New England Focus i90

NEW ENGLAND

November 2014 // Issue 90

Feature Story Monique Howe

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focus team.

Welcome to the November edition of New England FOCUS.

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n this month’s front cover is Barbara Albury, who stars in A Streetcar Named Desire, showing at TAS Hoskins centre from the 21st of November to December 6th. This event has a “stella” cast and will be sure to impress.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Practicing local accountant for 40 years, Bob Locke tells us how advances in technology have had a very big impact on the way business is done these days.

We talk to Lachie Sewell about why he chose to stay in Armidale; he tells us there are many job opportunities here for the younger generation.

We catch up with born and bred Armidale lady Monique Howe, who shares her ambitions to become an actress and tells us about the exciting moments from her career so far. Monique

studies at Screenwise Acting School - Australia’s leading film and TV school for actors.

We also speak to the wonderful Adelaide author Sue Panagaris, who has just released her third book for Mills & Boon titled Falling for Dr December, with the story set in the New England (taking place in both Armidale and Uralla). We at FOCUS were very excited to have a chat with Sue and also happy that she’s showcased the New England area to the world.

We also travelled to the Uralla Bowling club, where Lyn Ferguson has recently taken over the dining room as head chef, producing satisfying and moreish meals for the whole family to enjoy.

Lyn has come back to the New England region because she loves the mountains and fresh air. Another big change is the name of the restaurant in the Uralla Bowling Club, now titled the Hill

contacts.

ADVERTISING MANAGER: Tracy Le Messurier

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ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont

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SUB EDITOR: Jo Atkins

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ADDRESS: 5/164 Beardy Street, Armidale PHONE: 02 6771 5551 FAX: 02 6772 5551 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/ne.focus TV: www.focustv.com.au

St Brasserie.

And finally, read how a local golfing community has come together to save the Uralla Golf Club.

WELCOME TO JAMES BROOKS New England FOCUS is very proud to welcome James “Jimmy” Brooks to our team. James has joined the team as an advertising consultant as well as helping us out with photography, so please give James a call if you have any enquiries.

FINAL SAY “You can’t depend on your eyes, when your imagination is out of focus”- Mark Twain.

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dylan@focusmag.com.au joey@focusmag.com.au

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

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“Wouldn’t it

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

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

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is christmas really just around the corner?

Every year we are asked what’s the difference between our Christmas hams and those available in the supermarket. To put it simply, the difference is night and day: for a start, supermarkets purchase their hams from huge factories that pump out hams by the thousand day after day in the weeks leading into Christmas; often the legs are bought purely on price, which means that the legs come mostly from male pigs (boars) and will often therefore have the taint that is unique to male pigs. The hams are cured and injected with artificial smoke essence so as to give the smoke flavour that is so highly sought after and to help hide the taint! They are then placed in a big water bath and boiled until cooked.

As for The Meating Place, we have been hand curing and oven baking our own locally sourced pork legs for over 10 years, and in that time have cooked about 4,000 hams!

The difference is all in the taste!Compare a boiled leg of lamb to a roasted one if you need a comparison! The character and depth of flavour that you get from a locally made ham compared to a mass produced supermarket one is really night and day!

We hand select each pork leg, then cure it in a brine that we developed in store that gives our hams a flavour that is unique to us. We then slowly cook the ham for about 12 hours, careful to give it just the right amount of smoke! We even only use local woodchips! No artificial smoke essence for us!

As for our turkeys, we’ve been using local Quast family turkeys from Kootingal for years. They are produced free of antibiotics and growth promot-

inside this

ing hormones and raised on grain that is often

Issue 90 - November 2014

grown on farm when seasons permit, and the fact that they are local makes them even easier to use!

This year we will have some Christmas lines with a difference ... think turduckens, a boned turkey rolled around a boned duck again rolled around

8.

a boneless chicken seasoned with a seasoning of your choice! Or maybe our boneless Boston turkey

You are Beautiful.

What do the renowned fashion retailer Emporium Bellingen and local disability service provider House with No Steps have in common? They both celebrate all kinds of beauty!

with a Cranberry Apple and Pistachio seasoning glazed with a cranberry and orange jelly! These really are something to behold and look amazing!

This year we will also have a limited number of local free range hams as well. These are from Tony and Jenny McHatton’s farm, “Cheviot Hills”, on the southern side of Walcha. They only breed a small number of free range pigs, and we have been fortunate enough to source a small amount.

If you want a free range ham this year, you will need to be quick, as we only have a handful of these left. Tony’s breed of choice is “large blacks”, and they have a flavour that is unique to the breed; it really is how pork/ham is meant to taste!

So I hope this has helped with your decision making this festive season. If you have any further questions, please feel free to drop into the shop and ask - nothing like a curly question to keep us

19.

Ballads & Songs.

22nd November - the Wongwibinda Progress Association proudly presents a night of Ballads and Songs featuring a concert by Goldheist.

on our toes!

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Uralla Golf Club.

FOCUS speaks with Geoff Wood to find out how a local golfing community has come together to save the Uralla Golf Club.

usual suspects.

the

14. what’s on for November 20. eat featuring local restaurants 39. star guide with Terri

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

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STREETCAR named DESIRE B A R B A R A

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A L B U R Y

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STREETCAR named DESIRE B A R B A R A

A L B U R Y

BARBARA ALBURY PLAYS BLANCHE DUBOIS IN THE CLASSIC AMERICAN PLAY A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE PRESENTED BY HIGH COUNTRY THEATRE

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

We came to Armidale 14 years ago, when my husband, Randall, was appointed Dean of the Faculty of Arts at the University of New England.

My origins are Hungarian and I was a migrant child, first in resettlement camps and then living in a tiny fibro house on a busy road in the Sydney seaside suburb of Manly.

What is your background in the theatre industry?

I seem to have been doing drama forever.

I started out as an Art and English teacher because I could draw. I got interested in drama because it encompassed all the arts - language, literature, music, poetry, design. I also like creating productions - sometimes writing them myself. A colleague and I ran a small semiprofessional company in Sydney, performing often at the Belvoir Street Theatre in Sydney.

While future stars such as Cate Blanchett played in the upstairs theatre, we humbler folk played in the downstairs one.

What is your next production, and what can audiences expect?

A Streetcar Named Desire will run from 21 November to 6 December. It has been described as the greatest play of the 20th Century, but young people know it by the famous shout: “Stella!” - through the generosity of the Simpsons, who have immortalised it. Tennessee

Williams wrote it in New Orleans - and it Adam Williams, Phoebe Maroulis, Mari Grantun really catches the sultry, somewhat decadent and Gordon. Lenore Crocker, drawing on her atmosphere of the city. Jazz, Cajun food, knowledge of New Orleans, has designed a Bourbon Street, poverty, sensuality, heat - all set beautiful, evocative set. Sydney based lighting the mood. It’s a drama - the story of two sisters designer Christopher Snape (Titanic, La Boheme and the man between them. It’s also the conflict in Armidale) is creating magic lighting for us. between the loss of a genteel world of oldOur producer, Alex Taylor, is keeping us on the fashioned values - the American Deep straight and narrow, Bernard Kusch is South - and the coming of the creating whimsical matchboxes modern age of machines, with Streetcar motifs and Pat speed and rough manners Neild is dressing us in fine - the city. style. Brendan Mooney, Brando Marlon Brando rose Benjamin Thorn et al e, er th ed hitchhik , to instant stardom te are creating the soulful, la ys da arrived two en when he played in the throbbing music of New ok br e th but fixed use ho e film version against Orleans. th in ng bi plum illiams W l. el the legendary Vivien How much work and w ad re d an le .”

Leigh (of Gone With preparation goes into gave him the ro the Wind fame). Brando something like this? was sent by producer Irene Eight months of grind and Selznick to visit Tennessee some heavenly moments of Williams in the country, to see inspiration. As Blanche in the play whether Williams would like Brando says: “It’s awe inspiring”. to play Stanley, the lead in the play. Brando We are also doing a Streetcar Festival in hitchhiked there, arrived two days late, but the Mall from 8 -15 November. The Armidale fixed the broken plumbing in the house and Dumaresq Council is supporting us and has read well. Williams gave him the role. been kind enough to loan us the old Visitors Tell us about the cast and other people Centre bus to act as a streetcar in the Mall. involved?

The highlight will be a “Stella!” shouting Director Gordon Cope is creating a fastcompetition and some hot and cool jazz. moving, passionate and also lyrical production. I Many talented storytellers, actors, musicians, am working with a bunch of very talented actors: filmmakers are strutting their stuff.

Jan Wyles, Jack Bedson, Serena Weatherall, Plans for the future?

Mark Lawless, Bob Thompson, Brendan Mooney, High Country Theatre is a new group. Our

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aim is to provide high standard theatre to lovers of the muse. We want to give as many people “a go” as possible and also train them up to do first class work in all aspects of theatre.

We have run a number of workshops in voice, accents and acting. A lighting workshop is coming up on 15 November. If you want to attend contact me (see contact details below).

In the air next year is Lear in a Suitcase and an aviation show.

Thanks Barbara.

the plug!

A Streetcar Named Desire, 21 November to 6 December: 3 weeks, including 4 matinees.

Fri 21 Nov at 7:30pm Sat 22 Nov (Gala Night) at 7:30pm Wed 26 Nov at 11am Frid 28 Nov at 7:30pm Sat 29 Nov at 2pm and 7:30pm Sun 30 Nov at 4pm Fri 5 at 7:30pm Sat 6 Dec at 2pm and 7:30pm www.highcountrytheatre.com or Carrs newsagency in the Mall 6772 3534.

Enquiries: Barbara at bhalbury@bigpond.com or call 0427 729 529.

Tickets: $25, $20 (conc), $15 groups and restricted view, $10 children.

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You are Beautiful H O U S E

W I T H

N O

S T E P S

WHAT DO THE RENOWNED FASHION RETAILER EMPORIUM BELLINGEN AND LOCAL DISABILITY SERVICE PROVIDER HOUSE WITH NO STEPS HAVE IN COMMON?

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hey both celebrate all kinds of beauty and are coming together on the 30th November to host a fashion parade of a slightly different kind in Beardy Street

at Foxy Locks, who will be doing hair and makeup.

The event will be a fundraiser for House with No Steps, who will use any funds raised to support people with disability to achieve their dreams and goals.

Mall.

As well as being able to see the current The event will feature local models with season’s range on the beautiful a disability gracing the catwalk models, you will be have an in a fundraising event for opportunity to pick up House with No Steps, the perfect outfit for in conjunction with the Christmas season. g in be Emporium Bellingen. as l As wel You can start on your e th e se Hannah Rodrigues, to able e ng Christmas shopping, ra ’s on as Support Manager se t curren models, ul knowing that your tif au be of House with No e th on an special purchase is Steps, New England, you will be have up ck supporting people said she hopes the opportunit to pi r the t fo with a disability to the perfect outfi event will motivate .” reach their goals.

Christmas season and encourage There is a focus on people to explore their educating people with identity while providing an disability to be independent opportunity for the Armidale and valued members of the community to recognise the many community. We hope this event different faces of beauty. will contribute to the education of the The idea was presented to Ann community to celebrate all people.

Rosewood, long time owner of Emporium

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Bellingen, by colleague Cassandra Earnshaw.

The idea immediately appealed to Ann, who said she had become jaded after 30 years in the fashion industry. “Outdated stereotypes of beauty, age and perfect can undermine self worth,” she said.

The Armidale community has kindly put its weight behind the event, with support from FOCUS, Mr Brian Abbott, Armidale PCYC supporting the event to take place during market day, and Stephanie Yates, hairdresser 8 new england focus.

the plug!

Contact Lea McMillan for enquiries on (02) 8019 1350.

Emporium Bellingen is open to recruiting more models, so ring (02) 6655 2204 if you would like to join in the event.

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O ’ C O N N O R THE PERFORMING ARTS ARE THRIVING AT O’CONNOR CATHOLIC COLLEGE.

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USIC (Melita Roache) The O’Connor Music Department has had a very busy year in 2014, with students being offered many opportunities to enhance their performance, musicology, compositional and aural skills. Early in the year, Elective Music students in Stage 5 and 6 were offered the opportunity to attend the Encore! performance in Sydney to see the top performances and compositions from the 2013 HSC. This year O’Connor has offered students opportunities to participate in various ensembles, including String Ensemble, Senior String Quartet, Woodwind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Choir, Vocal Ensemble and Guitar Ensemble. A music theory development program has been established to enhance the musicianship, theory and aural skills of instrumental students to support their class work and instrumental studies.

The music department plays a huge role in the everyday life of O’Connor. Music is taught to all Year 7 and 8 students, and is offered to students from Years 9 to12 as an elective subject. We offer Music 1, Music 2 and Extension Music to senior students with an emphasis on performance and composition. Participation in regular masses in the school chapel and Cathedral enables vocalists and instrumentalists to contribute to the spiritual life of the College and the wider community.

The music department at O’Connor will continue to expand both the extra curricular and school programs in the future, including developing an orchestra and more ensembles.

Every two years O’Connor Catholic College joins with local feeder Catholic primary schools to

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produce a huge showcase through to HSC level. of performing arts talent The curriculum in under the banner of ArStage 5 includes, s ve lo but is not limited midale Catholic Schools ild ch ur If yo or a am to, opportunities Celebrate. This will occur dr e, danc r no on ’C to learn about again in 2015, and the O music, then e th is ge le anatomy and committee anticipates ol C atholic C ” . physiology of the sell out performances place to be dancers’ body, once again at the UNE Arts safe dance practice, Theatre. dance as an artform, DANCE (Melissa Killen) dance styles, artists and It has been a busy year for OCC world dance, through perfordancers! Students have had many opportunities to immerse themselves in dance, mance, composition and appreciincluding our annual Sydney excursion. This ation of dance. Students are involved year we watched two evenings of performancin “dance on film” projects where they compose, perform, film and edit their own es by the top 2013 HSC Dance students at Calldance works, which has been a highlight for back 2013, visiting the accomplished Ev & Bow many of the students involved in the course. In performing arts school and joining in on class addition to opportunities to involve themselves with Sarah Boulter’s talented full-time students, in a rich academic and practical subject area, watching the dynamic movement and music there are many rewarding career pathways installment of Stereogamous at Carriageworks, for students who choose dance as a subject, and participating in Contemporary and Hip Hop from employment as a dancer, choreograDance classes with professional choreographers.

Performance and participation opportunities pher, teacher, therapist or trainer, through include school events, Eisteddfods, lunchtime to marketing and public relations, web design, dance classes, Beyond Empathy projects, the facilities and events management, social media independent schools’ collaborative musical management, grant writing and finance, and production of West Side Story and the Catholic artist management and representation. Dance Schools Celebrate concert in Tamworth, just to benefits every aspect of our health! name a few.

We are currently accepting students into our This year is our second year in which HSC senior dance classes. students have completed their studies in Dance.

DRAMA (Jenny Roff) Dance is a board endorsed subject, which The drama department became well estabmeans it contributes towards the students’ lished several years ago under the direction of ATAR for entry into university.

Judy McLeod. Her good work has since been Dance is well represented in the school curcarried on by Sarah Mills and Jenny Roff, with drama now being offered as an elective subject. riculum, with OCC offering classes from Year 9

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All Year 8 students are taught drama as part of the English curriculum. These students work on mime, improvisation, playbuilding and working with a script. They are taught the basics of performance and the elements of drama, and are given an opportunity to select drama as an elective in Years 9 and 10.

Elective drama students played a major role in last year’s Catholic Schools Celebrate Don’t Stop Believing performances, and will do so again in 2015. One of the main aims of the drama department is to provide the students with a wide variety of performance opportunities. This has occurred in class but also at College Founder’s Day concerts and evening soirees. Drama classes have also visited St. Mary’s primary school to perform for the younger students, which was a great deal of fun for both the performers and the audiences. In 2014, the Year 10 drama class will perform excerpts from Shakespeare’s King Lear and Morris Gleitzman’s Boy Overboard for the students of O’Connor.

Another aim of the drama department is to provide ample opportunities for students to view other dramatic performances. This includes travelling theatre companies such as the Bell Shakespeare Theatre, as well as local performances including Into the Woods, A Short Guide to Shakespeare, The Tempest and A Street Car Named Desire. Excursions to Sydney to see musicals, plays and to participate in workshops are also part of the drama curriculum, often teaming up with the dance students.

The drama department at O’Connor Catholic College is an exciting place to be, with many more performances in the pipeline for 2015.

focusinterview. cation We filmed on lo d it an on is in an old pr d to ha I t bu n, was a lot of fu nd 4am - so wake up at arou glamorous as it’s really not as k. I played people may thin ting my si vi r a prison visito (who is an ol ga in boyfriend ).” actor on the show

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MONIQUE

HOWE

BORN AND BRED ARMIDALE LADY MONIQUE HOWE IS LIVING HER DREAM AS AN UP AND COMING ACTRESS. ell us about your family and your upbringing in Armidale.

I had a great upbringing in Armidale with my mother, father and my younger sister, Bridgette, who is currently in Year 10 at O' Connor Catholic College. My family are my biggest supporters and my parents have sacrificed a lot regarding my career, such as driving me to Sydney from a young age to study holiday acting classes and attend auditions.

I attended Ben Venue primary school before going to PLC. At PLC I was able to further my interest in acting and the dramatic arts. I still remember my speech and drama teachers encouraging my creativity and dreams. It was through Armidale people that I got to know Kate Bell, a successful actress who also went to PLC and ironically is now a good friend of mine. There are many people in Armidale that have helped me to flourish, and I wouldn't be where I am right now without them.

When did you first discover your passion for drama?

I knew from as young as seven years old I wanted to pursue a career in acting. I grew up watching Home and Away and I would look forward to each school day ending so I could watch the show with my family. My dad put my younger sister and I in a television commercial at a young age to promote a food store he used to manage. I remember watching myself on NBN and Channel Seven shopping at the store as a seven year old, thinking it was cool and that I wanted to do it again. When I was 15, I was lucky enough to complete my Year

10 work experience on the set of Home and Away in Sydney, and it was from then on I knew I had to try my best to make it in the industry as a professional, because I loved it so much.

Where are you studying, and what does this entail?

I am currently studying at Screenwise Acting School - Australia's leading film and TV school for actors in Surry Hills, Sydney. Every day is different in class, but the course entails acting specifically for film and television focusing on characterisation, presenting, scene actions and objectives, voice and physical movement. Last week I shot my first showreel scene in Palm Beach which will be shown at my graduation and sent to acting agents and casting consultants next year. I feel very blessed to study at Screenwise, run

by CEO and actress Denise Roberts. In 2012 I was I was lucky lucky enough to meet call telling me I was to enough to meet Chris Hemsworth ho is w be on the set of Home y ne ib G a cc Rebe and Kristen Stewart ire . She m and Away the followad I ne eo m so coming at a film premiere in ing week, I called my thanked me for ow Sydney and to know parents and jumped to work on the sh l ea that Chris Hemsworth around my bedroom. We which was a surr went to my acting filmed on location in an experience .” school gave me hope for old prison and it was a lot the future. of fun, but I had to wake up We hear you've had some at around 4am - so it’s really not interesting roles lately. Tell us as glamorous as people may think. I about them ... played a prison visitor visiting my boyfriend In the last fortnight I have been lucky in gaol (who is an actor on the show). We enough to get paid acting and extra work shot around seven scenes, and I had to sit through my agent. When I got the phone on a bench waiting for my on screen boyfriend

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and hand him a soft drink. Last week I worked on The Killing Field, which is a new television show airing next year on Channel Seven. I was lucky enough to meet Rebecca Gibney, who is someone I admire. She thanked me for coming to work on the show, which was a surreal experience. The vibe on a television set is incredible, and we all ate a catered lunch together before going back to work. I was dressed as a hospital patient in the wardrobe department and sat next to Peter O'Brien while I had my makeup and hair done. It was at that moment I started to realise all my hard work was beginning to pay off.

Plans for the future?

In the future I hope to work as a paid actor in Australia, preferably in film or television. I would also love to try theatre, script writing and directing if I cannot conquer acting. Next year I start more acting classes at AMAW (Anthony Meindel’s Actor Workshop) in Sydney before heading to his Los Angeles based school. Anthony Meindel is tutor to A list actors, so I am looking forward to studying at both his Sydney and Los Angeles school. I hope to move to Los Angeles eventually, but for now I am happy in Sydney auditioning and working on set. I also hope to finish my university degree, as it is has been very difficult juggling acting with university.

Thanks Monique. new england focus

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Photo by on the pipe images.

lachie

SEWELL SOMETIMES HERE IN THE NEW ENGLAND WE FEEL THAT OUR “YOUNG ONES” HAVE TO MOVE TO MAJOR CITIES TO FIND WORK. FOCUS TALKS TO LACHIE SEWELL ABOUT WHY HE CHOSE TO STAY IN ARMIDALE ; HE TELLS US THAT THERE ARE JOB OPPORTUNITIES HERE FOR THE YOUNGER GENERATION.

ou are a born and bred Armidale boy. Tell us about your family, your upbringing and what you love most about the New England.

I come from two great families, one being the Sewells, who have been residents of the Kelly’s Plains district since the late 1800s and real estate agents in Armidale for three generations. I am very proud to carry on the tradition as a third generation agent.

They have always lived at Kelly’s Plains at “Burley Park”, where we still live now; I am now the 5th generation to live on our family farm. My parents have just recently built a new house out there whilst I was in Year 12.

My mother’s family are the Barniers, who also grew up in the New England region on a grazing property at Wandsworth. Mum’s family consisted of 4 children who were all educated here in Armidale and went to either TAS, PLC or NEGS. My grandparents, Bill and Jude Barnier, have retired to live on the beach in Yamba. My mother, Lisa, works at Thorne Dental, and my father is one of the principals at Professionals Armidale. I have a younger sister, Jacquie age (20), who is now studying at Newcastle University after finishing her HSC at NEGS in 2012 and having a gap year working as a nanny in New York.

I was brought up in the Kelly’s Plains District and attended Kelly’s Plains public school until 12 new england focus.

Year 4, and then went to TAS. At TAS I was lucky enough to do a lot of travelling overseas on exchange experiences and helping out in orphanages. While at school, I worked on Saturdays at Super Moto and Wednesday nights at the sale yards for Armitage and Buckley. I finished my HSC in 2010, and not long after that I went North to work on Cubbie Station with a few mates.

The New England is a great place! Not long after I went up north, I came back to start my career in the Armidale Real Estate world. The thing I love about Armidale is that there are a lot of job opportunities and careers available for young people.

It has a great mix of people, ranging from people who have lived here, gone away for work, and came back to start careers, UNE students who have moved to Armidale looking to study to start their careers, and people who have lived here all their life; each one has a story to share.

When did you first become interested in real estate?

I grew up eating real estate for breakfast lunch and tea! I first became interested in real estate at a young age, when Dad would pick me up from soccer training or school, and he would call his dad and discuss his day, negotiations and any advice that could be given. From then on, it always interested me. After purchasing my first investment home while I was in QLD working, I found a great passion for the Armidale real

a week, 24 hours a day, but this year I have estate market. While I was up there, I read many played a season of rugby with the Barbarians books on people’s success through real estate, Rugby Union Club. Since a young age I have then furthered that interest into real estate also always enjoyed riding and competing in agents’ success. That’s when I got the vibe and motocross, enduro and grass track events on my passion for my career. motorbike. Travelling is also a passion of mine.

When did you get your qualifications?

Plans for the future?

I got my real estate certificate I am very proud of my heritage and at the age of 17 years the fact that as a third generation then, recently in June Armidale real estate agent I have 2014 I completed I , ol ho a lot to offer my clients and my studies and sc at While ays rd tu Sa on d my industry. I am passionate received my ke wor d an o ot M r about real estate and as it full real estate pe at Su ts at the gh ni ay sd ne ed flows through my veins, agents licence.

W rmitage sale yards for A whatever the future hold for You have y m d ishe and Buckley. I fin t long me I am sure it will revolve recently no d HSC in 2010 an to h rt around advising and helping attended no t en after that , I w n io at St people achieve their real estate ie some real bb work on Cu .” es at m goals. estate awards. w with a fe I also have a passion for Tell us more my family history of community about this ... involvement in both Armidale clubs and I have been awarded charities. At present I am involved in various many Top Awards during sporting clubs and charities, and I enjoy this part my career in the fields of Sales and twice the of my life. I will always be there to put my hand New England REI Auctioneers Award. I was up to assist a good cause wherever I can. I really awarded the Top New Salesperson award on the enjoy conducting charity auctions for functions, Australian Eastern Seaboard. and I encourage any organisation to ring me any I was very honoured to compete against time if I can help. major metropolitan agents who operate in areas I have just returned from Thailand, and that have had a very strong last 12 months. travel will also be high on my list of priorities What does Lachie Sewell do when he is not especially while I am still young. at work?

Thanks Lachie.

In real estate we are always available 7 days

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Secure your home & business from

Computer Services and Support

Graham East from ITAlive shares about some of the implications of internet security for Armidalians.

All About I.T.

HACKERS

B

ut they’re not interested in me are they?

Anyone who uses a computer connected to the Internet is susceptible to the threats that computer hackers and predators pose. Many of these online villains have malicious intent to steal your data and invade your life. Their methods of attack use phishing scams, spam email or instant messages and bogus Web sites to deliver dangerous malware (malicious software) to your computer and compromise your computer security. For information go to www.italive.com.au/computerhackers-predators/

If you are using Windows XP you are at serious risk Microsoft ceased support for XP, their 12-year-old operating system on 8th April 2014. This means that there will be no further security upgrades for this venerable old friend that has now turned into a foe! Hackers are set for a heyday as they begin to exploit its now unsupported vulnerabilities.

Every week you use XP the risk increases that hackers will take control of your computer and steal your personal details, hijack your data or use it to relay spam.

Adrian Wood, Armidale computer security expert comments re XP

a vast target base. In fact XP is the go-to choice for lecturers teaching hacking countermeasures in Universities throughout the world. To make matters worse there is a huge range of ‘plug n hack’ tools available for XP that allow novice miscreants to get up and going. All this means that relatively unskilled computer enthusiasts can cause very significant damage on XP systems deployed in homes and workplaces.”

“Every se week you u of XP the risk ed being hack increases.

This is serious!”

“Windows XP is the first operating system beginning hackers learn to exploit. In 2014 over 25% of computers world-wide still use it, giving hackers

Upgrading can be difficult Upgrading your XP software to Windows 7, 8 or 10 should be done immediately, however this can pose some problems. Many older computers running XP simply will not run a newer operating system and there are thousands of software applications that will only work on XP – many of these are critical to the running of businesses.

What should I do?

Adrian advises, “If you can’t upgrade immediately, individuals and businesses using XP versions of Windows Media Player and Internet Explorer should discontinue use immediately. Use something like VLC player for media and

Mozilla Firefox for browsing.” If your business requires XP for certain proprietary or critical applications you should consult the ITAlive team for additional countermeasures sooner rather than later.

How can ITAlive help?

Our friendly, experienced staff can help you plan your migration to a modern operating system or upgrade your old computer. For businesses we are able to conduct an audit of all existing software and machines to help determine any vulnerabilities, and if you have a problem we can help you solve it. Call one of our consultants on 02 6771 1055 today to talk to us about cost effective ways that we can help protect you from malicious attack.

What else can ITAlive assist with?

The ITAlive team are specialists at integrating technology into business. We can help you boost productivity and efficiency and open up whole new opportunities. We are able to assist with quality IT services including NBN phone systems, web site design and strategic IT planning. Phone us on 02 6771 1055 today!

Quality I.T. services for your business

Website Design and Management Computer & Server Support Computer Services and Support Phone and NBN Services Computing professionals here for you Technology Consulting Software & Hardware • Great team Remote Surveillance • Diverse range of skills Computer Networks • Highly professional Mobile Computing • Based in Armidale Data Protection • Hardware, software, anywhere! Staff Training

Phone for an obligation free quote today on 6771 1055 147 Faulkner St Armidale

www.italive.com.au

new england focus

1312

AROUND THE REGION //NOVEMBERR 2014

1

5 First Saturday chats Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Elizabeth Stahlut, Solicitor, from 10am to 1pm at our offices on Saturday 1 November 2014. As this is a popular program, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

14 new england focus.

The Old School Cafe @ Wongwibinda

23

Looking for somewhere different for your Xmas party? Or just a beautiful drive in the country? The old school conversion has great food, friendly service, a tennis court, kids’ playground and lovely gardens and bush walks. Relax and enjoy!

Armidale Youth Orchestra’s Gala Concert 2014

When Friday, 10am - 10pm; Sat and Sunday 10am - 5pm and for private bookings anytime. Licensed or BYO. Where 3 Old Ebor Rd, Wongwibinda (between Guyra and Ebor 52 km east of Guyra).

Bookings (02) 6775 8588.

When Sunday 23 November at 12pm, Lazenby Hall, UNE. Tickets www.trybooking.com/GBJU More info please phone the NECOM office on 6773 6419.

focusinterview.

bob locke On one occasion we were having d him lunch, and I aske ed ay st d why he ha nt . His with me as a clie ply, m response was si u’.” yo t us ‘B ecause I tr

“

H

ow long have you lived in the area ... and tell us about your family?

I was born in Armidale and have lived in Uralla all my life.

I come from a family of 10 children and attended primary school in Uralla, secondary school in Armidale and completed a Bachelor of Economics degree with a major in Accounting and Financial Management at the University of New England.

I am married to Maureen, who is also a local and interestingly, also comes from a family of 10 children. We have been married for 33 years and have 6 children and 5 grandchildren, all of whom now live in Sydney. We visit there fairly frequently, but always love coming back to the quiet peacefulness of our home in Uralla.

What do you love most about living in the New England?

Maureen and I both grew up in this area, and we always see it as “our home”. We love the quiet, relaxed lifestyle, the friendliness of country people and the summer climate!

When did you first become involved in accounting?

I left school in 1975 and got a job as a trainee accountant at Murray & Allen, Chartered Accountants in Armidale. I enrolled at UNE and completed my degree on a part-time/external basis. I remember well my first week at work decked out in my new green flared trousers and

orange/green floral tie!

Mr Peter Mitchell was my initial “mentor”, and I recall spending the whole week trying to “reconcile” a set of hand written “Kalamazoo” cashbooks.

Peter was very patient, and I eventually started to get it! Murray & Allen was a great place to work, and I am grateful for all the help I received along the way, particularly from the late Mr Des Murray, who taught me a lot about business, integrity and life. I have been a Chartered Accountant for more than 30 years.

How have work practices in your industry changed over the years?

Advances in technology have had a very big impact on the way business is done these days, particularly with the ability to quickly exchange documents and information.

In general terms, I think that business has become far less personal and time can be eaten up with mundane “compliance” type tasks and concerns about legal liability and meeting deadlines. Regrettably, in the hustle and bustle of everyday business life, some of the more important considerations like relationships and trust can be overlooked.

What type of clients do you have in your accountancy business?

We specialise in providing services to the farming and small business sectors, and I have a particular interest in Self Managed Superannua-

PRACTICING LOCAL ACCOUNTANT FOR 40 YEARS, BOB LOCKE TELLS FOCUS READERS HOW ADVANCES IN TECHNOLOGY HAVE HAD A VERY BIG IMPACT ON THE WAY BUSINESS IS DONE TODAY.

tion. We do, however, have a variety of clients. My largest client is a not-for-profit organisation with assets over $200 million, and my smallest is a wage-earner mate I played cricket with many years ago!

What do you think are the most important attributes of your business?

I have a client with extensive rural interests who practiced as a highly respected Barrister and later, a Judge in the NSW Supreme Court. I “inherited” this client many years ago and often wondered why he had not changed to one of the large multi-disciplinary practices in the city. On one occasion we were having lunch, and I asked him why he had stayed with me as a client. His response was simply, “Because I trust you”. So I think being good at what you do is important, but it is more important to be trustworthy. Our business is focused on building trust-based relationships through personalised and professional attention to every client.

Tell us about your team?

My co-director, Andrew Toomey, joined our practice last year. Andrew lives in Uralla, is married to Tara, and they have two young children.

Andrew is a Chartered Accountant with experience in taxation and accounting in both city and country environments. He is looking forward to a having a greater involvement in the growth and development of our business. Chrissie Mackenzie has been with us for more than 10 years. She has

many years of experience in farm and business accounting, taxation, payroll and superannuation. Chrissie is married to Richard, and they have three children. Our newest staff member is Clare Baker, who has extensive experience in taxation accounting for farm and small business operations and recently moved to the district.

Clare’s husband, Dan, manages a large grazing operation situated near Uralla, and they have a young family.

Plans for the future?

We are looking to grow and develop our business in a way that maintains our focus on providing timely and personalised service.

We have an association with the computer software company Practical Systems, and I am currently assisting them with a major project to develop a cloud-based administration and management system for Self Managed Superannuation Funds.

What are your interests outside of work?

Maureen and I are involved with an ecumenical Christian group, and one of our endeavours is to run the annual “Discovery Youth Camp” at Lake Keepit near Tamworth. This is a team effort to organise and run the Camp, as we generally have up to 100 youth attending. The Camp runs over five days, and it’s exhausting but very rewarding to see the change in these young people as they learn about and experience their faith.

Thanks Bob. new england focus

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focus_travel

with Vicki Kembery from Travel 195

Vicki Kembery We have a new puppy, which is really cute and cuddly - and which has absolutely nothing to do with travel ...

A

lthough with some stretching of the imagination and leaving any “travel cred” well and truly packed away, I COULD just about write a column about cute puppies and the really funny things they do - like running into a pole while chasing their tail - and sew it all together under the heading of “travelling with dogs”.

For instance, did you know that most American and European Airlines allow you to take little Rover or Muffy on-board with you when you fly? None of this “putting your loved one in a crate and hoping it’s alive when you arrive at your destination”. No, you can pop the cute pooch or puss into a carry-bag and have him/her sit at your feet at 30,000 feet.

You do need to make a reservation for said pooch/pussy, because most airlines have a maximum number of pets allowed in the cabin at any one time - no doubt to ensure there isn’t a “cat fight” in-flight!

American Airlines only allow 7 pets on any single flight - 2 in First Class [not sure if the pooch has to meet a certain first class standard to travel at the pointy end - like it has to be named Annabelle-Christina the 3rd] and up to 5 pets are allowed in Business and/ or Economy, and your pet and the carrier counts as your carry-on luggage allowance.

The Italian national carrier Alitalia on the other hand, not only allow cats and dogs, you can bring your pet bird along for a flight as well, with a few restrictions - like no parrots or budgies - which is kind of nice to know, because it’s bad enough being cooped up in an airline seat next to a chatty human you’ve never met before who wants to talk to you for the next 4 hours, without having to put up with a chatty parrot!

You will also need a passport for your cat or dog when travelling within the European Union - I wonder if they’re allowed to smile for the camera? And are they fingerprinted or paw printed when they land?

Air Europa is even more flexible, with their list of pets allowed in the aircraft cabin with cats, dogs, small birds, fish, aquarium 16 new england focus.

tortoises, and some rodents (hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits only), all being deemed acceptable flying companions!

I’m not sure how I’d feel sitting next to a bowl full of water with a tortoise swimming around in it on a flight between Rome and Paris - but then again, how would I feel being stared at by a slightly annoyed pussy zipped up in a carrier bag for 4 hours?

See, I TOLD you I could write about pets, puppies and travel all in the one column!

But let’s get a bit sensible and actually “talk travel”. It’s Early Bird season (and no, I’m not talking about the carry-on type that Alitalia allows you to take on-board with you!) Early bird airfares can save you a lot of money when you’re booking flights to the USA or Europe for next year, especially if you’re a family travelling, you could save yourself over $2,000 - which you then have to spend on your actual holiday. Because let’s face it, the actual flight is probably the least attractive thing about going on holiday (unless of course you’re up the pointy end of the aircraft) so why spend more on it than you need to?

All the major carriers have specials out at the moment which are between $400 - $800 cheaper than their normal fares and which could see you flying to the UK or Europe for less than $1,700 in high season! So now is the time to come in and book those airfares for next year’s holiday.

This year, Neal from Travel & Adventure 195 took a walking tour to the UK visiting iconic walking areas such as The Lake District, the Peak District, the Yorkshire Dales and Snowdonia which was very successful and enjoyable, with the walkers enjoying some fabulous late summer weather. In 2015, the tour will be going ahead again in mid-to-late September, finishing just prior to the Rugby World Cup. If you are interested in a bit of walking and/ or Rugby, pop in and see me at Travel 195 especially now while the Early Bird Deals are on sale.

And, also if you want to have a look at some REALLY cute puppy photos!

Happy Travels.

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focusinterview.

W

ho are núcleo núcleo is a creative and digital communication agency specialising in brand communication. We produce print, broadcast, web, design and strategy.

What new exciting things are happening at núcleo • Received our certification as a Google Certified Partner, one of the few outside a capital city.

• We have set up an office in Surry Hills, Sydney in a fantastic creative space.

• Expanded our services to become a fullservice creative and digital communication agency.

• Extended our video capabilities; we are now capable of producing high end video using our new RED digital cinema camera.

What is a Google Partner In the words of Google: “Google Partners are online marketing companies, trusted by Google”.

From our point of view, a Google Partner is an agency that has undergone an accreditation process to verify it has the knowledge and experience to qualify as a Google expert. This

18 new england focus.

gives núcleo recognition as a company you can trust to manage your marketing, so you can focus on running your business.

• We have completed the study and passed the required exams.

• We have proven results with helping customers get the most out of their online spend.

• We get to work directly with Google, with access to further training, events and product updates that keep núcleo ahead of the game.

Why should your business use a Google Partner The majority of online searches (94% in September 2014) are through Google; when you want to be found, your website needs to work well within the Google environment.

An agency that holds Google Partner status will be able to deliver better results. We receive immediate access to new Google developments, which means that we stay ahead of the market and are able to provide timely and accurate advice. We know what works and what it takes to make connections, so the investment a business makes in our advice and service has effective returns.

For example, in November núcleo will be hosting an exclusive Livestream Google event

where Google experts demonstrate how the web can grow your business.

The new Surry Hills space We now have employees based in Sydney in a fantastic creative space in Surry Hills. This new location allows us to be surrounded with like minded businesses and gives us access to a range of skills we can tap into, including video, animation, design and marketing. Basically, a place we can throw around creative ideas and find any of the skills we may require.

Expanding our services Over the past few months núcleo has had a number of firsts. Our first end to end campaign. Our first TVC. Our first digital video syndication. Our first book published. The first company in the New England to qualify as a Google Partner. We have expanded our staff and our skill base to include more marketing, video and general campaign experts.

You would be surprised by how easy it is to establish a strong communication strategy to enhance your business by utilising this range of expertise.

High-end video capabilities Due to the increased demand for video work and the success we have seen with online video advertising, núcleo has invested in a RED digital cinema camera. This allows us to

film in full 4k high definition and allows us to pull any of the images from the video for utilisation as still images. To give you an idea of the quality, The Hobbit was filmed using RED cameras!

How núcleo can help your business Working at the intersection of creativity, technology and audience engagement, our team is talented, passionate and committed to delivering the very best outcomes for each of our valued clients.

We now offer full communication services from website design and development, business cards, social media management and advertising, Google advertising/optimisation through to full campaigns; the team at núcleo can work with you to realise business growth. núcleo can work with you to achieve your business goals • leads • sales • brand recognition • brand awareness • strategy • staff communications • staff training We listen and work with you!

Find out more about núcleo and our upcoming Google events at nucleo.com.au

focuseditorial.

BALLADS

& SONGS W O N G W I B I N D A

22ND NOVEMBER THE WONGWIBINDA PROGRESS ASSOCIATION PROUDLY PRESENTS A NIGHT OF BALLADS AND SONGS FEATURING A CONCERT BY GOLDHEIST.

L

Hester, who

“

attended the ike many rural whilst still retaining hool an important part of communities, Wongwibinda Sc idale, rm local history. Richard and then PLC A Wongwibinda strumental recently was in Cannon and Karyn has had its e Dust in organising th Tour, Martin have opened good times f for Drought Relie $6,000 “The Old School and bad. About 5 er which raised ov Café”, which is quite years ago the local ed ct for drought affe a luxury when you live school closed down farmers.” this far from town. This due to a lack of numbers. is just one example of the Since then, there has been great things happening in our a resurgence of young families little part of the world. to the area. The community hall Many of the locals have also banded has become the local meeting place for together recently to start working on the the playgroup, community meetings, hall. They have completed several projects, barbecues and Rural Bush Fire Brigade, including building new steps and putting in just to name a few. Most rural halls are in a a disabled ramp. It has proved what a small need of a little TLC, and ours is no different. group of people are capable of when they get In order to raise some funds and just have a together with a common goal. good old country party, the Wongwibinda There will be something for everyone at the community invites one and all to a fun family Wongwibinda Ballads and Songs night, but night featuring former local girl, Hester Fraser, most importantly, we guarantee it will be fun, and her band, Goldheist. so come along and enjoy the festivities.

Hester, who attended the Wongwibinda Wongwibinda is located on the Guyra - Ebor School and then PLC Armidale, recently Road. The hall is around 52 km from Guyra, was instrumental in organising the Dust for 65 km from Armidale and 20 km from Ebor.

Drought Relief Tour, which raised over $6,000 for drought affected farmers. She has kindly the plug! agreed to join us for the night as part of her Little Spring Tour.

When: Saturday 22nd November 2014.

The night will consist of a full buffet dinner, Time: 6pm for 6:30pm. entertainment, an auction, raffles and dancing.

Price: $40 for adults, $100 for a family Whilst this evening was planned to raise (based on 2 adults and up to 3 children) money for the hall, more importantly, we are $15 for children under 15 years. conscious of the fact that the drought has had Children under 5 are free. such a huge impact on our communities, both BYO drinks and glasses. on the land and in our towns. We are giving Tickets are available on Trybooking at: you an opportunity to escape the daily routine www.trybooking.com/108793 and come out to the country and see why we For further details please contact: all love it so much.

Tracy Wright on 0429 955 288 We have been lucky in recent months to Jane Fraser on (02) 6778 1233 see the old school gain a new lease of life, new england focus

19

Seasonal vegetable stack drizzled with salsa verde & Char-grilled halloumi with sweet corn salsa with a carafe of Sangria from Coughing Gerkin.

download our eat. dining guide for iPhone & Android www.focusmag.com.au/eat

20 new england focus.

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 Steak, Salad and Chips 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 6772 6262 www.fb.com/prueandolive

Armidale Memorial Ex-Services Club, Dumaresq St 6776 0800

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

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

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

the coughing gherkin

hill street brasserie

I don’t want to be the first to mention it, but it’s no lie; the spirit and aroma of Christmas is in the air! (And soon to fill the Coughing Gherkin!)

NOW OPEN. Uralla Bowling Club.

If you are looking to have a fiesta, with fresh, flavoursome food and beverages, friendly service in a fun, relaxed environment; look no further than The Coughing Gherkin for your Christmas party! We can accommodate for up to 50 people with our large group menus. Let us do the thinking for you with our ever-so-popular “Plates with Mates,” an affordable, filling spread of Mexican, tapas and pizzas - great to share among friends and family.

COMING SOON: our new summer-inspired menu!

Lyn and her team have introduced a menu reflecting simple, fresh flavours that are both satisfying and moreish.

We serve quality, 300 g steaks with fresh seasonal produce, at affordable prices.

Owner & Chef Emma Rekunow.

Offering Blackboard Specials each day.

Roasts available for lunch and dinner, Saturday and Sunday.

Head Chef Lyn.

Families welcome.

Book now for your next special occasion or private functions in a casual, happy atmosphere.

EFTPOS now available in the dining room.

1/117 Beardy St, East Mall, Armidale 6771 4008 www.coughinggherkin.com.au Dine in or Take Away from Taco Tuesday Saturday from 6pm.

52 Hill St, Uralla 6778 4807 Lunch and dinner, Wed to Sunday.

12pm - 2pm. 6pm - 9pm. new england focus

21

QUALITY HOTEL POWERHOUSE

LYN FERGUSON

Celebrate Christmas at The Powerhouse

The Powerhouse. Indulge for one day of the

How exciting, the countdown to Christmas has begun - just nine weeks to go! The Quality Hotel Powerhouse Armidale can help make your festive season even easier with:

year with fresh seafood platters, Christmas

• A range of options for Christmas parties and end of year celebrations • A traditional Australian Christmas Day seafood buffet • Exclusive Christmas gift certificates

Christmas pudding with brandy custard!

If you’re responsible for planning an end of year get together for the office or friends, The Powerhouse has a range of wonderful venues ready for your festive celebration.

You can select from canapés and cocktails to delicious lunch and dinner packages, or we can personalise to suit your budget and needs.

Christmas - a Quality Hotel Powerhouse

Share the magic of Christmas Day with family and friends with a sumptuous buffet lunch at

contact The Powerhouse Events Manager on

favourites such as roast turkey, beef and glazed ham accompanied by delectable salads and vegetables. And don’t forget the traditional The only decision you will have to make for Christmas Day is which lunch menu you would like to enjoy.

Give a desirable and exclusive gift this gift certificate. These gift vouchers make ideal presents and can be used for both accommodation and dining at The Powerhouse.

For further information, visit www.qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au or 6772 7788 or events@qhparm.com.au

LYN FERGUSON HAS RECENTLY TAKEN OVER THE DINING ROOM AT THE URALLA BOWLING CLUB, NOW CALLED THE HILL ST BRASSERIE.

W

here are you originally Describe your menu ... from, and what do you We have introduced a menu reflecting love most about Uralla? simple, fresh flavours that are both satisfying I was born and raised and moreish. in Newcastle. I have been a nurse most We serve quality 300 g steaks with fresh of my life and worked through the seasonal produce, at affordable New England area many years prices. ago. I always loved the We offer blackboard mountains, the fresh air specials each I came back and the friendly people, day. Roasts are to the New s so I decided I would available for lunch England 15 year rtner, always return and buy a and dinner on ago with my pa small farm. I came back and we now call Saturdays and e Uralla home. Th to the New England Sundays. h rural life is muc an 15 years ago with my Where do you th more enjoyable partner, and we now call source your the city life.”

Uralla home. The rural life produce? is much more enjoyable than I source our produce the city life. all around the local area, Uralla is a great little town! You with our meat being supplied can always have a laugh down the main by our great local butcher Dale street with the locals.

Goodwin.

When and why did you decide to What are your trading hours, and do open The Hill St Brasserie at the Uralla you cater for functions?

Bowlo?

We are open for lunch and dinner, Wed to The Uralla Bowling Club were looking for Sunday, 12pm - 2pm and 6pm - 9pm. a change in their restaurant and catering, so Families are most welcome. We cater for here I am. I have found the club and patrons all functions, large or small, and we are to be most welcoming. happy to accommodate to your budget.

QHP0040

HILL ST BRASSERIE

Celebrate in

Celebrate Christmas Day with a luxurious lunch at Quality Hotel Powerhouse, Armidale.

Relax with family and friends while enjoying a traditional Australian Christmas seafood buffet served by our professional and attentive staff.

“

22 new england focus.

style Select from two premium menus with all the trimmings!

Visit our website for further information.

Armidale 6772 7788 events@qhparm.com.au

qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au

QHP0040_Xmas Day Ad_156x125_Focus.indd 1

20/10/2014 3:30 pm

focuseditorial

Icing on the cake with Susie Dunn

Icing ON

cake STRAWS IN THE WIND ...

T

here are many thought-provoking straws in the wind blowing around us at the moment. The big ones can be very big - I’d like to pass on some fragments.

A report of problems in the Spanish economy has led to an optimistic side effect: unable to afford the increasingly expensive national pastime of eating out as a national recreation has apparently led to young Spaniards looking out their grandparents’ recipes and methods.

Now a whole upsurge of “trend-setting” award winning traditional food is bringing acclaim, and very successful businesses are attracting international attention and tourists. Icing on the Cake.

On the other hand, I had a very sobering lunch with a most successful entrepreneur, ex-Riverina, university educated; he’s launching an extensive new enterprise following his earlier successes. The purpose-built factory will produce high-protein “substitute” foods, the “cuts” apparently indistinguishable from chicken, beef, and lamb, he assures me. Some will be purely vegetarian, some with a meat “base”. Oh dear - that IS thought-provoking and 21st Century. It could be a ground-breaking export industry to those countries in need of high-protein food. (By the way, we ate duck confit at lunch - all duck.)

The SMH reported another “straw” - “half the world’s animals lost in the past 40 years,” it said. “Populations of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish have fallen on average by 52% since 1970”. (WWF).

The realities of living in a global world are instantly with us 24 hours a day. A contact at the World Retail Congress Paris 2014 emailed me snippets as it progressed. Opened by French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius, the research was apparently carried out by Monash here in Oz. Topics were e-commerce, big data and luxury. The world is at our door.

The new UNE Tablelands Clinical School is officially open. With “state of the art training facilities” for UNE’s Rural Medicine and allied health students, it has “one of the most advanced telehealth capabilities in the nation”.

A great tribute to retiring UNE Professor Adrian Kiernander featured a day predicated

on Shakespeare, with John Bell talking on “Shakespeare & Me” contributions from Professors from many universities and the launch of Adrian’s book, John Bell, Shakespeare & the Quest for a New Australian Theatre. All this reminded me that we missed out seeing the Bell Shakespeare Company here a few years ago because of the lack of an available theatre.

Our good wishes go with Adrian for the future.

When finished, the new Integrated Agricultural Complex will yet again expand the education of UNE graduates entering what is shaping up as a very different, high-tech career with multiple job prospects. As well-positioned in “one of the 2 main biodiversity hot spots”according to Professor Iain Young, UNE is known “locally, nationally and globally“ as being on the frontline of agricultural research, refining and exponentially expanding on its past successes. This is a vital national contribution to optimising our complex commercial future.

In the search to attain both a productive and sustainable world, customer-focused agriculture is big news, and UNE is apparently bucking the trend in attracting students. Hurray!

Congratulations ABC - mental health at last is getting some attention it deserves - surely it’s more important than physical health if we had to choose?

Spring has been making its magic before telegraphing the full-on heat of summer (just wait!): fresh green shoots, engagements, weddings, young animals - reminders of the world’s possibilities. (Although a friend in the paintshop did say he was preparing to paint the paddocks green.)

And have you noticed that the Central Mall is starting to “zing” again? If only we had the sort of all-weather outdoor structures for cafés that Parramatta has - Australians are showing a tendency to follow the Spaniards in eating out as a national pastime. We just need the right facilities to create the atmospherics here and we can join the trend for a fresh start for town “squares” and people-gathering spaces. And Amazon is opening its first face-to-face store (in Manhattan) - there’s a reverse trend! And is that rain on the roof … ?

Susie Dunn.

FABRIC FAIR Tell us about your new store ...

Fabric fair has been operating in Armidale for over 30 years, and in that time there have been many changes. This new space is purpose designed to cater for what we do now. It is great to work in and wonderful to have the teaching, designing and the fabric section all under one roof. We have always stocked quality fabrics, and this will not change. We are conveniently located next door to Jessie St Dry Cleaners.

Camp Sew & So is coming up soon; tell us more?

January 2015 will be our 4th camp at NEGS. We have courses to suit all ages, from 9 to 90 years old. The camp grows every year,

with enrolments from right across the New England and beyond as we offer on campus accommodation. A true sewing retreat … a whole week of sewing heaven.

2015 is shaping up to be a huge year for Fabric Fair; what can we expect?

We have an exciting event for Armidale in April next year. We are hosting an international tutor, non other than the world renowned Clair Shaeffer from the USA - a haute couture teacher. We have enrolments from across Eastern Australia. This will really put Armidale on the sewing map! These April workshops were booked out seven months ahead. This is a programme that we will repeat with other international tutors.

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23

focuseditorial.

a

t r u e

COMM UNITY EVENT

T

he Rotary Club of Armidale Central has been running the Rotary Book Fair for 16 years, and in that time it has become a much anticipated event on the Armidale calendar. It really is much more than just a fundraiser. The Armidale community embrace it with a passion. The community donates the books and then supports the week long sale. The opening day is akin to a Boxing Day sale, with two hundred eager customers waiting for the doors to open.

It is wonderful to see the racecourse site teeming with vervent readers and collectors looking to pick up a bargain. Within a month or so of the fair, books are being re-donated.

The Ascent Group in Armidale benefits from books which are not saleable. They are able to recycle the paper, thus earning an income and providing employment for their many clients.

In recent years school students and members of the community have

volunteered to assist the Rotary club with the set up and running of the fair. Local radio, newspaper and TV outlets have shown true community spirit and have been generous in their support of the fair.

Proceeds from the fair over 16 years would total in excess of $400,000 and have benefited the Armidale, Australian and international communities.

Armidale can be proud of this annual event, which supports so many community projects.

ISLAND

A DIGITAL DETOX IN MOTHER NATURE’S THEME PARK, QUEENSLAND: World Heritage-listed Fraser Island is a rare and beautiful holiday destination offering a heady mix of nature-based outdoor activities and adventures for all ages.

Located just 50 minutes from Hervey Bay and the mainland, it takes just seconds to slip into island living. Lazy days can be spent four-wheel-driving and exploring at your own pace in the national park or by guided tour from Kingfisher Bay Resort. Similarly, the calm waters of the Great Sandy Strait are safe for older children to canoe, 24 new england focus.

swim and play and the resort’s jetty provides great fishing, with the added option to have chefs cook up your catch.

Rangers lead nature walks and ecotalks within the grounds, guide canoe paddles to mangrove colonies and explore the inter-tidal zone by ecofriendly Segway transporters. And nights can be spent spoiling yourself with the creature comforts available at the resort, where baby-sitting services are available on request.

There is no shortage of good old

fashioned fun in the sun to be had on Fraser - whether your idea of a memorable break is watching lizards sun themselves, beach combing, fourwheel-driving, bubbling the day away in a spa, water sports, bush walking, sampling native bush tucker or just soaking in the sun.

For information on hot hotel and villa accommodation deals for the whole family, call Kingfisher Bay Resort on 1800 072 555, email reservations@kingfisherbay.com or visit kingfisherbay.com.

focuseditorial.

COLOURING COMP Armidale Town & Country recently held a colouring in competition with two age groups from 4-8 and 9-12 years.

T

he staff at Armidale Town & Country are personally involved in the majority of primary schools in Armidale, and we have noticed how hard the P & C work to raise funds for ongoing equipment and other projects to help in the day to day running of their schools. We wanted to give something back to these schools and also wanted to make the competition exciting for the kids too. “There were hundreds of entries, so choosing the winner was very difficult," said Jeremy.

The prizes on offer were a $100

gift voucher to Armidale Toys for the winning entry and $500 to the School’s P & C. The winner of the 9 - 12 years competition was Niki Ardalie from Ben Venue Public School, with a very creative entry.

The winner of the 4 - 8 age division was Ella Tremayne from Armidale City Public School.

Armidale Town & Country would like to thank all the schools, the children and parents who helped with entering the competition and hopes that the $500 to both P & Cs of the winning schools helps with their latest projects and/or needs.

PS ACCOUNTING

Business Matters.

“I made a profit? Where did it go?”

It is probably the most common question posed by business owners to their accountant, and it can sometimes be said with much bewilderment. It can be hard to understand just where those profits have gone when there is no suntan or holiday photos to show for it.

The answer lies in the numbers. You might have reduced some debt or bought new machinery. Perhaps you improved your outstanding accounts payable, or you’re waiting to get paid for a big job or sale. The answer is there, but do you know where to look?

Regardless of the size of your business, good internal systems and processes can save you time and actually make you money. They not only keep the tax man on side, good records allow accurate analysis of past results and can facilitate informed decision making for the future (that’s the moneymaking bit).

Many of us have to lodge a Business Activity Statement at least quarterly, so why should the Tax Office be the only one to benefit. Make the most from the compliance burden. Use the opportunity to understand your business performance, with the help of your accountant, of course!

Andrew Toomey, Director.

MUNIFICENCE

When Howard Hinton donated Adrian Stokes’ The Lock Gates to the fledgling Armidale Teachers’ College in 1929, he didn’t realise what he was starting.

A

lmost 20 years and over a thousand works of art later, he had created a magnificent collection of Late Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Century Australian art, along with several anomalous aberrations (the reproduction of a portrait of Lord Nelson, for instance). After the assimilation of the Teachers’ College by UNE, the New England Regional Art Museum was established in part to house this collection.

Now NERAM has published a catalogue of the Howard Hinton Collection, Munificence, which includes over a hundred colour reproductions, essays by Caroline Downer and Barry Pearce and a complete listing of the collection. The catalogue will be launched on 14 November in conjunction with the opening of an exhibition that includes some of the gems of the collection by artists such as Tom Roberts, Arthur

Streeton, Lionel and Norman Lindsay, Hans and Nora Heysen, Elioth Gruner, Adrian Feint, and Margaret Preston.

Armidale is truly fortunate to have this wonderful cultural resource and an Art Museum that displays it in changing configurations that allow the artworks to enter into different dialogues with each other. Seeing two or more paintings juxtaposed can provide different insights and perspectives, and a good museum like NERAM ensures that there is always something new to discover.

Five other exhibitions open on 14 November. Print and Process II exhibits prints from all the NERAM collections.

Vince Vozzo has an exhibition of sculptures, paintings, drawings and and fantastic papier mache artwork. Striking Contrasts is a screen based exhibition featuring ten contemporary Australian

video artists. Michelle Hungerford and Gabrielle Collins delve into the possibilities of landscape painting and Lin Quaife and Vicki Taylor explore the concept of lace in delicate paper works and large-scale wire sculptures.

Landscape: Adrian STOKES, The Lock Gates, n.d., oil on canvas, Gift of Howard Hinton, 1929.

Portrait: Norman CARTER, Portrait of Howard Hinton Esq, OBE, 1936, oil on canvas, Gift of the Students of the 1935-36 Session, 1937

the plug!

NERAM Opening Hours: Tue - Sun, 10am - 4pm.

Exhibitions and Launch of Catalogue on Friday 14 November at 6pm. All welcome.

For more information: www.neram.com.au

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focusinterview.

THE FESTIVAL OF the BRAVE The Festival of the Brave brings the whole community together for a day of music, dance, art, food and celebration on SATURDAY 13th DECEMBER 2014 at the ARMIDALE SHOWGROUNDS. The inaugural community-led event showcases the amazing talents of local young people and unearths many of the “hidden” artists in our community. It inspires us all to be BRAVE! The program includes: • VISUAL ARTISTS’ MARKET: artists and craftspeople will display (and sell!) their work.

• CULTURAL FOOD STALLS: local people will provide an opportunity for us all to eat well!

• PROJECTIONS: Festival of the Brave action will be projected onto pavilion walls.

• INTERACTIVE PERFORMANCES: language, movement and storytelling.

• SPOKEN WORD PERFORMANCES: poetry, storytelling, rap and hip hop.

26 new england focus.

• DANCE! Hip hop, contemporary and traditional dance performances by local young people … and maybe some spontaneous dance moves from the crowd!

ANTHONY

GREEN

• SONG! On the main stage there will be a fantastic program of original songs and music by young singers and musicians, as well as wellknown professional artists including Radical Son, Anthony Green, Leetona Pitt and Terra Firma.

•THE FESTIVAL OF THE BRAVE•

• AND MORE! The Festival of the Brave is part of the Beyond Empathy project ACCESS ALL AREAS - opening doors to community for young people in Armidale. Access all Areas has received NSW government funding through the Office of Communities. The Festival of the Brave is made possible by the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund, which supports sustainable cultural development in regional, rural and remote Australia to give artists and communities better access to opportunities to practice and experience the arts and by The Australia Council for the Arts.

WE CATCH UP WITH ANTHONY GREEN, MUSIC DIRECTOR FOR THE FESTIVAL OF THE BRAVE TO FIND OUT WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING WITH BEYOND EMPATHY AND ALSO HOW THE ARTS CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY.

T

ell us about Festival of the Brave?

The Festival of the Brave is a community cultural event that promises to be big! There will be performance, music, dance, art and great food.

The idea behind the Festival of the Brave is that it is about people getting up and being brave. It is for the whole community to share and enjoy.

The Festival will build on the success of 2012’s Silver City Songlines and Rainbow Ridge Songlines from 2013 - Beyond Empathy (BE) projects that brought artists and young people together to create new music, dance and performance work that were enjoyed by large audiences. Those events were fantastic and gave us all an opportunity to see what some of the really talented local young people in our community can do.

The Festival of the Brave will do this again and more. Artists and young people will work together to create new work that will be showcased at the Festival. To add to this, Armidale Dumaresq Council is coordinating a visual artists’ market that will give many of the “hidden” artists in our community a chance to show their creativity - and possibly take it further.

The Festival of the Brave brings it all together with cultural food and children’s activities.

How does Beyond Empathy work with the community?

BE uses art to influence change. The community arts and cultural development organisation creates arts projects that aim to give some of the more disadvantaged people in our community opportunities to participate in and create art - and develop skills that we all need like confidence, reliance, self-worth and self-knowledge. BE aims to generate new connections and opportunities that over-ride disadvantage.

Projects like the Festival of the Brave bring artists, young people and the community together in a positive and creative environment - and we all get to see just what amazing talent is right here!

How often does Beyond Empathy hold events?

BE coordinates workshops and events throughout the year, but this is the first Festival of the Brave!

It builds on other BE projects for Aboriginal culture and youth including No Shame Day, Access All Areas and The Maven Project. In each of these projects, the creative process places young people at the centre of the story telling process - letting them see that they can be agents for change in their own lives and in the community.

Is the Festival of the Brave a one-off event?

No. The Festival of the Brave will be an annual event that promises to grow and evolve to become a highlight on the community calendar.

Anthony, many of us know you as a singer, songwriter and musician - in particular as an important part of the incredibly popular local band Terra Firma. What is your role with the Festival of the Brave?

I am the Music Director for the Festival of the Brave. This gives me the amazing opportunity to work with professional artists like Radical Son and Michael Leslie, talented local artists including Leetona Pitt and a huge cast of truly inspiring young people!

In the lead-up, the event gives me a chance to develop and record new music with the artists and young people and with professional and emerging technicians and producers. Then I get to see it all come together at the Festival performance.

I am really excited to be working with BE on this project - the first Festival of the Brave.

dclutterbug

G e e k Petersons Armidale

Semsational (adj.) Used to describe an absolute cracking Semillon! This is my word of the month thanks to Petersons 2010 Semillon from the local Armidale Vineyard.

I

came across this wine when bringing together the October Once Upon A Wine we held at Café Affamato. We paired this wine with a King Prawn dish and based By the time you on experience, it was a read this, the New ow perfect match! What England Wine Sh , and en be more could you want would have l the and Blues Experience”, al ow for summer! kn I’ll let you ’s th a 10 piece local band. on m xt The Semillon shows results in ne For $25 per person, off plenty of citrus, write-up.” you’ll get your ticket probably more than your and a couple of snacks local fruit shop. That’s a included, and you can BYO good thing though … Lovely food and chair. This’ll be on 22nd and fresh aromas get you excited November 2014 starting from 5pm. right from the start, and throw in some After another successful Once Upon A varietal renowned grassy goodness and Wine featuring Petersons Wines, we’re off to you’ve got one fresh wine. The wine has Brisbane and taking New England Wine to the good length and zingy acidity with lemon and city! We’ll be holding the next Once Upon A lime characters, meaning it is an ideal summer Wine in January in Armidale, so keep an eye out afternoon wine. online for the date of this. If you haven’t been Kudos to Petersons for this well made white to one of these events yet, my whole concept is - a great wine that is priced reasonably at $22/ to bring together good friends, delicious food bottle. Available from selected bottle stores and guzzable wine in one place and ensure throughout Armidale and at Petersons Cellar everyone has fun! We solely feature local Door on Dangarsleigh Road. Be sure to get out wineries each event and with owner and head and see Mark, Samantha and the team and tell chef Ben Maling from Café Affamato devising them the Vino Geek sent you! the menu, how could you go wrong!

Plenty more happening in and around the About the Vino Geek: Sam Watson, the Vino New England on the wine front. By the time you Geek, is a local wino, focused on making good read this, the New England Wine Show would wine more accessible and fun! Check out his have been, and I’ll let you know all the results website (www.thevinogeek.com.au), like him in next month’s write-up. Entries for the show on Facebook (Facebook.com/TheVinoGeek), have been promising, and it’s a great time to see and follow him on twitter & instagram (@ what is happening in the region.

TheVinoGeek) to keep up to date with reviews, Jazz in the Vines is on at Wright Robertson news and special offers! in Glencoe, featuring “the Al Heeney Rhythm

Alice and Justine are local consultants who have opened dclutterbug, which addresses the growing need for professional organising services for those who are moving, downsizing, renovating or for those revitalising or decluttering a home, business or home office.

Services include reorganising, reselling, recycling and the removal of the clutter involved in moving house, downsizing, dealing with deceased estates and office regeneration. A free confidential consultation and quote is available for the following services. No job is too small!

• Decluttering rooms, pantries, offices and garages.

• Dealing with deceased estates • Downsizing • Removal management • Office regeneration

• Electronic filing • Record and photograph scanning • Record and resource management for local and community organisations • Document shredding • Recycling organisation • Advice on selling and disposal of items • Assistance with the reselling of items • Packaging and disposal of unwanted items • Garage sale organisation Check out the services and policies on www.dclutterbug.com.au For more information or a free consultation and quote, call 0488 454 344 or email us at info@dclutterbug.com.au dclutterbug New England is based in Armidale and services homes and offices in the New England region including: Armidale, Guyra, Uralla, Walcha, Inverell, Glen Innes and Tamworth.

“

new england focus

27

focusinterview.

Clockwise from top right: Robyn Jackson 1, 2, 4 Steph Clark 3, 5

Gallery 126.

GALLERY 126 EXHIBITIONS

ANOTHER YEAR IS ALMOST AT AN END. ROBYN JACKSON’S EXHIBITION, A WANDERING LINE, WILL CONTINUE UNTIL SATURDAY 15TH NOVEMBER. obyn is a versatile artist, being able to turn her hand to landscapes as well as figurative works. She has included both in this exhibition.

Her smaller figurative pieces show the softness and delicateness of the ageing face by using mixed media to strengthen the lines of the drawings; whereas, the large acrylics on canvas show a greater strength with their heavy and layered application of paint. All show a sense of vulnerability.

Robyn's figurative subjects are not traditional portraits of particular people, but they provide an image onto which the viewer can see and interpret what they will. It is exactly this response which

28 new england focus.

years, and it is with Robyn encourages There is an open invitation to ALL with her work. Her great anticipation preciators landscapes capture and excitement artists and art ap the the colours and that we await to come along to Friday opening at 5pm on ruggedness of the the results of her r ...” be em ov N st 21 New England area. returning to the To finish off the medium of painting. year we will have A newcomer to a group show - a Gallery 126 and to celebration of local artists art is Steph Clark. For will open at Gallery 126 on many years Steph enjoyed Friday 21st November. working with textiles, expressing There will be new works by many of her love of colour by creating quilts the Gallery 126 artists, plus a few more and other beautiful items treasured by surprises. We welcome back Elouise family and friends. In 2011 she wanted to Roberts to Gallery126. Elouise has been try something new when she purchased studying and working in the textile design watercolours and began to have a go. She industry in Melbourne for the last few stumbled on the medium of pastels almost

“

by accident.

It was love at first sight, with Steph finding this to be her preferred medium.

She has participated in many 30 day challenges, where a painting/pastel work has to be completed each consecutive day.

It is this practice and dedication that has honed her skills with pastels; although, a thirty day challenge to paint a tree a day failed to alter her distaste for painting trees. We look forward to seeing what this talented artist has in store.

There is an open invitation to ALL artists and art appreciators to come along to the opening at 5pm on Friday 21st November and to celebrate another year of creativity in Armidale. All works will be for sale and would make wonderful Christmas presents!

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29

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

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

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

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

30 new england focus.

have available BLACK TABLECLOTHS, many different colours in sashes for the chairs, napkins; if we don’t have your colour, we can source it for you. Also, have you been thinking of how to decorate your christmas table? We have beautiful linen tablecloths and napkins to hire or purchase.

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

Full laundry service for sheets, pillowslips, towels, bath mats, hand towels, face cloths, or if preferred, the laundering of your own linen.

Private customers are also welcome, for the laundering of curtains, blankets or doonas.

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

House with No steps Michael has just started a volunteer job at

says, “It is a pleasure to be able to offer an

Armidale Recycling Services. He is really

opportunity to Michael and to work with

excited to spend time learning about

House with No Steps.”

everything to with recycling and meeting

Michael has a diverse work history, including

the people that come in to the recycling

having built dog houses and other outdoor

service centre.

furniture in his hometown of Tamworth.

Michael says, ”My favourite thing about my job

We are looking for more local business with

is recycling. I think recycling is very important

a strong community ethos to support more

and like to help. I have special safety clothes I

people like Michael to reach their goals.

wear to my job, and the people are very nice.”

If you have a local business and would like to

Mark Low, Director and owner of Armidale

share the experience of supporting a person

Recycling Services, which is located at the

with disability to reach their goals, please

Waste Transfer Station on Long swamp Road

contact Hannah on 0478 486 048.

SNEAK PEEK OAK TREE RETIREMENT VILLAGE Armidale’s newest retirement village, Oak Tree Village Armidale at 89 Martin Street, has announced they will host an exclusive RSVP only Sneak Peek Morning Tea on 19th November.

W

ith Stage One nearing completion, Oak Tree is opening the village for inspection for the first time.

This is an exclusive opportunity for a Sneak Peek of a display villa, and viewing times must be reserved prior to arrival.

Interested parties will be able to see and feel the quality of the development, and learn more about making the transition to a carefree Oak Tree Village lifestyle. Guests will be personally

s Interested partie will be able to quality an see d feel the ent, pm of the develo out ab e or m and learn n to a tio si an tr e th g makin age ill V ee carefree Oak Tr lifestyle .”

“

escorted on a villa tour

by Oak Tree Director Mark Bindon and Regional Manager Melissa Luck.

RSVP is by 12th November on 1300 367 155 and essential, as numbers are strictly limited and scheduled tour times by appointment only. This opportunity is sure to book out,

SNEAK PEEK

so be quick to secure your

social activities and private events, library and

tour.

computer area, bowling green and in-ground

When completed, Oak Tree Village Armidale will consist of 86 two and three bedroom homes with single or multiple bathrooms,

pool, all of which Oak Tree residents will be able to use as an extension of their homes to entertain visiting family and friends.

Whether you are interested for yourself or a loved one, join the team as they proudly

open plan dining and kitchen,

showcase what this lovely village has to offer.

and undercover carport. There will

For further information about Oak Tree and

be a range of communal recreational facilities including a community centre for

other village locations, visit www.oaktreegroup.com.au.

OAK TREE RETIREMENT VILLAGE ARMIDALE

Wednesday 19th November 10:30am– 2:30pm 89 MARTIN STREET, ARMIDALE Join us for morning tea Inspect our recently completed display villa and view details of Armidale’s newest Retirement Village

Display villa is built & ready to view

Scheduled viewing sessions available with limited numbers per group.

Call Kellie to reserve your preferred session on 1300 367 155

RSVP by 12th November for catering and tour bookings

1300 367 155

www.oaktreearmidale.com.au new england focus

31

ELDERS INSURANCE Don’t put your livelihood at risk by being underinsured.

Underinsurance is a problem that is more common in Australia than many people first realise. As the name suggests, it occurs when you take out insufficient insurance cover.

This term can apply to a range of insurance situations, so whether you’re taking out theft, glass, property, liability or business interruption insurance cover, it’s essential to make sure you have adequate sums insured to cover any potential loss.

Having your insurance cover professionally assessed is a service Elders Insurance New England offers which could save you considerable heartache and financial loss down the track.

You don’t want to be in a situation where you need to make a claim and the sum insured you have on your policy is not sufficient to cover the cost of the loss.

Every business is different, so we have the ability to tailor a policy to best suit the requirements of that specific business.

You only want to pay for the cover you need, after all, and a professional, thorough assessment can ensure that happens.

If you’re not 100% certain that your Business Insurance is adequate, we invite you to contact us so we can make a full assessment of your needs, what you have in place now and determine whether any changes are required.

You can call into the Elders Insurance New England office on Bundarra Road, Armidale, or call 6775 4577 to make an appointment.

32 new england focus.

SPORTS INJURIES Pathfinders Tilbuster station The importance of preparing and cooking healthy meals was showcased at Pathfinders property Tilbuster Station.

Lunch was prepared by 2nd year nutrition students from the University of Newcastle (UON) who are currently on work placement, for young people and staff from the Pathways program. The students prepared the food and cooked in the open air in camp ovens. Just some of the nutritious dishes on offer included rice, marinated chicken legs, steamed vegetables such as pumpkin and potato, as well as damper.

The students engaged with the young people on the importance of nutrition for overall health and growth.

This is not the first time Pathfinders has worked with nutrition students from UON. Earlier in the year students on work placement collaborated with the young people at Tilbuster Station by using the vegetables they grew at the farm, showing them how to prepare and cook healthy meals, then in conjunction with the young people developed a healthy living cookbook, with favourite meals enjoyed by all the boys.

It’s partnerships like these that help Pathfinders build on the skills they are giving to those living in Out of Home Care to develop each individual and assist them to live rewarding and productive lives.

Now is the time to address those persistent sports injuries that you have been putting up with through the season.

Often at the end of the season, we feel that rest will “cure” our injury. Then we return to our sport the following season, and the injury reappears.

Scientific research has shown that healing has three stages. The 3rd stage is the remodelling stage; this stage lasts from 3 weeks to 12 months after an injury.

During this stage the collagen put down as scar tissue is modified to increase its functional capacity. Exercise therapy is essential during this phrase to “remold” this collagen into stronger and more flexible fibres. Rest alone leads to weakness and makes you more prone to re-injury.

At Armidale Physio, we believe “now” is the time to work on those injuries while in the remodelling phase, doing this while you have the luxury of time and no pressure to get back on the field. Lucinda and Skye are keen for you to start next season “injury free” and ready to go with confidence.

For a fresh approach to those nagging or persistent problems – see Lucinda or Skye at Armidale Physio.

Phil Emmanuel is known as Australia’s Greatest electric guitar player and has a resume of amazing performances with musical legends that any musical enthusiast would envy. Catch Phil at the “BOWLO” November 28.

PHIL E M M A N U E L

N O V E M B E R 2 8 AT T H E B O W L O

2

000 saw him performing to a musicians he has performed alongside worldwide audience of 4.5 billion at James Morrison, Don Burrows Ed Wilson, the the Closing Ceremony of the Sydney Royal Military College Band, Slim Dusty, Lee Olympics with brother Tommy, INXS, Kernaghan, Dolly Parton, Jimmy Barnes, Roy VANESSA AMOROSI, SAVAGE GARDEN Buchanan, Don Walker, John Farnham & MIDNIGHT OIL, but it was the and Ian Moss. Phil is held in very beginning of the “forgothigh esteem by all of Austraten” son’s return to the lia’s music artists for his limelight and recognition amazing ability.

To ask Phil who that he so undeniably Phil and his band his personal deserves. play a wide range of mers favourite perfor To ask Phil who his guitar oriented music, graced are that he has s personal favourite ranging from their ad the stage with , re the of performers are that he own interpretation like a who’s who .” has graced the stage of Chariots Of Fire to music industry with, reads like a who’s Santana’s Black Magic who of the music indusWoman plus a bit of try. The list is endless, which country, rock, classical to matches the talents of an artist ballads. Their target audience who has been thrilling audiences age is 18 to 80, so there is someworldwide since his teenage years. Phil’s thing for all ages, plus a lot of pieces personal favourites - sharing the same most bands anywhere in the world would stage as legendary guitarists John Jornot even attempt. gensen (Elton John, The Hellecasters), Will Ray the plug!

(The Hellecasters), Bonnie Raitt, Duanne Eddy, 28th of November - doors open at 7pm James Burton (Elvis Presley), Carlos Santana, Bowlo Auditorium “America”, The Ventures and Eric Clapton at Through Club reception - $20.00 NAMM in the United States in July 2000.

(02) 67725666 His versatility is well known and acknowlevents@armidalebowl.com.au edged - obvious from the shows, and the

“

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33

Johnson & Kennedy

Johnson & Kennedy has been operating since the 1950s; the business started with one truck and gradually built up to a few vehicles working out of our Niagara St site.

In 2002 we moved the freight business over to 295 Mann St and now have 28 vehicles and 24 employees. We pick up and deliver in our local areas of Armidale, Uralla, Walcha, Guyra, Glen Innes and Inverell. If you need to send something large or small within these areas, we are the right people for the job at the right price. If you need to send something to anywhere in Australia, we can organise it

from our Mann St depot with tracking up until it is delivered at the other end. Don’t forget our Niagara St Retail shop, where we have a big range of safety work wear, work boots and welding goods.

120 Niagara St Armidale NSW (02) 6772 3685 291-295 Mann St Armidale NSW (02) 6771 4070

Participating Businesses Abtrak Adventure/Travel 195 Allingham Removals Altitude Coffee Roastery AOK Signs Armidale Bicycle Centre Armidale Bowling Club Armidale City Signs Armidale Communications Armidale Ex Services Memorial Club Ltd Armidale Golf Club Armidale Laundry Services Armidale Mower & Chainsaw Centre Armidale Pet Shop Armidale Pumps & Irrigation Armidale Town & Country Real Estate Armidale Toys Armidale West Post Office Armidale Wholesale Fruit Market Armitage & Chadd Austbrokers NTIB Barbeques Galore

34 new england focus.

Roberts Air Conditioning

Barniers Office Furniture Best Employment Black Dot Music Bones Tyres Brennan and Smith C2C Event Hire Carr's NewsXpress Armidale Cedar Nursery Chris Cole Dentist Cliff Wright Motors Computer Support Team Concepts of Armidale Daily Ritual Digital Colour Ducats Earthmoving Pty Ltd Easy As Coffee Elders Insurance New England Face 2 Face Beauty Salon Fast Track Cleaning & Packaging Supplies Food For Thought Forty Winks Armidale

Roberts Air Conditioning & Refrigeration is locally owned and operated, established in the New England since July 2010.

Our business consists of three employees.

We have my wife, Kerrie, who takes care of the admin work, Jacob, who is a fully qualified technician and a valuable asset to our business with great customer service, work ethics, reliability and quality workmanship. Then, myself, with over 21 years’ experience in this trade; for 12 years of that time I have been self employed.

I thrive on quality workmanship, being on time and reliable good old fashioned

Funk Hair.Body Graham Betts Motors Grant McCarroll Ford, Kia & Isuzu Ute Grazag Gym Ridz PT & CrossFit Armidale Hannas Department Store Hardman Automotive Helloworld Travel Hubbard Hire Hunts Carpets & Blinds Hutchinson and Harlow Real Estate I.T.Alive Independent Sports Armidale Jackson Quality Meats James McDonald Insurance Agent Pty Lty Joblink Plus Johnson and Kennedy K.Hickey Norco Milk Killen's Smash Repairs KL Robinson & Sons Legal Minds

service - “Customer Satisfaction is our speciality”.

We specialise in all areas of commercial and domestic air conditioning and refrigeration, which includes maintenance, repairs, cool-rooms, freezers, split systems, ducted air conditioning and ducted gas heating.

Next time you need advice or a quality job done, whether an air Cconditioner, cool-room or freezer, please give us a call on: 0459 336 767.

Lockman Doors & Glass Monk's Health Emporium Moxon's Bakery Mt View Pharmacy MyCar Sound & Communications New England Autos New England Solar Power Northern Inland Chiropractic Nucleo Office Express Professionals Real Estate Armidale Railway Hotel Ray White Armidale Reader's Companion Renee Maree Richardson & Wrench Richardsons Home Timber & Hardware Ridley Mini Skips Rob Brown's Denture Clinic Roberts & Morrow Roberts Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Smith Sharpe & Abbott Sports Power Armidale Super Moto - New England The Ascent Group Acacia Park Enterprises The Big Lightbulb The Cool Spot Armidale The Electric Company Armidale Things with a Difference V.I.P. Lawns and Gardens Wards Auto Supplies Westend Sound Westside Espresso White Bull Hotel Whitehack

Celebrate Christmas in the Mall Saturday 13 December - 10am to 2pm Activities include: Armidale Talent Showcase Locals4Locals Christmas “Shop & Win” Draw Santa & his elves giving away over 200 presents!

Activities for the kids from 10am Food stalls

Save the date – Put it in your diary!

An action packed day of FREE activities for the kids and of course Santa will have a present for everyone small.

Come & celebrate Christmas in the Mall 2014!

With an increase in members from 50 to 100, this year’s shop & win promo is sure to be special.

Keep an eye out in your favourite Locals 4 Locals shop to enter & have a chance to win some fabulous prizes.

The winners will be announced on Saturday 13th December at the Christmas in the Mall.

support a local when you shop for your chance to

WIN

MEN’s HEALTH AND WELLBEING

HM FITNESS Since launching her personal training business, HM Fitness, in early 2012, Holly has worked with a diverse range of clients in Armidale, challenging them to go beyond their comforts in training and to realise their true fitness potential.

Her passion for promoting healthy living and finding a balanced work/exercise regime, has encouraged her clients to take charge of their health and focus on a more holistic approach to exercise that steers away from the commercial hype of “fad” fitness. Instead, what she aims towards is setting realistic and attainable goals that have a long and lasting impact.

The key to her success with clients has always been knowing how each individual ticks! The promise of a “one size fits all” solution that

36 new england focus.

THE ROTARY CLUB OF ARMIDALE central addresses everyone’s body concerns is fast becoming obsolete, and a new movement toward personalised fitness plans is emerging.

Utilising her training in the areas of boxing, aquatic, pre and post natal, weight loss and strength conditioning, and combining it with on going research into effective and safe training methods, Holly gives her clients the very best in what personal training has to offer. Having worked in the fitness industry in Armidale for some time, she feels that the most important thing is respecting the reasons why people train and offering continued support through every step of their fitness journey.

The Rotary Club of Armidale Central is very active in the local community, as well as maintaining a high national and international profile. The most significant event in recent months has been the building and now use of a new book shed in Dumaresq Street near the intersection of Canambe Street on part of the site of the Armidale Racecourse.

Books deposited are sorted on site and sold at the annual Rotary Book Fair, also at the racecourse, in May each year. The Book Fair is a major annual event in the Armidale community and the major source of funds for the many community projects supported by Armidale Central Rotary.

HM Fitness offers group and personal training packages catering for all levels of fitness. For further information, call Holly on 0425 276 336, or email at hm.fitness@y7mail.com.

Armidale Central Rotary President, David Gee, outlined some of the new programs to be undertaken by the club. These include the formation of an Interact Club (a Rotary style

club for schools) at one or more of the local high schools. He also indicated that he would like to see Rotary extend its support for young people to the arts. “There has been good support for science, engineering and agriculture ‘til now, but the arts are a new opportunity,” Mr Gee said.

Significant support continues to be provided for a variety of local and national organisations.

Armidale Central’s Rotary overseas projects have included strong initial and ongoing support. If you are searching for the opportunity to make a difference in the local community or at a national or international level and enjoy great fellowship and friendship at the same time, membership of the Rotary Club of Armidale Central may be for you. If interested, contact the President, David Gee or Secretary Ian Garske. Contact details are shown below.

Healthy sleep = a happy home!

Dads: how peaceful is your home in the middle of the night? Is everyone sleeping soundly or is it a time of disruption, turmoil and activity? Are members of the family clenching, grinding, snoring or getting out of bed multiple times through the night?

S

ome of these issues can be related to our breathing while we sleep.

In the past, people have called this sleep apnoea, but now it is more commonly referred to as Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB), recognising that there are often many factors related to the problem. Today there is an increased awareness of the importance of sleep to health and wellbeing.

The consequences of poor or inadequate sleep can be serious: in the young they are largely neurological with behavioural effects such as hyperactivity or aggression; in the adult it is more likely to be the cardiovascular system that suffers.

Sleep can often be improved by what is termed sleep hygiene. This is a series of practical measures we can all take to make certain our home is conducive to sleep and that our habits around bedtime encourage a healthy sleep pattern.

For example, many of the things we do in modern life undermine healthy sleep patterns.

For example, the blue-green light emitted by TVs, computer screens, mobile phones and other devices all inhibit the production of the hormone melatonin which is essential for good sleep.

Even more worrying, some children and teenagers today are going to bed with their mobile phone so they can stay connected. This can be a serious problem for healthy sleep: it is not just the light that disturbs the child’s sleep but their expectation that someone may text, along with the fear of missing out. In a recent study Australian teenagers were found to be the third sleepiest in the world! Only 8% of teens turn off their phone at night or leave them out of the bedroom, increasing the risk of infomania: the compulsive desire to check messages, updates and other

information, very often on a mobile device.

So, to all the dads out there, here are a couple of sources of guidance that can help make your home more conducive to sleep. The first one is a sleep hygiene fact sheet provided by the Centre for Clinical Interventions. You can download a copy here: www.cci.health.wa.gov. au/docs/Info-sleep%20 hygiene.pdf The other one of interest is Gen Z’s home of better sleep at www.sleepshack.com.au described as a ‘clinically proven, personalised sleep treatment program for teens & tweens.’ It’s a high quality interactive site which will help your teenagers if they are having trouble with sleep.

As a dental practice we often see the consequences of poor sleep,

apparent in a range of symptoms from underdevelopment of the facial complex through to destructive clenching, grinding and headaches which often begin in the teenage years.

Dewhurst Dental is always available to provide help and advice in addressing the symptoms of sleep disordered breathing. If your child is clenching or grinding in their sleep or complaining of headaches when they wake or during the day, we can help! For more information, go to www. dewhurstdental.com.au or www.orofacial.com.au or just drop by for friendly advice.

• Crown and Bridge • Implant Dentisty • Decay Preventative • Restorative - General Dentistry • Aesthetic Dentistry • Orthodontics • Gum Care • Oral Surgery Not Your Ordinary Dental Practice

Suite 4, 175 Rusden Street Armidale 2350

Ph 6772 3522 new england focus

37

BREAST AUGMENTATION WHICH IMPLANT? WHAT SIZE?

W

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With all of the above changes, it was

38 new england focus.

WHAT SIZE?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The rest is easy!

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

HOW I DO IT

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

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

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

It's your time to shine

NOVEMBER 2014

with Terri

ScholarShipS for 2016 AcAdemic (Year 5-11) music (Years 7-11) VisuAl Arts (Years 7 - 11) Applications open 1 December 2014 and close 13 February 2015 Examination Date 23 February 2015 AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Be patient just a little longer, as your dream is about to come true. You recently gave yourself permission to have something you may have been without for a long time.

But now you need to wait for the timing to be perfect. Dioptase is powerful for forgiveness, especially toward oneself.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 As usual, the pisces is following the magical scent of love! A new love is about to step forward and enrich your life. There is also the likeliness of travel. Work changes will also bring some new adventure - ENJOY! Rose Quartz, the crystal of love will enrich and nurture any new relationship.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20

all gIrls pre-kInDer to Year 12. boarDIng From Year 5.

educating successful women of tomorrow in a Christian environment join us on facebook

0 2 6 770 1700 www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au

You are being beckoned to pay attention to your actions. These speak louder than words.

When you are happy, the world is a brighter place. But when you’re unhappy, you affect everyone in your space. If adventure is what you’re craving, make plans for a vacation and bring some of that fun-loving “Aries” energy into the picture. Clear Quartz enhances selfawareness. (Wear it)

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

Don’t be rushed into making a decision or choice that will affect your entire life.

New beginnings await you, but patience is required to give you the time needed to get ready. Work dealings will be favourable, as long as you display your leadership skills.

Carnelian strengthens our personal power.

Carry it in a pocket to work.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

The feeling of suspension is soon leaving your reality. In fact, soon you will be too busy “to have a chat”. New opportunities will find you but you need to want change, and you need to have a thirst for knowledge. There will be mixing in new circles too. Enjoy! Rose Quartz is very reassuring when you are venturing into new circumstances.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

You have recently discovered a level of personal strength that may have surprised you. This is what you have been aspiring to all along. Take some time out of your busy schedule to pamper yourself, and re-connect with your “passion for life”. Turquoise brings a feeling of wholeness. Carry it in a pocket.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 A beautiful surprise awaits. Enjoy a blissful period in relationships, as new friends emerge. These people will help you to show your talents and feel accomplished. New career opportunities are entering the picture mid-month. Clear Quartz is wonderful at amplifying positive energy.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 You will soon be free to make your own decisions, without the pressure from another person. Work opportunities are opening up to you since you gave yourself permission to achieve, and now you will be rewarded for something you love to do.

Aventurine is a wonderful crystal for personal change and growth.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 You are about to embark on a journey of self-discovery. You may have been through a lot of disturbance lately, but you have also brought out your most wonderful gifts and talents. You will like the new you. Herderite is a powerful transformation stone.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 A new relationship is coming into play; however, your “deservability” is in question.

You can have the magic of love in your life if you think you deserve it, or you can sabotage it and go without if you think you can’t have it.

Black tourmaline is a powerful purifier and cleanser.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Your focus lately has been inward. Don’t be worried if you have not felt involved lately; life has a funny way of unfolding opportunities.

You needed to regather yourself. Make a list of your strengths and watch them fulfil you.

Turquoise has a confidence boosting effect.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Now is a good time to debate your beliefs in life. These rules by which you have lived life have given security and stability, but lately you have been left feeling trapped and contained by these beliefs. The new you will not be held back. Azeztulite shows us alternate realities.

new england focus

39

focusinterview.

North West New England

Special

Olympics

NWNE SPECIAL OLYMPICS TEAM ARE OFF TO MELBOURNE TO COMPETE THIS MONTH, AND WE FIND OUT WHAT THEY HAVE BEEN UP TO IN PREPARATION FOR THIS. WE WSH THEM ALL THE VERY BEST AT THIS LEVEL OF COMPETITION ...

C

an you tell FOCUS a bit about the NWNE Special Olympics?

Special Olympics North West New England is a sporting organisation which involves athletes from a region that encompasses Tenterfield, Inverell, Narrabri, Armidale, Walcha and down to Tamworth. The athletes involved all have an intellectual disability and enjoy the opportunity to engage in social and sporting activities. Currently we have 24 athletes who enjoy tenpin bowling, swimming, football, golf and lawn bowls at different times of the year. The athletes train in tenpin bowling (Armidale Sport and Rec Centre) every Wednesday night from 5:30 to 7:30pm all year round, Football is held on Mondays 4 - 5pm in the winter terms (Phil Wheaton football fields), golf, 4 - 5pm (Armidale Gold Club) and swimming, 6:30 - 7:30pm (TAS pool) are held in the summer months on a Tuesday. Lawn bowls is held every Friday between 2 - 4pm at the Armidale City Bowling Club.

When does the team head off, and what preparation have they done?

The NWNE athletes are participating as part of the NSW team at the National Special Olympic games in Melbourne. They leave Armidale on Sunday 19th and have a night in Sydney before departing for Melbourne on Monday morning. The opening ceremony will be conducted on Monday afternoon and

40 new england focus.

the competition will start on Tuesday and run through to Friday. The athletes will head back from Melbourne on Saturday. They will have the opportunity to meet up with friends from around NSW they have met at previous competitions.

What local businesses helped support the team?

We have been very fortunate to have some wonderful local businesses who supported our recent fundraiser by donating numerous prizes.

It was encouraging to see the support businesses were happy to give when they knew the cause involved. One business in particular, Harvey Norman Electrical, has taken on board our cause and the Franchisee Scott Geddes, has been amazing in the support of our athletes.

The Armidale City Bowling Club allowed us to have a room to hold our fundraising event, and Phil Wheaton was fantastic at publicising the event throughout the club on the night.

Is this an ongoing event that the local community can support?

After the national competition, athletes will attend regional and state competitions, which always costs a lot of money due to the distances we have to travel. We have ongoing fundraising events like the barbecue at Bunnings. Anyone who would like to donate to NWNE SO are always welcome, as our athletes are all on pensions and save hard to attend the competitions. The next regional competition is at the end of November, when we will attend a

tenpin and golf competition at Coffs Harbour.

Also, following the National Games, the Australian team to travel to the World Games in Los Angeles in July 2015 will be announced.

If any of our seven athletes from NWNE are selected to compete there, the fundraising will be ramped up significantly, as each athlete will need to raise a large amount of money to attend. Unfortunately there is no sponsorship that our athletes receive when they attend these games. Each athlete attending the National Games has had to raise $3,300 to participate.

Can you give us some background on the team members?

Maxwell Wayte will be competing in football and has competed in a few previous international events. He was selected for the world games held in Athens in 2011 and the inaugural Asia Pacific competition held in Newcastle at the end of last year. Virginia Bligh, Joshua Smith, Stephanie Rowe, David Currie and Will Brunsdon will compete in tenpin bowling and Sarah-Jane Schulze from Narrabri will compete in swimming. Dave Currie joined Special Olympics recently and is very excited to be attending his first national competition. Stephanie Rowe is also attending her first National Games and is keen to find out what happens at these events. Joshua Smith and Virginia Bligh have attended National Games previously but it has been few years since they last attended, and they are really keen to go again. Will Brunsdon

had his first international experience with Special Olympics at the Asia Pacific competition last November in tenpin and is thrilled to be attending his first national competition.

Where to from here? What does the future hold?

The athletes who compete at the National Games are eligible to be selected for the Special Olympic World Games in 2015. The other NWNE athletes will continue to do their weekly training leading up to regional competitions that they will compete at. State competitions are held each year, and the athletes try to compete at several of these, which allows them to be eligible for selection at future national competitions, which are held every four years.

All athletes need to have trained for at least six weeks leading up to any regional competition and must compete at a regional competition before attending a state competition.

Therefore the athletes are constantly training, and a few of them are involved in up to four of the above sports, which makes for very busy athletes. It is exciting to see the progress they make and the excitement they get from a successful competition or training event.

Thanks Kirsty.

Kirsty Brunsdon NWNE Sports Co - ordinator 0410 923 797 kbrunsdo@as.edu.au Facebook: North West New England Special Olympics.

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41

E A R LY

E D U C AT I O N

F E AT U R E

EARLY EDUCATION

HOBBIT Preschool & Child Care Centre

ARMIDALE & DISTRICT FAMILY DAY CARE

Hobbit has been a part of the Armidale community

At Armidale & District Family Day Care, “The play’s the thing”…

for the last 41 years.

We take pride in knowing that our centre has a great reputation for providing an early childhood education and care environment for children aged 2 years to 5 years that caters for the diverse cultural community in which we live. We believe it is important to develop partnerships with families that are open, inclusive and respectful. We strive to make the transition from home to preschool a smooth and nurturing experience for both the children and their parents.

We have experienced qualified educators who understand and promote the values of play. Our preschool curriculum builds children’s self confidence and establishes a solid foundation for a love of lifelong learning. Some of the benefits of attending Hobbit include access to a large natural and sustainable outdoor environment, a variety of incursions and excursions that promote inclusion and community involvement, and an early phonics computer program that engages the children in preparation for school.

If you would like to find out more about the wonderful opportunities there are for you and your family at Hobbit Preschool and Child Care Centre, please call Ang on (02) 6772 4746 or pop in for a visit any time.

42 new england focus.

Albert Einstein once said: “Play is the highest form of research” and at Armidale and District Family Day Care, we believe this to be true. Each week, when we plan and set up for playsession, we know that children will be investigating and making discoveries, we know that they will be practicing and learning new skills, that they will be exercising their bodies and imaginations, as well as having fun. Play can be simple or complex but, as Mr. Einstein suggests, it is always more than “just playing”.

Our playsessions happen once a week. They are held in our safe, welcoming play environment at Armidale & District Family Day Care’s Coordination Unit in Miller Street. Our playsession leader, Angela Harris, brings her considerable experience and creativity to each session, introducing the children to a wide range of experiences using both natural and recycled materials.

Educators attending have the opportunity to network and share ideas and of course, enrolled families are always welcome to join us whenever they can.

Like more information? Please call us on 6772 5300 (8:30 - 4:30 Monday to Thursday) or visit our website: www.armidaleanddistrictfamilydaycare.com

KIP Mcgrath In a student’s 13 years of education, there can be innumerable circumstances that cause a student to miss out on mastering one or more of the essential building blocks necessary for educational success. When they realise that they have missed a critical stage, they often cover up their shortcomings. This is a very human reaction - none of us like to expose our weaknesses to the public gaze.

Over the years I have come across a wide variety of student strategies developed to avoid exposure. One of my favourites was a student who always came up with amazingly entertaining stories aimed at de-railing the lesson.

At Kip McGrath we provide a friendly learning environment where students feel more comfortable saying, “I just don’t get this!” We are always looking for better ways to make understanding more accessible. Each student has a goal that we work towards and the next session is only planned after analysis of the previous session’s progress. This way, students benefit from a targeted program.

The Kip McGrath tutoring system provides both catch up and extension opportunities; however, it is seeing the results when students catch up that provides the most rewarding experience for our tutors.

E A R LY

E D U C AT I O N

F E AT U R E

EARLY EDUCATION

toys, fairies & more

Montessori Preschool Armidale Montessori Preschool currently has opportunities for your child to join our toddler and preschool programs and are accepting enrolments for 2015. We offer Long Day Care options for both programs. Our staff and families come from a diversity of cultural traditions, and respect for others is fostered by an inclusive school environment.

Our programs and learning environments are carefully prepared to foster independence, concentration, fine motor development, language acquisition, and the development of social skills. Our staff strive to develop learning environments that are responsive to the needs of each of the children in our care. There is a strong emphasis on encouraging children to take care of their environment and each other.

Our mixed age preschool classroom offers individualised learning and a supportive learning community to facilitate the child’s self-construction and preparation for school. The main content areas in the program include Practical Life skills, Literacy and Numeracy, Geography and Cultural materials, Art and Music. We respect children’s need for freedom of movement and support their need to exercise choice. At our school, adults and children are encouraged to teach and learn from each other.

RAPIDCLEAN The staff at Rapidclean can help you clean with safety.

This is especially important around our children and aging population. Both groups are far more sensitive to environmental issues than a healthy adult is. With this in mind, we are also aware that products need to do the job, work fast and not cost you the earth (literally). Every household and childcare facility face the same cleaning challenges, just on different scales. Our expectations of hygiene are the same, whether we are at home or have our children in care; we are probably more concerned about our care facilities, as we are more in control at home.

Childcare centres are becoming far better regulated, and this flows down to family day care and home care situations, so it's comforting to know the Rapidclean team are here to help you tick all the boxes: products that work well, are safe and environmentally responsible; the documentation required for regulatory bodies, and food service audits; help with colour coding and infection control measures; training and advice. So if it's for home or centre based child care, come on over and talk to our staff.

Rapidclean - we make cleaning easy !

Armidale Toy Library is over 30 years old! Catering for children from 3 months to 8 years old, with recreational board games for all ages.

We have an extensive range of toys and educational resources, as well as a great parent library with books on early parenting and child development. Fun, simple and magical - your children will love choosing their own toys and swapping them over for new ones!

Our members include parents, grandparents, family day carers, schools and more.

Opening hours: Mon and Wed, 9:30 - 3:30pm, Thurs 9:30 - 4:30pm and Saturdays 9:30 - 1pm. For enquiries, please call 6772 8838.

The End of the Rainbow, owned and created by the fairy lady, is the original Fairy Shop; celebrating 17 years in business and still going strong. Built in a unique enchanted forest, this magical gift shop specialises in exquisite heirloom fairy dresses, pirate costumes and beautiful Christmas treasures exclusive to the fairy shop. Gifts for all occasions; adults and children are catered for. Give your family a treasured memory and visit this beautiful world.

At the Armidale Train Station on Brown Street.

Opening hours are: Tuesday - Friday, 10:30 - 5pm.

Saturday 10:30 - 2pm.

Phone 0400 348 163.

new england focus

43

DELMAR PARKER EYECARE PLUS Delmar Parker Eyecare Plus is a 5 Star Nationally Accredited Optometry Practice. Local Optometrist Delmar Parker and his team achieved this highest possible distinction and were accredited for Quality, Service, Cleanliness and Value at their practice located on the corner of Markham and Kirkwood Streets, Armidale.

At the EyeCare Plus National Conference held in Sydney recently - Eyecare Plus Armidale were acknowledged and recognised as finalists in a prestigious award for Eyecare Plus practices Australia wide.

Seasons of New England Market & FAIR DAY WITH CHRISTMAS CREEPING UP, IT’S THE RIGHT TIME OF YEAR FOR SHOPPING BY DAY AND SHARING A MEAL WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY IN THE EVENING. THAT’S EXACTLY WHAT YOU’LL BE ABLE TO DO AT THE SEASONS OF NEW ENGLAND MARKET & FAIR DAY, FOLLOWED

BY SOME RELAXED DINING IN THE ARENA ON SATURDAY 8TH NOVEMBER.

T

he Market day has an increased line up of stalls after the huge success of the March event, with 65

stallholders signed on, showcasing the best in hand made and home grown from across the New England, and a little beyond. With a huge range of gourmet

new addition is a treasure hunt, with clues

for up to 100 at any given time as the

for pre-readers and riddles for the older

crowds come and go, and five stallholders

kids, which will run throughout the

preparing a range of dinner and

day.

dessert options from 4pm.

Start with antipasto

Great musicians are essential for creating the right atmosphere,

food, cool climate wines, locally brewed

and there is an

beer and distilled spirits, there are plenty

impressive line

of options for filling the Christmas

up scheduled to

stocking - and the cellar - or just for

play from 9am -

enjoying a hearty meal at the market.

10pm, including

or a hearty picnic

e Tickets for all th g in events , includ t line up of ea gr the are evening meals , at www. e lin on available gland. seasonsofnewen by or , com .au/tickets 8 163.” calling 0 434 40

“

basket, move on to the lamb ragu and finish with some dessert tasting plates.

Something for the kids? Try

Jams, sauces, preserves, confectionery,

Georgia Smith

children’s clothing and accessories,

(singer and solo

gourmet sausages, ginger beer, native

guitar), Mel Irvine (indie

plants, olives and olive oils, honey,

folk blues singer) and Fabio

beeswax candles, skincare products, goats

Tolli (singer and solo acoustic

cheeses, fresh scones, superb coffee,

guitar). Then from midday enjoy The

artwork, garden sculpture, cakes, a truly

including the great line up of

Jug Addicts with their individual take

endless list!

evening meals, are available online at

on crowd favourites, WirryCow from

www.seasonsofnewengland.com.au/

The events for children in March were

4pm with Celtic and world music crowd

tickets, or by calling 0434 408 163 for

a real crowd pleaser and have returned in

pleasers, and The Al Heeney Rhythm and

payments over the phone. Come and

November, with some new additions. The

Blues Experience from 7pm with a 10

enjoy the music, the bar stocked with

Uralla branch of the CWA are providing

piece R&B band sure to get you up and

local wine, beer and gin, and the tasty

Swagman’s Picnic lunch trays under a

dancing!

local meals priced from $8 - $28 (advance

shady marquee for just $5 (sandwich,

Dinner in the Arena will be taking place

the pulled pork rolls or the home made meatballs and spaghetti - perfect.

Tickets for all the events,

purchases strongly recommended). All at

piece of fruit and cake - tickets available

around and under the giant marquee,

the Uralla Showground in King St, Uralla,

for three different picnic times), while

that will also provide some daytime shade.

the Market & Fair Day runs from 8am -

the ponies from Harlow Park and some

Picture a ceiling lined with spring coloured

3pm and the Dinner in the Arena from

talented face painters are also back. A

bunting and gentle fairy lights, tables

4pm - 10pm.

44 new england focus.

Our specialist services offered include: Cataract, Glaucoma and macula testing, children’s vision assessments, comprehensive eye examinations, diabetic vision assessments, bulk billing for most Medicare consultations, Hicaps - instant health fund claims. We offer the latest technology and fashion eyewear, student and pensioner discounts and minor spectacle repairs and adjustments free of charge.

An important reminder to our patients is that most private health funds benefits may expire 31st December. Even if you are not due for an eye exam, you could select new prescription glasses or prescription sunglasses. We now have in stock a range of fashionable sunglasses, just in time for summer.

Delmar Parker Eyecare Plus are open: Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 5pm; Friday 9am to 5pm.

focusTourism.

Tourism Katrina George Australian Traveller magazine has once again highlighted Armidale, including it as a “ must see” 2014 Bucket List destination. This is invaluable recognition and provides great reinforcement for the accolade received earlier this year when Armidale was listed #3 Hottest Destination for 2014.

T

his is a love story - an unexpected one. new permanent markers and has been designed Because a journey to the humble highby the Northern Tablelands Orienteering Club. lands will have you falling for its ancient This is a great activity for the whole family, and beauty and country charm”. you can pick up a map from the Armidale Visitor In August we had the pleasure of hosting Information Centre.

Australian Traveller magazine for a week, which During September, the Visitor Information enabled them to experience first hand what Centre had 5,983 visitors through the door, Armidale has to offer. Whilst we were expecting which was an increase of 600 people from the an editorial in the current issue, we were not previous year. This highlights the Visitor Informaexpecting to be listed as a Bucket tion Centre’s importance in marketing List destination. This is anArmidale and the region. For loother great success and cal businesses and groups to will assist in delivering benefit from exposure to the message that these visitors, please ensted a In O ctober we ho Daily New England High sure that we have your the journalist from Country is indeed upcoming event list.

Weekend Telegraph Best r the “new” Blue fo ed on our website, t eye ou Please keep an be Mountains. ill or your brochures / w ch this article , whi ily m fa r ou “The backyard of flyers on display y featuring man ea , ar e th in es iti of Armidale in the centre. The friendly activ drive ul tif au be e th is not all Hills Visitor Information as well as d returning hoists and cricket Centre can promote via Gloucester an Way.” fall stumps, but rather along the Water your business if it falls World-Heritage under one the following listed national parks and categories: restaurants, ancient gorges, offering wineries, boutique shopping, magnificent waterfalls and slackaccommodation, art, culture, history jaw inducing beauty”… that says it all! or things to do in Armidale.

In October we hosted a journalist from November’s Event calendar is jam packed the Daily Telegraph Best Weekend. Please with a huge variety of events, including: NERAM keep an eye out for this article, which will Packsaddle Exhibition; New England Sings; St be featuring many of our family friendly activities Peter’s Gardens; Roberts and Morrow Armidale in the area, as well as the beautiful drive via Fun Run; Vintage Truck, Machinery and Heavy Gloucester and returning along the Waterfall Horse Show; Streetcar Named Desire and CounWay. try Living Seasons of New England. For full details Spring is a great time for bird watching in New on these events and more, please visit www.

England High Country. Volunteers at the Visitor armidaletourism.com.au/events.

Information Centre have designed two new The Heritage Tour Bus has been providing the brochures covering the Lagoons of Guyra and the visitors of Armidale with free tours for over 20 Lagoons of Uralla. So if you are a bird watching years. The bus operates 7 days per week from enthusiast or novice, pop in and grab one of the 10am - 12.30pm. We are currently looking for new flyers. volunteer guides to assist on the tour one mornThe new Orienteering Course at Dumaresq ing per week. If this is something that would inDam has been very well received, particularly by terest you, or if you would like to find out more, visiting families with children. The course has please contact Katrina George on 6770 3906.

“

new england focus

45

Thinking Criminal Law with Elizabeth Stahlut, Solicitor

THINKING

CRIMINAL LAW:

ELIGIBILITY FOR LEGAL AID

What do you do, if your teenage son or daughter gets involved in a “punch-up” at school or commits a road traffic offence that results in the laying of police charges?

W

hat happens, if your teenage son or daughter has a family law issue - for example, becomes a mother or father, and needs orders to ensure that your new grandchild gets financial support from the other parent, or that your grandchildren have an opportunity to develop loving relationships with both sides of their family?

These scenarios would be a nightmare for any parent of teenagers to contemplate - however, they can also be very expensive, especially if your teenager is still depending on you for financial support.

Under these circumstances, it is worth considering whether your son or daughter might be eligible for a grant of assistance from the Legal Aid Commission of New South Wales, to help with the often scary legal costs involved in dealing with either a criminal or family law matter.

A private lawyer can apply for a grant of Legal Aid assistance, on your behalf. In most cases, there would be a requirement to pay a contribution of $75.00, towards the Legal Aid grant; however, a successful application could mean that this would be the only legal costs you might have to pay.

The Legal Aid Commission of New South Wales have a number of criteria that they apply, when they have to assess whether an applicant should be given a grant of Legal Aid assistance or not.

For criminal charges, these criteria could include whether the applicant has the capacity to pay the costs of private legal representation, as well as the seriousness of the charges being faced.

For family law matters, an applicant’s capacity to pay for representation must also usually be considered, as well as the seriousness and urgency

46 new england focus.

of the matter. Although Legal Aid assistance is usually limited to parenting matters, it is sometimes possible to get assistance to deal with some property settlement matters.

Depending on the circumstances of your case, there may be other areas of law for which it might be possible to get a grant of assistance, from Legal Aid. A lawyer can help you to determine your eligibility for Legal Aid assistance, as well as make the application on your behalf, and then provide you with the legal assistance that you need, without you having to incur substantial costs.

It is a good idea to collect documents - such as bank statements, Centrelink income statements and/or copies of court documents - that can be used to prove your eligibility for Legal Aid assistance. Again, your lawyer can advise you about what documents you might need to access.

Also, because the Legal Aid Commission of New South Wales may have a very large number of matters to consider, it is strongly recommended that you apply for their assistance as soon as possible, after you become aware that you have a legal problem. This will help to ensure that you get the assistance you need.

For the sake of your own peace of mind, it is worth asking your lawyer if you, or your son or daughter, might be eligible for some assistance from the Legal Aid Commission of New South Wales, to help you to pay the sometimes substantial costs of going to court, for any legal issue.

Talk to us. You’ll be inspired.

Elizabeth D. Stahlut Solicitor

G N I V I L R O O D T U O R E 4 1 M 0 2 N O I SUM T C COLL E

ARMIDALE

The Harvey Norman Centre, 6 Queen Elizabeth Drive. 6771 0800 Accessories shown are not included. Ends 31/12/14.

Harvey Norman® stores are operated by independent franchisees.

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Top: ‘Phuket’ Large Corner Modular Outdoor Lounge Setting with Coffee Table.

Middle: ‘Jacob’ 9-Piece Dining Setting, ‘Vaska’ 11-Piece Double Extension Dining Setting, ‘Dayton’ 7-Piece Dining Setting.

Bottom: ‘Melia’ 7-Piece Rectangular Dining Setting, BeefEater Bugg Portable BBQ with Trolley, Sunco 6-Burner Twin-Hooded BBQ, Sundance ‘Horizon’ 4-Burner Hooded BBQ, ‘Jacob’ Jack & Jill Setting.

focusinterview.

SMALL TOWN SOUNDS, NATIONAL SUCCESS: ROCKHAMPTON’S HOMETOWN HEROES BUSBY MAROU SCALE THE CHARTS, GO GOLD AND SCORE AN ARIA NOMINATION.

A

fter touring extensively with their full band, Busby Marou are stripping back to their original duo roots as they embark on a national tour of intimate shows throughout October and November. Supported by UK singer songwriter Fiona Bevan and emerging Brisbane artist Zeek Power, the North Queensland duo, made up of best mates Thomas Busby and Jeremy Marou, hit the Armidale Club on the 31st of October.

As the successes pile up - their latest album Farewell Fitzroy charted at #5 on the ARIA Album Chart, their debut album reached gold status and nominations for awards including the NIMAs, APRAs and ARIAs this intimate and acoustic run of shows is set to be a reminder of what it was that first made Australia fall for the Rockhampton locals in the very beginning. Having toured with the likes of Passenger, James Blunt, Dolly Parton, Birds of Tokyo, Pete Murray, KD Lang and The Zac Brown Band, Busby Marou have remained true to their local roots without losing their unique everyman aesthetic that seems to resonate so deeply with their diverse fan base. With hits Biding My Time, Farewell Fitzroy and My Second Mistake, Busby Marou’s music tells a unique Australian story made up of the landscape surrounding them from suburban love to memories of the Kimberley,

48 new england focus.

fidelity, Catholic guilt and lessons learned growing up.

To coincide with this tour, Busby Marou will release Farewell Fitzroy: Days of Gold Edition, a special reissue of their second album on October 18. This new addition features the twelve original tracks from Farewell Fitzroy along with five additional tracks, including brand new single Days of Gold. Also included are new acoustic versions of Heard It All Before and Widow, as well as a new version of Biding My Time with guest vocalist Nat Dunn. The five new tracks will also be made available as the Days Of Gold EP on iTunes from September 19 for fans who have already purchased Farewell Fitzroy.

It’s not often you can see a band of this calibre in this guise, a chance to experience their timeless, honest and earnest stories combined with flawless musicianship.

Busby Marou - Friday, Oct 31 at The Armidale Club, 9pm.

The Armidale Club, 91 Beardy Street, Armidale, NSW 2350. TICKET PRICE: $20 PRE/$25 DOOR.

BUSBY

MAROU

focusinterview.

BEN DAWSON, DOUGLAS ROWE-DAWSON, KARL SIMPSON, ALICIA MCMANNUS, WIL SHORTER AND MELANIE FROST FROM THE DUVAL RIFLE TEAM HOLD THEIR OWN IN THE NATIONAL HUNTER TITLES.

DUVAL

TEAM

I

e Duval High is on ic bl pu w fe ry of ve e ot schools to prom a as g tin oo sh et targ is has school sport. Th for le ab lu va proved in ed in st re te in ts studen ” target shooting.

“

t was a very excited group of junior shooters from Duval High School rifle team who headed down to Coffs Harbour from Armidale for the National Hunter Titles on September 20th - 23rd. Having most generously been presented with team jackets from Duval High’s P&C and SSAA N.S.W. junior representative shirts from the SSAA, which were very much appreciated, the group were all geared up for a great weekend of shooting.

All members of the team competed on Saturday in the light class and Sunday in the heavy class. Consistently good scores were achieved throughout the weekend from the juniors, reflecting the weekly practice the team have at “Loch Abba” SSAA Guyra branch range.

Duval High is one of very few public schools to promote target shooting as a school sport.

This has proved invaluable for students interested in target shooting. Duval, along with Principal Stafford Cameron’s support and encouragement, is to be applauded.

The team not only have the chance to improve their skills, but also to learn all the finer details that go hand in hand with such a disciplined

sport, setting themselves goals each week and having the determination to focus, concentrate and conduct themselves with safety to a very high standard. This all contributes enormously in many ways to a constructive and bright future. During the weekend’s competition, the team and their parents received many compliments from senior shooters, commending them on their behaviour and representation of themselves and Duval High.

Considering the standard of equipment five of the students were using just proved how talented they are. Willo, Dawso, Doug and Karlos produced some amazing targets, with a wonderful attitude to match.

Alicia shot very well and was a complete joy throughout the weekend. Mel was fortunate enough to have been given the opportunity to use top class equipment, which proved to be a great experience for her.

Tom Keys and Sonia Frost are the team’s weekly coaches, both attending and competing over the two days. Two team members’ parents were responsible for the transportation of the team, organising their accommodation and uniforms,

providing meals and ensuring their wellbeing.

One of these parents, Peter Simpson, worked tirelessly both Sat and Sun along with Tom helping the students with their set-ups, ammunition supply, advice and support on every detail.

Once again, SSAA Coffs Harbour hosted a well organised friendly event at Dairyville Range, with many world class competitors, all of whom were very supportive of our junior team - many thanks to all. A fantastic weekend was enjoyed by the juniors,who gained valuable knowledge along the way. Congratulations to the Duval Rifle Team and Co. Well done.

new england focus

49

focusinterview.

URALLA

golfclub

GEOFF WOOD FOCUS SPEAKS WITH GEOFF WOOD ABOUT HOW A LOCAL GOLFING COMMUNITY HAS COME TOGETHER TO SAVE THE URALLA GOLF CLUB.

C

an you give us a bit of history on the Club?

In 2010 the Golf Club found itself in severe financial difficulty, with our Auditor “suggesting” an administrator be appointed. A crisis meeting was called, and there was overwhelming support for the Club to keep trading under its own control, and a committee of three (Kevin Ward, Darrell Carson and Geoff Wood) was appointed to work with the Board to put in place financial and management arrangements to allow this to occur. Fortunately, a number of members contributed financially by way of advanced membership payments that allowed us, with help from our banker New England Community Mutual, to trade ourselves through this difficult period. This advanced membership arrangement has been used in subsequent years to provide funding for extension to our Cart Shed and installation of a Solar Electricity System.

When the new Board was elected in 2010, not only were we tasked with keeping the Club trading, but establishing a platform and model

50 new england focus.

that ensured that the Club didn’t find itself in the current predicament again (this was not the first time the Club had been in this position).

This was done against a backdrop in NSW of a Licensed Club closing every six days, together with an ever changing operating environment, including significant legislative requirements.

Over the last few years the club has been fortunate to have some generous volunteers come together to make the Club the great place it is today. Tell us more about this ...

There is no doubt one of the major underlying reasons the Club is enjoying the success it is today is because of the willingness of the members, and also community members, to help not only keep the Club afloat, but improve this great community asset. It became very apparent back in 2010 that if the Club was to achieve the financial benchmarks it set itself to remain a viable enterprise given our financial turnover and participation rates, we had to change the way we operated. Fortunately, we now have a pool of volunteers with the necessary accreditation to have the Club open

t There is no doub or aj m one of the e ying reasons th rl de un e th ng yi Club is enjo y is success it is toda ingness ill w e th of e us beca and also , rs of the membe bers , to em m community ep the Club help not only ke e this ov af lo at , but impr asset.” ity great commun

“

when there is insufficient turnover to have paid staff operating. This volunteering has spread across a number of our operating areas and has seen such projects as the construction of two course toilets, erection of the Cart Shed and much work on the course itself completed, as a few examples. This volunteering has seen a change in the culture of the Club where people not only help out, but derive a degree of ownership, responsibility and pride in the many projects undertaken. This has also allowed us to keep our fees and charges within reasonable limits and affordable to the wider community in the hope of a larger member base. It is a well worn cliché “that if I recognised a few of our outstanding helpers I would overlook someone”, but suffice it to say without all these people, it is unlikely the

Club would be still operating today. We also provide a home base for Uralla Lions Club in addition to the Armidale Snooker Club, which use our facilities most Tuesdays.

Describe the golfing calendar?

We have golf competitions running most days of the week. Currently our twilight competition has just commenced, with participants able to play anytime between Sunday and Friday (last year we had in excess of 120 players teeing of each week).

Tuesday we have a 13 hole competition and on Wednesday a normal round organised by Barry Cameron. Albert Egli’s veterans are on Thursday, with competition golf (usually medley) on Saturday and Sunday. Sunday morning sees our juniors on the course, with coach Bruce McMullen welcoming any new players. We also have a ladies committee,

focusinterview.

URALLA

golfclub

of times recently about our water needs, we have mann te aged to survive ‘til the of s Where Club r ke next drought. However, po relied on to s le sa r ba d we will need to have machines an lf go r ei th e is id bs a more encompassing cross su ements , ov pr im se ur co approach to water and ging patterns of n a an ch management from Achieving ng mea financial spendi proach plant and grass types and maintaining ap more inventive used to a more efficient financial security, is needed .” radio controlled watering like any business, systems. is our main aim. We This year has seen us comare currently operating plete a number of major projects. in very tough economic These included a major upgrade of times, which make our challengour kitchen, and this has complemented a es greater, and this is often exaggerated by refreshing approach by our caterer Sheree government requirements and one size fits all Geldof, which has resulted in a significant approach to new legislation. increase in functions as well as casual dining.

Where Clubs often relied on poker machines The construction of a child proof fence by and bar sales to cross subsidise their golf and volunteers and financed by the Veterans has course improvements, changing patterns of been well received, as has an improved access financial spending mean a more inventive arrangement. Next year we hope to upgrade approach is needed. our bar area and down the track construct an Water security would have to be next priority outdoor deck area. On the course as mentioned and while we have been nervous a couple

“

with Bron Wilson in charge. Bron is also the Board’s minute secretary, as well as providing a Friday cake raffle.

Social golfers are welcome to use the course 7 days a week.

How can readers become a member?

Becoming a member is a simple exercise of filling out the necessary form (life is full of filling out forms), and this is available from the clubhouse or on our website: www.urallagolfclub.com.au The website also lists the various categories of membership available, together with the applicable fees. Our financial year is the same as the calendar year; however, for anyone joining now, membership will be current until the end of 2015.

Plans for the future?

earlier, we had to remove some old pine trees and this is going to be a continuing job, with a lot of our large trees reaching their use-by date.

We upgraded a water storage dam this year; however, the course needs improved drainage arrangements to fully utilise available run off.

Discussions have been held with State Water about the possible sinking of a bore to complement our course storage. Plans are underway to upgrade and improve our tee areas. In an effort to reduce our energy costs, the Club is currently installing a solar electricity system, and this should greatly reduce our financial exposure in this area. Good communication is an important element of any business and at present we have a regular newspaper report, a web page as mentioned above, a Facebook account, as well as Club captain Pennie texting players to inform them of happenings. The challenge will be to keep abreast of new technologies, as the pace of change in communication is ever changing.

Thanks Geoff. new england focus

51

focuseditorial.

“Wouldn’t it

. . . d pire

I

dea Description: It will be a place of ever-changing beauty in which to meet and chat with friends over coffee. It will be a quiet place to stroll or sit with a loved one, a place where young children can

safely play and their carers relax. It will be the ideal location for open air music, drama performances and a place for locals to be wed.

The garden will illuminate at night for the city to stroll in after work on summer evenings and a place with more yabby pools than ever before.

Gardens are expensive but, if it is a genuinely world-class garden, and it can be, tourists will pay to visit because it will be worth paying for.

if... ”

...the people of Armidale came together to build a world-class community garden!

Visiting great gardens is one of the world’s most popular tourist pastimes.

What Armidale would get out of the garden would so far outweigh what we individually put into it, that we would be foolish not to seriously consider the proposition.

Community Benefits: It will be an invaluable icon for Armidale, attracting tourists from near and far; those just passing through on the New England Highway or those especially visiting.

The economic benefits will be the tourist dollars being spent throughout the town and also the aim to create more local jobs and training.

It’s something we don’t have now and we will never have without getting together to make it happen.

How can you help? Do you want the garden?

Are you prepared to help make it happen?

During November the committee is mounting an informative display in the Armidale Plaza, opposite Spotlight. This will be the last step in the committee’s effort to generate support for the project.

There will be opportunities to indicate your answers and thoughts at the Plaza display or by visiting heartofourcommunity.com.au to vote or to sign the petition for the WorldClass Community Garden. Please indicate your decision before Christmas 2014. The committee will assess the response early in 2015. If there is a strong level of enthusiasm, the project will move into its next phase.

be inspired...

52 new england focus.

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

Votes so far: 96 New England Mutual would like to thank FOCUS for their support of these inspiring community ideas.

focusinterview.

ADELAIDE AUTHOR SUE PANAGARIS HAS RELEASED HER THIRD BOOK FOR MILLS & BOON, WITH THE STORY TAKING PLACE IN BOTH ARMIDALE AND URALLA.

sue panagaris

W

here are you from ... and tell us about your family.

Adelaide is the city where I was born and where I still live with my husband, Peter. I spent two years in the US about seven years ago, and I return there every year for a few weeks. One of daughters, Orianthi who is a musician, resides in Los Angeles while my other daughter, Tina, an artist, calls Adelaide home, but does travel and catch up with her sister in the US and Europe when she is on tour.

We live near the CBD in a hundred year old property that has been extensively renovated, and our backyard is home for some chickens, ducks and two very spoilt dogs, Mathilda and Betty.

When did you first discover your passion for writing, and where do you get your inspiration from?

At school, English was my favourite subject, so I guess I have always loved writing.

When my daughters began school, I started entering competitions in magazines (50 words or less) and found that I was consistently winning something - sometimes toys, cinema tickets, gift vouchers or videos, and then one day I received a call from the editor of Woman’s Day telling me that I was the second prize winner in the Cindy Doll competition. Aware that first prize was London, I mentally started

My first book , Unlocking the came D octor’s Heart , 14 out in March 20 ide la de A in t se is d an 14 , 20 ne Ju in A&E. In as w ok bo nd my seco .” ed releas

“

doing the geographical calculations when I imagined that second prize might be a destination half way between Australia and the UK. Immediately, I decided it must be a luxury holiday in Singapore. Otherwise why would she be calling? Unfortunately, I came down with a thud when I was told the runner up prize was the doll in a box with a doll-sized bike. I’m still unsure why she called. Although a little disappointed, I found that it spurred me on to undertake a creative writing course and write something a little longer. And so I began my first 55,000 word manuscript.

I have warned my friends that any story they tell me might end up in a book - not in a way that they would recognise, but it could be the catalyst for a character, a setting or a conflict. During the course of most days I will see something or hear something that triggers an idea, and I will jot it down and keep it for a rainy day.

Your next book is related to your link to the New England. Tell us more ...

Falling for Dr December is set in the New England, with a lot of the story taking place in Uralla and Armidale. I visited Uralla for the wedding of my nephew, Myles, and his fiancée, Anne, in November 2013 and fell

in love with the town and the people. It is such a warm, close knit community, and I wanted to capture that in a story and bring two remarkable people together in this picturesque setting.

My brother, Greg, my sister-inlaw, Tracy, nephew Eric, his partner, Emma and gorgeous baby Poppy still live in Uralla, while Myles, Anne and Ben now call Sydney home. In my book dedication I have included Bob Carlon, Tracy’s father and a wonderful, witty man who was still with us when I wrote the book and who will always remain in everyone’s hearts.

How long have you been an author for Mills and Boon? What are some of your other books?

I have always loved reading and writing romance and have submitted quite a few manuscripts over the years to Mills & Boon.

Finally my dream came true on 8 July 2013 when I received “The Call” from the London office; they had accepted my manuscript, and I officially became a Mills & Boon Medical Romance author. My first book, Unlocking the Doctor’s Heart, came out in March 2014 and is set in Adelaide in A&E. In June 2014, my second book was released. Back in her Husband’s Arms is the story of two oral surgeons in a large Melbourne hospital who

are estranged but still in love. Falling for Dr December is my third Medical Romance, and I have two more books due on shelves in early and mid 2015.

This is the Falling for Dr December blurb: When Laine Phillips left Uralla twelve years ago, she vowed never to return. Now a world-famous photographer, Laine has two rules: not to mix business and pleasure, and to rely totally on herself! It's the only way to protect her heart ... But when Laine is forced to return to Uralla for a charity calendar shoot, the scorchingly attractive - and highly uncooperative - Dr Pierce Beaumont begins to melt the barriers around her frozen heart!

Laine's soon breaking both her rules ... and falling for Dr December!

Where can FOCUS readers purchase your novels?

My books are sold at Kmart, Target, Big W and online at http://www.millsandboon.com. au/products/search/Susanne+Hampton Amazon, booktopia and other online retailers also stock it as hard copy and Kindle.

Plans for the future?

To keep writing. I love creating characters and their back stories. It’s exciting and fun, and I can’t imagine not bringing them to life, putting them through challenges and letting love help them find a way back to each other.

All with a little medical drama along the way!

Thanks Sue. new england focus

53

focusabode.

NEW ENGLAND

property guide

of Armidale Project Developers

54 new england focus.

focusabode.

We believe we bring a fresh oject. vision to each pr ng ro st a Inge has vative passion for inno gn , si and creative de and al rn te both for ex ces.” an ar pe ap internal

“

of Armidale Project Developers This dynamic duo, Peter and Inge, have been developing and renovating houses together since 1999, starting with a large Strata Title development known as “Garden Village” in Armidale, NSW. Their strengths complement each other perfectly, with both market knowledge and creative design.

They’re very passionate about what they do, and we caught up with them to find out about the latest transformation at 95 O'Dell Street, Armidale.

ell us about your business, Hutchinsons of Armidale.

The idea of the name came after Peter stepped back from full-time real estate in 2012 after 52 years in real estate and insurance in Armidale, having joined his father’s business G.S. Hutchinson & Co in 1960.

Peter felt comfortable in selling his shares to Peter and Meg Georkas in Hutchinson & Harlow Real Estate. Inge has been fully involved in our real estate ventures since changing directions from her previous nursing career. We have had a long history in residential real estate since commencing a staged development known as “Garden Village” at 161A Brown St in the early 1990s with the Late Dr Peter Lush and business partners John and Lee Harlow. We purchased our partners’ interest some years ago, and we still have four serviced allotments in a Strata Plan upon which to build apartments. Plans have been approved and interested parties can inspect the site and plans.

What do you specialise in?

We believe we bring a fresh vision to each project. Inge has a strong passion for innovative and creative design, both for external and

internal appearances. Her dedication to research results in the final product being of the finest quality, which stands out in the real estate market. Inge’s attention to detail, efficiency, creative problem solving and her very practical solutions for everyday living has resulted in her signature designs, particularly in effective storage solutions for both larger and smaller homes.

What made you decide to renovate homes?

Having worked in the real estate market as a licensed agent in Armidale for over 52 years, Peter felt at home in this area and Inge has always had a passion for researching the latest trends in kitchen, bathroom, bedroom cupboards etc. and as “Project Development Co-ordinator”, relishes this role. Inge has for many years visited “DesignX” annually, in both Sydney and Melbourne, to view all the latest trends in building and fittings (Peter is now free to join her on these excursions!) Over the years we have built a new home for ourselves at 109A Kirkwood St, which is a contemporary Tuscan home which we named “Sherwood Lodge, being an old family middle name.

new england focus

55

focusabode.

of Armidale Project Developers

56 new england focus.

This is a two storey home of about 35 squares of wonderful family living, which we sold some years ago. The late Kerry Hawkins and Inge completed the project in 2000. Spaciously designed with four levels, it was in this project that Inge crafted her innovative and signature wardrobe design, which allows for absolute flexibility, efficient use of space and is adaptable for changing needs. Inge’s attention to detail has ensured this design stands out from other homes. Some of these features include: copious and innovative storage space from “dead space” i.e. walk in storage space in the roof, large open plan kitchen with pull out pantry in addition to a walk in pantry, double garage with plenty of storage space, which could be transformed into another living space if needed, Robin Hood ironing centre, pull out sewing and craft centre, which easily packs away to create a no mess area, elegant bathrooms and stairway, open plan living and dining areas designed for interactive

family living, spa/greenhouse room overlooking the garden, alfresco dining.

The weatherboard home situated immediately behind 109A is fully renovated and is on the market for sale through H&H Real Estate.This family home in a very central location within one block of the CBD is in excellent condition, having had a large makeover some years ago.

Inge played to the strengths of the home and retained the style of the home’s era. There are four spacious bedrooms, each with built in cupboards, a renovated original bathroom with claw foot bath, a spacious foyer accessed from a pleasant verandah, original polished floor boards, and four new carports. We added an ensuite, moved the kitchen and included many new features in the new kitchen.

Our next venture was to purchase and fully renovate our current home at 193 Jessie St. We have had some wonderful comments from those who knew the home before we made significant

focusabode.

of Armidale Project Developers

significant alterations to maximise the northern side of the home, with large new windows to capture the winter sun. There was a reversal of bedrooms on the northern side to make the living areas where you want them, facing north in Armidale. We added to the front southern “x lounge room” and turned it into two spacious bedrooms and an ensuite and walk in wardrobe, plus two additional wardrobes in the main bedroom. The single weatherboard garage became our current

“

Team t Frost”(Steve Fros ) ns Constructio t and various grea put in ve ha s or ct contra has It . a mighty effort work to y jo t been a grea a on em th e alongsid s.” si ba daily

offices (known as “The Hub”) and a double carport was attached to the house. The new kitchen was re-designed to be efficient in space and has Inge’s signature cupboards built into the island bench. Storage is also maximised in the walk in pantry and new storeroom (room for a large freezer). This is now a lovely comfortable home but we will sell it and go on with another project, no doubt!

How long has the renovation at 95 O’Dell

St taken from the purchase date, and what has been involved?

We purchased this residential property just on twelve months ago, and it has been a huge transformation.

Our wonderful “Team Frost” (Steve Frost Construction Pty Ltd.) and various great contractors have put in a mighty effort. It has been a great joy to work alongside them on a daily basis. The transformation both

externally and internally has been dramatic.

Walls have been removed, new kitchen, two new bathrooms, old carpets and lino lifted and the timber floors polished throughout. New wardrobes installed in three bedrooms and a lovely office or fourth bedroom established.

A huge feature is the very large timber deck facing north and easy access through from the kitchen and living area and a new external gas point for barbecues.

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of Armidale Project Developers Before What are some of the home’s features?

There are many wonderful features, so here are a few: • Practical and flexible space, unseen storage and lifestyle solutions.

• We have endeavoured to complement the era of the home whilst detailing such unseen things as an electrical upgrade, insulation in some internal walls, replacing the old lathe and plaster walls with gyprock, replacing plumbing and choosing modern bathroom and kitchen fittings.

Freshly painted inside and out by Barry O’Hara and team (Peter was given the arduous job of prepping and painting the long fence on the northern and western side!)

We have created a neat “drop zone” or study nook with a feature wall of Scandanavian wallpaper from “Rebel”.

Replaced some windows with new stylish “Trend” Quantum Generic casement windows to catch the northern sun.

A new solar skylight “Illume Premium” by Kimberley.

58 new england focus.

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eshly painted

Fr Vanity Units showcasing of scope for the new inside and out by Architectural Designer owners (whoever d team Barry O’Hara an e Products (ADP) featuring they will be) to plant th (Peter was given ng pi “CLEAF” Italian finishes. the types of flowers/ ep arduous job of pr ng lo e New Laundry Tracking vegies etc that they th and painting rn he rt no e from “COWDROY”, like. fence on th !)” all weather sliding door Did you have any and western side track system for smooth challenges? operation. (Armidale Building As everyone who has Supplies.) done some home renoThe deck construction features vations will know, there are “Merbau” timber boards and “Trim Head always lots of challenges - especially Deck Fast“ self-drilling decking screws, in when you are striving to achieve a lieu of nails. (Armidale Building Supplies.) combination of factors such as maintainKitchen features Italian “Cleaf” doors with ing the integrity of an existing home whilst glass splashback and ceramic bench tops. Feawanting to modernise tastefully and increase ture lighting provides practical fun solutions.. storage capacity on a practical level. Our first GARDEN: This was a blank canvas. Inge challenge was the location of a sewer main has been inspired by Paul Bangay’s gardens, running down the eastern side of the home having visited several and having researched which prevented us from building the deck his books. The basics have now been completout that way, to link up with the proposed ed; Cherry Laurel hedges have been planted new deck on the northern side. However, together with Lavender “Avon View”plants, the new deck is very spacious and will be a dotted by “Shasta Daisies”. This leaves plenty delight for anyone when they move into the

residence. We must say how grateful we are in having a wonderful team around us with such enthusiastic tradespeople and suppliers. It is a pleasure to get their very honest feedback as we progress. There are so many people who have been involved.

What are the plans for the future?

WOW. We will need to take a few big breaths after the home is sold and look forward to the next challenge. We certainly want to keep going, and we are both very blessed having good health. (Inge had a nasty cancer scare some 14 years ago and the future looked very bleak for a while, but a full recovery has occurred, although constant checkups and some daily routines are still necessary.) Peter says he “re-tyred” and hit the road running!

Both of us are involved in community service and enjoy the fast pace of life in so called retirement.

THANK YOU FOCUS for your continued interest.

You can find us on our website at www.hutchinsonsofarmidale.com.au

THOROUGHBRED RACING TOUR

BY VIRGINIA HARVEY

I pinch myself sometimes about the people, places, famous Thoroughbred horses and events that we (past participants of The Land/Quadrant Journeys Racing and Breeding Tours) have witnessed at Northern Hemisphere races and inspections of operating farms and stables.

W

ho will we see during the 2015 Thoroughbred Racing Tour to UK & Ireland, which is set to depart 8th June 2015?

Witnessing Australia’s home-town girl Black Caviar winning at Royal Ascot was something special. Even the “poms” conceded to calling that day “Black Caviar” day - such is her greatness. Earlier that week, tour participants witnessed another great champion, Frankel, winning at Royal Ascot. Now represented with his first foals, Frankel is now at stud at Banstead Manor, located near the famous English Thoroughbred town of Newmarket, which is on the 2015 tour schedule.

Not only did tour participants gather together in Royal Ascot’s amphitheatre of the parade ring to see Black Caviar and Frankel, but also Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip arriving in their magnificent horses and carriages procession.

The famous couple’s Royal Stud at Sandringham in Norfolk, established in 1886, is also on the 2015 tour schedule. In 2012, while we soaked up the historic Royal Stud atmosphere, classic winners Motivator and Oasis Dream were paraded for us in its magnificent grounds. To the west is Newmarket, where we stay in Bedford Lodge for three nights - the town’s five star accommodation and “racing heart” of England.

Italian born, but long time Newmarket trainer Luca Cumani is a famous neighbour to the Lodge, preparing his horses which include Mount Athos, who finished third in last year’s Melbourne Cup, from Bedford House Stables.

Nearby is Ed Dunlop, who prepares horses at his time-honoured La Grange Stables, with reports of his well-travelled stayer Red Cadeaux on his way to Australia for the gelding’s fourth attempt to win a Melbourne Cup after two previous second placings. As with earlier tours, both welcoming trainers are likely for our stable visits during the 2015 tour.

Former French trained Americain, a previous

Melbourne Cup winner (currently standing at stud in Victoria), and Reliable Man (won the French Derby, came to Australia and won Sydney’s Queen Elizabeth Stakes, before going to stud in New Zealand) are two other racehorses inspected before venturing to this part of the world.

As tour participants have similar interests, there is much chatter and new friends made during the coach tour through some of the most historical areas of the world. Friends are bonded to hold rich memories.

Then there is the quaint country race meet at Hamilton Park near Glasgow, Scotland, the 1948 initiated Floors Stud located in the Scottish Borders region (owned by the Duke Of Roxburghe), and Britain’s tiny central town and famous training grounds of Middleham, where we were greeted by Scottish born conditioner Mark Johnson at his Kingsley House stables.

Famous Australian bred champion sires are also seen and include Exceed And Excel, who stands at Darley’s Dalham Hall Stud Newmarket, and Fastnet Rock at Coolmore Stud, Ireland.

After the latter stud there is a mandatory thirst quenching stop for a Guinness or Pimms at the local McCarthy’s Inn at Fethard - more highlights on the 2015 schedule. Again sensational touring. Ahhhhh … the Irish Derby at The Curragh will complete the tour. Some previous lucky tour participants grabbed an opportunity to have their photo taken with famous Irish trainer Dermott Weld at the Irish Derby races.

Add fascinating visits to Edinburgh (Scotland) and Windsor Castle (England), take in breathtaking drives along the Dingle Peninsula, and the legendary Cliffs of Moher on the West Coast of Ireland, and some free time for walking or shopping, equates to a spectacular and memorable time away.

The tour is just a simple equation of Thoroughbred horses + people + camaraderie = lots of fun. new england focus

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Everything is here. Why would you go anywhere else?

Starting in 2015, girls can enrol to Year 6 and our 4 year old Transition program is now 3 or 5 days.

To find out more, visit us on December 1 at 10.30am for our Transition Open and Information Day.

Contact us for more information.

6776 5823 | www.as.edu.au 60 new england focus.