New England Focus - i98

NEW ENGLAND

July 2015 // Issue 98

NEW ENGLAND'S

Feature Story Hanna's

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new england focus. 3

focusinterview.

END of an era.

AFTER 94 YEARS OF SERVING THE NEW ENGLAND, PHILIP AND JENNIFER HANNA, TOGETHER WITH GENERAL MANAGER GERARD HANNA AND THE ENTIRE HANNA FAMILY HAVE MADE THE DECISION TO CLOSE HANNA’S DEPARTMENT STORE. A CLOSING DOWN SALE WILL COMMENCE ON 30 JUNE 2015.

A

fter being ‘New England’s own’ for 94 years, change is coming to Armidale please tell us in your own words Gerard.

“It has been an honour and a pleasure to serve the New England and the Armidale community over the past 8 years. To be a part of a fourth generation family business that has been in existence since 1921 has been a privilege. For me, Hanna’s is an institution, and it’s with a heavy heart that I see this chapter in my life close.”

Philip Hanna commented ‘This is a sentimental moment for our entire family. Four generations steeped in tradition along with a long standing affinity with the Armidale and New England community. The decision to close Hanna’s came as there were no family members wanting to embrace retail as their career of choice.’

This decision must have been huge; why have you made this decision now?

“Over the past year my life has changed considerably.

I married in September last year, and we’re now expecting our first baby, with these life changes my wife and I evaluated our future, from a career and personal perspective. We have made the decision to relocate from Armidale.”

“Closing Hanna’s has been one of the toughest life decisions I’ve made, especially as the business’ credentials are very healthy, and our relationship with suppliers reaches new heights every season. Our personal service and customer relationships are what our business is built on. For me this is the part that weighed heaviest on the decision to close. Armidale will lose the personal service

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that we strive so hard to provide each and every day.” memories over this time?

This is a decision for the future, at a juncture in general Some of our most treasured memories at Hanna’s come manager, Gerard’s life. Despite all the goals achieved, and from my great-grandfather and grandfathers era. During improvements made at Hanna’s, Gerard tells us that this the depression customers were able to buy food and was a decision that included factors of lifestyle, clothing from Hanna’s with personal accounts. They opportunity, change, personal challenge were given up to three years to pay their and investment. “I have wanted to accounts. It was here that our loyalty, pursue other opportunities further traditions, commitment to customer afield from retail and the best service and to the people of the New Our personal timing for this has come now.”

England began. service and our nships Who would you like to Similarly wool growers, in times customer relatio dation un thank? gone by, were paid annually via a have been the fo r Fo of the business .

“Our family would like to wool cheque. They were given 12 at rt th me, this is the pa pay tribute to our staff both months credit on their purchases. r ou on st weighed heavie past and present, who have It is these people together with ” e. decision to clos worked at Hanna’s, served their families who have been loyal the community and treated the customers for generations and some of business as their own. They have whom are still shopping at Hanna’s today. shown honesty, integrity, support More recently we have shared wonderful and friendly service every day. It has been experiences being part of local fundraising and a pleasure to work alongside people who are charity events. The annual Can Assist Melbourne considered to be part of our extended family. A Cup luncheon in Uralla has been a highlight along with special mention goes to our current staff members Fashions On The Field at the Armidale Cups and St. Jenny Haydon, Ali Lockyer and Jess Haydon who have Albert’s College race days. We have also enjoyed assisting been managing growth and development programs the St. Marys Revue, local school fundraisers and various in their departments. I would also like to thank Deb other charity events. We have always done our best to McMahon for her hard work and special role in our give back to the community both financially and with workplace and all our other staff members. We would our time and participation. It’ll be a sad goodbye, but we also like to thank our many loyal customers over the years. know this is the right decision for our family.

They have shown endearing support and encouragement To mark the end of an era Hanna’s will commence to both our business and our family. their closing down sale on 30 June, with 40% - 80% Tell us some of the families most treasured off all stock.

“

focusteam. team. focus

Welcome to the November edition of New England FOCUS.

O W

n this month’s front studies at Screenwise Acting School St Brasserie. cover is BarbaraWelcome Albury, film of andNew TV school AndFOCUS. finally, read how a local golfing to- Australia’s the Julyleading edition England who stars in A Streetcar for actors. community has come together to save Thatshowing first halfat of INSIDE THIS ISSUE beUralla missed.

Namedow!

Desire, We also speak to the wonderful Adethe Golf Club. year Twenty a long time to has do Fifty-nineTO years on, it’s had many ups TAS Hoskins centrethe from theflew 21stbyofso laide authoryears Sue isPanagaris, who WELCOME JAMES BROOKS quickly!

July is upon anything!

Supplies andEngland downs and was is closed last year.

November to December 6th.

This event just releasedArmidale her thirdBuilding book for Mills is New FOCUS very proud to us now a lovely time &celebrating 20th servicing welcome The Armidale has been reborn has a “stella” cast and will-be sure to Boon titledtheir Falling forbirthday, Dr December, JamesClub “Jimmy” Brooks to of year in the New England region. This with the New England clients.

Jeff again, and it’s nothing like the its former impress. the story set inregion’s the New England our team.

James has joined team time of THIS year brings and hisplace teaminhave great respect asself beautiful consultant renovations,asgreat staff, INSIDE ISSUE many a bargain to (taking bothearned Armidale and an ... advertising well as be had, with the stores going in the community forwere their very “canexcited do” and a compelling vibe - the ArmiPracticing localallaccountant for 40into Uralla).

We at FOCUS helping us out withnew photography, so their half of us awless customer dale Club again. years, Bobyearly Lockesellouts tells us and howall advanctoattitude have a and chatflwith Sue and alsoservice. happy please give lives James a call if you have any gearing up to gethave the had taxesa in order. hundred and fithe fty New yearsEngland is even FINAL SAY es in technology very big thatTwo she’s showcased enquiries.

ON THE longer again, with these six gentlemen “I’mSAY on the edge of glory and I’m impact onCOVER the way business is done area to the world.

FINAL Ross Patch from the Daily Ritual clocking up moretothan years of hanging on depend a moment these days.

We also travelled the 250 Uralla Bowling “You can’t on with your you” eyes,- Lady master community service in Rotary Gaga.your imagination is out of foWe talk blender, to Lachiecoffee Sewellconnoisseur, about why and he club, where Lyn Ferguson hasbetween recently when tea leaf Ross he owns them;over readthe about how and as what makes cus”- Mark Twain. chose to gastronome. stay in Armidale; tellsthe us taken dining room head retail are andmany café outlet that offers Armitheseproducing gents tick.satisfying and moreish there job opportunities here chef, dale’s multi-award winning coffee Ninety-four years family of service to the for theonly younger generation. meals for the whole to enjoy. andcatch an extraordinary range of loose leaf Lyn New region beyond, many We up with born and bred ArmihasEngland come back to and the New England teas.lady Ross’ passion Howe, is about theshares pedigree region a fashion showshe andloves countless contribudale Monique who because the mounof his coffee beans used in Daily tionsand to our local her ambitions to become anthe actress tains fresh air. community, Another bigHanna’s change Ritual’s blends, which make will be closing their and tellsunique us about the exciting mo- his isDepartment the name ofStore the restaurant in the outlet from a must for your daily ritual. doorsBowling later thisClub, year. now Hanna’s - you ments hertrycareer so far.

Monique Uralla titled the will Hill

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new england focus focus. 35

inside this

Issue 98 - July 2015

14.

Armidale Club.

A beloved icon of Armidale and the heartbeat of nightlife, the Armidale Club Has re-opened its doors, but inside it’s an entire new world ...

Audrey Panon.

24.

Since January, young Frenchwoman Audrey Panon has been living and working at The Armidale School, where she assists students from Transition to Year 12 with language and cultural studies.

28.

Multicultural Community Choir.

Beyond Empathy celebrated Harmony Day 2015 by launching a new project that brings Armidale’s international communities together with the Aboriginal and broader communities - creating connections around the idea of “home” through music, art and stories ...

usual suspects.

the

15. what’s on for July 16. eat featuring local restaurants 31. star guide with Terri

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

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new england focus. 7

THE UPSIDE OF DOWNSIZING THE PROCESS OF DOWNSIZING AND MOVING INTO A RETIREMENT VILLAGE CAN BE A DAUNTING TASK FOR MANY SENIORS, BUT NEW RESIDENTS OF OAK TREE RETIREMENT VILLAGE RECEIVE FULL SUPPORT FROM STAFF AS THEY TRANSITION INTO VILLAGE LIFE.

T

he first resident of what will be a thriving reach during the move. That’s why we’re community of seniors will move committed to making the transition into into Stage One later this our village an easy one.” month. Regional Manager, Construction of stage two and Melissa Luck, said Oak the Village Centre will begin this Downsizing your Tree Group is committed month and will incorporate to helping new residents recreational facilities and a home for a simpler as they move into community centre. lifestyle doesn’t mean “The new facilities will be ready the Village.

“Moving house can feel to use in time for the Christmas you have to miss out overwhelming for many festive season,” Ms Luck said. on life’s luxuries. seniors because there Downsizing your home for a are so many things to simpler lifestyle doesn’t mean you consider,” Ms Luck said. have to miss out on life’s luxuries. In “It can be daunting task just fact, residents at Oak Tree Retirement thinking about packing, booking Village Armidale will have access to a removalists, forwarding the mail and ensuring range of recreational facilities just outside their there’s a kettle and a few snacks at easy front door.

Once completed, residents will enjoy a community centre, bowling green, outdoor BBQ and entertainment areas, open planned seating areas, hair dressing salon, self-catering kitchen for functions, as well as a library and computer corner.

Oak Tree Group specialises in providing affordable, stylish and secure independent living communities for seniors that combines residential and recreational facilities in an environment where residents can be part of a safe community and still live independently.

Experience the lifestyle on offer Oak Tree Retirement Village Armidale by taking a personal on site tour with full time Village Manager, Donna McMillian, Monday to Friday between 10am - 2pm, Call 1300 367 155. www.oaktreegroup.com.au

OAK TREE RETIREMENT VILLAGE 89 MARTIN STREET, ARMIDALE

“It feels wonderful to afford a new home without the cares of the old house.”

L AY P S I D N OW N O PE

1300 367 155

2 BEDROOM VILLAS FROM

$275,000

2 BEDROOM + STUDY FROM

$295,000

www.oaktreearmidale.com.au

JANET SEINDEL TRIO AT THE SKYLIGHT ROOM ARMIDALE

No, it's not Danny's Skylight Room, New York City's venue of legendary repute and association with the likes of Blossom Dearie, but this venue is in Australia's regional university town, Armidale.

It’s quite likely that Janet and Trio will feel inspired to feature some of Blossom’s quirky repertoire, which Janet has a special affinity with. So much so, that she wrote a song, Dear Blossom, for her CD of the same title some years ago and has presented a show, Dear Blossom, far and wide, including theatres and concerts in Australia and in particular the UK, including Glasgow Recital Hall and twice at London’s famous Ronnie Scott’s, where Blossom famously held court from the iconic swinging sixties.

Quite a coincidence is noted in that Janet shares a birthday, May 28th, with the marginally more famous Australian, Kylie Minogue, who happens to be a well known Blossom Dearie fan - she even produced a BBC radio special about Blossom.

The Armidale audience can expect a night of intimate vocal magic, and smooth acoustic sound, inspired by the great tradition of jazz standards and popular song with a twist.

Repertoire is also drawn from her 18 CDs, including the latest, Far Away Places.

Smooth, sophisticated and stylish, the Janet Seidel Trio have a uniquely warm and natural approach to sound that comes as a breath of fresh air wherever they go.

With a wealth of experience, worldwide, The Armidale audience can from recording studios intimate (18 CDs released), live expect a night of smooth d an , vocal magic radio performances spired in d, un so acoustic (including ABC, BBC, ition of by the great trad popular vocals, jazz guitar and Japan), concert halls, an standards d zz ja double bass) and the theatres, jazz clubs ng with a twist.” so extensive repertoire and festivals, cabaret ranges from jazz venues to country halls standards, ballads, Latin, and private parties, Janet’s French Chanson, through to captivating voice along with the more quirky, depending on the superb guitar and bass, wins over setting. new audiences time and again.

“Her voice is as pure and warm as a soft Reviewers have compared her favourably summer breeze” - Weekend Australian. with iconic artists including Peggy Lee, “Seidel has an exquisite gentle and agile Doris Day, Julie London and Blossom Dearie, voice and honours each tune she sings” - All accurately noting her influences. The trio uses about Jazz USA. the renowned Nat King Cole line up (piano/

“

"Janet is a singer who swings and caresses the lyrics of great songs with a sexy vocal magic” - Melbourne SunHerald.

“Janet has a drop dead gorgeous voice” Songwriters Monthly USA. “She sings with a seemingly effortless and swinging grace” - Bruce Crowther, UK Jazz Journal.

Janet Seidel vocals / piano, Chuck Morgan jazz guitar, David Seidel double bass http://www.trybooking.com/Booking/ BookingEventSummary.aspx?eid=137582

new england focus. 9

10 new england focus.

focus_business.

with Susan Cull

• ARMIDALE BUSINESS CHAMBER •

AWARDS 2015 now open HELP DISCOVER ARMIDALE'S BRIGHTEST BUSINESS STARS! HAVE YOU FOUND - OR ARE YOU RUNNING - A FANTASTIC BUSINESS IN ARMIDALE OR THE NEW ENGLAND REGION? TELL US ABOUT IT!

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he Armidale Business Chamber is looking to recognise great ideas, great service and business innovation in all forms across the region, through the Chamber Business Awards 2015.

The Awards 2015 are now open to all businesses in Armidale and New England: and you can nominate any outstanding local business - or your own business - for achievements in a range of different fields.

For customers, this is a great way to say “thank you” for the great products or service you’ve received.

And for local businesses, it’s the chance for a pat-on-the-back for your hard work in growing a successful operation in a regional location.

Participating in the Awards is also an opportunity to reflect on your business.

Through the Awards process, you can share how you’ve improved your existing business, launched new services or developed innovations. The Awards also recognise great business leaders, employers of choice and inspiring workplaces.

Your “prize” as an Awards finalist or winner is the opportunity to be recognised for your achievements in business. This recognition is a great way to acknowledge and inspire your staff - and to connect with new customers by sharing your story with them.

Nominate today, using the entry form

in this month’s FOCUS or each Friday in the Armidale Express - (then post your nomination to the Chamber at PO Box 222 Armidale 2350, or email it to (office@ armidalechamber.com.au). You can also nominate online at armidalechamber.com.au.

Name your own, or any local business for the Awards, which this year include 14 categories, as well as the Business of the Year.

The Awards will be presented at our Gala Awards Evening, Friday 14 August, at the Armidale Bowling Club, in front of an audience that - last year - included over 200 of Armidale’s business leaders.

Hope to see you there!

Winning the Chamber Business Awards was a surprise - and a surprise business boost, says last year’s Business of the Year, Superair.

After taking out the top honour in Armidale, Superair went on to “wow” regional judges before being named NSW Business of the Year. The result has been widespread newspaper and magazine coverage, at home and further afield, that Superair’s Manager, David Boundy, says has lifted the team’s confidence.

“It’s been a real boost to the business to win,” says David. “The publicity has been great, and the comments I’ve received from people from near and far have helped lift our programme. I’d heartily recommend the Awards to every small business.”

new england focus.

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focusinterview.

CafÉ 195 As Travel & Adventure 195 ventures into the the world of hospitality, FOCUS talks with the team about their new and exciting venture, CAFÉ 195, and now having two shops opposite each other in the middle of the mall.

We see it as , 1 world , 9 ways to ce it see and experien te , ci ex to and 5 senses le to op pe t an and we w ste, ta , m ea dr to be able lly fu pe discover and ho .” ld or explore the w

“ e hear that you have a new venture opening in the mall. Can you tell us about it ...

We’ve had the Travel Agency and Travel & Adventure Store for five years, and we’ve been in the mall a year. Recently the opportunity arose to expand across the mall into a café. So, here we are with a new adventure. We like to think the “195 Experience” is all about travel, adventure and food. We see it as, 1 world, 9 ways to see and experience it and 5 senses to excite, and we want people to be able to dream, taste, discover and hopefully explore the world.

So why a café?

Well for a start, both Scot and Neal are trained chefs, and one day we noticed Café Midale had closed. It’s directly opposite our Travel Agency and Travel store, so we thought, “Why not ruin our social life and work seven days a week?!”

Actually, there was no social life to ruin! Seriously though, we did see it as a really exciting opportunity, as it will give us a chance to link the food we offer at the café with the great travel deals we get at the Travel Agency and the special travel gear we sell in the shop - it’s all about travel and the experiences you have.

So, tell us about your staff.

Well, Neal trained as a chef in London and worked in a Director’s Dining Room for a large company for a number of years and also had

12 new england focus.

a catering equipment hire business in London.

Scot trained as a chef in Sydney and has worked at cafés and restaurants in Sydney, Melbourne and Armidale. Scot will be running the café side, and Neal will concentrate on the Travel and Adventure gear store. Vicki, who has been in the travel industry for over 20 years, will continue to run the Travel Agency. As well, we have some really enthusiastic and experienced staff to help out at all three ventures.

So what plans do you have for each part of the “Experience”?

On the Travel Agency side, we are planning a lot more talks and information evenings highlighting some great destinations such as France, South America, Africa, Morocco, Oman, Canada and Alaska, as well as highlighting some travel experiences such as walking in Britain and Chamonix, cycling and motor biking around Vietnam, taking the Trans-Siberian and Trans-Mongolian railway across China, Mongolia and Russia, and cruising Antarctica. These will all be held in the café, and we’ll make sure they are linked with some great travel deals. Neal will also be having some great deals on travel and adventure gear in the store.

And what about the newest part - the café?

We have some great ideas and plans for the

café. The day-to-day menu will be an inviting, comfortable selection filled with your breakfast and lunch favourites. But the part we are really excited about is our specials menu which, carrying on the 195 Experience theme, will have a real travel flavour to it. We will be highlighting regions and countries around the world, linked with the talks and information evenings we are going to have and special travel offers, so the food will reflect the travel theme of the company.

There will be dishes from France, India, Morocco, Spain, the UK, Vietnam and many more. And, you’ll be able to get a coffee in the mall after 3:30pm, as we will be open until 4:30pm on weekdays and open for breakfast and lunch on weekends.

Do you have any specials on offer now?

For July and August, anyone eating at the café will go into the draw to win a return flight from Armidale to Sydney courtesy of REX airlines. Anyone who comes along to any of the information evenings and who then books a holiday through Travel 195 will receive $100 worth of savings - with a $50 Travel Voucher from Travel 195, a $35 gear voucher from Adventure 195 and a $15 food voucher from Café 195. That’s the 195 Experience!

Thanks Vicki.

new england focus.

13

focusinterview.

NIGHTLIFE T H E

A R M I D A L E

C L U B

A BELOVED ICON OF ARMIDALE AND THE HEARTBEAT OF NIGHTLIFE, THE ARMIDALE CLUB HAS RE-OPENED ITS DOORS ... BUT INSIDE IT'S AN ENTIRE NEW WORLD …

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he Armidale Club opened its doors to next event. With the club trading Friday - Sunday the public for a grand re-opening this with opening hours from 5pm Friday for corporate after work drinks with Warwick Dunham and friends month. After much anticipation, the club on the grand piano (piano bar style) - then open from is now being used to its full potential.

6pm Saturday, with Tony Elder from Black Dot Music With a major facelift, which included running Sunday sessions from 4pm (TBC) - “Black Dot many hard hours of revamping, the Club Sundays” - to promote local artists. (Artist enquiries is looking fantastic. Donned with luscious red velvet for this should go through Tony from Black Dot Music). wall drapes, beautiful artworks and a new open The club is still operating as a Registered plan bar, opening the whole place up, Licensed Club, which is now “members and adding beautiful new raised only”; however, applications are open lounges and hardwood flooring to everyone and it’s very affordable has given the club that warm, ge and well worth it with the new pa a e It’s lik inviting feel. As you walk into look venue, which has retained ew N a om fr the club you are greeted by r, the always competitive club ba zz Ja ns Orlea quirky doors and bright and m ar pricing. w at th l al ith w stimulating colours. e th to , Something must be said for et lit red velv Kate Richards and Allen in rs te the styling that has gone into us cl candle Edwards St James are .” s.. the club; it’s like a page from a ge ca bird behind the scenes as the new New Orleans Jazz bar, with all that management team and really warm lit red velvet to the candle clusters in birdcages, to the booth know how to get the club back on style lounges hugging the edges of the track. Sporting its new and updated premises.

Some great work has been done look, a full house packed into the club for with the old pipes and gas lines, turning them into its grand re-opening weekend gala, which saw fantastic showpieces above the bar that have to seen. the likes of the Al Heeney Rhythm and Blues The Armidale Club has been an icon of Armidale as Experience rocking the place with their 10 piece, a live music hotspot for many years and will do so for powerhouse action packed songs, giving the dance many more, with their year filling up with a plethora floor a well deserved working in until the wee hours. of live music acts, comedy festivals and DJs and lots Not to be outdone, the Syncopaths followed up more to be announced. The club is a community club the Saturday night with another jam packed evening, with a difference, bringing some style and class to topped of with the club’s own in-house DJ Loki Armidale with a quality music focus - and that’s only spinning the vinyl in between the acts and after the the tip of the iceberg! Kate and Allen are wanting to bands had finished, to keep the people bopping and put Armidale on the map for musicians and artists as shaking! The club sounds great with its new array of a place to stop and have provided a new and exciting sound systems throughout the building, making it venue for that to happen. If you would like to know great for people who want to be in the front getting what exactly is happening for the whole month, check the full spectrum of sound, to the people in the back out the Armidale Club’s new What’s On Guide on page room not missing out on the action.

15 for a monthly planner, so you can plan your next night out at this great venue and well loved heartbeat Food is available every day, and the club has created of the Armidale musical community - The Armidale “The Rotating Chef” - with different menus every Club. Members only, 18+. Dress code applies. week. Also, Groovers private function room and dining 91 Beardy Street, Armidale room is coming soon - any enquiries should be made at the club or via their Facebook page to secure your www.facebook.com/TheArmidaleClub

“

14 new england focus.

AROUND THE REGION //JUNE 2015

First Saturday chats Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Jane Pfister, Solicitor from 10am to 1pm at our offices on Saturday 4 July 2015. As this is a popular programme, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

28

The Aboriginal Cultural Centre And keeping place exhibitions The Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place will open three exhibitions on Tuesday 28 July at 10:30 in the morning. The centre will have a daytime exhibition to accommodate elders from the Tablelands Community Support Options Elders’ Group, who will be having a photographic exhibition.

Three outstanding exhibitions will be on display until the 19th September 2015. The community is invited to join in for morning tea and view the works on the 28th July.

When Tuesday, 28 July at 10:30.

Where The Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place.

31

12th Armidale international Film festival

The 12th Armidale International Film Festival will be on (as usual) during the first weekend in August - 13 fantastic films from 13 different countries. Festival passes will go on sale on 1st July. Individual tickets will be on sale soon after (once all festival passes are sold).

When Friday, 31st July to Sunday, 1st August.

Where Belgrave Twin Cinema, Armidale.

New England Poultry association (NEEPA) is celebrating its 25th Anniversary Show in Uralla on Saturday, July 18.

Everyone is welcome to come to the showground anytime after 9am on Saturday, July 18, where you can view the large array of exhibits. Morning tea is provided and a BBQ lunch at a minimal cost. For more information, please contact me, Geoff Hine, on 6778 4847 or Kevin on 6792 2373.

new england focus.

15

Crispy Skin Salmon served with honey baby carrots, potato mash, aioli & lemon from The royal Hotel.

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

16 new england focus.

The vegetarian burger

Stacker burger - double beef, double bacon, double cheese and onion rings with hickory smoked BBQ sauce.

The royal hotel The Royal Hotel has been trading since 1880 (then known as the Advance Hotel).

Our recently renovated bar boasts the largest bar in Armidale, with its feature being the historic black and white photographs wallpapered as a backdrop behind the bar.

The royal hotel With the cooler season now upon us, our winter menu is in full swing.

Whether you prefer a hearty burger or a warm salad, crispy skin salmon, slow cooked lamb shanks or one of our perfectly cooked steaks from the New England region, we’ve got a meal to suit that will leave you wanting more.

The food is fresh, the coffee is smooth, and the service is friendly.

Come and enjoy a delicious meal by our fireplace today.

oviding a unique and From the moment you are made to feel welcome ve is seasonal, with local reate delicious meals whilst p of Allpress coffee. Prue & fé atmosphere through the Barista Sarah Levingston. ms and the overall ambience of 107 Beardy Street Armidale (Crn Beardy & Marsh street) gh tea and catering for special 6772 1444 royalhotelarmidale.com.au Prue & Olive and make your

7 days from 10 ‘til late. Lunch 12pm - 2pm.

Dinner 6pm - 9pm.

ve catering for special occasions.

zel

would like to take chance to introduce our wonderful he industry; Danou Cullen has taken over the role of pumping out “the best chicken schnitzels in town”, mperial Hotel caters to large groups, functions and e to find something delicious, and we have plenty for

ot to enjoy some of our fantastic meals and drinks. o come in and have a listen to some great acts.

The bistro menu changes seasonally and is not your average “pub-grub”, but not your finedining meal either. Our head chef, Lennard Tanner, aims to provide a “home-style” meal at affordable prices for individuals and families alike.

Our belief is that fresh is best, and our menu reflects the best of local produce, offering a point of difference over a large number of similar dining facilities in Armidale.

Take advantage of our large function room for your next special occasion or private function.

Head Chef YouLennard can choose Tanner. from a buffet menu, platters, or à la carte menu options.

Head Chef Lennard Tanner.

107 Beardy Street Armidale (Crn Beardy & Marsh street) 6772 1444 royalhotelarmidale.com.au

plantation hotel

7 days from 10 till late. Lunch 12pm – 2pm Family Friendly Venue Dinner 6pm – 9pm.

The Plantation Hotel is your family friendly local venue.

Tuesday night is “Family Night”, and Miss Sprinkles, the Kids’ entertainer, will keep your little ones amused with lots of fun craft activities, while mum and dad sit back and relax. You could even stock up on your weekly meat by winning 1 of our 30 meat raffle trays.

If that’s not enough to entice our local families, from now to the end of August 2015 “Kids Eat Free”. Receive a free kid’s meal with every à la carte main meal ordered from 5:30pm to 7pm every Tuesday. Terms and conditions apply.

over the top pizza The team at Over the Top Pizza are providing top quality and delicious pizza to the Armidale public for over a year now. Focusing on competitive pricing, friendly staff, great meal deals and most importantly great tasting pizzas. We accomplish this by using the finest top quality meats, cheeses.

Starting February Middle Eastern Breakfast including: Mana kish be za’tar, Mana kish be jebne, Lahme be a’geen and Fatayer. Also now stocking Middle Eastern groceries, spices, halal meats and even Arageel. Our pizzas can be gluten free or halal on request.

Mo from Over the Top Pizza.

urse meal with champagne on arrival.

ailable in March.

m

100 Jessie St, Armidale 5713 0020

Chef John Marshall.

Monday - Sunday 11am - 10pm Middle Eastern Breakfast 7am-9am

88 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour. new england focus.

6652 3855 www.plantationhotel.com.au

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Lunch: 12pm to 2:30. Dinner: 5:30 to 8:30, 7 days a week. new england focus.

17

focusinterview.

DAILY RITUAL N E W

E N G L A N D ’ S

A W A R D

W I N N I N G

C O F F E E

DAILY RITUAL ARMIDALE IS A CAFÉ AND RETAIL OUTLET THAT OFFERS ARMIDALE’S ONLY MULTI-AWARD WINNING COFFEE, AND AN EXTENSIVE SELECTION OF OVER 160 LOOSE LEAF TEAS

R

eceiving a Highly Commended in the Armidale Business Chamber’s 2014 Small Business Awards, Daily Ritual is the New England’s most awarded coffee exhibitor, with 12 bronze and two silver awards. Included in this tally are Bronze awards for its Daily Ritual Signature 2350 and Mocha Supremo at this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show.

This month we celebrate the success of our very own Ross Patch, the man behind this impressive record.

Tell us a little bit about your background …

Armidale has been a part of my life for over 40 years. In my later teens I moved to a family hotel in Forbes, where I first met my wife, Cherie, some 36 years ago. After 10 years in the hotel game, I spent a number of years in horticulture, then briefly jumped back into the hotel game, running “The Coona” in Coonabarabran. After three hard years, I started a carpet cleaning business, specialising in hotel and club cleaning. Then, as fate would have it, all roads led back to Armidale, where I secured work at Berkeley Challenge. After five years I moved into yet another career, supplying cleaning and hotel supplies to pubs and clubs.

With such a varied background, how did you end up in the tea and coffee business?

I had a serious workplace accident in 2000. On one of my

18 new england focus.

many trips to see doctors in Sydney, I came across a little tea shop and a specialised coffee roaster in Newtown. I saw the potential for this type of business in Armidale and opened our first store in 2007.

What is the story behind the name Daily Ritual?

We all start the day with rituals. First thing in our house, we turn on the kettle and make a cuppa, so Daily Ritual was the obvious choice. And of E, I’M PA SS IO NAT course, we serve all our tea in fine china cups, E A BO U T TH the only way to drink tea.

AND V O PR ENA N CE And the secret of your award-winning E TH F O Q UA LI TY coffee?

S N A BE CO FF EE I’m passionate about the provenance and A ILY U SE D IN TH E D UE quality of the coffee beans used in the Daily IQ N R IT UA L’ S U Ritual’s unique blends. Our blends are regularly ” BL EN D S. entered for competitions such as the Golden Bean, Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE), Hobart Fine Food Show, and Sydney Royal Easter Show.

Working with Craig Sommers, a specialty coffee roaster, we have created all the multiple award-winning blends for Daily Ritual. The Signature 2350 blend, described by the international coffee roasting judges in Melbourne 2013 as "A rich, sweetness, full bodied, vanilla, almond and chocolate flavours pushing

“

focusinterview.

DAILY RITUAL

OUR PRODUCTS ARE OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY AND WE BUY AND SOURCE ONLY FROM INDEPENDENT, RESPONSIBLE AND ETHICAL TRADERS. WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON OUR SPECIALIST EXPERTISE, WHETHER IT’S ABOUT OUR COFFEE BLENDS, COFFEE MACHINES OR THE MAKEUP OF SOME OF OUR FINE TEAS.

through the milk".

I changed the profile of the Daily Ritual blend in 2015, enhancing its flavour and complexity, with the results plain to see in the outcome of this year’s competition.

You also offer an extensive array of loose leaf tea. Tell us more …

We stock seasonally sourced Silvertip teas, crafted by Daily Ritual tea taster and master blender, Clayton Pine. Clayton topped the 2015 Hobart Fine Foods Show awards with 7 gold, 9 silver, and 5 bronze. These award-winning teas are available at Daily Ritual.

At the Daily Ritual we stock 160 teas.

However, if your favourite tea is not in store, let us know and we will try to source it for you.

Do you take special requests?

Over the years many customers have asked for special blends of tea or coffee.

The latest is our own twist on Melbourne breakfast. This blend is comprised of the very best Golden Yunnan China black with China Keemun and the highest quality vanilla bean infused flavoured black tea, aptly named the “New England Breakfast”. We plan to enter this blend in the 2015 Hobart Fine Food Show.

What else can we find in store?

We offer the New England’s most extensive range of coffee and tea accessories: plungers, coffee machines and pods, handmade Japanese teapots, infusers, and tea caddies. We stock the award-winning Nina’s handmade chocolate, serve tasty light meals, great cakes, and a selection of gluten free offerings.

We have a wheelchair user friendly table, ground level access, and the shop is heated and air conditioned.

Tell us about your customers?

One of the things I love most is the variety of people I get to meet in a day. A typical day will see regulars coming in for their morning coffee and the faithful replenishing their tea and coffee to enjoy at home.

We’re open ‘til 5pm mid-week, so in the

afternoon we get high school students, mums on the run, and office workers just looking for a great coffee or snack.

Any characters?

One of my regulars is a 4.5 year old that takes up our full attention when she comes in. To her I’m “Mr Patch”, who has special beans (smarties); we love making any visit to our shop memorable.

What are the latest trends in coffee?

Nespresso compatible pods and Cold Drip coffee are the latest industry trends. We pack our coffee into Nespresso compatible capsules, offering three blends, including our award-winning Signature 2350. You can buy in bulk or purchase a sampler pack from $6.

Cold Drip coffee is spectacular - a tall glass science lab type unit that slowly drips coffee from the top to the bottom over 12 hours.

We have three available to demonstrate in-store.

What are your latest community and business partnerships?

We are proud members of Locals 4 Locals, flying the flag for local business. We have recently partnered with Saumarez Homestead, donating our fine loose leaf teas and our award-winning coffee.

Les Davis, Property Manager Saumarez Homestead says, “For several years the Daily Ritual has been a generous donor of tea, coffee and confectionery for Saumarez Homestead Farm Fair and Mothers’ Day Hamper raffles. This sponsorship has helped Saumarez Homestead, a National Trust property near Armidale, raise much needed funds to help conserve the property and keep it open to the public.”

Our staff are trained with on-the-job hospitality training through New England Hunter Valley Group Training and TAFE. Where do we find you?

Centrally located at 7/108 Dangar Street, Armidale; we’re open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm and on Saturday 8:30am to 1pm.

You can also purchase our tea, coffee, and accessories online at www.dailyritual.com.au

new england focus.

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ROYAL HOTEL

W

BEARDY STREET, ARMIDALE hat can the Royal Hotel Offer You? The Royal Hotel is a unique family friendly hotel that is not just your

everyday bar and bistro pub.

Our restaurant offers a generous winter menu for both lunch and dinner, seven days a week. We have ever changing daily specials available, as well as our weekday lunch specials that come with a complimentary drink.

The restaurant also runs a number of themed

The hotel offers 16 accommodation rooms,

food nights, including Mexican Monday, Pizza

which have recently undergone a refurbishment.

Tuesday, Ribs & Wings Thursday and Steak night

Whether you’re passing through or staying a

Sunday.

while, we have a warm, comfortable

The bistro has also just launched its

and affordable room waiting for

Rump Rewards card. Customers

you. We offer both ensuite and standard rooms, with both single and twin bed combinations.

The Royal also offers a unique and intimate function room.

You might be looking for a private party room

receive a rewards card to be stamped every time they

We have ever changing daily e, as specials availabl ay kd ee w r well as ou ls ia ec sp lunch a that come with drink.” ry complimenta

“

purchase a rump steak.

They will receive their 10th rump steak for FREE. Our very own Liquor Legends bottle shop offers a large range of local

or a business conference

and international wines and

room. Our recently renovated

beers to suit your taste. You can

function room offers both of these and more.

Our function room can hold up to 100 seated guests, or you might just be looking for a cossy room to relax on our lounges and enjoy the warmth of the fireplace. We have a number of meal options available, ranging from finger food, sit-down and buffet dining.

The room can also be transformed into a conference room for your business event. Our kitchen offers a range of morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea food packages for these events.

The room is equipped with full audio visual system facilities, free wireless internet, projector and microphone facilities.

20 new england focus.

select from our large walk-in cool room or choose from the large range of mainstream and top-shelf spirits. No matter what your preference, we can assist with a drop to suit the occasion.

The hotel has also just launched its new website, you can now find all our bar and bistro menus online at www.royalhotelarmidale.com.au.

You can also now make online enquiries regarding bistro and accommodation reservations.

So whether it be for an enjoyable meal, a business conference, a memorable party, a warm nights accommodation or your favourite drop from the bottle shop, make it the Royal Hotel, any day.

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Artists Q&A

GALLERY 126 EXHIBITIONS

H

ow long have you lived in the area?

I moved to Armidale with my family from the Northern Territory 22 years ago and have lived here off and on since then. I spent time away at Newcastle University, where I gained a Fine Arts Degree and Diploma of Education. After that I had a couple of years travelling and working overseas.

About a year ago I returned to Armidale after completing further study in Textile Design and then working as a textile designer. Now that I am back, I am really enjoying the slower paced, relaxed lifestyle that we are so fortunate to have here in Armidale. I always missed the distinct New England seasons and unique landscapes whenever I have been away, so it is nice to be back.

Describe the type of artwork you specialise in?

I mostly paint or draw landscapes - they have been the subject of my previous three exhibi-

I often take pictures to refer udio, as to later in the st is not a e id ts ou g paintin r my fo practical option .” ng style of worki

“

tions at Gallery 126.

I like to use a variety of media, such as oil paint, watercolours and pens. My work tends more towards realism. I particularly like to paint landscapes with clouds, as they can provide a lot of atmosphere and mood.

For this exhibition, titled Familiar Places, I have focused on local landscapes, mostly places I walk such as Black Gully Reserve and the Pine Forest. I often take pictures to refer to later in the studio, as painting outside is not a practical option for my style of working. I work quite slowly, building up detail with each layer.

While photography can be a useful tool, I try not to become too concerned with depicting everything in the photo; I sometimes edit some elements out and like to enhance colours to develop the atmosphere. I find painting a constant challenge, and I am always striving to be better.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I gain inspiration from many places, such as local exhibitions, blogs and books. I am always inspired by visits to NERAM, where I can see beautiful works from the Hinton Collection. It is great to see how artists such as Arthur Streeton, Elioth Gruner and Tom Roberts depicted the Australian landscape. Their use of colour and the way they captured light is very inspiring, and you can imagine being there in the scene.

Nature itself is probably my greatest inspiration; if ever I need a new subject for a painting, I don’t have to go very far to find it. I think we are very lucky here in Armidale that we have lots of natural beauty around us.

Other than your artworks, what are your other interests?

ELOUISE ROBERTS IS THE THE NEXT EXHIBITOR AT GALLERY 126. THIS EXHIBIT IS TITLED "FAMILIAR PLACES" AND RUNS FROM THE 24TH JULY (OPENING AT 5PM) UNTIL AUGUST 29TH. When I am not painting, I love to be outside, walking the dog or gardening. I am also interested in interior decoration and design; I like to keep up with new styles and trends in the industry. Cooking for friends and family is also something that I really enjoy.

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

The exhibition runs from the 24th July (opening at 5pm) until August 29th.

People who have been to my previous exhibitions will see work featuring the style and mood they are familiar with. I have been working on larger canvases, which is something I haven’t done for a while. There will also be some smaller mixed media paintings on boards and detailed pen drawings on paper. For myself, I am looking at this exhibition as a way of reacquainting myself with the local community.

My hope is that people will come along and connect with landscapes they are familiar with.

Thanks Elouise.

new england focus.

21

A

2015 Let’s Hang It!

n exposé of young creative energy at NERAM. All children love to play about with drawing and painting. How young children see and portray the world can be fascinating, and their spontaneous creativity is immensely appealing. As they get older, this is matched by increasing technical mastery of different art mediums. Each age group produces fascinating works, and the University of New England School Acquisitive Art Prize (UNESAP) Let’s Hang It at NERAM will be the place to see a smorgasbord of art by young people. Opening on 17 July, UNESAP is an annual event that displays the best works from students from regional schools from Kindergarten to Year 12.

Through the fantastic guidance and mentoring of their teachers, this energetic and engaging exhibition shows the creativity of school children from across a wide area

of our region and beyond. 2015 is our biggest year ever with 707 entries from 39 schools. UNESAP has been going since 2004 and has become an important part of the art calendar for many schools in the nearby regions, including Mid North Coast, Hunter, Northern Rivers, as well as New England and the North West. Some previous winners have gone on to art careers, but even for those that don’t, being part of this major exhibition at NERAM is a wonderful experience, that endorses the value of the creative arts.

Recent studies identify creativity as a key employability skill, and in schools involvement in the creative arts is a great way to develop a creative mindset that can transfer across all areas of activity. The arts are an integral and essential part of any education, and this Prize encourages and promotes children to explore, experiment,

and most of all find creative expression through the creative process of art making.

This is an exhibition that shouldn’t be missed by young and old. Students, parents, teachers and anyone who wants to spot the next rising star in the artistic world should come along to NERAM at 6pm on 17 July.

It’s always a packed house for UNESAP, and the energy and anticipation of the announcement of the winners makes this one of the most exciting events in NERAM’s exhibition programme. UNESAP runs from 17 July ‘til 2 August at NERAM.

the plug!

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

For more information: www.neram.com.au

Are you a leader in business who has provided training and not got the results you were after?

H EFFECTIVE

culture •IN THE WORKPLACE•

22 new england focus.

ave you run training to motivate staff, and it was short lived?

Want to know how you and your team can get more done in less time?

Most training focuses on professional development (PRD) - skills and expertise, that often people are already capable of completing and do not address the underlining problem of “ineffective culture”.

This can show up as “lack of communication”, “show up, do my work, go home” or “I’ll get round to it”. Interestingly, these are forms of personal development (PED)!

So let’s do math: If PRD + PED = Professional Human Being (PHB) then PHB x No in team x No of teams must = Effective Workplace Culture.

This is NOT “airy, fairy” words; it’s common sense. Being a PHB

has its rough roads, and we need business to make profit to keep people in employment, to make a living, continue to provide for our communities, and it is a tough market out there …

Competitive advantage is a must, and here it is.

With GrayHeart, we have your game plan for “Effective Workplace Culture”. Warning: this is different and not for the faint hearted, but for those serious about people and success in business.

So contact Diane today to book your next team training.

Complimentary Culture Assessment is available when you mention this article.

the plug!

Diane Gray Business Strategy Consultant Ph: 0459 988 833 e: dgray@gotagameplan.com.au

focuseditorial.

ELDERS

BUSINESS LIABILITY INSURANCE

IF YOU'RE A BUSINESS OWNER, YOU'LL KNOW THERE IS ALWAYS THE POSSIBILITY THAT ONE DAY SOMETHING MAY GO WRONG.

W

here a third party is affected, you might be liable to pay compensation for property damage or personal injury caused by you, your employees or your products.

With business liability insurance, we can help protect you and your business against the financial risk of being found liable under a number of circumstances.

To provide peace of mind, we can

provide your business with cover for both public liability and products liability.

Public liability cover protects you and your business if you are found liable for losses or damage suffered by a third party as a result of negligence.

If your business provides goods - including in the form of services - we can cover you for claims which may arise through incidents which happen as a result of them.

This includes goods you manufacture,

sell or deliver. Products liability cover can protect you if you are found liable for damage, injury or death which has been caused by your goods.

Our business liability insurance can cover you for property in your physical control and in your legal control.

Call into Elders Insurance New England on Bundarra Road or call our office on 6775 4577 for advice on how we can assist you with all your insurance needs.

PS ACCOUNTING Do I need an accountant?

Accountants keep account of financial matters. This includes the preparation of financial statements that report the financial performance and position of a business or activity, and can extend to analysing costs of operations, products and projects.

Accountants can also assist with: Business Plans for new and existing businesses Business Analysis and Risk Analysis Record Keeping and Systems Tax Compliance (Income Tax, GST etc) Goal Setting & Business Succession Planning Debt and Cashflow Management Business Acquisitions, Sales and Valuations Self Managed Superannuation Funds Choosing a trading or investment structure Many accountants have an eye for detail, and their commercial experience can offer benefits for decision making in your business. If you want to start a new venture on the right foot, or you feel you could use some advice and direction in your existing business, finding an accountant you can connect with is a positive step forward.

At PS Accounting, we enjoy communicating with our clients, and we would welcome the opportunity to assist you in your business. If you would like an honest discussion about what an accountant can do for you, please contact one of our friendly staff. Andrew Toomey, Director.

D

KEEPING THE CREAM ALIVE

ungowan dairy farmer Malcolm Rose escaped the end of the seven-year farming profit downturn by starting his own dairy product brand, Peel Valley Milk.

Malcolm Rose was one farmer who struggled under profit downturns years ago, as he sold the produce from his cattle to major dairy companies.

In 2002, Mr Rose formed Peel Valley Milk, a locally-owned and operated dairy brand to save his livelihood.

In keeping milk for their own products, the business escaped the trend where

major dairy companies dictated pricing.

Peel Valley Milk, which now stocks over 40 businesses throughout Armidale, Tamworth and Gunnedah, can offer the public the best quality milk at cheaper prices.

Peel River Milk is a small dairy of Jersey cows run by Malcolm Rose at Woolomin, south east of Tamworth. Malcolm is dedicated to his cows and to extracting only the finest milk from them. To this end, they are fed primarily on the rich pasture of the Peel Valley, and the final product is treated with the utmost respect

- free from permeates, stabilisers and other non-milk additives. Peel River Milk is available non-homogenised under the “gold-top� label.

Malcom enthuses about the milk from his gentle Jersey cows - it is high in butterfat and protein, with a higher casein value. He currently milks 106 cows twice a day, and along with his milk products, he also supplies milk to Hunter Belle Cheese in the Upper Hunter Valley.

You can pick up Peel Valley Milk from local stockists Armidale Market Fresh, located at 168 Rusden St, Armidale. new england focus.

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Audrey

Panon

the armidale school

SINCE JANUARY, YOUNG FRENCHWOMAN AUDREY PANON HAS BEEN LIVING AND WORKING AT THE ARMIDALE SCHOOL, WHERE SHE ASSISTS STUDENTS FROM TRANSITION TO YEAR 12 WITH LANGUAGE AND CULTURAL STUDIES.

W

e talk to her about her campus. I just love it. programme, and to What are some of the things you have been Extension & Enrichment involved with? and French teacher I read French stories, I sing “des comptines”, Anne Hine about how which are songs for the little kids. So far, the kids Audrey’s work fits have sung a French song at their Assembly neatly into the IBPYP programme at twice, and I was really proud of TAS Junior School. them.

Firstly Audrey, tell us a little I help the kids to about yourself? pronounce and memorise It’s also great I’m 29 and come from French words by writing, to see how the Noisy-le-Sec, which is ks singing, speaking and wor education system in a about 30 minutes out of ly drawing. al ci pe es d here an , where Paris. In the 10 years since ol I feel very lucky to be ho sc ng di ar bo mpus. I I graduated from college, working with Kathryn I am living on ca I’ve essentially worked and Anne Hine, because just love it. ” with children in various they are just fantastic roles, including in the US as a teachers. I’ve been learning nanny, where I taught children a lot from them.

French.

I imagine the children are In 2014 I decided to work as a French learning all sorts of things from assistant in an English speaking country, and you? that’s how I ended up in Australia. I applied They are actually very curious to know to an agency, NACEL Australia, which is how about my country and me. I just think that it’s Kathryn Tamminga, the Languages Coordinator very interesting for the kids to be with a native at TAS, found me!

French speaker, so they can see that English is So here I am sharing my language and culture not the only language spoken, and can also learn with the TAS students. It’s also great to see how more about another culture. the education system works here and especially Anne, you work with Audrey as the Junior in a boarding school, where I am living on School teacher of French. How does the

“

24 new england focus.

work Audrey is doing with all the students fit into the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, for which TAS is a candidate school?

This term all our year groups have initiated new Units of Inquiry, as we are now an IBPYP candidate school. Each student in the PYP is a learner of an additional language - in this case, French. Each child is learning language, living through language, and learning about language.

Whenever possible, language should be taught through the relevant, authentic context of the ` of Inquiry.

Can you give an example?

Sure! Our Transition students are exploring the IBPYP Transdisciplinary Theme, ‘How we Express Ourselves’. Audrey and I started with a ‘tuning in’ activity we call ‘La Boîte Mysterieuse’. This was done before just before we launched into the Central Idea, ‘We interpret our environment through our senses’ (Les 5 Sens). The students were immediately excited and brainstormed about the senses needed to guess what was in the box.

Learning the basics of a new language is a fantastic new skill - even for our four year olds in Transition, who have yet to start their formal schooling!

Many thanks Audrey and Anne.

Celebrating outstanding business achievements Nominate your own – or any outstanding local business – to recognise their achievements and contribution to our dynamic region.

Businesses across Armidale, Guyra, Uralla, Walcha are encouraged to nominate at armidalechamber. com.au or see the nomination form each week in The Armidale Express.

Nominations open until July 21 Your name: Person/Business you would like to nominate:

Reason for your nomination: Proudly supported by: Armidale Dumaresq Council / Evans Printing Community Mutual / Greater Building Society Hillgrove Resources / UNE / BEC Qantaslink / Partners in Recovery The Armidale Express / núcleo

armidalechamber.com.au / office@armidalechamber.com.au PO Box 222, Armidale NSW 2350 / Just call us on 6771 1177 new england focus.

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ROTARY CLUB O V E R 2 5 0 Y E A R S O F C O M M U N I T Y S E RV I C E

O F

A R M I D A L E

WHAT DO A PHARMACIST, ARCHITECT, SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, ANAESTHETIST, BARBER, AND DENTAL TECHNICIAN HAVE IN COMMON? THEY ARE ALL PROUD MEMBERS OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF ARMIDALE AND RECENTLY, THEY CELEBRATED 250 YEARS OF COMBINED MEMBERSHIP OF THE CLUB AND SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY. HERE THEY TALK WITH FOCUS ABOUT WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A ROTARIAN AND WHAT ROTARY IN ARMIDALE HAS GIVEN TO THE COMMUNITY OVER THE YEARS.

T

ell us why you all joined Rotary: Dennes Fayle [celebrating 50 years of Rotary membership this year]: I joined Rotary because my father was in Rotary, and he thought I would enjoy it and be a good Rotarian. I had been in Apex for 20 years and thought it would be a natural progression to continue to serve the community through Rotary. My father, uncle and brother were all District Governors of Rotary, and two of my sons and a daughterin-law are also in Rotary, and we have all been Presidents of our Clubs. So it really is a tradition in the Fayle family, and one I am very proud of.

Tony Deakin [40 years of Rotary membership this year]: I believed it would be a good opportunity to be involved in all sorts of activities in Armidale, as I had come to live here only two years before.

Neil Adamson [over 40 years of Rotary membership]: After being told about the very fine projects of Rotary, I became interested in helping both locally and internationally and first joined Rotary in Gulgong in 1972, then joined Armidale when I came here. Being a member of Rotary was and still is a great way of meeting people from various occupations and with varied interests in a small town.

Jim Harding [40 years of Rotary

26 new england focus.

membership this year]: I joined Rotary to get some social contact with men other than those in the medical community and it also gave me an introduction to the local community at a time when community service was regarded as the norm.

Roy Cowley [40 years of Rotary membership this year]: I joined in 1975, because I was impressed by the contributions to the community I had seen made by the club’s members with their time and money, both locally and internationally, to those less fortunate.

Jim Edwards [over 40 years of Rotary membership]: I was a member of Apex, but one of their rules was that when you reached 40, you had to retire from Apex. I was flattered to be invited to join Rotary, where I had some friends, and I joined willingly because I enjoyed service work and the company of people with similar ideals.

What have been some highlights for you as Rotarians personally and for the club?

Dennes: Being President of the club, as well as just the companionship I have enjoyed over the years. Highlights for the club have included making Rotary Park and landscaping Walker House.

Tony: The major renovation job we did for the hospital on Tanna Island in Vanuatu, and the design and construction of the new library at the Khao Talu School in Southern Thailand, together with the landscaping work

at Walker House and the BackTrack Workshop in Armidale all confirm Rotary’s ideal of community service worldwide.

Neil: On a personal level, highlights include being President of the club and serving as District Governor. On an international level, I have been very involved with Rotary Literacy programmes and am Rotary’s General Literacy Coordinator worldwide. Our club has been involved in so many projects over the past 40 years, but some which stand out for me are working with other Rotary Clubs in Armidale to purchase a Paul Harris Bell for St Peter’s Cathedral and the club’s involvement in the Sustainable Living Expo (SLEX), which was designed to highlight the issue of sustainability in the community.

Jim H: Being President of the club as it prospered, while other service clubs seemed to disappear.

Roy: Rotary has achieved many things, from the eradication of Polio worldwide, helping local charities, and many things in-between.

Jim E: Hosting students from overseas under Rotary’s Youth Exchange Scheme has been a highlight. I have really enjoyed the physical work involved with building projects such as the arboretum, Rotary Park, and the picnic facilities at Dumaresq Dam. Personal highlights include my year as President and the fuss made by members for my 80th birthday!

Why do you continue to be in Rotary, and why should young people consider

joining?

Dennes: I enjoy the meetings and helping with projects where possible. I can't do much physically anymore, but can sometimes help in other ways. I always enjoy the guest speakers and the company. You're never too old to learn something new or to help someone in the community.

Tony: I continue to be involved, largely because of the fellowship I have enjoyed over the last 40 years and continue to enjoy. I also enjoy taking part in Rotary’s community work.

Neil: To me, Rotarians are dedicated people with a passion for both community service and friendships, and I enjoy being a part of this organisation.

Jim H: The club is a friendly place, and I enjoy the friendships I have made over the years.

Roy: I get great joy and satisfaction from the achievements of getting the job done and the fellowship and friendship that goes with it. I intend to remain a Rotary member whilst I am still able to make a contribution, whatever that may be.

Jim E: I continue to be involved in Rotary because of the genuine friendships of members and the weekly meetings with old and new members. I have a fairly long history in service clubs - Apex, Rotary and Lifesaving, and I’m proud of the work all service clubs do in their communities.

Thanks everyone.

BREAST AUGMENTATION W H I C H I M P L A N T ? W H AT S I Z E ?

W

HICH IMPLANT? Breast augmentation with silicone implants has been done for over 50 years, with

not a difficult decision for me to use

and donts after surgery. The eventual result

only the best implants, namely the high

depends on a number of factors, and the

cohesive biodimensional implants for my

patient’s compliance with the necessary

patients. I use the Natrelle (previously known

postoperative care is critical. Time is well

silicone implants first used in 1962 and saline

as McGhan) 410 for its well established

spent in going into all the details, for the

implants in 1964.

reputation for safety and quality.

patient to be well informed. The patient

Over the years, many improvements have

These implants cost more than many others -

is then advised to come back in a week

been made by addressing problems of silicone

but what price for safety and peace of mind

or two, giving time for absorption of all

diffusion, silicone and saline leak, rupture,

for both patient and surgeon?

information given. The second consultation,

deflation and migration. Saline implants have

WHAT SIZE?

at no additional cost, may be a short one,

a major problem - a valve is used to fill an

This is probably the hardest decision for

with the patients seeking some information.

empty silicone shell with sterile saline (salt

the patient! The problem is due to the fact

If the patient has decided to go ahead with

water) at the time of surgery. Unfortunately,

that the same sized and shaped implant will

surgery she then has to choose her surgeon.

in addition to the previously mentioned

look different on different women, due to

I prefer my patients to have a good think

problems, the saline implant has the

differences in breast and chest shape and size.

about this and want them to choose me on

additional risk of a valve leak in about 20% of

Breast augmentation, while increasing size

trust and rapport and not on price or style.

patients.

and volume, will also highlight every existing

The rest is easy! We have a good range of

Silicone gel-implants on the other hand have

problem in nipple size and position, breast

brassieres, fitting tops and breast-implant

become better and safer, especially with the

shape, position and asymmetry and chest

sizers, to take the patient through a range

development of high cohesive gel-implants

shape and asymmetry.

of implants, to help her choose the right size

(the silicone in these implants have more cross

There is no template or formula to follow

(or sizes, if asymmetry is significant). The

linkages, which causes greater cohesion of the

and a photograph of a woman with implants

use of a full-length mirror and a well setup

molecules of silicone) in which implant leak or

that compliments her are not relevant to any

digital photography studio aids in helping

migration is almost completely eliminated.

other woman. The only thing that works is

the patient to see herself in the mirror and in

Further, the availability of biodimensional

individualization and customisation.

an immediately available digital image. The

(naturally shaped) implants in a range of

HOW I DO IT

goal is to make a woman look good with or

projections, height and width, permits

At the first consultation, the time is spent

without clothes, to have a natural look and

“customisation� for the patient.

discussing breast augmentation, the pros

for her to feel happy and confident with the

With all of the above changes, it was

and cons, the timing of surgery and the dos

change in her body contour.

new england focus.

27

focusinterview.

MULTICULTURAL Beyond Empathy celebrated Harmony Day 2015 by launching a new project that brings Armidale’s international communities together with the Aboriginal and broader communities - creating connections around the idea of “home” through music, art and stories.

W

We are meeting weekly to share and enjoy a diverse and multicultural repertoire of music. In fact, one of the really nice aspects of the choir so far has been the willingness of people to share their music and personal stories and experiences around the music. tural community choir Another highlight is all that is bringing people rience pe ex o N the laughter amongst the together in a fun, friendly necessary. No is music! and musical way! tion or one has to audi How did the choir Tell us about the ht . We be in the spotlig come about? ve HOME multicultural are all there to ha The choir has been community choir? some fun.” developed as part of A community choir is Beyond Empathy’s HOME a fantastic way for people project, with support from to come together to have Multicultural NSW’s Unity Grants fun and get to know each other Program. HOME is a multi-arts while making music. And singing is a project which includes the creation of great way to relax and feel good! the community choir, photographic portraits Everyone is welcome to come along and and storytelling. be a part of the choir - young, old and in beOur hope is that the new choir will not duplitween. No experience is necessary. No one has to cate existing musical opportunities in Armidale, audition or be in the spotlight. We are all there but will engage with a new group of people who to have some fun. will then have an opportunity to create alongside Rather than leading the group, I am collaband in collaboration with other existing choirs. orating with the choir - and with other artists, The choir is intended as a forum to connect including well-known local musician Anthony people!

Green.

The choir does also offer an opportunity for e catch up with Cathy Welsford, community musician and co-director of the multicul-

“

28 new england focus.

the international community to develop their English language skills through song. At the same time, it gives everyone the chance to share their own musical culture, develop new friendships, find common ground and develop a sense of place here in Armidale.

Are there any plans for the choir?

While our main objective is meeting regularly and creating a space for people to connect and sing, performances are planned for several events, including No Shame Day in December and Harmony Day in March 2016. We hope that the choir will continue to meet and grow!

How can someone find out more about the choir?

The choir has been meeting weekly from 10:30am until 11:30am on Saturdays at Kent House.

Because our group includes families, we won’t meet on school holidays, but will continue to gather weekly through school terms.

The time or venue may change in the future if the group finds that the existing arrangement is not ideal. We aim to please!

If anyone has any questions, or would like to find out more, they can contact Ned McDowell on 0428 677 763 or check out the Beyond Empathy website www.be.org.au Thanks Cathy.

focusinterview.

NEW

VINNIES centre

St Vincent de Paul Society has opened a new centre for distribution and collection on Bundarra Road. FOCUS chats with Norma about this great new facility.

T

ell us about the second Vinnies Facility?

The facility on Bundarra Rd is additional to our Armidale Retail Store. Armidale now has two Centres, the Retail Centre on Rusden Street and now a Distribution Centre on Bundarra Rd. While Rusden Street will remain the primary clothing and bric-a-brac store, the Distribution Centre will have bulky goods, like furniture and whitegoods. This new facility gives us the space to be able to supply the larger items that we have not been able to do before.

You have combined at lot of services into one; can you tell us more?

We have combined three business functions under one roof. This allows the Society to save

A N YO N E IS A BL E TO A IL V IS IT O U R R ET R E O ST E R U IT FU R N OF T N O FR E TH AT IT .

G IN TH E BU IL D E TH TO IS O PE N PU BL IC .”

“ on ongoing operating costs and allows for far greater internal efficiencies to be made. It is not just about the money that we raise as a charity, but we must also ensure we operate as efficiently as possible. This building will house a retail store, a distribution centre to support our 20 retail stores across the New England and North West, and will also be home to the Armidale Central Council Offices. By combining these services under one roof, there are significant benefits.

Can anyone come to the centre?

Anyone is able to visit our retail furniture store at the front of the building. It is open to the public. The operating hours are Thursday and Friday, 10am - 4pm and on Saturday, 10am - 2pm. We are also very happy to receive

donations there, or at any of our retail stores. If you would like to donate furniture, please contact the office directly on 5776 0200.

What’s happening in the future?

The plans for the future are really bright for the Armidale Branch of St Vincent de Paul Society. With the establishment of a Major Distribution Centre here in Armidale, we are now better placed to service our 20 retail stores across the New England and North West. We are able to supply all centres, even those in more remote locations, with “A” grade stock, to ensure they remain open and viable.

The need to ensure our stores generate income is even more important than ever with the growing demand. In the 2013/14 financial year alone, the Armidale Central Council provided $503,244 worth of assistance to the local community in the form of food, food vouchers, electricity costs, rent and medical expenses etc. Additionally, the Armidale Central Council distributed $255,000 worth of EAPA and Telstra vouchers. As the need within our region continues to grow, so does the need to expand our offering.

Thanks Norma.

new england focus.

29

focusinterview.

KARISE

Eden

TREE TOPS at nsw tourism awards NSW State Forest’s visitor attraction, Old Bottlebutt, a grand and ancient Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) tree located in Burrawan State Forest, is officially the best new tourism destination in NSW. Old Bottlebutt won the Gold Award for New Tourism Development at the NSW Tourism Awards held in December 2014 at Darling Harbour, Sydney. Old Bottlebutt is the main feature on a beautiful 600 m loop walking track, beginning and ending at the Burrawan picnic area (shelter, tables, car park, toilets).

The walk features remnant rainforest, a viewing deck and an easy-grade track. Old Bottlebutt is unique in its shape, its large flared “butt” having a massive girth of over 16 m.

NSW State Forests was acknowledged with two other Silver awards, for Strickland State Forest (ecotourism) and for “Visit NSW Forests

- Experience a Forest Playground”, Forestry Corporation’s destination marketing campaign.

To visit Old Bottlebutt: From Wauchope travel south on the Bago Road 10 km, turn left onto Internal Break Road and follow the signs. From Port Macquarie, follow the Pacific Highway south and take the Bago Road exit. It is open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week and is free.

Find out more: www.forestrycorporation.com.au www.facebook.com/forestplayground Twitter: @visitnswforests Instagram: #visitnswforests

Karise Eden first captured the nation’s attention in 2012 when she won the television series “The Voice” at the age of 19 with a uniquely soulful yet powerful vocal style. She broke records for the most number of singles in the national sales chart (previously held by The Beatles) and went on to have the biggest selling album nationally for an Australian artist that year. See Karise live at The SerVies on Friday July 3.

T

he name of the new album been through and things we've all been through and tour is Things I've Done - in some form or another - feeling alone and what's behind the title? rejected. But it's also about staying positive and I guess it's got a bit of a double believing that things will come around. I'm in a meaning. The album is full of good place now, so I can look back and say, "Yes songs talking about my life ...

I've had a sh*t time, but things are looking up". things I've done or experienced. At the same You wrote your album all over the world, time, it's the finished product of songs I've been from London to LA to Melbourne to your working on since my first album (and beforehand)... so it's me literally saying, "Here you go; farm in QLD. What been your favourite place here's what I've been doing since my to gather inspiration and write? I've got last album!" Ha ha! a little spot on my farm where I like to Your album covers a range go and chill out. I've written a few of genres from soul, I still reckon songs and came up with some e pop, rock to timeless Things I’ve D on ideas there. I'm not a huge fan ballads - what are It’s got is my favourite . of LA itself, but I met some it to some of the artists a timeliness feel s ct fle re great writers there, so I guess that inspired you? I and lyrically ” r. fa so y love Janis Joplin, Jimi it's good as a little hub of artists my journe Hendrix, Amy Winehouse to collaborate with. and a lot of rockers like A lot of people get chills when Deep Purple, Black Sabbath listening to you sing. Do any singand Guns N Roses. I also like newer ers give you those chills? Janis has that acts like Imagine Dragons, James Bay, Alaffect on me definitely; she sang with so much abama Shakes, Gary Clarke Jnr, and local raw feeling and emotion, that you can't help but fave Kasey Chambers. be drawn in by it.

Do you have a favourite song on the album?

“

It changes from time to time, but I still reckon Things I've Done is my favourite. It's got a timeliness feel to it and lyrically reflects my journey so far. The line: “young but I'm an old soul” is pretty spot on.

What can people expect from your upcoming tour? Well, I'll be there ha ha... I've done a few intimate acoustic shows recently, but this time around I'll be stepping it up and bringing a full band. Obviously playing songs from the new album, a few faves from my first album and a few surprise covers. Looking forward to belting out with the energy of a full band behind me, that's for sure. Some songs work better stripped back raw to just one instrument and vocals, so I'll do that too.

The new sine, Lonelines, seems to delve into some of your personal experiences ...

Yeah for sure, it talks about some of the stuff I've 30 new england focus.

We've heard your incredible voice on the radio, online and on TV - what can we expect from Karise Eden live in concert? I guess the difference is the rawness and energy that you can never quite capture in the studio. I sing with a lot of passion and emotion, so I'm hoping people connect with that. I'm also bringing an awesome band with me, so I'm sure there will be some kickarse solos thrown in ... drums, keys, guitars the whole lot.

Thanks Karise.

the plug!

Friday, 3rd July. 7pm Tickets $35 adults, $25 under 18, $40 Buy from the Box Office on 6776 0800.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

JULY 2015

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

The challenges you are facing at home stem from not being appreciated or honoured. It is time you try something new to break the dynamics and re-educate those surrounding you to be a little less selfish and more considerate of your needs. A journey is a strong possibility, resulting in further career success. Rose Quartz is wonderful for self-confidence and appreciation.

• Dedicated Year 12 Study Block & Rooms • Opportunity to focus on academic study without distraction • Pastoral Care is tailored to the specific needs of girls • Girls take centre stage - they lead and participate • Best preparation for tertiary studies and life beyond school • A true culture of inspired learning for students and staff • There's every opportunity not equal opportunity, in and outside the classroom

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

0 2 6 7 7 0 1700 www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au In alliance with PLC SYDNEY

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 You may be feeling a little “up-rooted” lately, but don’t forget how badly you wished for change to come into the picture. The reason you may be feeling this way is because your outcome is not quite here yet. Try a little new goal setting, as this will assist in a happier outlook. Ruby or Garnet will help you feel grounded, taking away some of the dilemma.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Be patient a little longer; you’re about to step into some happier times, but your attitude is critical. If you can step into the unknown fearless, there will be nothing to worry about. Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

TA U R U S .

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Relationships are likely to be on the main agenda this month. Be open with your communication to avoid any misunderstanding and know which insecurities belong to you and which ones don’t. Kyanite helps build inner bridges, so we can literally get over things.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Don’t get caught up in holding onto garbage or things that are not a priority; this takes your confidence out of the picture, leaving you wondering where to go next. Set some fresh goals and enjoy! Selenite is great for an abundance of crystal clear energy.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 This month your awareness is being called towards your usual happy way of processing life. The reason why you are so fearful at present, is because you are currently taking life far too seriously; lighten up and bring back your laughter and watch your fears disappear. Pyrite will bring back courage.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23

A sense of justice will be experienced to enable you the freedom to move ahead.

Avoid giving your personal power away at this time, as this is an action that causes self-disapproval. Rose Quartz will aid in raising self-worth.

Adventure a little longer. If you’re feeling stuck, write some goals down and plan a course of action. Movement is important for dispersing some of your restless energy right now, so keep busy and keep having fun.

Carnelian will empower and enthuse.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23

With regards to relationships, instead of looking at what you’re not getting, concentrate on all the special qualities of this relationship. You will feel completely different. Chrysocolla will keep your heart singing.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Life may seem a little suspended at the moment, because you need to let go of something from the immediate past that has been exhausting you and causing sadness.

Don’t be afraid to try something different.

Your awareness is being called to recognise your creativity, because it’s through this talent you will be drawing success near. Turquoise is great for self-validation.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Now is a really good time to debate your own rules and regulations for life. Your judgement prohibits you from enjoying life to its fullest, so be kinder to yourself. Plan a holiday for yourself and get out of your current circumstance to try a little new goal setting. Citrine will shatter negative thoughts and attract an abundance of positive ones.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Important words need to be spoken to bring a happy outcome to a potential negative situation. Don’t be afraid to speak from the heart, as your intention will be felt. Enjoy some laughter, as celebration is on its way for a family member. Citrine keeps us positively focused and lifts our spirit.

new england focus.

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focusinterview.

•V I B R A N C Y•

NEW ENGLAND

NEEPA

•POULTRY ASSOCIATION• T H E N E W E N G L A N D P O U LT RY A S S O C I AT I O N ( N E E PA ) I S C E L E B R AT I N G I T ’ S 2 5 T H A N N I V E R S A RY S H OW I N U R A L L A

T

O N S AT U R DAY J U LY 1 8 .

he New England Poultry Association The New England exhibition poultry (NEEPA) is celebrating its 25th association 25th anniversary show will Anniversary Show in Uralla on Saturday, be held in Uralla on July 18. What can we July 18. President, Geoff Hine, has been expect to see at this event? NEEPA Show is showing and judging poultry for 38 years. He one of the largest poultry shows held in Northern has forged many wonderful friendships with NSW and attracts up to 860 exhibits of poultry, people from all over Australia and Tasmania. ducks and geese from all over NSW and QLD. “We all have one thing in common … the Prizes are quite substantial and the winner love of poultry”. Geoff tells us more about the “Bird Of The Show” receives an embroidered association and this event. sports coat. This year, entrants will receive a When did the New England Poultry commemorative medallion. The show is held Association begin? NEEPA over two days, and the presentation started in Glen Innes in 1990, dinner will be held at the Uralla instigated by poultry Golf Club, which is always an enthusiasts Mr Les enjoyable night. It is great is Bushell (dec) from Glen to see NEEPA going from ne yo Ever e m co to e m Innes, Mr Grahame strength to strength and co el w nd ou gr ow Sharpe and Mr Brian as long as we have a great sh e to th m on Weis from Uralla and committee and helpers, it anytime after 9a where , Chris Hardman from will remain. I would like to Saturday, July 18 rge e la you can view th Armidale. For the first thank everyone, members ....” array of exhi bits five years the show and non-members, that was held in Glen Innes, help bring this event then it moved to Uralla, together. Our life members where it is still currently held are Brian and Shirley Weis, Chris annually. The current committee Hardman, Aileen Tisdell and Geoff is Mr Geoff Hine (President) from Uralla, and Anne Hine. Our club patron is Mr Mr Kevin Lawty (Treasurer), Mrs Trish Peter Smith from Tamworth. Also thanks to Lawty (Secretary) both from Narrabri. The the Uralla Showground Trust for the use of the first few shows in Uralla were held in the old Showground.

Poultry Pavilion (now the Lapidary Club). In More info? Poultry exhibiting is a wonderful 2007 NEEPA acquired a loan to build the new hobby for young and old. NEEPA encourages pavilion and with the kind permission from the our juniors with a junior section at the show.

Uralla Showground Trust, it was constructed.

Everyone is welcome to come to the showground Fundraising for the annual show is mainly anytime after 9am on Saturday, July 18, where provided by our quarterly publication of “Chicken you can view the large array of exhibits. Morning Chat” and our year book. This is written by our tea is provided and a BBQ lunch at a minimal talented member Chris Hardman. Also, poultry cost. For more info please contact me, Geoff books are sold by our merchandising member Hine, on 6778 4847 or Kevin on 6792 2373.

Mrs Aileen Tisdell (Wingham).

Thanks Geoff.

“

32 new england focus.

T H E A B O R I G I N A L C U LT U R A L C E N T R E A N D K E E P I N G P L AC E ( AC C K P ) H A S B E C O M E K N OW N A S A P RO M I N E N T A RT GA L L E RY N O T J U S T F O R A RT I S T S, B U T A L S O F O R A RT L OV E R S, S C H O O L S A N D O T H E R G RO U P S.

I

t is a sought after gallery, as currently Every year the centre holds at least three artists have to wait for two years to prominent, award-winning artists’ exhibitions, have an exhibition at the ACCKP. including names such as Digby Moran, Brian Potential artists with dreams of an Irving, Warwick Keen, Milton Budge, Lloyd art career are sought by the centre to give Hornsby, Alison Williams, Graham “Budge” them opportunities to increase their skills by Blacklock and Terence Allen. The inclusion working with experienced artists. Artists who of these highly prominent artists provides an have not caught a break also have a place opportunity for the community to be exposed in the ACCKP arts programme. The centre to high-end works of Aboriginal art. promotes their works through its social media Performing arts events such as choirs, outlets and assists them to branch out and school music groups, Aboriginal and nonbecome independent artists.

Aboriginal singers and musicians, Over the years, the ACCKP are a regular feature at ACCKP has evolved, raising the exhibition openings. These bar for exhibitions to performances make the e iv This progress new heights. It now openings a fun and ix m ic and eclect cs holds approximately culturally enriching pi to d an of mediums a g in 20 exhibitions a evening for everyone. av le is aimed at on on si es year that include Many a visitor has pr im lasting .” not only paintings, commented on how rs to visi but artefacts, down-to-earth and friendly sculptures, ceramics, the openings are, without and photographic displays the pretentiousness that is as well. The centre holds a usually associated with gallery variety of thematic exhibitions, events. such as The Indigenous People of The centre also runs art and the World Series: Peru and it has also cultural workshops for schools, clubs and branched out into displaying some organisations. Workshop partcipants are controversial and provocative exhibitions exposed to Aboriginal culture through such as, Transgressing racial boundaries:The interesting activities which include a tour of Golliwog exhibition. The centre has recently the Centre, Aboriginal painting, boomerang been collaborating with the Tamworth throwing, object-making with Aboriginal Regional Gallery to exhibit part of their tools, cooking, bush tucker walk and collections to reach a wider audience. Some Aboriginal dreamtime storytelling. School of these include Utopia batik and works on groups from as far as Sydney, Walcha, paper, Kun-madi (dilly bags) and Mukata Tamworth, Glen Innes, Guyra, Uralla and Rinka (Flash beanies).

Inverell attend workshops at the centre.

This progressive and eclectic mix of The ACCKP, through its artistic mediums and topics is aimed at leaving programmes, provides a fascinating and a lasting impression on visitors. Some stir visually stimulating insight into Aboriginal the imagination, while others are thoughtculture. This centre has now come into itself provoking or inspirational, but whatever the as a respected regional gallery. It is an integral case, visitors leave feeling that they have had part of the region’s arts scene, providing a rich a personal encounter with art.

Aboriginal cultural presence the New England.

“

new england focus.

33

ADULT EDUCATION FEATURE

INFORM YOURSELF TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE

NEW ENGLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE (NECC) IS "A CENTRE OF CONNECTIVITY AND LEARNING" THAT IS A COMMUNITY OWNED, COMMUNITY MANAGED NOTFOR-PROFIT, REGISTERED TRAINING ORGANISATION (RTO 90145).

Since 1981 the college has been a leading provider of quality adult education across the New England region, committed to providing a wide range of excellent learning and social opportunities to meet the educational needs and interest of adults and businesses in our local community.

New England Community College provides regular services to the communities of Glen Innes, Guyra, Armidale, Uralla and Walcha and other centres throughout New England as needs are identified. The College has serviced offices in Guyra and Armidale.

New England Community College offers an extensive scope of nationally accredited full qualifications, skill sets and courses, as well as many general interest courses. All courses are delivered in a supportive adult environment by dedicated staff and provide diverse pathways to further education or employment.

New England Community College partners with other Community Colleges across New South Wales, so that we can

34 new england focus.

deliver a greater range of pre-vocational training through to Certificate IV and Diploma level courses across a diverse range of skill requirements and industry areas.

New England Community College also partners with the Department of Education and Communities (DEC) to deliver funded courses in 2015. This funding is in partnership with the NSW Government and Commonwealth Government.

As well as operating in the vocational education sphere, the college also offers non-accredited training, lifestyle and leisure courses, giving participants multiple entry points and pathways to learning. NECC can offer life-long personal development opportunities and lifestyle enhancement activities that assist older members in the community to remain both mentally and physically engaged - in essence, “active ageing”.

We contextualise and deliver customised workplace training programmes within a broad range of industries, provide one-on-one training for students

with a focus on support for those with special needs and/or barriers to employment and training, and provide classroom base learning.

All training delivered by New England Community College meets the requirements set by the Australian National Regulator, Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) and the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), the national policy for regulated qualifications in Australian education and training.

New England Community College’s main goal is to be flexible and responsive to client, employer and industry needs, emphasise the enjoyment of the learning experience, assist with vocational opportunities and empower students to participate in the community and workforce to their full potential and to enhance and optimise opportunities for the mature age members of the communities to participate in leisure courses or learn new skills for the future.

ADULT EDUCATION FEATURE

Hastings Valley Motorcycle Club

S

Skillstrain Pty Ltd is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that has been operating in the New England area and across NSW and Australia for the past four years.

Skillstrain was established to address identified skill shortages in the resource and infrastructure sector, and its primary focus was initially on safety and safety management systems.

It quickly expanded to include conservation and land management.

Involvement with civil and resource projects identified that skill development in conservation and land management was also a critical skill shortage area for individuals and communities and that climate change required development of skills and solutions to deal with current and future environmental challenges.

Skillstrain engaged Kosta Delimihalis, a qualified, experienced and practicing conservation professional. Kosta developed a project based model in Armidale to deliver the nationally recognised Certificate III in Conservations and Land Management.

Skillstrain consulted with Southern New England Landcare, the Armidale Tree Group, local Landcare

WORKING WITH LOCAL LANDCARE GROUPS, INDIVIDUALS AND THE BROADER ARMIDALE COMMUNITY TO DEVELOP CONSERVATION AND LAND MANAGEMENT SKILLS, DEVELOP VOCATIONAL PATHWAYS AND CAREERS IN CONSERVATION AND LAND MANAGEMENT AND LOOK AFTER OUR ENVIRONMENT. Groups and National Parks and Wild Life Services with Skillstrain and the land care groups to to adapt the nationally recognised promote the projects and the accredited training qualification to the local and support local individuals who are keen land care projects. to be involved with conservation based The local projects, projects and attain the Certificate including Black III in Conservation and Land IS Gully Project, SK IL LSTR A IN Management.

E TH Armidale SU PP O RT IN G E R The Certificate III in Urban River LO CA L LA N D CA ER E H W D Conservation and Land G RO U PS A N Care Project, G LE IS D IR EC TI N IB SS PO Management is a stepping Snow Gum PP O RT FU N D S R E SU stone for the students in this Reserve Project N D CA

“

IN TO TH E LA

and Martins PROJE CT S..�

Gully Project are working with Skillstrain to support the development of relevant skills in the community and engage the broader community in the development and maintenance of the land care projects.

Skillstrain is supporting the local land care groups and where possible is directing support funds into the land care projects.

JOBLINK plus and OCTEC have also worked

course to pursue a career with National Parks and Wildlife Service or work within a broad range of organisations and business that are making it their responsibility to care for our environment and manage the impact of climate change.

Skillstrain thanks the key stake holders in the Armidale community that have made it possible to be able to present this opportunity.

Southern New England Landcare, Armidale Tree Group, local Landcare groups, National Parks and Wildlife Services, JOBLINK Plus and OCTEC.

new england focus.

35

ADULT EDUCATION FEATURE

IT'S TIME TO LET YOUR CAREER

FLY...

WORKSPACE NEW ENGLAND Armidale’s first dedicated co-working space is now open.

Whether you’re an established small business looking for efficiencies, an entrepreneur starting out, or a larger business or government agency looking for additional space, Workspace New England offers you many options for running your business in Armidale. Work from our shared office space full-time or on a casual basis to reduce your overheads, yet have access to all the professional technology you need. It’s flexible, affordable and efficient and our thoughtful interior design touches make it enjoyable too. If you’re looking for professional conference rooms, training venues or meeting spaces, then consider Workspace New England. Brainstorm, meet with clients or host large groups.

• Large board room table with space for up to 12 people.

• Interactive whiteboard allowing Skype, presentation, videoconferencing, brainstorming.

• Communal high-quality printer and scanner with printing allowance.

• High speed unlimited broadband WiFi access.

• Cable access for big data users - the NBN is literally on our doorstep.

• Catering available, or self cater from our on site kitchen.

• Available at an hourly or daily rate.

Grow your business with Workspace New England! Visit workspacenewengland.com or drop in at 108 Beardy Street, Armidale. We’d love to show you around.

BELL TRAINING CO. Doug is the owner of Bell Training Co. Doug has thirty five years of clinical and thirty years of training experience gained from working as an industrial first aid officer, nurse, paramedic and a wide variety of safety related roles.

Doug offers a full range of first aid courses that meet today's demands for staff to be trained in first aid or related subjects that may include Manual Handling or Incident Investigation.

Doug is able to provide courses locally and by arrangement throughout the Tablelands region or beyond.

Doug provides a relaxed contemporary delivery style that accommodates clients that may have English as a second or subsequent language or literacy issues.

Bell Training also offers a professional safety advisory service conducting risk assessments, compliance audits and post incident investigations, looking for practical solutions to workplace safety issues that may arise in the workplace.

If you are a small to medium business and find the WH&S legislation or requirements confusing, then call Doug today without delay to see how he is able to assist you with this area of your business.

Email or call belltraining@bigpond.com or 0414 707 776.

STUDY WITH TNE Connects at TAFE New England...ON CAMPUS, ONLINE, FULL TIME OR IN YOUR OWN TIME. TAFE New England is now offering more ways of studying than ever before! TNE Connects is TAFE New England’s flexible learning platform, and provides you with a range of courses you can study where and when it suits you. Gain a nationally recognised vocational qualification through blended delivery that includes: • Video conferencing • Online resources • Workshops on campus • Mobile delivery units.

Unlike traditional distance education, TNE Connects gives you the opportunity to participate in a virtual classroom, take part in class discussions, and ask your teacher ‘on the spot’ questions.

You can choose the blended learning option that suits your particular circumstances and receive the support you need to complete your course. At TAFE New England, we partner with you to achieve your goals. You will never have to face the challenge of tertiary study alone.

ENROL NOW for Semester Two

P 1800 448 176 E info@tne.edu.au W www.tne.edu.au TAFE NSW - New England Institute RTO 90001

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ADULT EDUCATION FEATURE

THE ABORIGINAL CULTURAL CENTRE & KEEPING PLACE

PATHFINDERS HONOURED Pathfinders were honoured to host the New South Wales Governor, His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d) and Mrs Hurley at their Inverell offices as part of his tour of regional communities. Pathfinders services and programmes in Inverell and across our other regions were showcased to the Governor and his wife.

Since his appointment in October of 2014, His Excellency intends to support the people and community organisations of New South Wales, through programmes and organisations that promote inclusiveness, diversity and active citizenship, recognising innovation, achievement and excellence and advocating for marginalised members of the community.

Board, staff, volunteers and young people in Pathfinders’ programmes were thrilled to meet His Excellency and Mrs Hurley giving them an insight in to the everyday problems young people face who are in Out of Home Care and Refuges across the region. A once in a lifetime opportunity for Pathfinders young people to meet His Excellency was obvious, with many a selfie taken.

As a parting gift, His Excellency was given some pumpkins picked from Tilbuster Station, which he said would be used in the kitchens of Government House. Pumpkin soup could be on the menu at the next Vice Regal reception at Government House!

The Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place will open three exhibitions on Tuesday 28th July at 10:30 in the morning. The centre will have a day time exhibition to accommodate elders from the Tablelands Community Support Options Elders’ Group, who will be having a photographic exhibition.

Alongside the elders’ photographic exhibition will be artist, Albert “Digby”? Moran’s work entitled, The dreams of my forefathers.

This very special exhibition will present a new series of paintings celebrating his identity as an indigenous man in a riot of colour and movement. Traditional motifs are married with colour to form a singular vision of the dreamtime culture of his forefathers. Digby was born in Ballina and raised on Cabbage Tree Island. His father was Dungutti and his mother Bundjalung.

Digby enjoys enormous respect throughout the Northern Rivers region from artists, as well as the wider community. Digby has had several solo exhibitions in European and Australian cities such as Vienna, Osterwald, Byggriet, Berlin, Sydney, Canberra, Darwin and Brisbane. He has also exhibited in regional galleries across the state.

Digby has won numerous awards, including the 2000 People’s Choice Award at the National Aboriginal and Islander Telstra Art Awards.

The third exhibition is a controversial one, entitled Transgressing racial boundaries: The Golliwog. A Golliwog or golly is made from black fabric, has black eyes bordered with white, red lips with white teeth, and frizzy hair. The Golliwog doll, over time, has become very controversial. While some see it as a part of tradition and part of childhood, others see it as racist. This is why they disappeared from shops and advertisements; however, they can be found on the Internet. These three outstanding exhibitions will be on display until the 19th September 2015. The community is invited to join in for morning tea and view the works on the 28th July.

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SPORTSPOWER

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ow long has Sportspower been operating?

As a sports shop in Armidale, it was established by Dave Robins. I began working there 22 years ago. In time, it became a Sportspower store. I’m grateful to Dave - if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have gone into a business that I love.

How long have you been the owner?

I bought Sportspower Armidale in July 2005, so this is our 10th anniversary year.

I’m proud of the fact that the store has continued to be locally owned and serving the local community.

We offer a proven combination - an Armidale store that responds personally to people in our community, and a business that’s part of a nationwide buying group, Sportspower, which can provide competitive prices for people in country regions.

Since being the owner, has Sportspower Armidale won any awards?

We’ve been fortunate to win various awards over the years.

The large buying group, Associated Retailers’ Ltd (ARL), which does bulk purchasing for major companies and brands in Australia such as Toy World, Manchester House and Camping World, gave its 2013

CONGRATULATIONS ON 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

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NSW Sports Store of the Year Award to Sportspower Armidale.

We have also received a number of the Roy Morgan Customer Satisfaction Awards, which are given each month to a wide range of businesses, including retail stores. We have won such awards in 2011, 2012 and 2014.

On a personal level, I was lucky enough to receive a Customer Service Award from the Armidale Chamber of Commerce in 2008.

How has the industry changed and grown in your time?

Like the retail trade overall, any sports business is always facing new challenges.

The most obvious ones are from increased competition in the retail market as well as growth in online purchasing.

A report earlier this year showed that local retailers in Australia are facing stiffer global competition, with 15 per cent of the world’s top 250 retailers now operating in Australia - and this number is continuing to rise.

In addition, the rise in purchasing across the internet is significant. While this offers a certain convenience to customers, they still have to deal with the things that can go wrong when you buy without first

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inspecting the goods - particularly with items like clothing and footwear.

There is also the issue of after-sales service - with things like sporting equipment that might prove to be defective in some way. This can be much harder and more time-consuming over the phone or by email - especially when you have to return damaged goods for a refund - than being able to resolve the matter in person with a professional in the shop.

You sponsor a lot of events around town - what have been some of the highlights?

Sportspower supports sport in Armidale as fully as possible, sponsoring at least one club in every sport.

We assist all the local schools in raffles, giving away products for fetes (we love chocolate wheels!)

We also try to support as many fundraising events as possible, not just in Armidale, but We give special also in the surrounding area - Uralla, Walcha, s, attention to skin and Guyra. A recent one was “Shave for ing m co be e ar ch whi Sara”, to help Sara Lynch, who’s only pular for increasingly po people 10 years old and been diagnosed with fitness-minded ity. un m m We even supply customised team wear Leukaemia. in our co midale is, Ar er w po ts or Sp shorts, jerseys, and socks - to a rugby Let’s talk shop - what are the main t es e bigg in fact , one of th club in Japan! things that you sell? in s suppliers of skin Tell us about your team ...

We are a “one-stop-shop” for all country NSW.” We have great staff, in particular Matt sport-related items. We cover virtually every Hourigan, who’s worked with us for three years. sport played in Armidale and the wider region Matt runs the shop at the “front-end”. He’s friendly including all football codes, hockey, netball, cricket, and very good at engaging with our customers and tennis, squash, snooker and darts, just to name a few. meeting their needs. He is also a Personal Trainer and can We provide both male and female apparel and footwear, help out with great advice on fitness equipment. and we sell lots of equipment, such as trampolines, pool taCarolyn Beresford has been here for nearly three years. She is bles, basketball systems, table tennis tables, and gym equipment a great lady! She plays hockey and has a great rapport with all of of all kinds. our customers. Caz is a great asset for our businesses.

We give special attention to skins, which are becoming inDonovan Chalmers has worked with us since he was at school, creasingly popular for fitness-minded people in our community. four years ago. He also plays hockey in town and has a friendly Sportspower Armidale is, in fact, one of the biggest suppliers of nature. A great kid to work for us. skins in country NSW. Our latest employee is Georgia Hutton. She is in Year 10 at PLC A key service we offer is customised club wear and team wear.

Armidale. She is a very keen sportswoman, and her main sport We do this for many sporting clubs, not only in Armidale and the is also hockey. She is great with customers and has a very good New England area, but also in places far afield, such as Perth and understanding of customer service, as we have been told this Darwin.

SPORTSPOWER

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already by a number of our customers.

What are your plans for the future?

We’re always looking for ways in which we can improve.

A major development now taking place is the creation of our own website for Sportspower Armidale. We know that we need to have a presence on the internet, as a way of highlighting and promoting all that we have.

I see a close connection between the internet and in-person service. People can look online at what’s available - or is soon to be released - and yet still visit the store and receive the benefits of professional advice and personal service.

What do you love most about your job?

The best thing about having a sports store is meeting the needs of our customers, which covers a wide range of ages. We try to provide a quality service, firstly, by helping our customers when they phone or walk into our store, and secondly, by offering the best after-sales service we can, based on our strong links with suppliers. The key, I think, is having a highly motivated team and a good supply line.

Thanks Paul.

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MIKE HILL K I P

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LOCAL TEACHER AND NOW TUTOR MIKE HILL GIVES PARENT AND FOCUS READERS AN INSIGHT INTO WHY HOMEWORK, EVEN ONLY AN HOUR A WEEK, CAN HELP DEVELOP A CHILD’S INDEPENDENCE.

ell us about your family.

Our family consists of myself, my wife, Gillian, who works in nursing here in Armidale, and our two daughters, Phoebe and Hayley, who currently live in Sydney. And then there are our two fur kids, Lulu and Chickie.

How long have you lived in Armidale?

We initially moved from Inverell soon after our wedding, to “work our way around Australia”! We only got as far as Armidale, where we worked for a couple of years before moving back to Inverell. We returned a few years later, and I completed teacher training at the Armidale CAE. We moved away when I took up my first teaching position, and then returned later to live here permanently. Altogether, we have lived here for about 27 years.

How long have you been a teacher? Tell us about some of the places you have taught.

After graduation, I commenced work as a secondary teacher at St Joseph’s Central School, Oberon, teaching Technics, English, Art and Science. As a fresh graduate, the first school has a huge impact on shaping your new career. I recall some challenging moments trying to discipline some of the more outspoken students, who were taller than me!

I later worked for the NSW Department of School Education, teaching Design and Technology at Model Farms High School in Sydney. I was fortunate to be there at a time 40 new england focus.

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when innovation was encouraged, assisting teaching techniques that covered kindergarten with the implementation of the new D & T kids to adults. When you have received curriculum. However, with two young daughters excellent training as a teacher, you know what and our hearts in the country, we returned can be achieved, so when something doesn’t to Armidale for the third time, where I work you start to look for solutions. took up a position teaching D & How important is homework?

T and Engineering Science I believe homework is at The Armidale School in important, providing 1993. During my 20 years it reinforces what is y m I believe at TAS, I undertook currently being taught in r fo n passio s ar ye many roles, including class, requires minimal n ga be tutoring e m ca be housemaster, TASKLA parental assistance, I n he ago w e how th in ed Coordinator, Company and feedback is st re te in ation.

Commander with provided with marking. and why of educ t fit no the TAS Cadet Unit, A child that does one My career does ld .” the classic mou founder of the Year hour of homework a 6 Ranger programme, week will do an extra 40 project manager of the Trade hours of learning by the Training Centre, and Middle end of a single year. To put School homeroom teacher - which that in sporting terms - imagine has led me to where I am today. three soccer teams. Team A only gets You are now specialising in tutoring; together at the actual Saturday game. Team why are you so passionate about this?

B practises once a week in preparation for I believe my passion for tutoring began years the game and Team C practices twice a week ago when I became interested in the how before the game. Ask yourself which team is and why of education. My career does not more likely to experience success? Another fit the classic mould. Before teaching, I had important benefit of regular homework is that it already worked in industry for seven years and helps develop positive independent work habits. attended two different TAFE Colleges. By the Every activity at school is planned and organised time I started training to become a Primary/ by the staff. Children learn to function in a Infants teacher, I had enlisted in the Army regulated environment, whereas homework Reserve and begun Officer training. I had been, requires the child to set aside time on a regular and continued to be exposed to professional basis and encourages the development of the

“

independent habit of self-improvement.

How can parents and carers get involved with their children’s education?

Most mothers have a fairly good understanding of their children. They see them every day interacting with their siblings and peers. If parents have concerns about their child, they should approach the school and talk with their child’s teachers. If they develop a positive, supportive relationship with the school, it is likely to benefit their child. Schools get a lot of negative media coverage, so it’s a good idea to make initial contact with the school about something positive, remembering that it takes a team or community to grow a child to adulthood.

Tell us about some of your successes.

Recently, a boy who had disliked reading and was well behind his peer level, was waiting to be picked up after attending our reading programme. I suggested he play an educational computer game while he was waiting, but he politely asked me if it was OK to read a book instead. This is the kind of success I enjoy.

Plans for the future?

I’m always trying to improve my lessons and I’m also working at my onine tutoring skills. This makes Kip McGrath tutoring accessible even to children living out of town that can’t just be driven across town and dropped off.

Thanks Mike.

NRMA INSURANCE

superbooth AUSTRALIA

The New England NRMA offices located in Armidale, Guyra, Uralla and Walcha are giving their customers the opportunity to win one of two CTP Greenslips.

Photo booths have been around since oldies were wild young things and black and white was the only filter. They keep on rocking on ... why? Because they are fun. Fun in a print that you can keep forever!

The NRMA Agency Relationship Manager Tim Winders said, “The two Greenslips we are giving away are valued at up to $500 each, and customers will be automatically entered into the draw when they renew or buy a new Motor Insurance or CTP Greenslip at one of the four participating New England NRMA offices.”

It’s often thought that all Greenslips are the same across the insurance companies that offer Greenslips. An NRMA Greenslip comes with automatic cover for At Fault Drivers cover, providing cover for specified injuries up to $300,000. This cover is included in the price of an NRMA Greenslip.

“NRMA has offices located across the state, so we are available to our customers when they need us,” Mr Winders said. “Customers have the choice to be able to call into an NRMA office to discuss their insurance needs, and I encourage customers to visit one of our offices in Armidale, Guyra, Uralla and Walcha to organise their Motor Insurance or CTP Greenslip to be entered into the draw.”

These NRMA Offices are located at: Dangar St, Armidale; Bradley St, Guyra; Bridge St, Uralla; and Derby St, Walcha. Entries into the draw for these greenslips close on 31st July 2015.

DATA#2 Data#2 has opened their new shopfront, located in the East Mall. For those who are unaware of what Data#2 does, they specialise in data, communications, security, ITSM and audio visual setup installation and service. Data#2 began in the usual way, at home as an idea, after Andrew had worked in the area as the Field Operations Manager of our other company, Armidale Communications. Andrew saw a niche in the Armidale market for customers that require the complete package of data cabling, security, television installations, computer repairs and sales. We basically offer everything except for electrical. The two companies’ combined aim is to deliver a leading integrated telecommunications and security services company by using new technologies and highly skilled personnel to meet customers’ needs. In the future, we aim to improve the telecommunications service delivered to the Armidale community and surrounding districts. Come see the team at Data#2 for your all your computing needs.

But booths are not dark little boxes anymore ... They have studio lighting and DSLR cameras, customised prints and social media sharing - all to show you at your best. They may be enclosed for that old school cosy feel, or open air to capture the crowd. Superbooth photo booth took the enclosed style booth to the Stars of Armidale, Dance for Cancer at the Armidale Ex-Services Club on the 13th of June. It was a great event, raising over $38,000 for the Cancer Council. We took many photos, with some hilarious outcomes and reactions. To see the results, visit our Facebook page.

So for your next function, think outside the box. Think about something that creates a moment of fun that you and your guests can keep/treasure forever. We make events memorable and special; we assure you that it will be a night to remember.

Think Superbooth Australia - Armidale’s number one Photo Booth Hire servicing New England and its surrounds. Call us now on 0410 958 530 or contact us through www. superboothoz.com or type /superboothoz into Google and you’ll find us.

Superbooth Australia - Making Booths Better.

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ARMIDALE BUILDING SUPPLIES ARE CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS

JEFF AND HIS TEAM HAVE EARNED GREAT RESPECT IN OUR COMMUNITY FOR THEIR IMPECCABLE CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SENSE OF HUMOUR WITH A “WE CAN DO ATTITUDE”, WHICH IS WHY THEY HAVE REMAINED THE PREFERRED BUSINESS IN THEIR FIELD - EVEN AFTER “THE BIG BOYS” HAVE COME TO TOWN. hen and why did ABS start operating in Armidale?

Armidale Building Supplies commenced business on the 26th August 1996, after McFaydens Building Material Centre burnt down. An old bloke by the name of Phil Anderson rang Jeff White, a former employer of McFaydens, and asked if he would be a rep in the area and supply the goods from Tamworth Building Supplies, which Phil also owned.

The deal was that Jeff would talk to Armidale

builders and take orders, while another old bloke called Bruce in a leather apron would load the truck in Tamworth, bring it to Armidale, and Jeff and Bruce would deliver the goods.

This worked really well for the first week; in the second week, we were sometimes actually having to do three trucks in a day, which was really hard work for an old retired bloke in a leather apron, and just as hard for Jeff sometimes. So, the first old bloke, Phil, decided it was about time to have some sort of shed to store some gear. Armidale Building Supplies

But it did se e Jeff ’s seven wife th mon pregnant ther fa d ol and 63 year ing ur bo la e take on th ness , parts of the busi helping build ing rack s and pack fixtures.”

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had its first shop front in rented premises on the corner of Bundarra Road and Mott St. This was a real slap dash setup, as anyone that remembers it would recall. This saved the second old bloke, Bruce, from having to do any near as much driving. But it did see Jeff’s seven month pregnant wife and 63 year old father take on the labouring parts of the business, helping build racks and packing fixtures. This exercise was character building

for all concerned. By this stage the business had one truck, which Jeff would drive while Caroline, his wife, would man the phones talking about stuff that she didn’t know about (but she did a pretty good job). All this was in eight weeks of commencing business.

The first old bloke, Phil, then thought it was about time he gave Jeff and his family a bit of a rest and employ some more staff, and besides the phone lady was about due to have a baby.

CONGRATULATIONS ARMIDALE BUILDING SUPPLIES On 20 years of business

®

®

The colour PINK, Pink and Pink Batts are registered trademarks of Owens Corning used under licence by Fletcher Insulation. © Fletcher Insulation Pt y Limited 2015.

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ARMIDALE BUILDING SUPPLIES ARE CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS

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ing Armidale Build y kl ic Supplies qu St t outgrew the Mot was nt shed , and the hu ed .” sh er gg on for a bi

“ How has the company changed and grown over the past 20 years?

The business grew even more rapidly over the following two years, having four employees and turning the Mott Street premises into what resembled an actual building supply business.

In this time we were fortunate to have many great staff with the sense of humour needed to deal with the public on a day to day basis, some of whom know what they want, and some who aren’t so sure. Armidale Building Supplies quickly outgrew the Mott St shed, and

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the hunt was on for a bigger shed. Fortunately for us at the time, Col and Sally from C&S Auto Wreckers was looking to retire and needed someone to lease his shed, which came with three acres of land. So the deal was done, and it came time to shift all the gear from Mott St to the shed in Mann St. It seemed like a fairly easy proposition at the time, but as anyone who has ever shifted

house will know, it isn’t a small task. The job that I thought we could do in a weekend by enlisting family members and friends took a little longer and once all the gear and racking was in Mann St, it took a few more weeks to get it sorted out. Fortunately, all the customers were very, very patient and could see what we were trying to do - a lot of them even giving us a hand when needed. Around

this time Jeff thought the grass was greener on the other side and went and tried his luck with another company, leaving Paul Kleindeinst as manager. The business continued to grow, and by this stage we were servicing customers in Walcha and Guyra as well and had grown to a staff of five. Paul, after a few years, went back farming. Neil Ferris replaced Paul as manager in 1998, with the business still growing - now having two trucks and a staff of six. During this time it was decided that Armidale Building Supplies need a showroom, so as most people

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The staff from s 2006 to 2015 ha e tim llfu grown to 14 aryand a casual (M ve ha w no e W .

Ellen) ing er four trucks deliv ew N e th right across England. �

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who deal with us know, we constructed, extended and lined a pretty crappy skillion on the side of the shed but by the time it was finished, it actually looked quite smart.

As is the habit for people in the hardware industry, Neil got itchy feet in 2004 and went to an opposition company, and Jeff came back as manager - and the business was still growing. The premises were bought from Col and Sally sometime in 2006, and shortly after the big storage shed was

built in the backyard. From 2006, the business has grown really quickly - which may be a little strange, according to the people that know. The staff from 2006 to 2015 has grown to 14 full- time and a casual (Mary-Ellen). We now have four trucks delivering right across the New England. It has been a fairly rapid rise from a one man show to what Armidale Building Supplies is today. But when you think about, it 20 years is a fair amount of time; it just seems like time has gone quickly.

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It is a testament to Armidale Building Supplies’ service that we still deal with many of the same customers that we have dealt with for 20 years - and the ones we don’t have died or retired. Being the current manger, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff who have worked here, both past and present, even if it didn’t end well for either of us! The efforts put in by the staff are what has created for most customers and other staff members such a great place to both shop and work.

To all the customers we have dealt with -

We also offer expert advice f from all our staf ve ha ho w members , ss for ne si bu e th been in s ar in as long as 30 ye ials er at the building m trade.”

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once again, even if it didn’t end well ( which hopefully is in the minority), thanks for your business; it is much appreciated, and mostly it has been a pleasure dealing with all of you.

Tell as about your services ...

We offer a complete range of hardware building materials, plasterboard, timber, plywood, MDF, paint and a range of

woodheaters. We also offer expert advice from all our staff members, who have been in the business for as long as 30 years in the building materials trade. You don’t have to wait for an expert to come along, because all staff are trained in the business. Anything we don’t have or know about, we will do our level

best to find out.

Tell us about your team ...

Amongst the staff we have me, Jeff White; I have over 30 years’ experience, which probably makes me an oldish man now - but I still love doing what I do. Chris Dell, who has been with us for seven years - Chris looks after the front counter and is a bit of a go to man if you need an answer quickly. Steve Wilson, who is a trade qualified carpenter but has such a great personality for dealing with tradesmen and handy people alike; he is also our rep for

Build your home with T2 Blue framing.

Guaranteed Termite Resistance

Congratulations to Armidale Building Supplies on 20 years in business!

A partnership proven to stand the test of time.

Like Armidale Building Supplies, T2 Blue framing is a proven performer in the long-term. Talk to Jeff and the team about building your home with peace-of-mind, on (02) 6771 3320. hyne.com.au

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Guyra (go Guyra). Neil Ferris, to qualified plasterer and the You don’ t have rt pe ex an r oldest bloke in the business fo t wai e us ca drews, who is in charge (in the world) is our rep to come along, be in d ne ai tr of getting the goods on e ar f looking after builders af st all trucks for delivery. Bill in Armidale, Uralla and the business .”

Bloomfield, who is our Walcha. Rob Jones, who has storeman and generally is 25 years’ experience and like everywhere. Luke Orr is one Jeff, this is all he has ever done. of our expert truck drivers and Rhys Briggs Andrews is our paint can a take a big vehicle just about man, although we can all talk paint, anywhere. Gary Willis is another of our but Rhys is our expert. Mary-Ellen Ferris is truck drivers, who is extremely quick - so our weekend manager and is every bit as handy look out! Dean Kellett is another driver who is a as all the boys, so don’t talk to her like she bit like The Phantom. All our staff aren’t limited to doesn’t know what she is doing. Mick Bowden is their position, so don’t be surprised to be served at our office man, but is a jack of all trades. Jackson White is our new boy, he has a helpful manner and the counter by a truck driver, or to have your gear delivered by a shop assistant. will do his best out the back. We have Mark An-

“

We are the Nation’s largest 100% Australian Owned timber door manufacturer. We have sixty years of history, leading the way with design, technology and a range of products second to none.

Visit our website

www.humedoors.com.au 100% Australian Owned

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BORAL CEMENT Build something great

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Boral Cement Congratulates ABS on 20 years in Business.

Describe some of your most unusual amount of time explaining and drawing requests ... pictures, figuring out his materials list The future for ing One of the best parts of the job is figurArmidale Build right down to his screws, who then ight . ing out what customers are talking about, Supplies look s br eted proceeded to tell us that he was getmpl as hardware and building materials have We have just co ting the gear from an opposition mulmp a complete reva so many different products that are called tinational, because the staff couldn’t e of the front of th ay so many different names, which over the w help him there - thanks for the experishop, which was years have changed. When a customer ence, and come back anytime. ” .. e. du over comes in and wants a quote to enclose a Plans for the future ... room in the shed but have no idea how big it The future for Armidale Building Supneeds to be and it takes a bit of guessing to figplies looks bright. We have just completed a ure out what they want, or they bring in the wife’s complete revamp of the front of the shop, which pink lace underwear and want paint for their lounge was way overdue, replacing the old brick work and room that same colour. rendering; it looks heaps better. In the next few weeks we Google and home renovation shows have created another will be adding another 700 m² of undercover storage in the customer entirely; these are the people that know you can get backyard - once again way overdue. All this work was done it because it was on TV, or they have seen it on YouTube. These by local contractors.

We will eventually have a dedicated paint are the most challenging for a hardware salesperson, as some store and a much larger main shed and showroom; the infraof the things they do on TV in 15 minutes just aren’t possible. structure for this was all put in when we built the large shed And what they have used on YouTube just might not be availout the back. The business over the last 20 years has almost able in Australia, but we will do our best to sort it out for you; continually grown ... here’s hoping this growth can continue for try getting that at a chain store! And we do it for free. the next 20.

But to the customer who came in recently asking how to Thanks Jeff. renovate his bathroom, and two of us spent a considerable

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Proud suppliers of Boral Cement’s Blue Circle packaged products ®

To find out more visit www.boral.com.au/cement Boral®, the Boral logo, build something great™ & Blue Circle are trademarks or registered trade marks of Boral Limited or one of it’s subsidiaries. BCC 13639_June15

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focusdesign.

focusTourism.

with nucleo

Tourism Typography

not for the font-hearted FOR MOST PEOPLE, TYPEFACES ARE A RATHER INSIGNIFICANT CONCERN IN THE GRAND SCHEME OF THINGS. BUT ALL DESIGNERS KNOW THAT THE QUALITY, SUCCESS AND LIKEABILITY OF THEIR WORK COULD HINGE ON THEIR CHOICE OF FONT.

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ou may not consciously realise it, but typography has a massive impact on how you perceive printed work. The chosen typeface, the size of the font, the kerning, the colour, and other creative tools each carry subliminal messages and hidden meanings that can significantly alter the look and feel of a design. As a business owner, you can’t afford to overlook this vital factor in brand awareness.

So here’s some important “infontmation” about typography in design: Where does font matter?

Where doesn’t font matter? Whether it’s for advertising, branding, logo design, promotional materials and more, the font selection is not a decision to be made lightly.

The basics: When a núcleo designer gets to work, their minds immediately start tracing the roots of their typographic decisions: Size - What type size will best convey the message of the design? A smaller font may mean more words in a restricted space, but are they legible? And what about the size of headings?

Slogans? Fine print? Font size must suit the audience and complement the other elements of the printed work.

Colour - Use of colour can be striking, but the wrong choice could be jarring to the eye.

Style - At its most basic, style comes down to serif or sans serif. Serif fonts, like Cambria, are those with small hooks and tails; sans serif fonts, like Calibri, are those without them. Each has their own appeal for different situations.

Contrast - A professional and eye-catching contrast can be created in numerous ways, whether this is by size or font weight or by a different complementing typeface. But mixing fonts can be risky business. When you mix and match different typefaces, you want to avoid small, incremental changes; juxtaposing Arial against Verdana, for instance, is such an insignificant contrast, that viewers may be distracted by the question of whether or not they are the same. But nor is it as simple as picking two outrageously different typefaces. Often, two

fonts will team well if they have a common trait; this could be a similar x-height or stroke weight, for example.

Needless to say, the núcleo team has a lot to think about.

The personality of fonts: Typography is more than just letters on a page.

Each font has character that can work to express a particular aesthetic taste, idea, or sense of individuality. Learning to identify and access these personalities is vital in portraying the best image of a business.

But wait - don’t go too far. Playing with font is an artform, and using ostensibly unique typography can be problematic. The key here is to find a balancing act: determine the distinction between expressive and stylish typefaces, versus fonts that are simplistic, useful and appropriate. In doing this, we can avoid designs that overpower the viewer, but still capture their attention.

But what determines personality? This involves the overall look of the font and its predetermined uses, but it is also a matter of personal choice.

For instance, serif fonts can be viewed as professional or stiff, as classic or edgy, but are nonetheless competent, versatile, and suitable for a wide range of purposes.

Despite the varying perspectives, every good typeface has a voice. They may shout or they may whisper, but each has a message that, when used correctly, can elicit an emotional response from your potential customers.

Remember your audience: Our final point is a big one - never forget who you are fonting for. A serious business can portray professionalism to its customers through crisp, classic typeface. Other brands might aim to express a friendly, bubbly attitude through soft and curvaceous fonts. There is no limit to the emotional range a font can reflect.

Some people think that typography in advertising doesn’t matter, but font can help your business achieve the best look with the best personality for the best design. Remember that even the smallest of details have the potential to make or break your brand.

New England High Country Tourism has been involved in the development of a digital infrastructure project called Travel In, which has been co-funded by the state government, Inland NSW Tourism and Bauer Media.

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his project will involve all tourism operators across the region, providing them with an opportunity to develop “packages” as well as tourin itineraries and will form an integral part of the New England High Country campaign.

On the 8th July we will be inviting all Tourism operators to join us for an information session on Travel In. Travel In is a game changing digital platform development by Inland NSW and Bauer Media to create an inspiring and personalised travel experience. Travel In will assist travellers to identify places to visit and things to do in and around NSW. No other website in Australia has the depth of information and knowledge about Inland NSW. The Travel In platform has been built to inspire consumers through personalised itineraries and rich and inspiring content. The platform contains sophisticated tracking to allow a deeper engagement with consumers, as well as sophisticated booking technology to optimise consumer transactions online and offline.

Travel In will be supported by a $1 million marketing campaign consisting of the official launch and ongoing media campaign.

In response to the ever increasing high commissions charged through websites such as Wotif.com Travel In will be offering a very special package to Inland NSW members that will consist of NO monthly fees and online booking commission of only 5%. This is an amazing marketing opportunity, especially for our smaller operators such as the B&Bs and Farm Stays, who have previously found the charges for online bookings to be difficult to absorb.

The New England High Country marketing

group recently received government funding to the tune of $158,500. This amount has been matched by local councils and tourism associations, making a budget of $317,000.

If you would like to be part of one of the largest marketing campaigns for our region, please make yourself available to attend one of the Travel In Information sessions on the 8th July that will be held from 12 - 2pm or 6pm - 8pm at the Digital Hub in Armidale. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Katrina George on (02) 6770 3906.

To other things, July is a busy month, with a number of events scheduled - such as the Daphne Young Memorial Art Prize and Exhibition, Murphy’s Pigs and the Piglets, as well as the opening night of the International Film Festival. If you are planning a Christmas in July event, please email through the details to ensure you are included on the Tourism Events Calendar tourism@armidale.nsw.gov. au For a list of all events please visit www. armidaletourism.com.au/events/calendar/ Alternaatively, if you would like the “What’s On” emailed to you weekly, please contact the Armidale Visitor Information Centre on 6770 3888, and we can place you on our distribution list.

Last month the Armidale Visitor Information Centre held a “Have a Cuppa for Sara” fundraiser. We are very proud to announce that we raised in excess of $2,300. This would not have been possible without the very generous support that we received from Black Jacks, Daily Ritual, Dare Family, New England TAFE 2nd year Apprentices, Ocean Shores Seafoods, Moxons Bakery and the volunteers and staff of the Visitor Information Centre.

We thank you for assisting us in ensuring this was a wonderful success. new england focus.

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Thinking Debt Recovery with Elizabeth Stahlut, Solicitor

THINKING

DEBT RECOVERY

Sometimes, you may have a complaint against someone who has provided defective goods and services, which you have not been able to resolve with the provider or someone owes you money, and they have not shown any willingness to pay you, in spite of requests from you.

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ften, these issues involve relatively small amounts of money. It then does not appear worthwhile, to go to court and sue for the money, where the costs can be significant and where dealing with the complexities of court litigation can be daunting.

In civil debt claims, the amount of the debt generally determines which court or tribunal you would need to go to in order to pursue a debt claim. For matters where the claim is between $10,000 - $100,000, it will usually be appropriate to file your action in the Local Court in its General Division. For amounts greater than $100,000, it would usually be appropriate to file your action in the District or Supreme Court of NSW. For these kinds of action, it is definitely recommended that you get legal advice and assistance.

Debt claims of $10,000 and under, can usually be filed in the Small Claims Division of the Local Court. This involves filing a Statement of Claim and a supporting affidavit. These must be served upon the other party. In most cases, it is usually a good idea to send a Letter of Demand first, to the other party, to give them an opportunity to resolve the matter, without the need to go to court. This letter would be your proof that you have attempted such resolution, as the Small Claims Division strongly encourages parties to attempt prompt and efficient settlement of claims between themselves, leaving litigation as a ‘last resort’. Court registry staff can provide some limited assistance in filling out the appropriate paperwork, but they cannot give legal advice.

If a party has been served with a Statement of Claim but then does nothing about it for at least 28 days, then the claiming party, the plaintiff, can apply to the court for a Default Judgement against the defendant/judgment debtor. Provided the other party does not successfully apply to have a Default Judgment set aside, the plaintiff

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would automatically have judgement in their favour by default. It then becomes a matter of how the judgment is to be enforced.

One way, is for the Sheriff’s Office to seize property of the judgement debtor and sell it. Another way, is for the wages or pension payments of the debtor to be garnisheed, which means that their payer has to take a certain amount of money out of the debtor’s income payments, to pay off the debt. Sometimes, a debtor can apply to be allowed to pay a debt off by instalments and the court can order a party to give evidence of their financial means to determine a reasonable amount to be paid with each instalment.

Also, it is possible for a debtor’s assets to be made subject to a charge or a writ. The debt then becomes payable once the debtor attempts to dispose of the asset or when the creditor sells the property. It is usually real estate that becomes the subject of a charge or writ, but it can be applied to other assets.

The Small Claims Division of the Local Court is generally less formal than the General Division, and the court may often refer parties to a Community Justice Centre for mediation, to give an opportunity to settle a claim as an alternative to ‘fighting it out’ in court. It is generally cheaper to negotiate a settlement, with or without the help of a mediator (Community Justice Centres do use mediators). Lawyers can also assist, in negotiations.

Seeing a lawyer about any contemplated action in court, may not only help to save you unnecessary costs, you will also get the advice, information and support that you need, in relation to costs, limitation periods and options for recovery to ensure that you are in the best position to get what you are entitled to.

Elizabeth Stahlut Solicitor

focusinterview.

CLONTARF THE CLONTARF FOUNDATION EXISTS TO IMPROVE THE EDUCATION, DISCIPLINE, LIFE SKILLS, SELF-ESTEEM AND EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS OF YOUNG ABORIGINAL MEN AND BY DOING SO, EQUIPS THEM TO PARTICIPATE MEANINGFULLY IN SOCIETY. JAMES RUSSEL, DIRECTOR OF THE ARMIDALE CONTARF ACADEMY, TELLS FOCUS OF THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS TO DATE ... an you give us some history on when and why the Clontarf Foundation began?

The Clontarf Foundation began operations at Clontarf College in Perth back in 2000. At the time, Aboriginal males exhibited a significantly reduced attendance, retention and Year 12 completion rate when compared to other Australian students. “Clontarf” was born out of a passionate desire to meet these needs and to assist Aboriginal young men to bridge this educational gap. Since then, operations have grown steadily, and the foundation has gradually expanded operations to also cover parts of the Northern Territory, Victoria, New South Wales and just recently, Queensland. We currently operate in 61 schools and work with approximately 3,700 Aboriginal young men.

How long has the foundation been operating in Armidale, and what are the benefits for students and the community?

We opened our doors to 34 boys at Armidale High School back in April 2012. Since then, we have been extremely pleased to observe a steady improvement in the key educational measures of attendance, engagement and retention.

We currently have 54 boys who’ve elected to participate in our programme, and they are attending at an overall average rate of 85%.

While some of the other positives are more difficult to measure, regular feedback from school staff and the local community makes us confident that our boys have also made significant improvement in their ability to engage at school and within various aspects of the Armidale community.

Another notable benefit for our community is that many boys who have been a part of our academy for a longer period have markedly improved their behaviour and are developing into strong and proud young leaders. All four of our local graduates from 2014 are currently employed or completing further study, with two of them at

breeding patterns of Ibis birds in wetlands west university. These are fantastic outcomes for these of Moree. The boys have done an outstanding boys, and we are very proud of them. job in embracing this project and have had the Tell us about your team? opportunity to perform the dance for primary While teamwork is an extremely important school students and community members at part of our programme, it must be understood the Moree Art Gallery. The Ibis Dance has also that we are much more than just a team, or even been captured in a video, which the boys are an academy. We are more like a family, where editing and producing, and we are we encourage everybody to get on, to looking forward to many future pitch in and help out and to look opportunities to perform the out for one another. With 50 dance or have the video odd boys aged between 12 Community shown as a part of this and 18, we really need to is t involvemen ct partnership. get on to make things pe an essential as e’s m m Another recent work .... and thankfully ra of our prog r fo m ai e w undertaking of Armidale we all enjoy each other’s as success, be to ys bo r Clontarf boys has been in company and push each ou all of ri butors nt co d te ec the establishment of the other daily to strive to be nn co to the Armidale East Armidale Community better.

Community.”

Garden. The boys are As you can imagine, working hard to build and somebody needs to steer paint the gardens and look the ship, and I fulfil the role of forward to growing some fresh fruit Director of the Armidale Clontarf and vegetables, which they will use in Academy, and I’m ably supported by my coClontarf cook-ups back at school. worker, local legend Bruce “Boog” Dennison.

How can students and the community get What type of activities are the students involved with the foundation? involved in?

A large part of the Clontarf Foundation’s Our boys participate in a really diverse range success is due to the intensive nature of of activities, which largely fall under the pillars the programme and the associated daily of the foundation - Education, Leadership, support offered. This can only occur when the Employment, Partnerships (particularly with programme is based exclusively in one school. the local community), Wellbeing and Football In our case, any Aboriginal male enrolled at (and other sports and activities). We also have a Armidale High is welcome to join our academy strong focus on teaching life-skills and the social and participate in the programme. skills necessary to effectively participate in wider We also welcome any appropriate assistance society. that passionate community members might These lessons are learnt through participation be able to offer. Community involvement is an in simple daily routines, as well as in strategically essential aspect of our programme’s success, planned activities and camps, which provide as we aim for all of our boys to be connected powerful opportunities for this type of learning contributors to the Armidale Community. We - which is much more difficult to impart in the have a number of local business people and other typical classroom. A recent activity we are very like-minded community members who participate proud of has been a partnership with the Office in our activities, but we could always do with of Environment and Heritage, where the Clontarf more support. While this makes a big difference boys have developed a traditional Aboriginal to what we can achieve at an operational level, Dance depicting the migratory habits and

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the development of a wider network of contacts and friendly faces for the boys to interact with out in the wider community significantly improves the likelihood of them becoming successful young men.

Tell us about some of your success stories?

While much of our success is measured in statistics, such as the many boys achieving average attendance percentages in the 90s, it is actually the personal stories of individual young men which are most poignant. Be it the young man who struggles enormously at school due to poor self-esteem, and feelings of alienation who grows and develops into a confident young graduate who dares to set lofty goals and works diligently towards achieving them, or the young man who is provided “a boost” out of drug dependancy and anti-social behaviour, or simply the boy who needs just a little extra help and support and the self assurance of knowing that there is somebody at school who will always be in their corner for him to reach his potential.

We are truly privileged to have witnessed many success stories so far. The best way to understand and actually feel the success of the Clontarf programme is to meet our amazing young men.

Plans for the future?

Our plans for the future are quite ambitious for both individual boys and the entire academy. In the short term, we strive for all of our academy members to become high attending, keenly engaged students who all complete Year 12 and transition into meaningful employment. Most of our boys are already walking this somewhat difficult road; however, there is still plenty of hard work for us all to do in meeting the challenges on the way to our destination.

In the long term, we really hope to do ourselves out of a job, as we reach a point where it is seen as the norm for Aboriginal boys at Armidale High to achieve the goals I have just mentioned with very little support. If this were the case, Bruce and I would happily make a career change!

Thanks James. new england focus.

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from business cards to billboards and any size between núcleo’s designers will help your brand stand out

creating communication that works nucleo.com.au

52 new england focus.