy and the kids to find out what is ahead for a family who will be missed in the New England ...

Amy Power.

18.

A family background rich with creative inspiration and a keen appreciation of baroque music has led Amy to her career as a musician, playing both recorder and oboe. Amy will be visiting the Hoskins Centre on July 12 with the Australian Haydn Ensmble, to present an array of classical string quartets and oboe quartets.

15.

35.

Brave Ali. A New Zealand bred horse was sought out to be a local prize and an idol for local racing. Jim Dedes is a part of the syndicate, and he tells us about the journey so far ...

usual suspects.

the

16. what’s on for April 24. eat featuring local restaurants 42. 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

4 new england focus.

new england focus 5

focusinterview.

Duval High School's Career's Advisor has a passion for students and their future.

This year she has again organised the Careers Festival, to embrace and build a better future for the children in our local community. The aim is to promote local business, stimulate student interest and to provide an opportunity for us all to celebrate our careers, share our knowledge and guide our youth.

LANA HARDMAN

“

Duval High School's Careers Advisor i Lana. How long have you been at Duval High School, and what do you enjoy most about your job?

I have been a science teacher for 15 years and a Careers Advisor since 2012.

I am passionate about providing our students and parents with personalised career guidance and support. I have endeavoured to create an environment that is friendly and inviting, where students and parents alike can visit and receive up-to-date information, counselling, resources and above all, encouragement and support.

I am devoted to building student confidence, nurturing passions and encouraging dreams and aspirations. My goal is to prepare our students with the knowledge and skills required for a successful transition from school to work or further education.

Duval High School is committed to the safety, wellbeing and success of every individual student.

My role as Careers Advisor extends to helping students on a daily basis to manage the stresses and pressure of teenage life. I truly love assisting students in developing study timetables and helping them establish useful routines and habits to maintain a healthy quality of life.

6 new england focus.

Tell us about the Careers Festival ...

The idea of the Careers Festival was born from my desire to build relationships between students, parents and our local businesses and education providers. Everybody has an opportunity to benefit. It is an expo with a difference, as the students have the opportunity to engage with real people in real jobs and learn about their personal career paths.

One goal is to connect the business community with our students and give businesses and organisations the opportunity to engage with their future employees and network with schools and parents. The other is to connect our students with education and training providers to ensure that they are aware of the opportunities available locally. I believe the festival will provide students with the opportunities to explore career options and identify future career pathways on a more personal level.

It has been encouraging to see the support, interest and enthusiasm the community has demonstrated.

What is the objective of the festival?

DHS Careers Festival is a new and engaging event aimed at providing our students and the entire community with the opportunities to explore career options and identify future career

The festival aims to provide und students with so n io at rm career info ior pr e dg le and know ion. to subject select this e us Students can se oo ch to experience ct fle re at th courses ning .� their career plan

pathways.

DHS will host over 60 representatives from various businesses/industries, training providers, government departments and educational organisations to highlight some examples of what is currently available to our students beyond secondary school within our local community.

The Careers Festival will be an interactive event where students’ parents and the community can engage in activities and discuss career opportunities with local businesses in a fun and educational environment.

The festival aims to provide students with sound career information and knowledge prior to subject selection. Students can use this experience to choose courses that reflect their career planning. The interactive festival is specifically designed to stimulate student interest and provide an opportunity for us all to celebrate our careers, share knowledge and guide our youth towards a happy and successful life after high school.

How are the students involved further?

To ensure student engagement and traffic throughout the exhibit hall, we have initiated a Passport Program to encourage students to

visit all areas of the festival. Each Exhibitor/ Stall holder will be issued with an individual stamp.

A student must engage with a stall holder and gain relevant information before receiving a stamp that authenticates their interaction.

Completed passports will go into a draw to win prizes such as a mini iPad donated by MAC 1, TV donated by Bing Lee, iTunes vouchers, movie tickets, gift cards and more.

The more stalls students visit, the more information they gather, the more stamps they collect, the more chances they have of WINNING! I am super excited to announce that this year we will be celebrating and closing the festival with a spectacular display of FIREWORKS! During the evening there will be entertainment, a complimentary sausage sizzle and refreshments, fairy floss, popcorn, prizes and much more!

How do our readers find out more?

I would love to extend an invitation to all schools, parents and the community to join in, celebrate our careers and support our local community.

This year we have our own website that has direct links to your business and organisation's website, a place for students and the community to register, 2012 Festival photos and more! www.duvalcareersfestival.com Thanks Lana.

new england focus 7

breast reduction surgery ‘Breast Hypertrophy’

B

reast hypertrophy (enlargement) can be an early problem for a woman or a gradual increase in size over the years, causing neck, shoulder and back pain, restriction in mobility and exercise and significant difficulty in getting well fitting clothes including brassieres.

Principles of surgery Surgery involves reduction of skin and breast tissue (which is made up of glandular tissue and fat) and also the elevation of the nipple-areola complex.

The method of choice While there are many methods to reduce the breast, the vertical mammoplasty, initially described by the French surgeon Dr. Daniel Marchack, later popularised by Prof Madeline Le Jour of the University

8 new england focus.

of Brussels in Belgium and now fine tuned by Dr. Elisabeth Hall-Findlay of Banff in Canada, is a very sound technique. It gives an excellent reduction of breast size, good nippleareola complex elevation, minimal scarring and excellent long-term results, with maintenance of shape and position.

Postoperative restrictions The surgery is done under general anaesthesia, usually as an inpatient in hospital.

While surface healing takes place rapidly, internal healing, the regaining of strength and the restoration of shape takes up to 6 months.

However, the initial three weeks is a key period in the healing process, during which there are many restrictions on the activities permitted.

A specially designed compression garment is also used for the first

three months.

Time off work, including at home and looking after young children for at least the first three weeks after surgery helps in the recovery from surgery.

Breast droop (Ptosis) is also well-corrected, with a very similar technique, the vertical masto-pexy.

There are a number of operations, for correction of ptosis, which use skintightening techniques.

While technically simpler and less time-consuming, the improvement is short lived, due to the restretching of the tightened skin.

The vertical masto-pexy, is quite similar to the vertical mammoplasty, but with a very small reduction of breast tissue, and with an excellent lift of the breasts and nipple-areola complex, and with long-lasting results.

focuseditorial

Icing on the cake with Susie Dunn

Icing ON

cake If wishes were fishes … there’d be many different kinds of fish in the catch.

W

e all have differing ideas of what we’d want in a perfect world, and yet I have a feeling that almost all of us would then find this perfect place still strangely lacking.

Sensible compromise often brings the best results, and a fair agreement on priorities is essential.

I’m personally a great supporter of the idea of the Civic Precinct for Armidale, but now perhaps not quite in the form in which it‘s so far been presented.

I’d like to throw the idea of ARMIDALE

CENTRAL into the ring – an area with something for all ratepayers, including those for whom the performing arts are not a priority. So what could be in the mix to make this area important in some way for most people – and what would maximise utilisation to ensure economic viability – and let Armidale’s heart demonstrate the vibrancy of our city?

Certainly the promotion of conventions would bring benefits flowing into greater use of the Central Mall with its food outlets, specialist boutiques, WiFi and other services – and outwards to the other malls. Could

the proposed Government one-stop shop be incorporated? Could there be promotions for special-interest exhibitions and festivals?

Business promotions? Sports promotions?

Could the library follow the lead of innovative international 21st Century examples, plus expanding linkage with research in association with the proposed data centre and the university? What pragmatic ideas can be brainstormed? Suitable facades could provide exciting digital projections.

As well, of course, there would be the auditorium for music, a multitude of theatrical opportunities and for schools’ use.

The committed Precinct Committee has been tireless in working towards its targets, but perhaps now there’s an opportunity to re-strategise and widen usage to well and truly justify the Centre.

To have any chance of getting such a project off the ground, there must be a pragmatic acceptance of the need for financial viability by usage, covering costs for 365 days of the year.

The current financial climate gives us an opportunity to rethink the basic idea strategically in a way that can gain realistic support – and still end with the original components of library and theatre. Times may be considered tough, but reasoned determination can usually find a way with lateral thinking. Linking the Precinct to the Central Mall is such an economic opportunity for both.

By the way, in Sydney recently I took a Rivercat to Parramatta, just for the experience, and was so excited to see the way Parramatta

has handled its outdoor restaurants, giving them all-weather protection and creating a natural place for people to gather.

Well … a buzzing ARMIDALE CENTRAL is one of my wishes. I’m going fishing …

One different kind of Centre in town that keeps its flag flying in its own way is the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place.

There’s a constant sense of trialling different approaches to promotion of its activities, and that deserves recognition.

And with a great team in place to promote Armidale and district generally, another spot where locals should update themselves is the new-look Armidale Visitors’ Centre – it reminds us just what’s available here.

Knowing we have a terrific sporting complex at UNE, plus excellent facilities around town – remember, these also bring great economic benefits to the rest of us as well.

The university itself is going through an interesting, and of course challenging time, but it is encouraging to find that Professor Annabelle Duncan seems to be continually gathering support for her direct but also sensitive steering of the ship. Her previous mission as a UN Weapons Inspector in Iraq demonstrates a steady hand on the tiller!

The question of a new Armidale Hospital is undoubtedly another major consideration needing pragmatic strategic thinking. Perhaps we’ll get there one building at a time?

Concentrating our wishes collectively goes a long way to pulling in the fish.

Susie Dunn.

new england focus 9

focusinterview.

Armidale to

the barnsley family

The Barnsley family have made the decision of a lifetime: to move to Hanoi, Vietnam. FOCUS catches up wtih Tim, Cindy and the kids to find out what is ahead for a family who will be missed in the New England ...

10

new england focus.

focusinterview.

Armidale to

the barnsley family

ow long have both you lived in the area? Tell us about your family ...

We have both lived in the New England for most of our lives and have lived in Uralla for more than 20 years.

Cindy was born in Armidale and returned here to study at UNE in 1992. Tim came to Armidale to study at Teachers’ College in 1983 but decided after a year that teaching wasn’t for him. He moved back to his birthplace, Sydney, for a few years and returned to Armidale to study Fine Arts at TAFE New England. This gave him an opportunity to explore his love of photojournalism and print media, and he has been working locally as a photographer ever since.

We were married in Uralla at Gostwyck Chapel in 1999 and have two children, Eva and Max. Eva currently attends PLC Armidale in Year 8, and Max is in Year 5 at TAS. We love the New England because it’s so picturesque and is a wonderful place to live and to raise children. Uralla, especially, is a beautiful little village that we will always call home.

Cindy, tell us about your teaching career in Armidale?

I began studying teaching at UNE in 2003.

We both wanted to work and travel overseas, and I thought it would be good to have teaching quals as a back-up plan, because I was

working as a journalist at the time. I did my prac at Uralla Central School and fell in love with teaching and decided that it was what I wanted to do in the future.

I was fortunate enough to get my first teaching role in the English faculty at The Armidale School in 2005 and have never looked back.

I have been lucky to have spent the majority of my career so far teaching at a wonderful school like TAS. It has been amazing to spend the past nine years with staff who are dedicated to creating a culture of academic excellence and are deeply committed to boys’ education.

To work with educators of the calibre of the Headmaster, Murray Guest, Deputy, Alan Jones and Director of Studies, Seonia Wark has been fantastic. TAS is a special place where everyone works incredibly hard to create the best possible opportunities for kids. I have valued my time there, both as a staff member and as a parent, and will miss my colleagues, students and families. My son, Max, has thrived at TAS, and we will be really sad to leave.

Tim, tell us about your career as a photographer?

I have been a photographer in the New England for around 25 years and through different jobs and various publication have met local people from all walks of life. It’s been great to document both the highs and lows of the Armidale community during that time. I joined The Armidale Express as a photojournalist in

d Cindy was offere n tio si po ng hi a teac ations at The United N hi ch ,w oi an H in ol Scho o UN tw is one of only ld. It or w e th schools in ock, sh a ite qu came as ea gr t but was such a we at opportunity th it! ” r fo go decided to

“

1992 and worked there until 2009, when we moved to Vietnam. When we came back, I set up my own freelance business, Tim Barnsley Photography, and have enjoyed great support from clients such as PLC Armidale,TAS, the UNE, NECOM and members of the public.

I have also been a stringer for the metropolitan papers, including The Sydney Morning Herald, The Daily Telegraph, The Australian and The Australian Financial Review.

I was also fortunate enough to become the photographer for New England FOCUS in 2012 and am very proud to have been able to be part of a team that produces the region’s best lifestyle publication.

You're soon relocating to Vietnam. How did this come about?

Ten days ago, Cindy was offered a teaching position at The United Nations School in Hanoi, which is one of only two UN schools in the world. It came as quite a shock, but was such a great opportunity that we decided to go for it! We spent time in southern Vietnam in 2009 - 2011, where Cindy worked at the Australian International School, Saigon. We all love Vietnam, its vibrancy, food and people,

and are really excited to be returning.

We will be living in a different part of the country and are looking forward to exploring the north, especially the mountain areas like Sapa and the Red River delta outside Hanoi. The school has around 1,100 students from more than 66 nationalities and is a leading school in the region, so it is a unique opportunity to live and work in an interesting and culturally diverse part of the world.

What will you miss most about Armidale?

We will miss our family, friends and work colleagues most of all. We love Armidale and will really miss many aspects of our lives here. The school communities of TAS and PLC Armidale have been a big part of our lives, and it will be hard to say goodbye to all the people we know. However, Armidale and Uralla will always be home, so we know we will back to visit and will hopefully return to live here down the track.

Believe it or not, one of our favourite things about Armidale is the weather – we absolutely love the cold climate and will miss the winters and the cool summer nights!

Thanks Tim. new england focus

11

TAS Co-Educational Junior School Now Enrolling Transition - Year 2, 2015

All welcome to attend our Junior School Transition - Year 2

Open Day Wednesday 20 August 10am - 12pm Explore our excellent facilities, chat with specialist teachers and discover the advantage of a TAS education for girls and boys.

For more information call 6776 5823

www.as.edu.au

with Susie Boswell.

focus_Travel

WINTER ESCAPE: PMQ SHORT BREAK he hands of the clock slow down, then seem merely to crawl; the treadmill of life winds back until it barely saunters: it’s a phenomenon that occurs just half an hour out from Port Macquarie’s busy CBD, at the moment guests check in to a treehouse weekender at lush, secluded Diamond Waters, on the Camden Haven River.

T

Just a few minutes beyond Laurieton, across the Bold Street bridge and to the south-east, the retreat’s farm gate is set amid ancient shady timbers. Drive in to a generous open gravelled car park at the entry to the property’s nursery - and be embraced, enveloped, by a shady open garden of tree ferns, king ferns, towering eucalypts above and colourful flowers at your feet. This is a spot where time stands still and guests can take a deep breath, and short break, from the everyday busy schedule.

What’s more, says co-owner Peter Johnson, visitors such as small business owners or parents of teenagers - couples and individuals who’re typically time-poor - can get away for a few days’ escape without travelling long distance. And be able to return home quickly in case of business emergency or personal need.

Beyond the nursery gardens and an al fresco barista coffee bar guests pass through into a private wonderland, past a fenced free-range chicken run where they can gather eggs, and their “personal” garden, where they can pick basil and other fresh produce, onto an elevated walkway leading to two - nicely separated - chalet-style tree houses. Cubby houses for grown-ups! At the entry to our corrugated-iron treehouse the porch overlooks a pretty minilake where ducklings paddle calmly. Ahead, through the trees, is our private stretch of golden sand on the Camden Haven River and, to the west, Dooragan National Park; behind us, the surf and fishing beaches of the Pacific.

But right in front of us: our very own retreat for a few days and nights, a luxury cabin recognised in architecture awards for timberdesign excellence and by tourism authorities for advanced ecological appointments. I give it high marks too! I loved the blackbutt floors,

superbly-relaxed master bedroom with its timber-screen gauzed shutters and tasteful furnishings and the spa-like bathroom with dual open shower. I was truly like the kid in the cubby in the kitchen, set neatly behind swish joinery (everything here is done and supplied by local artisans and industry). There’s a concealed fridge that runs efficiently on a whisker of energy, ditto a hidden Miele dishwasher, there’s a mini oven-stove, stone bench tops, cupboards fully-equipped with sparkling china and cutlery, pantry and a laundry alcove with washing machine camouflaged behind matching timberwork.

The adjacent open-plan dining-sitting room features thick warm rugs and a charming fully-set timber-fuel fire supplied with logs.

On the elevated deck, with a glorious private outlook, there’s casual seating and a whiskerclean Weber Q. The tree houses sleep two in the main bedroom, with room for up to four guests in total in two convertible king-single sofabeds, bedding stored neatly in the base below. For a house party or small celebration, the two tree houses cater for eight guests in all. Johnson and wife Kerry McFadyen, who live with their children in a secluded spot on the 5ha compound, plan a modest extension of capacity in future. BYO provisions or order a breakfast basket with local bacon, farm eggs, Ricardoes tomatoes and jams. Dine out on a day tour or shop locally for lunch and dinner comestibles: a cheese-and-ham baguette picnic lunch, perhaps, with a bottle from a local winery? Pack the fridge with a weekend’s essentials or supplement a BBQ of the fish or mud crab caught over on the river with free seasonal vegies from the farm garden. There are wall-mounted TVs in the main bedroom and sitting room, but this is a spot for board games, reading, fireside banter and a gentle nightcap or two. There are great rural daytrip attractions in surrounding Kendall, Kew and Laurieton: cafes, the cinema, farmers’ markets and so on. Aaah, the serenity!

Info: www.diamondwaters.com.au or 6559 8328. The tariff’s modest and the same for either two or three nights. It’s popular, so book ahead. new england focus

13

focusinterview.

ROBYN SINGLE

R NE COR

Robyn Single has a unique collection of boots, but not in your regular sizes!

H

ow long have you lived in love about collecting?

Armidale? When and why My collection is made up of expensive, did you first become inexpensive and some just plain giveaways. interested in For example: Royal Doulton, crystal collecting and carnival glass; some are china handmade as well. boots and shoes?

I love collecting them, It started an ith Tracy, I have lived in because the thrill is in w e, ch an aval who s nd ie Armidale for 20 years. fi nding a very special fr d an ily fam em.

I started collecting my and unique one to add thought I liked thstarted From there on it ey were collection about 35 years to the collection. My my interest, as the really ago when I was invited family and friends think buying me som to a garden party, which it is a pretty harmless .” es different on is similar to a Tupperware obsession, but I do have party. I had never and still am a friend, Mark, who always not a green thumb; however, refers to me as Imelda Robyn, I bought a really cute glass boot. as I probably own too many It started an avalanche with family and shoes that I wear as well; I think he is friends, who thought I liked them. From likening me to Imelda Marcos. So I guess there on it started my interest, as they were in a way it is family and friends’ fault, but buying me some really different ones. that’s my excuse.

Describe your collection ... what do you Where have you found items for your col-

“

14

new england focus.

lection?

I have found them in jewellery stores, antique shops and even raided a friend’s antique shop in Moree, which is my hometown.

I have a very special one that an elderly friend dug up in her front garden. It is so old and so special, because she has since died. This friend had lived in the house for over 60 years and never knew where it came from.

Plans for the future?

My plans are to stop collecting and find someone who will love them as much as me.

But there will always be one I will have to have!

Thanks Robyn.

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.

interview. focusinterview.

the

Observatory

Weekend Escape

Beautiful location, luxurious accommodation and friendly, helpful staff all added up to a most enjoyable weekend escape for my husband, David, and myself at The Observatory Resort in Port Macquarie.

ound adjacent to picturesque Town Beach, a more scenic locale would be hard to find in Port Macquarie. Magnificent ocean views, combined with the gentle sounds of nearby waves lapping the shoreline provided a relaxing seaside oasis for us to kick back and relax for the weekend. The hotel is just a short riverside stroll to the bustling town centre, so we both took in a bit of retail therapy as well.

Our two bedroom, open plan apartment was fitted out with very comfy, stylish furnishings and state-of-the-art appliances, had a full kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities – a luxurious home away from home. The outdoor balconies topped off the accommodation, giving stunning ocean views taking in both Town Beach and the Hastings River. We also had prime seats on the oceanfront balcony to watch the athletes in the 2014 Toyota Ironman Australia, which coincidently was staged on the same weekend as our stay.

We took full advantage of the situation, hopped on bikes provided by the Hotel and got amongst the atmosphere of this iconic event. The Observatory offers guests a selection of Bike 'n' Hike iPod self guided audio tours – a fantastic audiovisual guide that can be done at your own pace. There are three tours to pick from: the Koala Tour, Riverside Tour and the Boardwalk & Beaches Tour.

We chose the scenic Riverside Tour, cycling Reserve, where we unpacked our backpack along the banks of the Hastings River. The tour (provided by our hosts ) and enjoyed a relaxing has six stops, with each attraction having its picnic lunch waterside before returning home own audio information on the iPod. As well as to The Observatory. the iPod, you are given a handy Trail One of the great things about Map that shows tour routes and the Riverside Tour is that it is must see attractions on the fairly flat, making it easy trail, plus public amenities going and suitable for all to e os and food outlets. ages and fitness levels.

We ch l na tio op an Our first stop was The sights along the take ail, on the breakwall way are memorable, detour on the tr the taking a tour of overlooking the Skate especially if you are ouse Historic Court H and Park on Town Beach, lucky, like us, to see t while we were ou ry where young and a pod of dolphins ve as about, which w old skaters, bike and at play and witness interesting.” scooter riders showed a historic vessel, “The off their skills. We then set Notorious”, coming into off along the breakwall into the Hastings River via the town along the scenic Hastings ocean bar.

River, past the Lady Nelson Wharf, the Throughout the ride we learnt a lot Statue of Sir Edmund Barton and then of fascinating things about the area. The had a quick pit stop at the Town Green to commentary is an informative guide, a great check out the Ironman setup that was to take insight into Port Macquarie's history, beautiful place the next day. landscape, abounding wildlife and points of We chose to take an optional detour on the interest. trail, taking a tour of the Historic Court House The iPod helps to guide you on your tour, while we were out and about, which was very providing very useful directions in both map interesting. and written form, making it really easy to Back on the bikes, we headed around the navigate around town – very handy with so waterfront to the Marina, past the Westport many people about enjoying the Ironman Club and Settlement City, through North atmosphere. The “Bike and Hike iPod Audio Harbour and out to beautiful Settlement Point Tour” is a must do – a fun way to spend the

“

day in beautiful Port Macquarie at your leisure.

To top off a wonderful day of bike riding, we enjoyed some of the hotel’s amenities, having a dip in the indoor lap pool and soothed our muscles in the undercover spa and sauna. Then a lovely dinner for two, featuring local fresh seafood cooked to perfection by the expert Head Chef at Scampis Seafood Bar and Grill, located on the ground level of the hotel was had.

Other highlights of our stay were the yummy breakfasts served by the Milkbar Café, a stroll through the For Good Gift Store next door, and a bit of pampering at the Endota Day Spa, all found on the ground level of the hotel.

The stay was all the more comfortable in the knowledge that The Observatory is an environmentally responsible service provider – one of only a handful of Australian hotels to have become 100% carbon neutral. If you are looking for luxury accommodation in Port Macquarie for your next escape where you can enjoy magnificent ocean views, be pampered, be a stone’s throw from the beach, are only a short stroll to the town centre and nearby clubs, you can't go past The Observatory Hotel.

Being the North Coast's most awarded hotel, it is no wonder that The Observatory Hotel is ranked No.1 on Tripadvisor for Port Macquarie Accommodation! I've added my recommendation; after your stay I bet you do too! new england focus

15

AROUND THE REGION //JULY 2014

26

Christmas in July The Whitebull Hotel invites you to our annual Christmas in July.

3 course Christmas menu.

5 23

5

First Saturday Chats Jane Pfister (Solicitor) between 10am and 1pm at our offices at 157 Beardy Street, Armidale on Saturday 5 July 2014. As this is a popular program, bookings are essential on 1300 642 166.

When Saturday 5 July 2014.

Where Legal Minds Office, 157 Beardy St Mall.

Contact 1300 642 166.

When Saturday 26th July 2014 @ 7pm.

Where Whitebull Steakhouse.

Cost $60pp - book now.

Bookings Call 6772 3833.

Email - management@whitebull.com

2014 Careers Festival Hosted by Duval High School.

Information, sausage sizzle, popcorn, Holysmoke fireworks, fairy floss, drinks, entertainment, prizes.

When Wednesday, July 23, 4:30 - 7:30pm.

Where Duval High School Gymnasium.

Nefarious - Merchant of Souls

Behind the Veil of the Sex Industry.

A hard-hitting, feature length documentary that exposes the disturbing trends of modern sex slavery.

Where The New England Girls’ School Hall.

When July 5, 7pm.

Contact Steve 0414 518 503.

Home of Amazing Entertainment

16 new england focus.

focusinterview.

a r m i d a l e

framing AND

art supplies Anne and Stuart Boggs Anne and Stuart Boggs have been in the business for over 15 years, FOCUS catches up with them to find out more about their story and Gallery 126.

H

ow long have you had Armidale Framing and Art Supplies?

We have been in this business for over 15 years.

After purchasing the original business, at that stage just custom framing, at the beginning of 1999, we expanded into art supplies. We moved into our larger premises at the beginning of 2002 and opened the gallery part of the business in November of that year.

The three facets of art under the one roof have proven to be a complementary and successful business and certainly a pleasurable environment in which to work.

Describe your art supplies …

We tend to concentrate on the fine art materials, as we believe that with quality products you can achieve better, longer lasting results than with the cheaper products. Artist quality materials use pure pigments in their colours, which carry a light fastness guarantee as well as reliability and accuracy in colour mixing.

Especially if artists are selling their artworks, they should really use the best quality materials they can afford, to ensure longevity of the finished piece.

Our range is far too extensive to list here;

it extends from the humble graphite pencil and eraser to paints, inks, soft and oil pastels, brushes, easels and every surface imaginable upon which to make your artwork, including canvas and linen stretchers and off the roll. We specialise in papers for drawing, watercolour, oil and acrylic painting, printmaking, calligraphy. We have a range of decorative and fine art rag and rice papers from Nepal, leather bound journals and albums, beautifully crafted wooden pens and pencils from Germany. We cater for the hobbyist to the professional artist and for that special gift item. … and your framing services.

We are custom picture framers; which means that we can make a frame to encapsulate and display whatever the customer brings into us.

It may be an original artwork, a photograph, poster or a 3D object. We can advise you to choose the right colours of the mat and the appropriate frame and on the preservation of your valuable items, as well as decorative trends and ideas. We sell mirrors, both plain and bevelled; in addition, we can make a mirror to whatever size required. We also carry “The Gallery System” – a hanging system which avoids all those nail holes in your walls and gives you the flexibility to rearrange or add to the artworks

on your walls. We are pleased to offer advice and quotes.

What are some of the unusual items customers have requested to be framed?

Last year we framed a shovel! To mention a few things, over the last 15 years in addition to artworks, photographs, needlework and all variety of memorabilia, we have framed clocks, an eagle kite, teddy bears, antique fans, wool bale stencils, fossils and shells, even sharks’ teeth, wedding bouquets, cake icing decorations, items of clothing, from baby’s christening dresses to adult riding gear, even a monopoly game – mid game, I might add!

What’s coming up in the next few months at Gallery 126?

One Back Three Forward – an exhibition of paintings by Ned McDowell continues until the 26th July. The colourful abstract landscapes and figurative self portraits have showcased Ned’s emerging style and confidence in mark making.

Two well known artists, Margarete Ogonowski and Rowen Matthews have teamed up with paintings and drawings for an exhibition which opens on the 1st August, followed by a photography exhibition by Michael Taylor in September.

What do you love about what you do?

We love the fact that you never know who or what is going to come through the door on any day! The interaction with people, the colour, beauty and diversity in the framing items and artworks. To hear the story behind the item, because everything we frame means something special to the owner. And the art materials are just so inspiring ... you can’t help but be amazed by the creativity!

Plans for the future ...

In the next few weeks, we are extending and complementing our framing to include a range from Bellini – a company formed in Australia in 2009 specialising in exquisite hand-finished picture frame moulding designed, crafted and manufactured in Italy. Bellini moulding is crafted exclusively from resinous wood – fir and pine – selected from origin and environmentally certified. Their moudlings exude quality, style and excellence, and it is found in museums and galleries around the world and in the finest residential and commercial spaces.

We are hoping to run more workshops and demonstrations. We have an encaustic wax demonstration coming up in September. People can register their interest with us or follow us on Facebook.

new england focus 17

focusinterview.

A family background rich with creative inspiration and a keen appreciation of baroque music has led Amy to her career as a musician, playing both recorder and oboe.

Amy will be visiting the Hoskins Centre on July 12 with the Australian Haydn Ensmble, to present an array of classical string quartets and oboe quartets, including works by Mozart and Haydn ...

W

here are you originally from?

I was born in Armidale and lived there until I finished school. While I grew up, my family made the most of Armidale's gifts.We often spent weekends bushwalking and swimming in the gorges, cooking tea in billy cans and sausages on sticks, and we’d usually get home fairly late, as my father would want to try a new path back to the car. I played some sports, and on Friday mornings at 6.25am I went on runs.

My brother and I were taken to concerts, to the Art Museum.

My mother ensured there was a rotation of art works around the walls of our house. My family always ate dinner together, no matter what time Dad got home from the hospital, and over the table we talked and debated our way through every imaginable topic – nothing was off limits. It got pretty noisy at times! Apart from my music lessons, I thank my years in Stage One drama school with the late Astrid Blake for an incredible education.

How did you first become involved with music? Tell us about your journey ...

My father is a pianist, and there was live music of some sort at home daily. Once I could grapple an instrument (I first played piano), my father and I would play together. There were often musicians in the house, either playing with Dad, or coming through Armidale for concerts, and I was always welcome to sit and talk with them. I had wonderful recorder lessons with Zana Clarke and hours-long harpsichord lessons with Ros Halton. At some point, as a teenager, I decided to practise seriously, with the goal of studying music overseas. I first went to Melbourne University, where I was given a great musical and emotional preparation for moving to Europe. I successfully auditioned for the “Blok” at the Amsterdam Conservatory, the sort-of “mecca” of recorder study, and commenced some intense, hard-working years. After a trip home to Australia one holiday, I fortuitously ended up in the same row on the plane as my future historical oboe teacher, giving me the courage to ask him to teach me! After graduating with a Master’s degree in both oboe and recorder, I moved to Basel, Switzerland, with my now-husband (German recorder player and jazz saxophonist Andreas Böhlen), where I have been freelancing for the past 6 years. I perform regularly with a Basel-based baroque orchestra, and I travel a lot to play with different groups around Europe.

Who and what has been your inspiration?

The English soprano, Emma Kirkby, visited Armidale with 18 new england focus.

I successfully auditioned for the “Blok” at the Amsterdam sorte Conservatory, th rder co re of ” ca ec “m of menced study, and com rdha e, ns some inte s.” ar ye ng worki

“

Musica Viva when I was a child. I was obsessed with her voice, and with baroque music, from that point on. When I was 14 I met a famous Swiss recorder player, Conrad Steinmann, and after that I was determined to study recorder in Europe. These days, any artist who takes a personal approach, who is convincing and has integrity, inspires me. My brother (Melbourne architect Edward Power) designs beautiful structures which are then built, and that inspires me (if I make a mistake on stage nobody dies, but if he makes a mistake …) Running through the mountains also inspires me and is a great way of spending a 3-hour rehearsal break in a Swiss town.

What brings you back to Australia?

I am playing several projects in July, firstly as part of Pinchgut Opera’s production of Salieri’s The Chimney Sweep in Sydney.

Then I am playing a couple of programs with The Australian Haydn Ensemble, and then a concert directed by Andrew Lawrence-King at the World Harp Congress in Sydney. I love playing with Australian musicians, particularly for the ease in communicating with people of my own culture!

You and members of the Australian Haydn Ensemble

will be performing at the Hoskins Centre on the 12th July. What can we expect to see and hear?

This will be my first time meeting and playing with this ensemble, and I am looking forward to collaborating with a young, motivated group of people who have already brought so much to the music scene in Australia. We are playing a program of classical string quartets and oboe quartets, including works by Mozart and Haydn, and we are playing on copies of instruments from these composers’ time. But don’t be afraid, this approach just brings another sound world to this repertoire, one that can easily communicate the many small gestures in this music. My first experience of hearing classical period wind instruments in an orchestra, in Brussels when I was 20, was mind blowing.

Plans for the future?

It isn’t easy to plan my life! I am always surprised by what happens. I am going to be spending a lot of time between Austria and Switzerland in the near future, so I should probably learn to yodel.

Thanks Amy.

new england focus

19

focusinterview.

STEVE MYHILL the Royal Easter Show

high calibre

join the fold at

St John’s Junior School & NEGS

“We are incredibly fortunate that both our junior and senior school have attracted such high calibre individuals. St John’s Junior School & NEGS would like to welcome Ms Shannon Rosewood and Ms Kirrili Williams to our school and the wider community” - Principal, Mr Clive Logan.

T

he New England Girls’ School have new heads at the helm, with Principal Mr Clive Logan announcing that Ms Shannon Rosewood will take on the role as Head of St John’s Junior School and Ms Kirrili Williams accepting the prestigious position as Director of Music.

Principal Mr Clive Logan is delighted with the appointments, saying it will further underline the school’s commitment to a long and stable future.

Ms Rosewood will arrive from Abbotsleigh School, where she has held the position of Year 6 Coordinator at the elite North Shore school since 2005. Ms Williams is also a distinguished Sydney recruit, having spent the last four and half years as Choir Coordinator at the International Grammar School (IGS) in Ultimo.

Firstly, Shannon, tell us a little bit about yourself ...

I have been with my partner, Matt, for 20 years and we have a seven year old daughter, Eva. I grew up in Sydney, but we lived in the Blue Mountains for 10 years and spent 12 months travelling around Australia. It has always been our intention to move beyond Sydney, but employment opportunities have been limited.

A rural setting has always been our goal, and Armidale has always been high on my list of preferred country towns. I have visited the area many times and have friends who live in the region, including Donella Tutt, who holds the position of Maths teacher at NEGS. Donella and I taught together at the Blue Mountains Grammar School, and we have always shared a passion for education

20 new england focus.

and a love of the country. I was immediately attracted to the position and was well aware of the heritage of the school, the beautiful rural setting and I thought it an exciting opportunity to lead and develop the already well established St John’s Junior School.

Abbotsleigh Junior School has consistently outperformed most schools academically, including a number 1 NAPLAN ranking in 2012. It’s an impressive track record. Does St John’s have similarities in terms of learning styles?

Actually, St John’s follow a very similar philosophy to Abbotsleigh, where there is a big focus on experiential learning experiences: exploring, interacting and acknowledging that the physical environment plays an important part in education. I liked the fact that St John’s also undertakes an assessment of every student as they enter the Junior School, which facilitates a strong understanding of each child’s areas of strength and those who are in need of extra support before they start the school year. It allows our teaching style to be differentiated so every student can be challenged and stimulated in their learning journey.

Kirrili, you have had an amazing career both domestically and internationally.

Please give us some insight into your career to date ...

I originally trained as an instrumental music teacher under acclaimed pianist and educator Wendy Lorenz, and then went on to establish a music school in Randwick, which I ran for seven years. I was very lucky and landed a role at the prestigious Royal Grammar School, Worcester, where I established the

junior school music program and worked as organisations and taught piano in and principal accompanist. While there, I studied outside the school system, in both Australia piano with Graham Lloyd, gaining my Dip. and the UK. This has given me a very broad ABRSM. In 2010 I returned to Australia to perspective in terms of both education and take up the role as Head of Curriculum management. A point of pride with Music at Trinity College, Gawler, me has always been to work SA. Most recently I was with as wide an age range St John’s follow Choir Coordinator at as possible. a very similar International Grammar A little bit about the re philosophy, whe on School. music program and s there is a big focu ng Kirrili, you have two any events coming ni experiential lear ing, children who have up that we can plor experiences: ex just started at St look forward to ... interacting and e th at John’s; Hannah is in It’s a very exciting th g in acknowledg t en nm Year 5 and Tariq is in ro time to be heading vi en physical part t an rt po Year 3. How are they the school’s Music im an plays ” n. io at settling in?

Department.

Our choral uc ed in Both were hesitant about program is a particular leaving their large school of strength, and the standard of 500 students in Sydney. However, our Senior Vocal Ensemble was both emerged from their first day at St recognised in their recent win at the John’s with excitement and enthusiasm.

Armidale Eisteddfod. Our instrumental They were welcomed by their teachers and program has also gained much momentum classmates in an incredibly warm manner that recently, with large ensembles established in is only possible in a small, close-knit school. both Stage 3 and Stage 4. Our Eisteddfod Both are excited about the specialist Music successes were celebrated at the Music program at St John’s (taught by Rowena Tall) Showcase Evening on Wednesday 18 June, and are choristers already. Hannah has also and now both NEGS and St John’s will start joined the Stage 3 Band on clarinet, which preparation for New England Sings on 1 - 2 will be her second instrument.

November and the annual Carol Service. Some What unique experience and perspective of our more advanced St John’s singers will be do you think you can bring from your performing in Opera Australia’s production of previous postings?

The Magic Flute on 28 August. Auditions for I’ve been very fortunate so far in that I’ve our 2015 musical production of Narnia will had the opportunity to work in so many commence during Term 3. diverse contexts, which have included To book your spot in the St John’s Kindy different types of schools, syllabuses Orientation program commencing Thursday and cultural settings. I’ve also been a 28 August, please contact enrolments on business owner, teacher trainer for private enrolments@negs.nsw.edu.au

“

new england focus 21

focusinterview.

ARMIDALE

WALDORF COMMUNITY EDUCATION OF SCHOOLS

THE ARMIDALE COMMUNITY OF SCHOOLS WAS

FORMED IN 2007 AND IS NOW MADE UP OF 17 SCHOOLS , WHICH BRINGS TOGETHER WONDERFUL RE SOURCES , TALENT AND EXPERTISE TO BE UTILISED FURTHER ...

C

an you explain to us why the Armidale Community of Schools (ACOS) was formed? What is the history?

The Armidale Community of Schools (ACOS) was formed in 2007. At the time it only consisted of the local public schools located within the town boundary. The main objective was to bring together the wonderful resources, talent and expertise from across all of our public schools and utilise these to provide outstanding opportunities for our students. It gave principals an opportunity to network in professional learning areas and facilitated discussion and feedback about local issues.

Who makes up the Community of Schools?

Today, there are 17 schools involved. Armidale City, Ben Venue, Black Mountain, Chandler, Drummond, Ebor, Kelly’s Plains, Kingstown, Martin’s Gully, Newling, Rocky River and Sandon Public Schools, Guyra and Uralla Central Schools, Duval and Armidale High Schools and Thalgarrah Environmental Field Studies Centre make up the schools involved in the Armidale Community of Schools.

Twice per term, principals meet to discuss current educational issues and look for collaborative opportunities to promote student activities and professional learning.

22 new england focus.

Tell us about your achievements since NAIDOC Week, the local Eisteddfod, New England Community of Schools started.

Sings etc. just to name a few.

The Armidale Community of Schools is an The ACOS has sent a representative to the enthusiastic, vibrant, creative and innovative team Regional Expo in Sydney for many years and has of principals from across the 17 schools involved. promoted cooperation and promotion of Public Our group represents over 3,500 students. The Schools in the local area.

Armidale Community of Schools has What is the future for Community of an ACOS Student Choir and ACOS Schools?

Student Orchestra. As well, we As the DEC changes its offer combined activities to structure and local schools Principals also meet to plan a enhance our students’ learning become more autonomous onal e rang of professi and through our eGATS and other groups, like the ACOS, they es, learning activiti environmental education will provide valuable support eet they regularly m ast programs. and networking for principal kf socially for brea d Principals also meet to colleagues. and for schedule e plan a range of professional The world is our oyster, meetings at th re .” learning activities, and and our future is only limited Leadership Cent they regularly meet socially by our imagination. We are for breakfast and for scheduled eager to explore a number of joint meetings at the Leadership Centre. professional learning activities across How does the Armidale Community of schools to ensure the highest quality of Schools get involved in the community? teaching and learning is being achieved in each The Armidale Community of Schools often has school. visitors from the community come to address us at As well, we want to continue working together our meetings across a range of topics. This results in in order to strengthen the leadership capacity of establishing partnerships across several contexts. the combined group of principals through engaging As well, our schools are deeply involved in local with the latest educational research with a view to community events – ANZAC Day, Autumn Festival, ongoing improvement across all of our schools.

“

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

ARMIDALE COMMUNITY OF SCHOOLS - PROVIDING QUALITY PUBLIC EDUCATION. Our wonderful public schools in the Armidale district make up your Armidale

Students benefit 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.

Our excellent high and central schools offer an outstanding selection of traditional

Our highly qualified 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

Marne Street, Guyra

P 6778 9131

815 Black Mountain Rd Black Mountain NSW 2365 P 6775 0192

Chandler Public School

Drummond Memorial Public School

Uralla Central School

Waterfall Way, Wollombi 2350 P 6778 1335 F 6778 1240 E chandler-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Rusden Street, Armidale 2350 P 6772 3736 E drummondm-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Park Street, Uralla 2358 P 6778 4204 E uralla-c.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Duval High School

Martins Gully Public School

Crest Road, Armidale 2350 P 6772 1266 E duval-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Bona Vista Road, Armidale 2350 P 6772 3314 E martinsgul-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Armidale High School

Kellys Plains Public School

Newling Public School

Butler Street, Armidale 2350 P 6776 7466 E armidale-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Kelly Plains Rd, Armidale 2350 P 6775 1253 E kellysplan-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

80 Chapel Street, Armidale 2350 P 6772 1488 E newling-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Ben Venue Public School

Thalgarrah Environmental Education Centre

Sandon Public School

Armidale City Public School Faulkner Street, Armidale 2350 P 6772 3420 E armidalec-p.admin@det.nsw.edu.au

Erskine Street, Armidale 2350 P 6772 4263 E benvenue-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Rockvale Road, Armidale 2350 P 6775 1736

Ebor Public School

Rocky River Public School

Ebor St, Ebor NSW 2453

Bundarra Road, Uralla 2358 P 6778 4122 E rockyriver-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

P 6775 9136

P 6779 0844

Erskine & Niagara Street, Armidale 2350 P 6772 3349 E sandon-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

new england focus

23

New England

Cheese and Walnut Dumplings from Prue & Olive.

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

new england focus focus.

eat.

Prue & Olive

The Mill Bistro

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 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.

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.

Great tasty family dining Enjoy some of the new dishes out, including grilled Atlantic Salmon pictured above, we encourage you to bring the whole family in for lunch or dinner soon.

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!

$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.

Head Chef Chris Kershaw.

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

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

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

1879 Bistro

The Wicklow

Railway Hotel Armidale

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.

Bar Bistro Bottleshop.

Open for lunch Monday - Saturday from midday.

Open for dinner Tuesday - Saturday from 6pm.

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.

Great lunches from just $8, with pub classics and winter warmers.

Nightly blackboard specials; great steaks; great value.

Check out bistro 1879 on Facebook or call us on 6772 3109.

Head Chef Steve Welbourne.

222 Rusden Street, Armidale t 6772 3109 open Lunch Monday - Saturday from midday.

Dinner Tuesday - Saturday from 6pm.

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.

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

Lunch: noon - 2pm. new england focus 25

focuseditorial.

N E V E R T O O YO U N G T O B E A N A R T I S T.

How old do you need to be to to be be an an artist? artist?

At NERAM you can start really young. The school holiday workshop on 2 July, Mud Mania, is aimed at children aged 5 - 12.

P

otter Rick Hatch will run a fun hands-on tactile all day workshop in which kids can squelch their hands into clay and mould their own portrait. Rick will instruct the children to closely observe what is unique about themselves and interpret it in clay. Works will be fired and can be painted using brightly coloured slips. Bring a photo to work from.

Cost is $50, which includes all materials

and firing. You will need to bring your own morning tea and lunch. Bookings are essential and can be made at www. trybooking.com/FCVR Later in July, NERAM hosts the University of New England Student Art Prize. This is a fabulous annual exhibition that features art works from schools in the New England and surrounding regions. Artists from Kindergarten up to Year 12 are included and show a wonderful range of imagination

and skill. It includes drawings, paintings, prints and photography and is a celebration of kids’ creativity and the encouragement given to them by their teachers. The range of different approaches is both staggering and inspiring. It runs for just two weeks from 18 July through 'til 3 August.

At the opening (6pm, 18 July) the public will be able to vote for a people’s choice award, while other awards will be judged

by Walcha based artist Angus Nivison .

JAMES BROOKES P H O T O G R A P H Y

I am a photographer working in Armidale and the New England region. After moving here from Sydney ten years ago, I soon fell in love with the region and the people.

My passion for photography has been with me since childhood – I always had a camera in my hand at events, parties and functions and was usually a bit of a paparazzo. The feedback was encouraging and the requests became more frequent, so I created a photography business catering to event, cuisine, wedding and now photobooth formats.

With so many people using camera phones and digital cameras, it’s easy for them to spend so much time configuring and fiddling with their digital equip26 new england focus.

ment, that they miss important parts of the event they were invited to enjoy.

I've been incredibly lucky working with some talented photographers, artists and people and am fortunate enough to have ongoing weekly work with a local nightclub, as well as shooting weddings, functions, cuisine, and fashion and of course people.

It’s an honour when a client entrusts me with recording their special moment, and I do my utmost to capture the essence of the occasion as a lasting

reminder of the occasion.

Which brings me to a new venture, the digital photobooth. This allows people to take photos of themselves and obtain an instant memento of the occasion.

It is a great new way of documenting an event – it’s interactive, fun and easy to use for all ages. Whether coupled with a personal photographer or stand alone, the results are unique and will be remembered and enjoyed for years to come.

James Brooks: 0410 958 530.

focuseditorial.

In the upcoming school holidays the NRL will be hosting a number of holiday clinics in the North West.

V

enues include Guyra, Bingara and Tamworth. Guyra will be hosting an NRL Clinic on Thursday 3rd July from 9.30am 12.30pm for boys and girls aged 5 - 16 years. The clinic will cost $30 per child and will include a kit of bag, cap, drink bottle, football, kicking tee, and football pump. BOOKINGS ARE A MUST. Please go to Northwest. Rugby League Developments Facebook page to find out how to register your child. FEES MUST BE PAID BY 30th JUNE, or your child cannot take the field.

For details and to register, go to www. playnrl.com/getinvolved/play/findaholidayclinic/

H O L I D AY S

focuseditorial.

Pathfinders SOCIAL INCLUSION FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY TO ROLL OUT IN THE NEW ENGLAND NORTH WEST Ability Links NSW is a major new initiative to build social inclusion for People with disability, their families and carers.

Ability Links will be delivered by North West Alliance, a consortium of non-government, community based organisations that have been working in local communities across the region for over 40 years.

“Ability Links will enable people with disability to access all of the same resources and opportunities that people without disabilities access every day,” said Alan Brennan, CEO of Pathfinders, the organisation that will deliver Ability Links in the New England and North West.

“It’s about building inclusive, welcoming communities, and enabling people with disability to make their own plans for the future, making their own choices about the way they want to live their lives.”

The service will be delivered through coordinators known as "Linkers", who will be a locally based first point of contact, who will be available by phone, in person, online and out in mainstream community spaces. Linkers will work with people with disability and their families to build their own plans for the future, build on their strengths and skills, and develop networks in their own communities to do what they want with their lives, outside the traditional disability service system.

People who are interested in applying for positions as Linkers are encouraged to visit the Pathfinders website www.pathfinders-aus.org/employment

DRUMMOND PARK PRE-SCHOOL

C

hildren at Drummond Park

and educators are responsive, available

best suit particular ages.

are taken on a voyage of

and consistent to every individual. The

The Pre-school operates friendship

discovery, where they are

pre-school has created a setting where all

empowered as individuals

voices are heard and respected.

sessions on different days. Three/four year-olds or children with two years

to believe in themselves and their

Drummond Park Pre-school offers your

immense capabilities.

children an intimate, caring homely

Drummond Park is a community based

learning environment. The leafy natural

pre-school committed to providing

playground is like a big backyard and

quality, affordable education for children

the building is cosy and welcoming,

aged 3 - 5 years.

promoting a child’s sense of belonging

We offer a welcoming learning

and connectedness.

environment that will inspire and

Learning Groups

motivate children to explore, discover and

Drummond Park Pre-school is committed

make connections to the world around

to providing an educational curriculum

you further with your session choice.

them, where children know they belong

that values different learning styles that

VACANCIES AVAILABLE!

before starting school attend Tuesday and Thursday, and 4 - 5 year-olds who are starting kindergarten the following year attend Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Individual needs may be accommodated where children require a combination of days. Please speak to our Director, Jo McDermott, who can assist

new england focus 27

G e e k • Merilba Estate •

Merilba Estate – one of the finest wineries in the New Englan – would certainly give any vineyard in the more notable wine region of NSW, the Hunter Valley, a run for its money.

T

he 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon from be perfect. Just imagine a cold New England Merilba is top class. The variety grows winter night, roast lamb is in the oven and the well in the New England, but wood fire is on. Grab a bottle of this and does require a lot of atpour yourself a glass – I guarantee tention, and you can certainly the bottle won’t last the night. see the finesse that has I’ve got a few bottles of been applied to this wine. this in my cellar to keep The palate is balanced, with When asking the sampling over the next ded winemaker, Shaun few years. A great really nicely roun s ha tannins. Shaun Cassidy, what is drinkexample of what can really focused on et , ing the best at the be produced in the bern refining this Ca moment, he pointed me New England. I had the it is and by no means towards this wine. I was pleasure of tasting the 'fl ab by' at all.” really impressed with this, most recent vintage of this and the fruit was obviously variety from Merilba, and of A+ quality. This wine was you’ll want to get on board the awarded a Bronze Medal at last New England Cabernet train – this year’s New England Wine Show and is variety is going places! Something to certainly worthy of it. keep your eye on in the future!

The aromas of this beautiful wine show PRICE $20. off the quality produce, with lovely dark plums WEBSITE www.merilbaestatewines.com.au and blackcurrants shining. As the New England RATING 8.5/10 region still defines itself as a region, it is quite interesting to see a slight mint note come through, somewhat similar to the Coonawarra ABOUT THE VINO GEEK Sam Watson writes Cabernet’s. This mint cuts through the richa wine blog called The Vino Geek and loves his ness of the Cabernet and certainly provides a wine, especially New England wine! Providing mouth-watering aroma. the nation with reviews, interviews and winery The palate is balanced, with really nicely profiles from all around Australia, Sam’s blog rounded tannins. Shaun has really focused on continues to gain support from wineries and refining this Cabernet, and by no means is it critics across Australia. “flabby” at all. All edges have been rounded, Check out the Vino Geek blog – thevinogeeks. and you can certainly tell the time has been blogspot.com.au and follow Sam on Facebook put into this one. (facebook.com/thevinogeek) and Twitter (@ You may have had enough of the wine geek thevinogeek) to keep up with all new content talk, so let me tell you when this wine would and competitions!

“

28 new england focus.

Leaves are history at Oak Tree The autumn to winter transition is one of nature’s natural beauties, but for many of the retired seniors of Armidale, the seasonal change means falling leaves across the garden, and that in turn means yard maintenance fraught with safety concerns.

N

ational retirement village operator The Oak Tree Group alleviates the stress and worry of garden maintenance, with a low maintenance facility and an on-site Village Manager to provide local seniors with a lifestyle where leaves are history.

The on-site Village Manager at Oak Tree Group’s retirement community located at the far end of Beardy Street will oversee the day to day village activities and service maintenance of external premises, including the landscaped community gardens. Other maintenance activities, such as gutter clearing, external cleaning, pest control and path clearance is also managed by Oak Tree’s

Village Manager.

age The on-site Vill ak O at er Manag tirement Tree Group’s re d at the te community loca Street dy ar Be of d en far y to da e th will oversee es and iti tiv ac ge day villa ance service mainten es, is of external prem scaped nd la e including th ens.” community gard

“

“In my discussions with local residents, I had many say they can’t face another winter season with garden maintenance,” said Oak Tree Regional Sales Manager Melissa Luck. “The physical demand of maintaining a garden combined with the chill factor

experienced at this time of year is overwhelming for seniors,” Mrs Luck expanded.

“This is one of the reasons we selected Armidale as a location for an Oak Tree Village – to give retirees the opportunity to enjoy their retirement, not spend it doing hazardous garden maintenance,” said Mrs Luck, “When a resident moves to Oak Tree, mowing, raking and gathering piles of leaves

will be a thing of the past.”

With less garden hazards and maintenance, residents will have more time for social activities. The village will have easily accessible recreational facilities, such as bowling greens, landscaped gardens and a function venue with an inviting community feel providing a place for residents to entertain family and friends.

With their intentional regional focus, Oak Tree is helping to keep seniors at home in the areas they’ve grown up in, lived in and loved. If you are ready to embrace a carefree retirement lifestyle, make enquiries today on 1300 367 155 or visit www.oaktreegroup. com.au and leave those leaves behind.

new england focus 29

focusinterview.

I.T.Alive I.T.Alive – Helping Armidale harness the potential of the NBN at home and in business. www.italive.com.au hat is I.T.Alive and how does it work for home and business?

I.T.Alive is a group of local, highly-skilled technology professionals able to assist people at home and in business to harness the power of the NBN, Cloud Computing and other new technologies.

Our modern, Internet-connected world makes it possible for regional businesses to compete on the national and international stage in ways not previously possible. At I.T.Alive we seek to harness these new technologies, so that local businesses can build a competitive advantage, boost their productivity and efficiency and broaden their reach. Our first major initiative has been to make it possible for businesses to protect their valuable data.

For home users we provide the simple-to-use, set-and-forget, LiveDataCentre that connects to their entertainment systems and automatically protects their valuable, personal data on phones, computers and tablets. Thanks to the NBN, data protection can now keep up with – and proudly display – all your family photos, videos and music.

I.T.Alive is built on a rich heritage of technical and innovative success. The business operates from the Old Masonic building opposite Central Park.

What is I.T.Alive’s background?

Graham and Barb East, the couple behind I.T.Alive, moved to Armidale in 1988 to develop New Horizons, an educational software business that quickly grew to be the largest supplier of educational software to Australian schools.

During the CD age we published over 60 multi-award-winning educational titles under our 30 new england focus.

EdAlive brand and shipped over 1,000,000 units both in Australia and around the world. In 2003 we won the NSW Premier’s Award for Export to the UK. Parents and teachers can now download our software from www.EdAlive.com.

I’ve also heard of ZooWhiz; how does it fit in?

In 2011 we launched ZooWhiz (www.

ZooWhiz.com), a great fun curriculum-based online learning system designed to deliver state-of-the-art instructional material to children, parents and teachers around the world. ZooWhiz is a technical leader in this emerging field.

You must need a pretty serious team to manage this?

Our team is great; they’re talented, IT professionals with incredible skills in business management, software design and development, networking, hardware supply and maintenance, mobile technologies, graphic art, digital media, Internet communications, Cloud Computing, marketing and more. Every day is amazing; their diverse skill-set means they look at age-old problems and constantly come up with innovative, "Wow! Why-didn’t-I-think-of-that?!” solutions.

Innovation seems to be central to I.T.Alive.

What innovation awards has your team won?

Over the past three years our ability to innovate has seen us win a raft of prestigious local awards including: 2013 Finalist - Excellence in Innovation - New England North West; 2012 Overall Winner - Northern Inland Innovation Award; and the 2011 Education Category Winner - Northern Inland Innovation Award. Sustained success and quality at this level is always a team effort.

Where did the idea for I.T.Alive come from?

Recently we have been approached for IT

We are local innovators with rience real-world expe al ob gl in running a ss. ne si bu n educatio work to e m co e w When e do w , ls with other loca -toup n ow so from our n of tio ta en em date impl gi lo es.” the latest techno

“

assistance by a number of local businesses that have recognised our expertise.

Based on the success of these projects and the opportunities created by the NBN, we felt that it was time that we shared our capacity with the local community in a more accessible way.

What does the NBN change?

With the NBN most people initially notice a pick up in web browsing speeds.

Some start to view movies online. But after a few weeks, the snappy page refreshes become normal and people wonder what all the fuss has been about. The NBN enables so much more than that; it gives us the potential for things like affordable industry-standard data protection, and for businesses, new ways to connect with customers.

What is unique about the services offered

by I.T.Alive?

We are local innovators with real-world experience in running a global education business.

When we come to work with other locals, we do so from our own up-to-date implementation of the latest technologies. Yes, we are able to do a simple service on a PC, but we are most at home designing networks and bespoke email systems, building complex databases, authoring software for computers and mobile devices and connecting them all through the Internet. Our strength is working with others to find innovative, creative business and home computing solutions.

I understand that data backup is a major focus.

Protecting our digital lives is vital. Over the past few years, data has begun to multiply in our

lives and its management and security is becoming a major issue, both personally and in business.

Each time we take a digital photo or movie, create a document or scan a page we are adding to the problem, and up until now there hasn’t been a trustworthy, easy-to-use, cost-effective solution.

Currently most homes and businesses keep their valuable data on hard drives, but 30% of hard drives fail in the first 5 years and many more are lost, stolen or accidently damaged. A staggering 60% of businesses that completely lose their data fail in 6 months, and at home, most of us can’t even bear to think about losing our photos or personal, digital memories.

Compounding the problem, large corporations like Microsoft, Google and Apple are trying to tie us into their Cloud-based systems, often taking ownership and control of our data.

To address this problem, I.T.Alive has created a range of innovative, low cost solutions designed to harness the speed of the NBN and ensure your personal and business data need never be lost, can still be accessed anywhere, anytime, and remains owned and controlled by you.

Plans for the future?

We plan to offer data protection right across the country – particularly in a regional and rural context – but our first priority is empowering the people of Armidale to harness the potential of the Internet and the NBN, both at home and in business.

Thanks Graham.

$FW QR Z LW ¯V EHIRUH WH WRR OD

Why risk... · · · · · ·

Business Data Family photos Email Assignments Family history Video library

Your Heading Here!

Meet Joanna Dolan Born in Scotland, Joanna Dolan has lived most of her life in Australia, mostly in the beautiful New England.

Tell us about your business Write Right?

A love of the written word and too many poorly written articles led to the establishment of Write Right, an independent, homebased editing and proofreading business in 2013. At the time Joanna was looking for a change in direction and something that would give her more time at home.

What services do you offer?

Write Right provides assistance to clients preparing written material for publication, ensuring that the finished document is free of simple typos, grammatical errors and that it 'reads well'. Joanna is happy to work on any document – from a basic classified advertisement to a doctoral thesis.

Plans for the future?

Plans for the future? Just to keep going!

Did you know the 30% of hard drives fail within 5 years and that most businesses and homes don’t adequately back up their valuable data?

PROTECT YOUR DATA

Call I.T.ALIVE today!

02 6771 1055 Affordable, simple, integrated backup solutions that will safeguard your valuable data and use the NBN to enable you to access it anywhere at anytime.

&RPSXWHU 6HUYLFHV DQG 6XSSRUW

www.italive.com.au 147 Faulkner St, Armidale new england focus

31

focusTourism.

Tourism Katrina George We are very excited to announce the first New England High Country TV Advertising campaign. Through the success of Experience the Highs, New England High Country has “grown legs” and now encompasses the 7 Councils of Armidale, Uralla, Guyra, Walcha, Glen Innes, Tenterfield and Inverell.

T

hrough collaboration of the region’s tourism marketing dollars, we have been able to create our first TV campaign called “Winter Moments in New England High Country”. The aim of this campaign is two fold. On the one hand it is to further promote the region as a winter destination by advertising special accommodation offers and secondly, to help establish New

England High Country as a destination brand which will one day rival the Blue Mountains!

The campaign will be aired from Newcastle in the south up to southern Brisbane, and west to Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.

The TV advertisement can be viewed on YouTube: search “New England High Country”.

Bed and Breakfasts, farmstays, guesthouses, cottages, hotels, motels and wilderness retreats

– New England High Country has a wonderful array of unique accommodation – why not experience it for yourself or encourage friends from out of the area to come to try it?

The Armidale Bed and Breakfast and farmstay culture continues to thrive, with new operators opening every year. Bed & Breakfast style accommodation is hosted, or contained, in someone’s home or on their property, and farmstay accommodation allows guests to enjoy a hands on experience such as shearing sheep, milking cows or collecting eggs. Were you aware that we have B&Bs that offer ghost tours, or an opportunity to feed an entire pack of alpacas? Did you know that Sting once stayed in one of our B&Bs? There is a wonderful variety of unique accommodation within a 15 minute drive of Armidale. Maybe you could surprise a loved one with an overnight getaway and be home in time for the Sunday Markets. For a full listing of our unique Bed and Breakfast and farmstays, please visit the website: www.armidaletourism. com.au Were you aware the New England and Oxley Wild Rivers National Parks, only a short drive from Armidale, are World Heritage sites. Other World Heritage Listed sites found in Australia include Kakadu National Park, Great Barrier Reef and the Blue Mountains and yet our own World Heritage area still remains largely a secret (hopefully not for much longer).

From Point Lookout you can gaze out in all directions across unspoilt wilderness and the

House with No Steps is one of the leading disability organisations providing quality supports and services.

We focus on you as an individual to reveal your hopes and dreams for the future, make plans to put your goals within reach then listen, evaluate and adjust to keep you on your path to success.

32 new england focus.

For more information or to have a chat please call Hannah Rodrigues on M 0478 486 048 or email hrodrigues@hwns.com.au www.hwns.com.au

Bellinger Valley all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

It is a truly magnificent view that visitors travel to our region to experience. One of the most magical adventures (for children and adults) is to walk through the ancient Antarctic Beech forests to Weeping Rock. This is one of very few places in the world where you can experience what the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana may have looked like. We would like to encourage all of Armidale’s budding photographers to head out there this July and post your photos on our Facebook Page of your Weeping Rock experience. Search Experience the Highs on Facebook and once you have “Liked” us, you will be able to post your photos directly onto our Experience the Highs Facebook page.

On the way home drop into the Dutton Trout Hatchery, where you can hand feed trout, see leaping fish, and take a self guided tour. The Trout Hatchery is open daily from 8:30am – 3:30pm and is located on Point Lookout Road.

If you would like to stay in the New England National Park for a weekend, there is a variety of accommodation options including camping, bush cabins and self contained cottages. For more information, please contact the Visitor Information centre on (02) 6770 3888.

July is a spectacular month for photographers, capturing our landscape dripping with icicles or covered in a white frosty blanket.

Please post your winter wonderland photos on to our Facebook page so others can experience winter in New England High Country!

LYNNE WALKER NZ GARDENS

New Zealand born Lynne Walker has been a passionate gardener all her life, making gardens wherever she has lived around the world.

F

ormerly the Coordinator for Australia’s Open Garden Scheme Northern New South Wales, Lynne has continued her love of gardening as a freelance writer working with Country Style, New Zealand House and Garden and various publications. Lynne is an active member of the Australian Garden History Society and is currently involved in the Saumarez Rose Garden project. She is also a member of the Guyra Garden Club, which she claims is one of the most vibrant and active in Australia. Lynne and her husband, Richard Bird, run a sheep and cattle property between Armidale and Guyra. Lynne has previously organised garden tours in England and Scotland, the New England region and also in New Zealand.

Kia Ora! I am writing to invite you to join me on a journey, exploring my favourite gardens of my homeland, the South Island of New Zealand.

When I left New Zealand 30 years ago, nobody opened their gardens and over the years I have watched the situation change, noticing more and more lovely gardens opening their gates to the public. Even so, Richard, my husband, and I were amazed when we undertook a ten day reconnaissance of the South Island earlier this year. The variety and standard of the gardens took us completely by surprise, as we visited gardens large and small, town and country, historic

and not so old, seaside and alpine, gracious and quirky, with many of international quality.

The garden owners themselves, without exception, were welcoming and passionate and included some incredibly knowledgeable plants-people, many of whom are recognised internationally.

And then of course the gardens are all set against the magnificent backdrop of the South Island itself, and we will be experiencing the lakes, mountains, glaciers, valleys and coastlines of one of the most beautiful islands in the world – in my unbiased opinion!

And did I mention the food and wine for which NZ has earned such a great reputation?

Some people, on hearing of the length of this tour of a relatively small island, have expressed surprise, but believe me – it’s just the tip of the iceberg and I have had to leave out a number of gardens I would love to have included. Nevertheless, we will not be racing and will have time to relax, with the occasional day off, and time for retail therapy!

So please come – we are going to have a great time and I promise not to introduce you to too many of my relatives!

Warm regards Lynne Walker Tour Leader - Quadrant Journey’s Glorious Gardens of The South Island Tour 2014 new england focus 33

focusinterview.

COMMUNITY

WESTPAC GRANTS PROGRAM FOCUS catches up with Bank Manager Vicki York about the Westpac Community Grants Program. hat is the Tamworth that are run across the country each year Homeless Connect Day? assisting thousands of people. Homeless The Westpac Foundation Connect Day provides an opportunity for Community Grants Program homeless people, service providers and helps break the cycle of the community to work together to create poverty and social exclusion at a solutions to homelessness and for local level, by awarding providers of services to network, funding to community learn collaboratively projects such as from one another and s es el the Tamworth share best practice Tamworth Hom r t fo Homeless experiences. Support Connect is a no cated di de t Connect. and connections en ev it of pr h Tamworth offered may to providing muc ch as su Homeless include housing, needed services g, n and housin accommodatio and Connect is medical and n health , educatio , es ili a not for dental issues, m t for fa lifeskills, suppor ort for profit event employment, legal pp employment, su meless, ho dedicated issues, reactions, people who are d at risk of an h to providing ug opportunities, to it g in do much needed identification issues, homelessness.� services such as electoral enrolment and accommodation a number of services. and housing, health, It will be held on the 31st education and lifeskills, support of July from 10am - 3pm at the for families, employment, support Tamworth Regional Entertainment for people who are homeless, doing & Conference Centre (TRECC). Free it tough and at risk of homelessness. public transport will be provided for the The event will be held on one day and one community on the day by Buslines & location.

Hanfords Coaches.

The services will be delivered in an The Day is broken up into various Hubs: environment that maintains dignity, Legal & Financial, Health, Education connects people to services they most And Lifeskills, Families, Accommodation, desperately need and encourages a sense of Employment and Clothing. being a valued member of the community.

More information can be found on the The Tamworth Homeless Connect Day Westpac Foundation Community Grants will be modelled on a number of Homeless Program and eligibility at Connect or Community Connect Days www.westpac.com.au/westpacfoundation

W

“

back row: Catherine Smith, Sam Schiffmann, Christopher Roe, Paul King, Matthew Latham, Vicki York, Matt Teece (Community Engagement Manager Armidale) Jessica Power (State General Manager Westpac) Michelle Donnan, Romayne Farrar & Absent: kellee Stace & Kelly Northey.

34 new england focus.

focusinterview.

• J i m

D e d e s •

A New Zealand bred horse was sought out to be a local p prize and an idol for local racing. Jim Dedes is a part of th the syndicate, and he tells us about the journey so far ...

i Jim. What is the history of Brave Ali, the racehorse?

Brave Ali was bred in New Zealand. He was bought by a leading trainer in Hong Kong by the name of Casper Fownes. Brave Ali had a few races in New Zealand, before he was sent to trainer Tim Martin in Sydney.

How did Brave Ali come to be owned by a local syndicate?

Harley Payne from the St Kilda Hotel has had several horses with Tim Martin, and he asked him to keep a lookout for a horse that could possibly be a Armidale Cup contender and that we would be able to get a local syndicate to race a horse. Tim mentioned that Brave Ali would be an ideal horse for a race like the Armidale Cup. Harley and I organised a syndicate which leases Brave Ali from his owner, Casper Fownes.

Who is a part of the syndicate?

Syndicate members are Jim Dedes, Harley Payne, Troy Johnson, Pete Lewsam, Bernard Shortis, Benita Johnson, Sam Piddington, Nick Dooner, Mark Wallace, Brett Wallace, Rod Watt, Craig Waters syndicate, Tom Payne, David Knight, and Motza Syndicate (David Stephens).

Who is Brave Ali's trainer, and what does his training involve?

When we first got Brave Ali, he was trained in Sydney

by Tim Martin. After the 2013 Armidale Cup when he ran 4th, Tim decided to leave him with his brother, Craig Martin, to train from Tamworth. Craig had some good results, with Brave Ali winning the Black Nugget Cup at Mudgee and also running 2nd in the Mudgee Cup before winning the Quirindi Cup. Brave Ali ran in this year’s Armidale Cup, where he

finished 5th, after not really settling in that race. After the Armidale Cup, Craig sent Brave Ali to Brisbane, where he won by 3.5 lengths on the 29/3/15. After that race Craig decided to leave him up in Brisbane with leading trainer Tony Gollan. Tony said he does not have to do a lot of work with Brave Ali, because of the great Having a large local jockey club etc.? condition he was in when syndicate makes , le ab rd fo af t Brave Ali has become a bit of Craig left him there. ie racing qu sh ru lin na re ad an idol for punters in Armidale.

Brave Ali is worked every e and th you get t en m te ci Every time he wins, you hear ex morning at Eagle Farm and d an ith your of people who do not usually being a distant runner, he when winning w vable. ” friends is unbelie bet say that they had a little would only do some long pace flutter on him. work with a short sprint over the Having a horse like Brave Ali concluding stages, much the same winning city races gives great exposure as they race. Since that first win in to racing in Armidale and making people Brisbane, Brave Ali has gone on and won aware that you do not have to be wealthy to his next two starts and then ran 3rd in a group have a horse racing.

3 race.

Having a large syndicate makes racing quiet What is Brave Ali's track record so far? affordable, and the adrenalin rush and excitement you Brave Ali has only had 36 starts for 11 wins, six get when winning with your friends is unbelievable. seconds and five 3rds, for nearly $252,500 in prize Plans for the future? money. Recently Brave Ali won the Listed $175,000 Brave Ali has had a short let up (rest) in Brisbane Ipswich Cup in record time. This was a huge effort, and will be racing again soon, with his main aim the as the horse was coming off a five week break, and Grafton Cup to be run on the Thursday 10th July which it is very hard for horses to win after such a break will be run over 2,350 metres with prize money of over 2,150 metres. He will probably go on to race $150,000. As a local syndicate, to win your hometown at Caloundra in the Cup on June 28, once again a cup is top of the tree, so maybe next year if Brave Ali is $175,000 race, and then run in the $150,000 Grafton not weighted out of it.

Cup on the 10th July, which is his main aim.

Thanks Jim. How does a locally owned race horse benefit the

“

new england focus 35

We’re off to

CARLE

Country and Regional Living Expo Sydney Showgrounds August 2-3 Building a stronger economic future for our city

ARMIDALE BUSINESSES – GET INVOLVED! For free employment and business ‘for sale’ listings, email skentish@armidale.nsw.gov.au

by Thursday July 24.

ARMIDALE ATTENDS THE

NSW

EXPO Once again Armidale is attending the NSW Expo (formerly Country & Regional Living Expo), the eleventh running of the event, which will be held at the Sydney Showgrounds over the weekend of 2 – 3 August.

A

rmidale is one of seven Evocities, and they are all stand-out regional cities selected because of their economic and population growth, affordable property prices, educational facilities and services. With this in mind, Armidale attends NSW Expo to meet Sydneysiders who are seeking to make a “city change”.

schooling. Armidale has a reputation as a centre of educational excellence – and justifiably so. A mock real estate window forms a key part of the stand, with a range of properties currently on the market displayed. This window attracts a great deal of attention as people ponder the massive cost differential between Sydney property and regional living. The question of employment Supported by opportunities is, esq Armidale Dumar from experience, tending Council, those at always the most e th k on the Expo to wor e difficult. For this ot om pr to stand are there ch hi reason Armidale w in ty ci the beautiful ns ia al id has a Jobs Board, rm A ll they live. A in ay pl to where 100 jobs rt pa have a city r ou at th ng were displayed ri ensu is may be th d an , rs pe os at the 2013 Expo. pr y ways.” achieved in man Needless to say, many Sydneysiders were surprised!

“

armidaleregion.com.au

Supported

by Armidale Dumaresq Council, those attending the Expo to work on the stand are there to promote the beautiful city in which they live.

All Armidalians have a part to play in ensuring that our city prospers, and this may be achieved in many ways. Special thanks are due to those people and organisations who throw their support behind the cause. Members of staff from TAS, NEGS, PLC, Community Mutual, Community of Schools and UNE are all giving up a weekend to talk with hundreds of Sydneysiders, many of whom are experiencing a state of some distress over their situation, feeling trapped in a metropolitan lifestyle and desperate to break free.

Whilst questions may vary, there are three common topics – jobs, housing and

36 new england focus.

A call for job vacancies This is where a call is put out to all local employers. Please let us know of any vacancies you may have, so that we can populate the Jobs Board. It is free and will be included on the Armidale EvoJobs site, NSW Expo web site, and displayed on the Expo and Armidale stand job boards.

If you have any job vacancies, or have a business for sale, then please email the details, as well as a contact name and number, to Stephanie Kentish, Armidale Dumaresq Council Events Coordinator, on skentish@armidale.nsw.gov.au. Remember, the belief is that “there are no jobs in the regions”; let’s prove them wrong!

•

N E W L I N G

L I T T L E

S T A R S

•

Newling LITTLE FOCUS learns more about the uniqueness of Newling Little Stars, Transition Class at Newling Public School.

ewling Primary School is preparing future students for the adventure of a lifetime at school.

The weekly Transition to School program at Newling delivers an opportunity for a sustained early childhood experience at school and provides the best possible start to a child’s formal education.

In April this year, Newling Transition program welcomed excited new students starting their school experience with a half day program and gradually increased this to the current full day. The Transition class will extend to 2 full days during Term 3 toward the middle of August, as children become increasingly comfortable in the school environment. New enrolments are welcome, but it is advisable to enrol soon for children to experience the benefits of the transition program, and places are limited.

Newling Principal Mr Murray Cox: “The Transition to School program offers astutely planned school

experiences over an extended period of time, unlike the traditional one or two Orientation days.”

The program seeks to involve families, as working with families is a critical part of effectively supporting children. Extensive experiences prior to school starting are provided. As well as whole class activities, the program allows interactions with all school students and staff, making the Transition program a joint effort by all in the school community to make school an exciting and engaging place for the children to be.

The program is specifically designed for under school age children and is based on the playbased philosophy of early childhood education.

The national curriculum framework Belonging, Being and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia has guided the design of the learning experiences provided. Music, books, digital stories and creating works of art are all part of the exciting program. Children are able to express themselves in a carefully structured

environment. Learning early literacy and numeracy strategies enable a smooth start into Kindergarten.

start Kindergarten.”

During the transition year, the Newling staff work closely with families to ensure there is consistency between home and the school in preparing children for school and are always ready to answer any questions from families. As well as one-onone discussions with families, Newling also have planned information sessions to discuss school readiness and other matters to assist parents in the early years of schooling.

school routines. This enables the children to

Parents could also take advantage of having younger children attend the Playgroup that is operated at the school each Thursday in the school hall and hosted by Armidale Family Playgroups.

“A complete school experience is assured each day,” says Principal Murray Cox. “The Transition students follow the normal school times, practices and are paired early with ‘buddies’ as part of the ongoing peer-support program when the children

One of the important aspects of the transition program is having the program involved in whole become acquainted with the school routines: having older children around, attending assemblies, having a canteen and moving around and playing in large spaces.

“I notice a big difference in the children coming into Kindergarten who have participated in our transition program. They are well prepared with essential skills from the day they first walk through the doors for school,” Kindergarten teacher Mrs Elizabeth Peasley noted.

Newling offers children an exciting and structured Transition program to school. The program is open to children who are planning to start school in 2015. If you want your child to have a great start to their school, then the Newling Transition program offers a great place to start.

new england focus 37

38 new england focus.

M E E T

T H E

E X P E R T S

M E E T

T H E

EXPERTS

GreenCross VET Nurses.

Rebecca, Jocelyn, Brooke, Robin and Karrie

Let’s focus on Veterinary Nursing ...

Without doubt, the unsung heroes of any veterinary clinic are the nursing and reception staff. Our practice simply could not function without them. Say the words James Herriott, Dr Chris or Dr Harry, and you immediately have romantic images of a vet saving the day, but let’s pause for a moment and consider the nurse behind the vet.

As a career, veterinary nursing is wonderfully varied and challenging; no two days are ever the same. Traditionally training has been on the job, but now involves TAFE certificates II and IV and diploma specialties in surgical or general nursing, emergency and critical care, dentistry and even practice management.

Vet nurses work long hours, often at minimum wage and involving various bodily secretions from animals large and small. They love the patients they see, and take their responsibility of caring for your pets very seriously. They understand that coming to the clinic can be scary not only for your pet, but you as well, and hope to make the experience as gentle and rewarding as possible. They also share in your pain and loss when we need to say goodbye to one of our furry friends. To our nurses Rebecca, Jocelyn, Brooke, Robin and Karrie, we thank you.

Greg WILD. Rapid Clean New England

Hi Greg. How long have you owned Rapid Clean New England?

My wife Jenny and I have been in the business coming up on 15 years.

Tell us about your services and the personal rewards you gain from your business ...

We sell cleaning solutions to anyone who needs them.

From Government departments to householders, we have something for everyone.

People often think cleaning is hard but really once you know what to use where, it is simple, and we find it really rewarding to help people solve what they see as a difficult problem.

All the team at Rapid Clean have a wide product knowledge, from workplace safety to cleaning up after your family – come in and talk with your local cleaning experts!

new england focus 39

M E E T

T H E

E X P E R T S

M E E T

T H E

EXPERTS

Melissa Bowman.

Boutique Wedding Planner

Edwards MCRAE. Melissa Bowman is a boutique wedding planner offering full planning services through to on the day coordination.

She is now using her skills and knowledge to host a wedding planning workshop in Armidale on Saturday 2nd August 2014.

The workshop will include all the information needed for brides to ensure a stress free wedding, from how to manage your budget to booking suppliers and time management. The two hour workshops will cover all information in her informative book (that will be available to purchase), as well as a personal 15 minute consultation with Melissa. This is a great opportunity for those who may not know where to start with their planning, or for those who have started, but are overwhelmed with too much choice or not knowing what to do next. Or, if you are just looking for some guidance to make sure everything comes together – this workshop is for you. Let Melissa take care of your worries and guide you through the most exciting time of your life. Her experience and amazing knowledge of everything weddings will amaze you. Even better, she has the local knowledge of Armidale as she has planned many weddings around the area over the years. So many tips and handy hints for you – your wedding planning will start falling into place.

It is Melissa’s promise to you that this workshop will be the best investment you make towards your wedding.

40 new england focus.

Interior Architecture & Decorating Studio

Edwards McRae is an interior architecture and decorating studio offering, who provide a holistic professional solution for all of your construction and design needs.

Alexandra, principal and director of Edwards McRae, is a fully qualified and vastly experienced interior architect, who specialises in design and decoration of the spaces in which you live and work. Edwards McRae consistently impresses clients with exquisite and timeless recommendations on how to bring your spaces to life.

With a fine attention to detail and undeniable customer rapport, Alexandra works with you to translate your individual tastes and styles into spaces which are both functional and aesthetic. The professional and amiable Edwards McRae team will take away the stress and confusion often associated with a new build, renovation, or redecoration. Don’t settle for anyone less than a specialist when it comes to your next construction or decorative project!

Whilst our website content, like our projects, is currently under construction, Edwards McRae is regularly updating its social media pages to keep our followers up to date with both our projects and further inspiration.

You can find us on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook!

coaching a learner.

C h i l l i d r iv i n g s ch o o l Your Heading Here!

Plan ahead: helps to “practice with purpose”, not just “drift along” to fill log book hours. Refer to the Learner Log Book - 1 - 20 learning goals.

Communication goals: be clear about what is to be practised in each session.

Repetition: each new task to be performed to a satisfactory standard a minimum of three times before moving on to another skill. Remember – MISTAKES ARE OK! During Practice Sessions ...

WAIT: for the learner to identify their own mistakes.

ASK: if they don’t identify their own mistakes, PROMPT them to do so by assisting them to question their own actions and awareness. This is a powerful learning tool and avoids the pitfall of “Do as I Say”! Help them to “Find Their Own Way”!

SHOW: demonstrate the correct way to perform the task. If you are unsure of the correct methodology, seek professional lessons from a driving instructor. DON’T pass on bad habits that are difficult to remove later in the learning process once in the subconscious. Be prepared to learn yourself – brush up on road rules!

PRACTICE: each task should be performed a minimum of three times the correct way. Then – hundreds of correct repetitions, until they become second nature!

M E E T

M E E T

T H E

Sol R heating.

T H E

Con Asciak

EXPERTS

The Sol R Siphon will warm your home or office for as little as 25c a day.

DR BOWER.

Con Asciak, the founder and owner of Sol R Heating, has been designing and building passive solar homes in Armidale since 1974.

His vast experience has culminated in the development of a unique, fin designed rooftop panel – the Sol R Siphon – which absorbs the sun’s heat to warm airflow circulating throughout your home or office for as little 25 cents a day.

Markham Street Dental

Hi Dr Bower. What are your main areas of expertise?

My area of expertise lies with the surgical placement and restoration of Oral Implants.

An oral implant is used to replace missing or lost teeth and is typically a surgical grade titanium artificial tooth root that is submerged into the jawbone. The bone grows to the implant and bonds to it. This makes the implant very strong.

Once fully integrated into the bone, the implant can then support a number of different dental prostheses, such as a crown, bridge or denture. What that means is that one or more missing teeth can be replaced.

Implant treatment is advantageous over other therapies as adjacent teeth are not damaged or cut in any way, it prevents bone loss and can stabilise loose dentures or even replace them with fixed bridges.

You plan to have an information evening on Oral Implants; is this correct?

Yes, in the near future I plan to hold an information evening for people who are interested in finding out more about Oral Implants and how they are used in

E X P E R T S

dentistry. In particular, we will discuss their effectiveness in the replacement of lost or missing teeth and what process is involved for someone who is interested in having an Oral Implant. To register your interest, send us an email or call our office.

What is planned for the future?

We are celebrating our 5th birthday and are offering new prices on our full range of implant replacement options, crowns and bridge work. We are looking at providing affordable high quality Oral Implant services for patients in the New England who are looking for alternative treatment options provided by general dentists. We are able to offer the latest medical technology, including computer guided surgery and digitally produced zirconia implant crowns.

What are the Top Five Benefits of Solar Heating?

1. While the sun is shining, you save your energy costs for use on another day.

2. You are cutting down on your carbon footprint.

3. Like with central heating systems, your entire home can be heated (not just the rooms you sit in) and made comfortable during periods of sunshine.

4. The filter in the air intake grill means you will have fewer pollutants in the air. The system continually recirculates a-nd filters the air in your home, meaning the longer it runs, the cleaner your air gets.

5. By upgrading to a HEPA filter, the system can also help asthma and allergy sufferers. HEPA filters help to remove smoke, pollens, and other airborne allergens.

How Does it Work?

Sleek Sol R Siphon panels – essentially carefully engineered glass top boxes containing heat absorbing fins – are installed on your roof.

The heated air captured in the panels is then pumped back into your home through ducting in the ceiling, much the same as central heating – but without the cost! Optional upgrades offer the flexibility to ensure the Sol R Siphon perfectly meets your personal heating needs. The “Zone Upgrade” allows you to control which areas of your house are warmed, and the “Summer Upgrade” allows you to cool your home by drawing warm air out, utilising a reverse cycle effect.

For more information, please visit www.solrheating.com.au

new england focus 41

JULY 2014

WITH TERRI

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

September 24 - October 23

There’s magic to be had in your nurturing. You heal and empower so many and are very pacified in nature.

Keep it as your retreat and play in the garden; you will surprise yourself with what nature reflects back to and about the gardener.

Clear Quartz amplifies our manifesting abilities.

Turquoise and Citrine are great for self worth, throat and solar plexus chakras.

PISCES.

CANCER.

February 20 - March 20

June 23 - July 23 Ju

Avoid taking life too seriously; all this is doing is bringing out a grumpy you, which isn’t you. You are the practical joker the fun loving one, so lighten up and watch your spark affect everyone else.

Rose Quartz is a wonderful crystal for self-esteem and unconditional love.

42 new england focus.

Stand strong and independent emotionally as the more you give in to feeling unsupported and let down, the more vulnerable you are at becoming a needy person. Think of the emotion you need and breathe it through every cell in your body.

Laugh and lighten up. You’re taking life far too seriously, and this is leaving you feeling trapped by your own negative thoughts.

Be aware of your thoughts and disciplined enough to reshape them. Your fears and doubts will dissipate, and life will seem to pick up momentum again.

Rhodochrosite helps us find our inner child’s joy of life.

ARIES.

LEO.

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

Trust in yourself better. Everything you truly put your mind to is successful. Avoid relying too heavily on others for emotional support, as this is making you see yourself weaker and needy. Instead, wake up those emotions in yourself and breathe them through every cell in your body. No hurdle will seem too large.

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

SCORPIO. October 24 - November 22

Think about what you want, then fill yourself with the excitement of already having it, then think a huge thank you to the Universe and forget about it. Then sit back and watch how clever you are at manifesting what you want.

Ruby helps connect us to our passionate and creative self.

SAGITTARIUS. November 23 - December 21

Make some choices, and then be patient for your outcome.

Having no control of the timing may prove a little frustrating at times but if you keep the passion for what you’re pursuing in sight, the journey will be fun, rewarding and well worth waiting for.

You are good at manifesting your desires, but you are trapped by your old beliefs.

If you debate your old beliefs and create new ones, luck will follow. The Universe is offering a path of cleansing through a purging of anything or anyone not serving the highest good for your future.

An exciting new opportunity is likely to surprise you. You will realise how meant to be it was when you acknowledge your gifts and talents it requires. Peaceful surroundings will stimulate your creative thoughts; aim for serenity in your workplace.

Citirne enhances our intuition and connects to the solar plexus chakra.

Selenite is a very powerful cleanser.

Turquoise is great for self-improvement.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

December 22 - January 20

Listen to your “gut feel” with matters of the heart. Your mind complicates things and as your decisions will affect your emotions, your heart knows best; so let your heart guide you, and feel protected by your intuition.

Romance is strong for you; to benefit the most, avoid having expectations of your partner. Keep focused in the romance and notice all the little things your partner does for you. Set some short term goals and remain focused in the now.

Yellow Jade connects the heart and solar plexus charkas.

Zincite helps creation of new ideas.

You have had a lot of reflection time lately and now are going into a new cycle where your passed experiences will hold no power over you. This result of personal growth has also attracted new fertility in your mind, body and spirit. So expect some adventure. Angle aura in Quartz or Danburite aligns our highest good.

Blue and White Blue and White – a timeless colour combination for decorating.

Our photo this month shows our classic linen sofa decorated with blue and white cushions from Linen & Moore and throws from St Albans and Fluorescents. After a brief time out of the designer’s eye, blue and white are back in favour, particularly the lovely shade of blue known as Indigo.

Indigo is a deep, rich blue originally coming from the Indigo plant and is one of the oldest dyes to be used for textile dyeing and printing. It was used in the ancient world, and India was a primary supplier of indigo to Europe as early as the Greco-Roman era. Today, the colour is mostly made using synthetic dyes, but it has a rich history and is a

perennial favourite.

The combination of blue and white has always remained popular for interior decorating.

Almost all fabric houses will feature a few pages of blue and white patterns and wallpapers in their collections each year.

It can be used in every room in the house, even in Armidale, as different shades of blue and white will almost always blend into a decorating scheme in some way or another.

Left on its own, it is fresh and clean, timeless and elegant. It can be softened by using cream and softer blues, or you can crisp it up with real white and navy blue. So many colours can be used as a highlight – red, pink, orange, yellow, brown, green. Add some timeless colour and pattern to your home this winter.

new england focus 43

IN THE

STYLE

TABLELANDS

EXCLUSIVE TO HARVEY NORMAN

EXCLUSIVE TO HARVEY NORMAN

ARMIDALE

The Harvey Norman Centre, 6 Queen Elizabeth Drive. 6771 0800 Ends 15/08/14. Mattress, bed linen and accessories shown are not included.

Harvey Norman® stores are operated by independent franchisees.

44 new england focus.

READY TO ASSEMBLE

Products on this page may require assembly.

Shop online or mobile: harveynorman.com.au Pick up in store or have it delivered.

277518_AMI

Top: ‘Lexicon’ Modular Leather Lounge.

Middle: ‘Argo’ 4-Piece Queen Bedroom Suite, ‘Cargo’ King Single Bed. Bottom: ‘Atelier’ Dining Table, ‘Royale’ 3-Piece Fabric Lounge Suite, ‘Bordeaux’ 9-Piece Dining Suite.

focus_travel

with Vicki Kembery from Travel 195

Vicki Kembery Thought I’d fill you in on my recent trip to Canada and Alaska. As I told you in last month’s column, the last time I was in that part of the world was over 20 years ago, so I was interested to see what, if anything, had changed. ancouver is still a very pretty city and does give Sydney a run for its money in the “most beautiful harbour city in the world” category, and even though I’d have to say Sydney’s harbour area wins, I think Vancouver’s city area is a real winner over Sydney – the traffic was minimal and everywhere you looked you saw trees – even on the top of some of the buildings!

There are some great things to do in and around Vancouver – being able to get to one of the country’s best ski areas within 20 minutes of the city has to be a bonus, and then to be able to get to the world renowned Whistler ski resort in a couple of hours just takes the cake – and all the while travelling through some of the most stunning scenery you can imagine.

This day trip was done on board the Rocky Mountaineer, which was fantastic. Butchart Gardens definitely lives up to all its hype, and I even braved the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which was an interesting experience!

But the main reason for the trip was to cruise the Inside Passage up through Alaska with my mum and dad. They had wanted to do this trip for some time, so dragged me along kicking and screaming (not!) to keep them company.

We cruised on one of the smaller ships that ply this route, and I must admit when I caught sight of some of the larger ships in the various ports we visited, I was very glad we were on the “little” ship with only 600 passengers. Not only did this make embarking and disembarking a much quicker experience, it also meant we were able to sail a lot further into Glacier Bay National Park than the larger ships, which was one of the highlights of the cruise.

We were also very fortunate with the

V

weather, having a number of bright sunny days – something which is not common in that part of the world.

We visited Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan on the cruise and we did do the shore excursions in each place, which I thought were fantastic. The towns themselves were a little disappointing, as they just seemed to be filled with jewellery stores and souvenir shops, so it was good to do excursions that took you out of the towns and into the surrounding areas.

And yes we did get to see whales, dolphins, bald eagles and even caught sight of a couple of brown bears one day.

And what of the actual cruise ship? I would definitely recommend paying the little bit extra and booking a balcony cabin, because the scenery you pass by not just during the day but as you are waking up or falling off to sleep is really amazing, and being able to jump out of bed, grab the camera and duck out onto your balcony for a few quick shots is great.

Remember, the days are very long in that part of the world – we were at the start of the cruise season and even then sunrise was about 4am and sunset was about 10pm, so being able to sit on your balcony and watch the sunset is a great experience (and no, I didn’t manage to be awake to see the sunrise!)

All in all, it was a great trip and being able to share the experience with my mum and dad just added to it (the last time I went on holiday with them, apart from a couple of weeks at North Beach over Christmas, was when I was 13 years old). So, if your elderly parents start talking about taking a trip but don’t want to go alone, I highly recommend you join them.

If you’re thinking of doing the Inside Passage, drop in and see me for a chat. In the meantime – happy travels wherever you are going. new england focus 45

focusinterview.

The A r m i d a le Fr eed om Climb

Stephen F u g l e r Stephen Fugler is the coordinator for The Armidale Freedom Climb, a symbolic gesture and a way to raise money for the prevention, rescue, rehabilitation and development of women and children who are exploited and trafficked globally.

i Stephen. How long have you lived in the New England?

I have lived with my wife, Linda, in Armidale now for just over seven years. I currently work at the Lockheed Martin Tracking Station as a Senior Ground Station Technician.

Can you tell our readers more about The Freedom Climb which you are currently involved with?

I am the coordinator of The Armidale Freedom Climb, which is all about climbing for those that have no voice.The Freedom Climb, a project of Operation Mobilization (OM) which brings hope and transforms lives of women and children who are being exploited, enslaved, and trafficked around the world. The Freedom Climb’s objective is to stir compassion, action, and advocacy on the issues of modern day slavery, exploitation and trafficking of women and children globally. The goal of the Freedom Climb is to affect the lives of thousands of women and children each year. The purpose of the Freedom Climb is not just about climbing a mountain; it’s a way to engage in this global battle and 46 new england focus.

The Freedom e Climb’s objectiv n, ssio is to stir compa cacy on vo ad d an n, actio ern day od m the issues of tion and slavery, exploita en and trafficking of wom .” children globally

“

strategically help these women and children.

Climbing these mountains is merely a symbolic gesture of what women and children around the world go through every single day. In January of 2012, 48 women from seven different countries gathered in Tanzania and climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro – the world’s tallest free-standing mountain – to declare freedom for those who could not. Climbers from all over the world have continued in that mission. Since 2012, The Freedom Climb has had climbs in the USA, Australia, New Zealand and Mt. Everest. The climbers are voices for the voiceless; for those who could not declare freedom in their lives and climb out of their circumstances on their own.

The Armidale Freedom Climb is being planned by a small group of dedicated people, and we have a large number of university students already joining us on the climb.

What is the plan for the Armidale Freedom Climb?

We will show the film Nefarious: The

Merchant of Souls on Saturday July 5 at the New England Girl’s School Hall at 7pm.

Nefarious: Merchant of Souls is a hardhitting documentary that exposes the disturbing trends of modern day sex slavery. Nefarious exposes the nightmare of sex slavery as experienced by hundreds of thousands daily (www. nefariousdocumentary.com).

The climb takes place on Saturday August 30 at the Cathedral Rock National Park near Ebor.

Cathedral Rock is 1,584 metres about sea level and the walk is a 5.8 km circuit. We plan to meet at the car park for a 9am start and on returning to the car park, there will be a BBQ lunch.

The National Director of Freedom Climb Australia, Mrs Kate Rodwell, hopes to join us on the climb, and share with us about the current work that is being done around the world to rescue and rehabilitate women oppressed and traumatised through sex trafficking.

How do our readers find out more to

support the cause or become involved?

To support the climb and sponsor a climber, people can go to http://freedomclimb.net.au/ climbs/armidale/sponsor OR they can register their desire to climb at http://freedomclimb. net.au/climbs/armidale/register The Armidale Freedom Climb is also on Facebook, and interested people can click on the event & indicate they are coming to the climb.

People can also call me on 0414 518 503 to find out more.

What is the goal of the Armidale Freedom Climb?

To raise awareness of this global evil, that is now bigger than the old slave trade into the United States from Africa etc.

To make people realise that sex trafficking is not just in Europe, America and south east Asia, but is also happening here in Australia.

To make people aware that each one of these young girls (and boys) have a name, and are someone’s daughter, son, sister or brother To raise money that can be used on the front line to rescue, rehabilitate and educate children and women in countries like Nepal, Zambia, India, Ghana, Cambodia, Europe, Greece and the Middle East.

Thanks Stephen.

focusinterview.

•RAPIDCLEAN• Jenny and Greg have recently arrived back in the New England after a trip to Amsterdam for the ISSA Interclean Exhibition. Our local RapidClean duo say they have brought back some great knowledge from their trip ...

H

i Jenny and Greg. You recently went to Amsterdam for Rapid Clean; tell us more about this...

We attended the ISSA Interclean Exhibition, which was run over four days at the RAI Amsterdam. The exhibition is hosted in Amsterdam every two years and showcases products and companies from all over the world. It attracted over 29 thousand visitors and has become the benchmark worldwide for the dissemination of products and knowledge in the cleaning industry.

The most obvious differences in the European markets and our local ones is the physical size, and here in Australia we are using cleaning practices that the Europeans have improved on. For example, microfibre technology has recently become the new accepted method of cleaning in Australia; whereas in Europe they have been using the new technology for over 12 years. We got to see into the crystal ball, so to speak; we have the benefit of hindsight when we introduce new things into our markets, so we can determine what actually works, rather than just helping companies do their field testing.

How do these trips benefit your local business here in Armidale?

The most important benefit is we get to speak with companies that import into Australia. We meet with their global marketing and research teams. This helps us set up products that are manufactured under our Co-operative brand but still remain a high quality. For example, we have recently secured a range of mops, handles and mop buckets which are bought in to Australia by E.D Oats, manufactured under their strict quality control and branded as RapidClean; this helps us drive prices down. We began negotiations for another vacuum cleaner to join our Rapid Branded range, as well as looked at the efficiency measures being implemented overseas which will change

our perception of using a vacuum cleaner, and that’s a job everyone is involved in at one time or another. We are proud of the reputation our Co-operative has developed with the largest companies in the cleaning industry, so as a locally owned store we pool our resources and knowledge to pass on to our customers. We are in contact with many companies who see us as leaders in Australia, so are offered great products and innovations, as well as securing best price for quality options.

What where the highlights of your trip?

Well, if we were really honest we would have to say that the river cruise we went on for the two weeks after the show was the highlight. For anyone who has done a river cruise, you will appreciate just how wonderful that experience is. We travelled from Amsterdam to Budapest visiting so many beautiful villages and areas along the way. We would recommend it to everyone; it is everything that is promised and more.

The highlight of those two weeks was probably Vienna, where we went to a concert showcasing music and dance; the city is just so beautiful and easy to navigate around. It is definitely on the revisit list.

Plans for the future?

Now we are over the jet lag, we need to keep working on the opportunities that were started during the ISSA show. There are a few product developments we will be involved in, as well as some new products that will become available to us here in Australia.

Greg has been to Sydney already to finalise one of the new partnerships, so that is well underway. We will also keep talking to our local customers and pass on the tips and tricks about cleaning we’ve learned along the way. It was a very busy four days, where we spoke with many people; they all have some pearls of wisdom to share. We just need to do the same. new england focus 47

Armidale Toys

Bones Tyres Bones Tyres is locally owned and can offer most popular brands of tyres to suit any vehicle. They want their customers to walk out knowing they have been given upfront and honest advice and service, which is what they pride themselves on.

Apart from wtting tyres, they also have the most up to date tyre machine and balances and a new laser wheel alignment machine.

James employs four full-time staff: Alan, Caine Will and Daniel; however, a big party of the shop is Bulky, the Bullmastiff cross Ridgeback, who is the overseer of Bones Tyres.

Bones Tyres is open for business from Monday to Friday, 8am - 5pm and open Saturday 8.30am - 11.30am.

255 Mann Street Ph: 6772 0048 bonestyres@igpond.com

It is that time of year again … Mid Year Catalogue time! As usual, Armidale Toys has an array of specials on offer that can ALL be put on layby for Christmas. For those who want to be organised and space their payments out over 6 months, this is a great offer to take advantage of.

Six months to pay: fantastic! The greatest savings come with the Siku, Sylvanian Families and Schleich ranges of toys …

For the whole month of July, they are 25% off. This only happens once a year, and that time is NOW! Let the staff at Armidale Toys help you select some toys that will inspire, delight and excite the child or children in your life. Come in and take advantage of Di’s experience and professional advice; as an ex teacher, she knows what she is talking about!

Shop 2 Armidale Plaza Ph: 6772 6261 info@armidaletoys.com.au

Things with a Difference From what started as a "pop up" Christmas Shop, Jane and Tania, by popular demand from customers, have stayed open as a 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. 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.

153 Beardy St (opposite Carr’s News Agency) The Centre Mall Ph: 6771 9668

44 48 new england focus.

Ducats Earthmoving Pty Ltd

Ducats Earthmoving has been locally owned for over 40 years.

DON’T GO COLD THIS WINTER. Speak to Ducats about your wrewood supply.

• Stringybark • Box Ironbark • Mixed (combination of Stringybark, Box, Ironbark and Redgum) FOR ALL YOUR LANDSCAPING NEEDS. • Gravel • Sand • Mulch • Woodchips • Aggregates • Earth soils.

Not Sure What You Need? Not Sure What To Use? Not Sure How To Get It There? Not

Sure How To Get Rid Of It? NOT A PROBLEM! We can do it, or we can wnd out who can. But really, there isn't much we can't do!

FREE QUOTES AVAILABLE. We also has a wide range of plant hire availible. www.ducats.net.au Ph: 6772 7255 Ofwce Hours: Mon to Fri, 7am - 5pm Sat, 7am - noon. Sun, 8.30am - 11.30am for pick up only. 148 Miller St, Armidale.

new england focus 45 49

focuseditorial. orial.

“Wouldn’t it if... ”

p

A New England Rail Trail would of raise the profile ew N e th Guyra and attract , on gi Re England nefit the tourism and be community.”

“

... Guyra had a Ride the Rail Trail dea Description: In 1989 the

I

websit (www.railtrails.org.au) that is operated website

last train passed through Guyra

by a not-for-profit organisation which works

community with associated health benefits.

Railway Station. Now the New

for the development and promotion of a rail

There would also be opportunities for local

England Rail Trail Group wants

trail network Australia-wide.

business to participate, and it would provide

the community to come together

Rail Trails are not just for cyclists, but for

opportunities for community groups to make

and utilise 34 kilometres of rail

bushwalking, runners and horse riding as well.

use of the trail, not just for cycling.

from Black Mountain to Ben Lomond. A New

They provide outlets for local recreation and

How can you help out? Please log in and

England Rail Trail would raise the profile of

benefit local economies through the tourism

vote for this project to show your support on

Guyra and the New England Region, attract

they bring and provide green links and reserves

www.heartofourcommunity.com.au

tourism and benefit the community.

for native plants and animals.

You can also visit the New England Rail Trail

Rail Trails are being constructed all over

Community Benefits: A New England Rail

Group Facebook page to see more information

Australia, and there is a National Rail Trails

Trail would attract tourism to the town and

and photos for this project.

region and encourage cycling in the local

be inspired...

50 new england focus.

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

Votes so far: 25 New England Mutual would like to thank FOCUS for their support of these inspiring p g communityy ideas.

focusinterview.

pumpkin

Pathfinders in Armidale

run

Disadvantaged youth in the country lent a helping hand to homeless young people in the city with the donation of 500 pumpkins. Grown at Tilbuster

Station, an agricultural program run by Pathfinders in Armidale, the veggies were delivered to the Salvos’ Oasis Youth Support Network in Sydney to be made into soup. Pathfinders CEO Alan Brennan talks about the work that went into Pathfinders “pumpkin run’”project. ow did the idea of giving away the pumpkins come about?

Pathfinders has been providing supported accommodation to children and young people for over 30 years.

We recognise that providing accommodation only is simply not enough. Young people need support and nurturing and need to feel they belong and are participating in something worthwhile. Pathfinders' working farm for young people at Tilbuster Station has provided an opportunity for young people to experience belonging and genuine participation, including making the decision to take our pumpkins as a gift to young homeless people in Sydney.

Why was it important for the young people at Pathways to donate their produce to other young people?

The donation is an act of compassion and adds a synergy to the Pathfinders' program at Tilbuster Station, where disadvantaged youth in the country are lending a helping hand to homeless youth in the city. It is also about the generosity of our young people who wanted to assist other young people doing it tough in Sydney.

How did you deliver the pumpkins to Sydney?

We took seven young people who

participate in our various programs in our bus and five staff. The pumpkins were packed and travelled down in one of our staff member’s horse float. For many of these young people, it was their first trip to Sydney. Driving over the Harbour Bridge was met with many comments like “cool” and “sick”. Once we arrived at the Salvos' Oasis youth refuge, the young people were also able to use their amazing recording studio and showed off their rapping skills and recorded a song. They also participated in making a stop motion film using Lego. These are just some of the opportunities our youth would never have experienced if it wasn't for our ability to build relationships with other partner organisations.

Describe how the agriculture program at Tilbuster Station works.

The property is utilised as a venue to continue and expand upon the work that Pathfinders does with at risk youth and local families. Through this generosity, Pathfinders is working to turn this property into a multifunctional youth and family centre including developing the property as a working farm for disadvantaged young people. We produced a large range of vegetables this year, including corn, potatoes, squash, onions and pumpkins. We have given a lot of the produce away to local organisations, including aged care facilities, soup kitchens

Learning these life skills has important an been g just factor in showin le are op pe g what youn how capable of, and ck to ba ve gi n ca they .” ity their commun

“

and the Armidale Meals on Wheels service.

Our young people have learnt valuable agricultural and life skills in cultivating, harvesting and delivering our produce.

With long and short-term plans for renovations and construction, Pathfinders also aims to develop this property to eventually become a regional centre for youth and family development.

How does this program benefit the young people involved?

The program at Tilbuster Station teaches students the importance of agriculture and farming, as well as essential life skills to develop their sense of independence and self-esteem. Learning these life skills has been an important factor in showing just what young people are capable of, and how they can give back to their community.

We want to demonstrate the resilience, generosity and compassion of young people and emphasise they aren't looking for handouts, but contributing to the wellbeing of others.

What do you do with the produce you grow?

We supply the vegetables grown to our own Out of Home Care residences and our Youth Refuge in Armidale. Pathfinders

has also formed a community partnership with Meals on Wheels (MOW) in Armidale to supply fresh vegetables to their community kitchen at the Armidale Showground, where all the meals for their clients are cooked and delivered fresh daily. We have also supplied pumpkins to Nursing Homes in Armidale and Glen Innes, as well as the Salvation Army Soup kitchen in Armidale.

How does this program educate disadvantaged youth about nutritious meals?

While planting, nurturing and harvesting the vegetables, our young people have learnt to prepare nutritious and healthy meals with the assistance of nutrition students from the University of Newcastle. These students visited Tilbuster with our young people and taught them how to prepare and cook nutritious meals, as well as developing a healthy living plan and cook book.

What did the pumpkin soup taste like?

It was absolutely delicious! Standing under cover at Oasis on a rainy day, many commented that it was the best soup they had tried in years.

Thanks Alan.

new england focus 51

CRUISE

new england TRAVEL For most Australians, cruising meant the familiar South Pacific cruises with friends or family on “Love Boat” type ships; however, in recent years we have seen our shores visited by ships which have become luxury country clubs-at-sea and the olden days’ perception of cruising being for “the newly wed and the almost dead” are long gone, thrown overboard. ell us more about the Cruise Craze that is happening?

Living inland, we don’t get the opportunity to see the mega-ships in Sydney Harbour, but these visits have certainly changed our perception of cruising.

Cruising the high seas and river valleys has become a global phenomenon, with Australians choosing to cruise anywhere in the world, enjoying a luxurious lifestyle and a relatively low-cost holiday, visiting multiple destinations – and unpacking once.

One of our more popular destinations that rode this wave was the ability to sail between Australia and New Zealand and circumnavigating Australia – an easy way for people to experience cruising and see if they would then be interested in longer cruises.

From this experience, many clients warmed to the idea of visiting Asia and further afield and, of course, the massively-popular river cruising in Europe, with new ships and itineraries being introduced each season.

There are now so many cruising options that the industry has become almost bespoke, from expedition cruises in the Kimberleys and the Great Barrier Reef to the Antarctic or Arctic. Maybe visiting remote areas in PNG or sampling the wonders of the Orient – why not try authentic wooden junks in Halong Bay? Mediterranean cruising, either on small ships or cruise ships, whatever takes your fancy ... or look at some of the beautiful yachts that operate in the Med. or northern Europe through Norway’s fjords during the European summer months. Traverse the Pacific to North America, or take in the autumn colours of the New England area from Maine to Quebec City and Newfoundland.

The capacity for cruising from Australia will increase for the summer season, with Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruises all bringing ships into the Pacific, offering fun-themed cruises with the most amazing

52 new england focus.

facilities to cater to all walks of life.

The idea of unpacking once, countless opportunities on board to do as much or as little as you want, world-class amenities on many of these ships and the sheer variety of itineraries appeal to many travellers.

As members of CruiseCo, New England Travel is able to extend best offers available on any cruise or offer that you see advertised.

What are the options available?

• Increased capacity of sailings by all cruise lines in Australia with many new boats being bought to our waters for the summer season, with options of doing short break cruises to Melbourne and Tasmania. The very exciting news that Carnival Cruises will be bringing the Carnival Legend to Australia this summer, with its multimillion upgrade - its adrenalinsurging waterslide, a pub and new stage shows.

• Expedition cruises in South America and remote areas of the Pacific and Australia • Princess Cruises will be offering fantastic itineraries for Australia and the South Pacific, China and Japan as well as India and Africa • Orient cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar or the mighty Mekong River taking in Vietnam and Cambodia or the Yangtze River in China visiting the amazing man-made “Three Gorges Dam” • Luxury cruising on Cunard, Oceania, Azamara or Noble Caledonia doing one of their cruises “Lost Islands Lost Worlds” from Puerto Caldera to Havana Cuba or the Semi Circumnavigation of Cuba from Havana to Georgetown or the Secret World of Two Oceans – Bridgetown to San Jose • River cruises in Europe continue to offer new itineraries - the favourites this year was visiting the Somme Battlefields in France and cruising the Black Sea An extra bonus by booking with New England Travel as a CruiseCo agent is the ability to earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points on eligible CruiseCo Holidays worldwide

COFFS HARBOUR HARDWOODS

W

e are the home of hardwood timber. Whether it’s renovating old or designing new, choose Coffs Harbour Hardwoods timber. It’s beautiful, natural and timeless …

Coffs Harbour Hardwoods is a family owned and operated company and has been supplying timber products around Australia and overseas since it was established by Timber Merchant and world champion axeman, Ray McCarthy, in 1961. Since Ray’s passing, his sons and grandsons have taken the company forward and grown it into a first rate hardwood timber supply company.

The company had its beginnings as far back as the 1850s, when pioneering and Cedar getting was the mainstay of many North Coast families.

This involvement with timber has grown to now encompass the fifth generation and has included in our history such diverse products as the famous Red Cedar for furniture and building products to piles and structural hardwoods

for wharf developments and bridges around Australia and overseas.

We provide a range of services in hardwood timber; whether it is tongue and groove flooring, cross arms for electricity distribution companies or even architectural bespoke mouldings. We have the expertise and capabilities to provide our customers with a range of products and services that could rarely be matched by many companies within Australia over the entire spectrum of cutting and milling hardwood timber products.

Our timber joinery enables us to provide timber in a moulded form in all different profile types.

If you’re after something specialised such as a federation style moulding for an older house or you’d like to line your music studio with a timber moulding for acoustics, we can do this all… and more.

Next time you need timber, think of Coffs Harbour Hardwoods. Phone: (02) 6649 2006 Email: office@coffshardwoods.com.au Web: www.coffshardwoods.com.au

Developing local skills and providing valuable business growth. ayden Timbers Pty Ltd (Haydens) currently operates a privately owned hardwood sawmill owned and operated by the Hayden family, who have been involved in the timber industry for a number of generations; Darrell & Val Hayden took over the business in 1978 from his father Roy Hayden. Since relocating to the current site in 1999 Haydens embarked on a multimillion dollar upgrade and now operate a state of the art hardwood sawmill, employing 30 plus people, and providing work for a similar number of personnel through support of subcontractors, freighters, supply and maintenance businesses. As one of the major sawmilling operations on the Mid North Coast, Haydens supply a diverse range of products both domestically and for export. Managing Director Darrell Hayden credits this to key long term staff who form an integral part of the mill operation.

Jenni Robertson has been the office manager since 2001 and is involved in all facets of the mill administration. Trent Whitby joined the business in 2007 and has worked in many areas of the mill and was promoted to mill Manager in 2011.

Managing a mill of this size provides many challenges

H

and Trent has grown with the mill and its operations – he begins with sourcing good quality logs and then continually works at efficiencies in production; while producing high quality end products.

Leigh Langens operates the Twin Edger – which breaks down the logs coming in to the mill and sets up production for the saw benches. Leigh has been employed for 12 years.

Greg Alexander has been working at Haydens since its commencement in the area. He is a skilled operator who has learnt and developed his trade over 30 years.

Both Greg and Leighs’ experience in sawmill operations is invaluable in ensuring production runs to schedule and in producing a quality product.

The company is keen to promote and train new employees in the business; there is the opportunity to learn the trade and become a valuable and skilled machine operator. In this regard, the company offers young people an opportunity for employment.

Hayden Timbers is a success story for the district, in both promotion of business, promoting responsible forestry practices and providing employment opportunities in the area.

weathertex WEATHERBOARDS Hardwood flooring on a budget: ustralian Solar Timbers (AST), like other sawmills in the local area, is privileged to have access to some of the most sought after Australian hardwood species.

Approaching its centenary in the timber industry, the company boasts 4 generations of family working sustainably from the same forests; and with 100 years of work, comes 100 years of experience.

Here are a few cost saving tips when considering your next floor: Species: When choosing your floor, start by considering a ‘colour range’ rather than a specific species. Australian hardwoods can be divided into 3 broader colour groups (blondes, reds and earthy browns). By asking what options are available in a colour range rather than a single species, you may find a similar coloured floor at a fraction of the

A

price.

Level of natural feature: Natural variation or ‘feature’ is a great way to mask everyday marks and abrasions. Higher levels of feature in your floor can be a great choice if you have young children or pets. While different levels of feature may affect the price, it won’t affect the structural integrity your floor.

Choosing the right installer: Without a doubt choosing the right installer is a must.

Most problems/costs that can occur with a hardwood timber floor are the result of poor installation or preparation of the site. AST works closely with some of the best builders and floor layers on the Mid North Coast.

Call our office on 6562 6839 for further advice.

116 Armidale Road, West Kempsey, NSW 2440.

A

ustralian owned and manufactured with a better than zero carbon footprint, Weathertex external timber cladding is the ideal solution for any builder, architect or designer in search for environmentally conscious and high quality material. All Weathertex products are made from, without any chemical additives, certified state forest or private hardwoods in Australia. Weathertex Weatherboards are guaranteed not to rot, split or crack for 25 years.

Sustainability and durability being at the forefront of all products ensures Weathertex delivers natural, long lasting, eco friendly timber products to customers in Australia and around the world.

Weathertex timber product is the only product of its kind in the world, containing absolutely no artificial glues or binders.

Weathertex generates CO2 during its manufacturing process however more CO2 is stored in the timber than is generated hence Weathertex has a better than zero carbon footprint. This was confirmed by an independent Government approved auditor during an audit of Weathertex for the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme. Timbers (and mud bricks) are the only building materials that can sequester Carbon.

Features and Benefits: • Easy to install: lightweight, strong and easy to cut using standard DIY tools • 100% natural: 97% timber and 3% natural wax • Better than zero carbon footprint • Termite resistant: all sugars and starches removed • 25 year guarantee: not to rot, split or crack www.weathertex.com.au Ph: 1800 040 080.

new england focus 53

Thinking Criminal Law with Elizabeth Stahlut, Solicitor

THINKING

CRIMINAL LAW Every now and then, a neighbourhood dispute gets out of hand, or a bully at work or school harasses, intimidates and may even be violent towards you. This may also occur in a family situation, where a former spouse, partner, relative or child needs to be formally and publicly restrained from stalking or causing domestic violence and disruption to the family unit. What do you do?

I

n some cases, the best thing might be to talk matters through with the person who is troubling you when tempers calm down. Sometimes however, there are occasions where trying to talk things through either makes things worse, or is simply not appropriate or practical. This is when you might need to consider applying for an Apprehended Violence Order, otherwise known as an AVO. What is an AVO? An AVO is a civil restraining order made by a Court for the benefit of a victim suffering intimidating, harassing or violent behaviour from someone else. It’s designed to protect the victim, also referred to as the Person In Need of Protection (‘PINOP’), against this sort of behaviour. An AVO can also protect anyone else the victim might have a domestic relationship with. It’s not a criminal charge, but an injunction or restraint on the perpetrator’s conduct. A person who becomes the defendant named on an AVO doesn’t get a criminal record, unless he or she is found guilty of breaching the Orders made under the AVO. There are two kinds of AVO. The Apprehended Personal Violence Order (APVO) is used when there is no relationship between the victim and the person against whom the APVO is sought. An example of this might be the serious neighbourhood dispute or otherwise where a PINOP has been attacked, stalked or continually harassed by another person.

The other kind of AVO, is the Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO). This is what’s used when an ex partner, partner or family member behaves in a way that is intimidating, harassing or threatening. Both kinds of AVO can incorporate a variety of conditions a Court thinks appropriate, to protect the victim.

The main difference between an APVO and an ADVO is that APVOs can, and often are, referred to a Community Justice Centre for mediation. The Magistrate can do this and if the mediation works, the parties can hand up the agreement to the Court as an undertaking.

54 new england focus.

If it doesn’t work and the defendant is not prepared to accept the AVO without admissions, then the APVO can proceed to a hearing.

The process of getting an AVO In a lot of cases involving personal and domestic violence, the police can and do take out AVOs on behalf of the victim. They will also do it if the victim is a child. Otherwise, if you need to apply for an AVO, you do so by making the application at a Court registry. You will be informed when your matter is due to be dealt with in Court.

In order for an AVO to be granted, the Court must be satisfied on the balance of probabilities (in other words, that something is more likely than not, to be true) that unless the AVO is granted, the defendant will engage in intimidating, harassing or violent behaviour against you. Also, unless you are a child under 16 years of age or suffering from an intellectual disability, you must show that you have a reasonable fear of the defendant.

Sometimes, a defendant might accept the AVO without making any admissions of wrongdoing. If this happens, the AVO can be granted by the Court, without the need to go to a defended hearing, where witnesses would have to be questioned.

Once the AVO is granted, a defendant has to abide by its terms, or risk criminal charges.

There are also other consequences from having an AVO put on you, so if you are served with a Court notice that one is being sought against you, it is very important that you seek legal advice about the proper steps to take.

A lawyer can advise you of those, as well as representing you in Court if necessary.

If you are seeking an AVO, it is also best to get legal advice, as a lawyer can not only advise you of the proper steps to take in either taking out or defending an AVO, but also advise you of possible alternatives to Court litigation that might achieve a satisfactory result for you.

new england focus 55

Transition & Kinder orientation starts August 28th

Transition to Year 6 for boys and girls who love to learn, explore, grow and have fun.

To find out more about St John’s Junior School visit our website or call. p. 02 6774 8700 | stj.com.au St John’s Junior School | Uralla Road, Armidale NSW 2350

ST JOHN’S