Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i223

issue

223 OCTOBER 2024

T H E

L A U R I E T O N

H O T E L

W H AT ’S O N BEHIND THE SCENES OCTOBER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Thursday 3 & 10 October, 1pm

With Lucy Pascale and Claire Johnson Thursday, 10am & 3pm 3 & 10 October

drawing With Carly Marchment Friday, 5.30pm - 7.30pm 4, 11, 18, 25 October 1 November

NEIL DIAMOND & BARBRA STREISAND EXPERIENCE Sunday 13 October, 7pm MATINEE PERFORMANCE

& Cocktails IN THE GALLERY

DIRECT FROM CARNEGIE HALL JULIAN GARGIULO Sunday 20 October, 3pm

With Gabriella Domin, Libby Mitchell & Fiona Solley Saturday, 5.30 - 7.30pm 5 October, 2 November, 7 December

FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au

Follow Glasshouse:

@ GLASSHOUSE On view: 31 August until 24 November

Curated by Artspace

On view: 24 August until 3 November Kaylene Whiskey, Kaylene TV, 2020, (still, detail), single-channel video, 1 min. Courtesy the artist and Iwantja Arts, Indulkana, APY Lands, SA

Jane Grealy, Maria’s Garden, Scheme C, 2022, pastel on paper, 67 x 108 cm, 97 x 133 cm (framed)

Visions of Australia

DRAWING MASTERCLASS

TEA CEREMONY

Sunday 13 October, 10am - 3.30pm

Sunday 27 October, 11am

Join Dobell Drawing Prize #23 winner, Jane

Join exhibiting artist, Jayanto Tan, in a

Grealy, in a one-day drawing workshop and

tea ceremony performance celebrating

gain insight into her practice and techniques.

his work The Moon Garden.

with Jane Grealy

with Jayanto Tan

PROGRAMS AND WORKSHOPS Bookings essential.

Check online for details

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE Corner Clarence & Hay Streets, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Glasshouse Opening Hours Mon - Fri 9am - 4pm Sat, Sun & Public Hol’s 9am - 2pm Closed Christmas Day & Anzac Day

Regional Gallery Opening Hours Tue - Fri 10am - 4pm Sat, Sun & Public Hol’s 10am - 2pm Closed Mondays

O

Welcome to the OCTOBER 2024 ISSUE of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

ctober…. Halloween and the countdown to Christmas….

On the cover; congratulations to Doug and the team at Laurieton Hotel who won our Signature Dish competition. A huge thank you to all our Facebook friends and followers who got behind this little competition and liked, shared and commented on all the amazing dishes our entrants showcased. It’s definitely worth getting out there and trying all these amazing local establishments and the fabulous meals our locals chefs offer.

Inside this edition; Well, what can I say we have another month of cracking stories and once again impressive locals kicking some serious goals, such as Matthew Bruce, an accomplished fighter in a number of different styles and currently ranked No. 7 worldwide in kickboxing. He’s off to Vienna, Austria later this year for the World Championships. Good luck Matt, we can’t wait to hear how you go. The Group Three footy season has come to an end for 2024 with the Port Macquarie Sharks taking home the Club Champions. We speak to Mick who took on the presidency role on

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS 2/28 Fernhill Road, Port Macquarie POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie PHONE 0447 157 340 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

contacts.

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au EDITION COORDINATOR & SALES MANAGER Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au ADVERTISING SALES Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney daisyfocusmag@gmail.com

page 94. Don’t miss our interview with “The Pianist with the Hair” Julian Gargiulo who is not only a classical pianist but also a composer and a humorist. He’s touring at the moment and will be performing at the Glasshouse on 20 October. We also have an awesome feature called Trades you Can Trust. Head on down to our Abode section and meet the men and women who are helping build and maintain our great community. Grab a cocktail or a coffee, find a nice spot in the sunshine and enjoy our latest locally produced magazine.

Until next month - happy reading!

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy info@focusmag.com.au

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2022 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Australian Community Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation.

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 9

ISSUE 223 - OCTOBER 2024 INTERVIEWS

26

46

98

CAZ HEISE

M AT T H E W B RU C E

A N D R E A DAV I D S O N

After an impressive career in healthcare Caz has transitioned into a new role in politics and public service. We wanted to hear about how her background has influenced her passion for serving the community.

An accomplished fighter and currently ranked 7th in the world in Kickboxing after the World Championships in Germany last year, he is off to represent Australia again in the hopes of reaching No.1 World Champion!

YP SPACE MNC is a Youth Homelessness Service that provides and manages safe and affordable housing to young people in our region and have recently converted an old caravan park in Kempsey.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

LUSANNA Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals.

35. Lusanna Klotz - Monthly Musings 54. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures 77. Rachel Leman - Miss Motivator 82. Dr. Kristy - Beauty of Ageing 86. Bernie Ginane - Find Your Calm 88. Grayce Gerke - Women’s Health 103.Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice 104. Stephen Pares - Education Update 109. Sis Higgins - The Marketing Mind 114. Kate Wood-Foye - Illuminate 116. Nick Lawton - Legal Light 117. Bec Farnsworth - Money Matters 140. Melinda Newton - Newton Blinds 142. Anthony Beringen - Home Styling

Thank you for your contribution to focus Follow us on

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128

www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus

focusmag.com.au

The Crosby 7628 Easyswing recliner is available

in 5 different sizes with 10 different bases in manual, power and lift chair options. Add a portable rechargeable battery pack for 360° swivel and cord-free living.

ON SALE NOW

Manual from $5200 $3999 Power from $6350 $4699

Made in Germany for over 70 years

Beatties

Quality Furniture

Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday closed Sunday 9am-12pm Cnr Pioneer St & Duke St, Nambucca Heads PH: 6568 7484

www.beattiesfurniture.com.au

OCT

OBE

R

6 10

PUFFS

Hufflepuffs finally get their moment in this hilarious Potter play PUFFS. For seven years a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard School and conquered evil. This, however, is not his story. This is the story of the PUFFS…..who just happened to be there too. Tickets on sale now!

When October 3rd - October 6th (school holidays).

Where Hollingworth St Theatre, 56 Hollingworth St, PMQ

9

LAZY GHOST @FINNIANS

PUMP TRACK SESSIONS & COACHING

Join Session MTB & Outdoor for a day of pump track riding at Wayne Richards Pump Track. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, our sessions are designed for all levels. For ages 12 - 25 years.

Register here eventbrite.com.au Where Wayne Richards Park When Thu, Oct 10 at 9 AM Duration 3 hr

COMBOYNE PUBLIC SCHOOL CENTENARY

19

13

LAZY GHOST is about to hit the road in support of their latest EP ‘SARAH-TONIN’.

With their unique blend of indie, psychedelic rock, and surf rock, this tour promises to deliver the high-energy performances that have made them one of the most exciting live acts in the scene.

Tickets .oztix.com.au

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REMEMBERING CASTAWAY 50 YEARS ON

When Wednesday 2nd and 9th October, from 4.30pm

Join the community for kids craft, facepainting, school memorabilia, art displays, food, music and produce. There will also be a “A Spring Garden Walk” hosted by Comboyne Hall to explore stunning country gardens. All are welcome to attend.

Join us in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the TV series Castaway, which was filmed in and around Port Macquarie in 1974. To commemorate the anniversary of the series, the documentary Remembering Castaway: 50 Years On, will screen in the Glasshouse Studio. Where Glasshouse Studio

Cost $5 entry

When Sunday, 13th October, 10am to 3pm

When 4pm

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS KIDS BINGO Book your team now 6585 3020 Where Wauchope Country Club

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Showcase your best race day attire at Gowings Port Central Fashions on the Field at the 2024 Port Cup on Friday, 11th October.

CATEGORIES Best Dressed Lady

Best Dressed Gentleman Best Millinery

Pre register by scanning the QR code below or on the day at the Fashions on the Field registration desk from 11am - 1pm.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

T H E

L A U R I E T O N

H O T E L

From a young age Doug Henwood had a passion for food. Starting out washing dishes and then completing his apprentice and working in the New Zealand Navy, he is now the Head Chef of the popular Laurieton Hotel which recently won the Focus Signature Dish competition as voted by our readers.

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W

hat inspired you to become a chef?

From a young age, I had a passion for cooking. I spent a lot of time in the kitchen with my Mum, starting when I was around eight Throughout years old. I was always the early stages eager to help her prepare of my career, I gained meals and loved getting involved, especially extensive experience with baking. That early working in various à exposure sparked my love la carte restaurants, for food, and I knew from specialising in Classic then on that I wanted French cuisine, to pursue a career in the Modern Australian, kitchen.

By the time I was 17, I started my apprenticeship, and soon after, I received branch training in the New Zealand Navy, which helped expand my culinary skills. I became a qualified chef at 21. Throughout and Asian Fusion. the early stages of Tell us about your my career, I gained background in the extensive experience working in various à industry. la carte restaurants, specialising in Classic I began my journey in the hospitality industry French cuisine, Modern Australian, and Asian when I was 16, starting out as a dishwasher Fusion. Those early years provided me with a in restaurants. It was a humble beginning, deep understanding of different cuisines and but it gave me a great foundation and techniques, which I still use today. understanding of how a kitchen operates.

Can you describe a typical day in your kitchen?

A typical day in my kitchen starts with receiving fresh produce first thing in the morning, ensuring we have high-quality ingredients is key to everything we do. Then, we conduct equipment checks to make sure everything is working smoothly. Once that’s taken care of, we dive into prepping for the day’s service, which involves preparing ingredients, organising stations, and setting up for lunch and dinner. I also like to create daily specials for our blackboard menu, keeping things fresh and exciting for our regulars.

Once everything is set, we open the doors and prepare for service.

Continued over...

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What is your signature dish, and what makes it special?

Our signature dish is the Pepper Crusted Sirloin, served with pressed potatoes, green vegetables, garlic buttered mushrooms, jus, and onion jam. What makes this dish special is the perfect combination of flavours and the quality of the ingredients. The pepper-crusted sirloin provides a flavourful bite, while the sweetness of the onion jam mellows it out. The garlic mushrooms add depth, and everything is tied together beautifully with the rich jus. It’s a dish that balances boldness with subtlety, and it’s one of our most popular.

How do you handle high-pressure situations during service?

Staying calm under pressure is critical in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Keeping my team level-headed is also important, as it helps maintain consistency and efficiency.

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Staying calm under pressure is critical in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

Keeping my team level-headed is also important, as it helps maintain consistency and efficiency.

Multitasking is a must; without it, managing service would be extremely difficult. These abilities come with experience, and I’ve developed a few techniques over the years that help me manage the stress of a busy kitchen.

Much of it is about mindset and maintaining control. Personally, I tend to stay calm naturally in most situations, which helps me lead the team through high-pressure moments smoothly.

What skills do you think are essential for a successful chef?

While technical skills are important, I believe a passion for cooking, creativity, and a genuine desire to please people are the true essentials of becoming a successful chef. You need to love what you do and have the drive to

consistently create great dishes. It’s also important to maintain a cool head, especially during busy service, and to not shy away from hard work. If you have these foundational traits, the technical skills will naturally follow.

How do you stay current with food trends and techniques?

Food trends and techniques are always evolving, and it’s good to experiment and try new things from time to time. However, my main focus has always been on maintaining high-quality products using fresh, seasonal produce. Staying grounded in the basics while exploring new ideas is the balance I aim for. Ultimately, trends may come and go, but quality and consistency are what keep customers coming back.

What’s the most challenging part of your job?

This area is absolutely stunning, with its natural beauty and a sense of community that you don’t o en find in bigger cities.

Every day brings new challenges, so it’s hard to pinpoint just one aspect as the most difficult. Whether it’s managing unexpected issues with suppliers, handling a busy service, or maintaining consistency in every dish, the kitchen is full of challenges. But it’s this variety that keeps the job exciting and rewarding.

How do you manage your team in the kitchen?

In a high-pressure environment like a kitchen, communication is everything. My approach to managing the team revolves around making sure we are all on the same page.

When you have a strong, cohesive team, it makes everything run smoother. I always emphasise that we are working together

towards a common goal: providing our customers with consistently highquality food. Everyone plays an important role, and I make sure that each team member understands the importance of their contribution. It’s a collective effort, and our success depends on how well we work together.

When you aren’t in the kitchen, what do you enjoy doing?

When I’m not in the kitchen, I like to relax by playing golf, although I tend to lose a few balls along the way! It’s a nice way to unwind. I’m also a bit of a poker enthusiast, but if you ask my wallet, it might tell you I’m not as good as I think I am! Ultimately, I enjoy taking time to relax, spend time with family, and enjoy life outside the hustle and bustle of the kitchen.

What makes working in such a wonderful location like the Camden Haven so

enjoyable?

I’ve only been in the Camden Haven area for two years, having lived on the Tweed Coast for over 20 years. My family and I decided we needed a sea change, and wow, what a place we found! This area is absolutely stunning, with its natural beauty and a sense of community that you don’t often find in bigger cities. The slower pace and the close-knit community make it a joy to live and work here.

Tell us what we can expect when we come and dine at Laurieton Hotel.

When you dine at the Laurieton Hotel, the first thing you can expect is a warm welcome from our friendly staff, paired with a cold beverage to get you started. We pride ourselves on offering quality food and service, setting the standard for what a great pub meal should be.

Our goal is to make sure every guest leaves satisfied, whether they’re enjoying a quick bite or a full dining experience.

Thanks Doug.

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Welcome to Thrumster Business Park, Mid North Coast’s first master-planned, innovative development.

Our mission is to foster a vibrant business community that thrives, offering local jobs and welcoming a diverse range of industries.

Located just minutes off the M1 and 10 minutes’ drive from Port Macquarie CBD, Thrumster Business Park provides an ideal setting for businesses to collaborate and operate effectively.

We offer over 120,000 square meters of developed land, with over 60 lots, ranging from 1,200 m² to 4,800 m².

The park is thoughtfully divided into two precincts:

PRECINCT 1: Designed for community-friendly businesses, ensuring a smooth transition from adjacent residential areas.

PRECINCT 2: Tailored for traditional industrial applications, providing the space and infrastructure needed for a range of industrial activities.

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With rezoning underway, The Precinct will deliver significant economic benefits, fostering growth and connectivity across various sectors. This initiative aims to create a vibrant, multi-functional space with incubator areas, medical centres, artisan industries, and diverse housing. It promotes a 24/7 live-work environment, integrating residential, commercial, manufacturing, and recreational activities. This interconnected community will enhance innovation, create jobs, and boost regional vibrancy.

Don’t miss out! Secure one of the last remaining lots by contacting us today and explore how Thrumster Business Park can be the ideal location for your business’s future.

For more information or to discuss how we can support your business needs, please contact us via our website

thrumsterbusinesspark.com.au

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Kaidee started The Photo Trail a er completing a 365 Project where SHE TOOK AT LEAST ONE PHOTO EVERY DAY FOR A YEAR. SHE LOVED THE STORY THOSE PHOTOS TOLD AND THE APPRECIATION SHE GOT FOR THE SIMPLE MOMENTS, and now she provides those beautifully captured moments for her clients as a photographer.

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family a whole lot and had a growing passion to take more photos!

Friends and family started asking me to photograph them and The Photo Trail was born.

How did you gain your photography skills?

Are you self taught or did you do formal training?

I’m self taught, from a lot of hours behind a camera and in front of a computer!

What drew you to specialise in capturing families and weddings?

By the end of my 365 Project I had this collection of precious photos of very normal things that my family were doing on a day-today basis… walking the dog, skating on the driveway, my hubby teaching our son the guitar etc.

These photos have been such a gift, and something that stands as a testimony to our normal-but-beautiful life together.

H

i Kaidee. Why the name “The Photo Trail”?

I love the idea of travelling through life, camera in hand, leaving a trail of photos as I go. Capturing real people,

real moments, real relationships and real life.

How did you discover your passion for photography?

My hubby tells me that every female photographer answers this with: “I started photographing my family and loved it, and just kept going.”

I decided I wanted to offer something like this to other families, to show them that what they have is incredibly precious. Life can get busy and sometimes we forget to value what we have - I want my photos to remind them!

As for weddings… the first few I did made me feel stressed and I figured they weren’t for me, but I kind of just kept forgetting to say no - and soon I came to love them!

Being invited into someone’s wedding day is a pretty special thing. I sometimes pinch myself at the moments I am privy to.

By the end of my 365 Project I had this collection of precious photos of very normal things that my family were doing on a day-today basis… walking the dog, skating on the driveway...

Sooooo, I’m not sure what to say now!

In 2015-16 I undertook a 365 Project, where I took at least one photo every day for a year.

By the end of the year I had photographed my

What is one of the best parts of your job?

Quite sincerely, the best part of my job is the people. I love them!

It is an honour to get to know my families and couples, and create art that reflects their lives and relationships. I love telling stories with my camera, and I’m always looking for the real moments, rather than the posed ones.

Continued over...

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What is one of the challenges of your job?

To be honest, when I started this business in 2017 I did not envisage spending quite so many hours in front of a computer! I’m a pretty social person, so there are days when it can get lonely…

How would you describe your photographic style?

bridesmaids and I maroon gumboots to wear - they were a literal godsend. We had to evacuate from the property at 8:30pm as the flood waters were rising! * I photographed a beautiful little baby named Maggie, as she entered the world.

Birth photography isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, I know, but what an honour. Wow, birth is amazing!

* After photographing Jess getting ready for her wedding ceremony, I will never I opened her front door forget those to leave and accidentally moments, and I Authentic, natural, let Ralph out. Ralph is was so grateful sincere, relaxed, Jess & Andrew’s 1 year creative, fun, playful, to be able to use old cavoodle and boy thoughtful, real. my skills to create is he fast! He took off Every family and art that will help down the street, loving wedding is unique. them to remember the opportunity to play Can you share and cherish their tips with myself and some memorable sweet little boy. the chauffeur. As we’re moments from chasing him I’m praying photo sessions “Lord, I really need your you’ve been a part help here. I do not want a squashed dog on of that stand out in your mind? my watch!” Thankfully a few minutes later Some memorable moments that come to Ralph was caught and we all made it to the mind are: ceremony on time!

I asked a few friends to help me describe my style and this is what they said:

* The time when I photographed Eric and Shari’s Wedding on a day when we had 250ml of rain. Shari bought all of the 22 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

* Josh and Aimee decided to learn Acro during COVID lockdowns, and so when we met at Shelly Beach at sunrise for their

engagement session, they pulled out some of their moves! Pretty sure that all of the beach walkers that day were suitably impressed.

(Then, to top it off, they flew into their wedding reception by flying fox!) * I’ve had the absolute honour of photographing some of my beautiful clientsturned-friends as they spent time with their precious still-born son. I will never forget those moments, and I was so grateful to be able to use my skills to create art that will help them to remember and cherish their sweet little boy.

Can you walk us through your process

What I really love to do is observe.. I love to watch the family or the couple I’m working with and see who they are and what they like to do… then I’ll get an idea for a photo and I’ll start clicking the shutter.

when planning a shoot, are there any particular shots or moments that you love to capture?

I’m not into cookiecutter photo sessions…

Every family/wedding/ couple is unique.

They say not to work with kids or animals, but I really like working with kids… they don’t care all that much about the camera, and they What I really bring their authentic love to do is selves without worrying what the photo will look observe.. I love to like - laughter, tears or watch the family tantrums - I’m here for or the couple I’m it all! working with and

see who they are and what they like to do… then I’ll get an idea for a photo and I’ll start clicking the shu er.

I ask my clients to fill out a questionnaire to help me to get to know them better beforehand and then we work together in choosing a location and/or activity that suits them.

As for adults…If I had a dollar for every time someone told me they’re awkward in front of the camera, I’d be able to buy myself a new pair of boots! I’m always ready with prompts and suggestions to help the session flow and to make my clients feel comfortable. Generally I find that after about 10 minutes they’ll relax and start enjoying themselves and that’s when you get

the genuine moments happening. I love the genuine moments. Overly posed photos are not my jam.

What are you doing when you’re not taking photos?

I love being with people - especially my hubby and 3 teenagers. I’m so blessed to have a lot of wonderful people in my life. I’m a huge fan of Jesus, so he impacts my life a lot, and my work… No matter where I am I’m always looking for opportunities to love people, since God has poured his incredible love on me.

Some things that I love are deep conversations, hugs, cups of tea, laughter, sitting around a campfire, a Sunday afternoon nap… I also quite like a rousing game of Articulate, as long as I can keep my competitive nature in check!

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

My website is www.thephototrail.com.au Instagram and Facebook @thephototrail I’d love to offer a 10% Family Session discount or a 5% Wedding Package discount for sessions booked before the end of October 2024 (mention this article!)

Thanks Kaidee GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 23

helping raise funds for

Mid North Coast Cancer Institute The Westport Club is excited to announce our upcoming Great Together fundraising events during the month of October to support Mid North Coast Cancer Institute.

The Great Together campaign is in partnership with the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute, at Port Macquarie Base Hospital, and aims to raise funds to create a Wellness Garden and Yarning Circle for our community that utilises services at the institute.

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Our Events

ay on ty Bowls D ri a h C a r ht on Join us fo t & Sip nig in a P a , th e on October 5 Major Raffl a d n a , th 9 prizes October 1 er $6,000 in v o h it w th es.

October 27 l business a c lo y b d donate

Bridge Clu

b Our incredib le Major Ra ffle partners – Port Macq uarie Bridg e Club.

Meeting w eekly at The Westport Club, Bridg e is played by four in opposing p airs - it's ea sy to learn but hard to ma ster!

Bowlers Westport Men's

nd Women's a rt o tp s e W ating The udly facilit ro p re a s b lu Come Bowling C afternoon. g n li w o B riety our Charity , with a va h g u la a d n u on for a chat a ed. See yo y la p s e m a of bowls g the green!

Thank you to the incredible supporters of this project

The Westport Club 25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 P | 6588 7201 www.thewestportclub.com.au

www.facebook.com/ thewestportclub www.instagram.com/ thewestportclub

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Caz Heise has had an impressive career in healthcare, and as she retires from nursing and transitions into exciting new roles in politics and public service, we wanted to hear about her background and how this has influenced her passion for serving the community as a whole.



Heise 26 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

H

i Caz. You’ve had an impressive career in nursing and health service leadership.

What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare, and how has your journey evolved over the years?

I have lived on the Mid North Coast for the past 30 years and both my children were born here. My daughter is a schoolteacher working locally and my son has followed in my footsteps to work in healthcare. My early life experience as part of a large farming family reinforced the importance of hard work and staying connected to those around us.

Nursing became my dream job after working in remote communities in central Australia and watching the real difference nurses made in people's lives. Standing with families as their loved ones struggled through illness and pain, were my most transformative work experiences and ignited my passion for this field.

After completing my tertiary qualifications in nursing, public health and later on an

connections witnessing their resilience and Standing with recovery. There families as their is nothing more loved ones struggled rewarding than seeing through illness and MBA, I have delivered people months later direct patient care pain, were my most walking on the beach and worked in senior transformative work - full of life. However, leadership roles experiences and there have certainly in small and large been challenges, ignited my passion hospitals on the Mid particularly during for this field.

North Coast as well emergency situations, as being the Executive where the emotional responsible for Cancer toll is high, on both Care Services. I have had the honour of staff and patients. Balancing the need working alongside incredible individuals for compassionate care while managing and volunteer organisations, developing overwhelming workloads is a tough, but programs that empower our community and ultimately rewarding experience that uplift those facing adversity. highlights the strength of the nursing community in our region.

My journey has evolved, where I've focused on improving health systems and advocating In my role as Director Nursing & Midwifery, for better patient outcomes and has only I have been the Executive lead for Disaster deepened my understanding of the issues we Management in health. In this capacity I face in regional areas and fuelled my desire made many connections with emergency to drive positive change. services such as the Rural Fire Service, As you prepare to retire from nursing, what are some of the most rewarding and challenging moments you've experienced in the profession?

Standing side by side with patients and their families is a powerful experience in healthcare. We have forged deep

Ambulance and SES. These relationships have helped me to gain additional skills to function under intense pressure and lead a community. I have also represented this region on many statewide committees including the regional health plan.

Continued over...

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You have been elected to the Cancer Council Board in both 2020 and 2023.

What drew you to this organisation, and what do you hope to continue achieving in your role?

As a cancer survivor, I was drawn to work as a Board member with the Cancer Council because of my own personal experience of cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery. I am impressed with the impactful mission of the council to support individuals affected by cancer through education, prevention, and research. The Cancer Council NSW is a cancer charity that funds and conducts cancer research, offers support services and information for cancer patients and their carers, and offers programs to promote cancer prevention. Having been diagnosed in 2019 with Stage 4 cancer, I underwent a long and difficult treatment regime and I am extremely lucky to be able to say I am now five years cancer free. One in three people are touched by cancer and the diagnosis is devastating to 28 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

the patient, their family and friends. My hope remember I ran for Parliament in 2022 which is to continue advocating for effective cancer showed this region has an appetite for doing care strategies and to contribute to raising politics differently. Cowper is now the most awareness about preventative measures. marginal National Party seat in Australia.

I believe in harnessing my healthcare In Cowper, there are too many people experience to influence suffering housing policies that can help stress. This situation has save lives and improve been getting worse for I believe in quality of life for those successive governments. harnessing my facing cancer.

Everyone deserves a safe

healthcare experience

You’re making an and affordable place to influence policies exciting transition to call home and I am that can help save into politics and committed to tackling the lives and improve relocating to Port affordable housing crisis quality of life for Macquarie soon. head-on and ensuring those facing cancer.

What motivated you that every family in our to make this career community has access to change, and what housing that meets their do you hope to needs. accomplish in your new role?

We also face an urgent need to foster I am motivated by a desire to advocate for systemic change in how we do politics in regional areas. Some of your readers will

economic sustainability alongside environmental health. As we adapt to a future shaped by climate change, we should

prioritise investment in renewable energy, sustainable industries, and eco-tourism - all of which can create jobs and improve our local economy while respecting our unique landscape.

I want to leverage my background in healthcare to address pressing issues like accessibility and preventative care in our region.

In addition, I want to leverage my background in healthcare to address pressing issues like accessibility and preventative care in our region. In my new role, I hope to foster collaboration that results in tangible improvements for community health and wellbeing.

By championing initiatives that merge

the health of the community, economic growth with environmental preservation, we can forge a path that benefits all members of our community - today and in the years to come.

There are so many issues that people are speaking to me about - the cost-of-living crisis is impacting us all. Every day, families in Cowper are feeling the pinch of rising costs: groceries, fuel, and housing. I am committed to fighting for our community, ensuring that your voices are heard, and advocating for policies that make a real difference in your day-to-day lives.

You’ve been deeply involved in community health and support through your work. What are some of the key issues you’re most passionate about addressing in your new political role?

My experience in health also drives me to make a real difference - making essential medicines cheaper, supporting NDIS, ensuring GP appointments are available and bulk-billed and offering high quality aged care.

I will be meeting with carers, consumers and their doctors to understand how we can better support our elderly and our vulnerable.

As you embark on this next chapter in your career, what are your hopes for the future - both in your personal journey and in your role as a public servant?

Personally, I hope to grow both professionally and as a community member, learning from the experiences of those around me and continuing to advocate for those in need.

As your representative, I want to positively impact the lives of Cowper residents, ensuring your voices are heard in Canberra.

Want to have Caz light up your event or meeting? Reach out at media@ Caz4Cowper.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 29

Players Theatre presents

‘Unnecessary FARCE’ Two cops, three crooks, eight doors .... “Unnecessary Farce” is an award-winning stage comedy that combines all the elements of a classic farce with a contemporary plot.

I

n an economy motel room, an embezzling mayor is supposed to meet with his new female accountant. In the interconnecting room next door, two inept undercover cops are supposed to catch the meeting on videotape. But there is some confusion as to who’s in which room, who’s watching the video, who’s taken the money, who’s hired a hitman, and why the new accountant keeps taking off her clothes.

This will be a show of laughter and levity as we present this uproarious comedy. Prepare to be swept away into a whirlwind of mistaken identities, zany mishaps, and laugh-out-loud moments.

30 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Director Steve Harris said, ‘I am so happy to have been given such a talented cast for this show, which I can assure you was a cooperation from day one. They have developed their characters so well and embraced the roles they are playing. I can also assure you they do all their own stunts.’

In this cleverly crafted farce, playwright Paul Slade Smith takes us on a riotous romp through a tangled web of deception and hilarity. Set in two adjoining motel rooms, the plot thickens

with bumbling police officers, a suspicious mayor, and a pair of clumsy bad guys who are all caught up in a dizzying dance of mishaps, misunderstandings and mayhem. BUT....there are a few surprises in store.

Relax, and enjoy the delightful madness of "Unnecessary Farce" and let the laughter begin!

Come and join us at The Players Theatre, from October 11th until October 27th. Bookings at www.playerstheatre.org.au, or the Glasshouse.

COLLINS BOOKSELLERS

BOOK Review

The Games Gods Play

J U L Y

By Abigail Owen RRP: $34.99

Lose yourself in a good book and let your mind wander

The Games Gods Play was an amazing read, full of twists, turns and anxiety inducing situations.

When Lyra runs into Zeus’ temple to catch the attention of the god who cursed her, she runs into a different god, the worst god, Hades. For the first time ever, Hades has decided to enter the Crucible, the torturous games hosted by the main 12 gods of Olympus, to earn the right to be the King of the Gods. After being selected by Hades as his

champion, Lyra is focused on surviving the Labors, the 12 challenges set by the 12 gods where death is around each corner. As the Crucible goes on, allies are made, tension grows, and secrets are exposed.

The Chilling

By Riley James RRP: $32.99

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with them, members of the crew begin acting strangely. As if the sub-zero temperatures, crumbling ice-shelves, daily blizzards and fleshhungry leopard seals weren’t deadly enough, the crew realises their greatest threat isn’t the Antarctic, it’s each other. This is a book you don’t want to miss, and Riley James is an author to keep our eyes on!

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 31

JACK LEWIS Jack Lewis has been selected by Bowls Australia to represent the country at the Oceania Challenge held in New Zealand in November this year. He will take the singles mantle, as well as playing in the triples. Jack has only been playing bowls since he was 14 years old and this is quite an achievement for the Wauchope local.

H

i Jack. How did you come to start playing bowls and what do you enjoy most about it?

I started playing lawn bowls when I was 14 at Wauchope Country Club with a couple of my Dad’s mates. They were one player short for a Wednesday night competition and were struggling to fill the position when Dad asked me. I decided it might be a fun thing to do and enjoyed it thoroughly. It’s a sport where it doesn’t matter if you are coordinated, fast, strong or anything that gives you a physical advantage. It’s a sport where muscle memory comes into play and requires a lot of finesse.

I guess that’s why I loved it from the start, because it was so different from every other sport I had played.

Congratulations on your selection for the Oceania Challenge! How did you feel when you first found out you'd be 32 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

representing Australia at this prestigious event?

green are being recognised. It's another thing for people to notice you as well.

You’ve been chosen to take on the singles mantle as well as a key role in the triples team. What is the difference like between playing singles and triples?

I put a lot of

It was one of those moments of disbelief, I had to check to make sure that it was my name and not someone else’s. I couldn’t believe it.

The Oceania Challenge is categorised as a Gold Tier World Bowls Series event, allowing players to accrue ranking points. What does this opportunity mean to you in terms of your career and development as a player?

time into training so it’s nice that over the last 18 months the results I have been getting on the green are being recognised.

I’m just keen to keep ticking off boxes and trying to do my best. I put a lot of time into training so it's nice that over the last 18 months the results I have been getting on the

Singles is a big responsibility because you are all by yourself and cannot rely on anyone to help you out. It's you against them and you against yourself, it becomes a massive mental game.

Whereas in triples you have people to back you up and help you out.

What has your preparation been like in the lead-up to the event in New Zealand?

Are you focusing on any particular skills

or strategies?

Considering the Oceania Series will be played on indoor/undercover greens, I will be trying to get on those surfaces as much as possible. I have been in talks with my coach James Reynolds, about trying to find out the characteristics of the green surfaces over in Auckland and what I need to be looking at going forward into the series.

How does playing alongside teammates like Beau Prideaux and Cohen Litfin, who have also achieved impressive results, influence your own performance and development?

It’s awesome to be able to stand on the same rink as those two mates of mine that I have known for a lot of years now. I know they are great people with all the ability in the world so to be able to play in the same team as them I feel very proud.

What are you most excited about heading into the Oceania Challenge? Do you see this as a stepping stone towards more international events in your future?

I’m more looking at the enjoyment side of things. To go out there wearing the green and gold and try and soak in as much as I can whilst in the moment. These opportunities don’t come around that often so I'll try to enjoy it while it lasts. I know I can compete at a high level so I'll be very determined to put my best foot forward while I get to represent the country.

As a young athlete on the rise, what advice would you give to other aspiring bowlers who want to reach this level of competition?

I didn’t make any junior teams, but I did make NSW U/25’s at the age of 24. My advice would

be to keep showing up and keep practicing.

The results eventually come, but they come more frequently the more time you put into anything that you do.

After the Oceania Challenge, what are your personal and professional goals for the future?

I don’t really have too much planned, I’m just keen to take everything as it comes and prepare accordingly for any sort of event in my life that comes my way, whether it be for sport or work or personal. Surround myself with good people and see what the future holds.

Thanks Jack.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 33

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focus_contributor.

There’s an old saying that “good things come in small packages” like jewellery boxes. But that’s not all...

C

onsider this: Small businesses are the lifeblood of our country and the heartbeat of our regional towns and without them, the landscape of our daily life would be a lot less

interesting.

Imagine replacing your local friendly barista, who sets the tone of your day with a smile and a chat, with a vending machine taking your money and spitting out a sub-par coffee with not even a thank you to send you on your way.

Or maybe you need a new dress or a gift, and while the convenience of online shopping has its place, you simply cannot replicate the feeling of walking into a small business owned by locals who know your name and are genuinely excited to see you.

It’s true, we could survive without a personal barista, a local butcher, baker or boutique, but would we and our regions continue to thrive?

I think not.

The ongoing challenge for small business though, is to remain relevant in an ever changing economic and social landscape.

As towns grow, small businesses need to adapt and grow too.

Consider our small business for example. Meg + Me has been run by Ant and I for just over 12 years now, and as I scroll back through photos the changes and growth we have had

over the years both astounds me and exhausts me! But in reality, that’s the journey you choose if you decide you want to be in small business.

decided to do it again but this time it will be even bigger and even better.

If you didn’t make it to the last event, you missed out! Everyone who came had so much Remaining relevant in a changing environment fun, most walked away with a new outfit or is essential to success in small business. two and those who were sellers made some extra cash from clothing I’ve often thought they weren’t going to about the importance wear again.

The ongoing of thinking outside the square when it comes to business. Yes, as a business Meg + Me may sell beautiful clothing, unique gifts and excellent coffee, but ultimately without all that we have four walls and what we choose to do within that space is limited only by our imagination (within reason!).

challenge for small business though, is to remain relevant in an ever changing economic and social landscape.

As towns grow, small businesses need to adapt and grow too

That’s why when I came up with the concept of using the space within our four walls to sell our customer’s preloved clothing (just for one day) it made so much sense! I have the space, there is an increasing awareness of the impact that unused fashion has on the environment and I was able to offer, on a small scale, a fun solution to a problem most of us have! Too many clothes...

Our first event was such a huge success, I have

It was win/win and an example of how as a small business owner, thinking outside the square really can help not only your business but the community you are part of.

While I have had a huge response to my callout for “Vendors” for our next event, if you are interested in taking part, please send me an email to thebossgirl@ megandme.com.au and I will let you know if I have space for you to join this event as a seller.

So as far as good things coming in small packages goes, let’s watch our small space this month and put that to the test, once again!

We can’t wait to see you on Sunday 27 October between 8am and 1pm for our next Shop Takeover event.

Until then, Shop Small xx GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 35

Bron

Lowe

Bron Lowe is a local ceramic artist who is not only creating her own beautiful work but is also opening up her studio space as part of her disability support practices. She has some exciting things on the horizon at her studio and also as an exhibiting artist, being selected for both the prestigious Sculptures in the Garden in Mudgee and Sculpture on the Edge on the Sunshine Coast.

H

i Bron. Can you share a bit about your background and your beginnings as an artist?

I was raised by a very successful watercolour artist, Gloria Muddle, so art is something I've done for as long as I can remember.

I’ve dabbled in everything from painting to calligraphy, and when computers became a thing, I was quick to dive into digital graphics.

That led me to pursue my degrees and a corporate career. Art may have taken a back seat for a while, but I was always creating whether it was painting canvases or repainting the house! Creativity is something I absolutely must do, so I balanced my analytical, computer-focused work with creative outlets whenever I could.

People often ask how I manage to do so 36 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

much, and my response is always, 'How do endless possibilities! There’s so much to learn, you know you can't do something until you from clay bodies to glaze science, you can try?' Watching my Mum dedicate countless never be bored! On the less positive side; hours to her art taught pottery is probably one me that creativity, of the least forgiving indeed, anything you mediums. It’s a long Creativity is want to do, takes process, and plenty can something serious practice. She go wrong, but that just I absolutely must also introduced me to makes it even more do, so I balanced pottery when I was 16, thrilling when it all goes my analytical, and arranged for one right! computer-focused of her potter friends I love the raw beauty and work with creative to show me the ropes. the practicality of pottery. outlets whenever I took to it straight For me, each piece needs I could. away, and she even to be a perfect blend of lent me her expensive thoughtful design and equipment for a while. unique craftsmanship. I What are your mediums of choice and don’t use molds, so every piece is one-of-ahow would you describe your art? kind. The look and feel are equally important.

My mugs and cups, for example, have fine, The thing I love most about pottery are the

curved rims that fit perfectly to the lips and rounded bases that nestle comfortably in the hand. I’ve also started creating Memorial Cremation Urns because I like the idea of placing a loved one’s ashes in something as unique as they were, not in a massproduced jar. This is fitting because I liken my pottery to people: I like to 'Pottery, like people, is incorporate created with love and my calligraphy for a purpose. Any and drawing skills faults are simply signs into the design, of uniqueness. we’re rather than simply not mass-produced dipping the piece to be identical, but into glaze. uniquely special and loved.

Can you tell us about your process, from concept to a finished piece?

Any piece – whether a coffee cup or a sculpture will take a minimum of 2 to 3 weeks to complete. Pottery is all about the timing, throwing on the pottery wheel with water, of course makes the piece so wet that you must wait until the next day to finish it

with mug handles or

incorporate my calligraphy and drawing skills

other details. Whereas

into the design, rather than simply dipping

hand-building work

the piece into glaze. I make my own glazes

like sculptures, has to be done at various

but probably use clear glaze over underglaze

stages of the drying process. Depending on

colour the most. Sometimes I leave the piece

the weather, it can take up to 3 weeks for a

completely raw and send it straight through

finished piece to dry out enough to go into

to the second firing which is the higher

the kiln for the first firing.

temperature used to melt glazes and make

There are many techniques for applying

the piece stronger.

glazes, colors, and markings. I like to

Continued over...

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 37

You now have your own studio here in Port where you are able to share your passion with others through your disability support service. What inspired you to start offering these services?

I was medically retired from a corporate career and had spent many years helping in welfare during my recovery. I started a disability company simply in response to one individual’s need, I had the skills from my earlier careers so it just grew.

When COVID19 had us in lockdown I was able As the to purchase my pottery evenings equipment and practice get warmer, our everyday. Unable to let go, I introduced my po ery teacher pottery passion into the Tammy (of Piper’s work environment. We Creek Po ery) will hired a studio with office be holding classes spaces allowing me to at my studio every continue doing both, week... and offering pottery to clients as well as putting on some fun activities for the staff and corporate groups.

y

at

Can you tell us about what you offer at the studio? What do you most enjoy about it?

This year I have decided to sell off most of the corporate type work and concentrate on pottery almost full time. I have employed (more highly experienced) pottery and art teachers offering their amazing skills to clients. Our studio is fully equipped with art and pottery equipment and we find that 38 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

small classes, one off party events or oneto-one tuition yields the most enjoyment and benefit for people. As the evenings get warmer, our pottery teacher Tammy (of Piper’s Creek Pottery) will be holding classes at my studio every week and aiming for a core group of serious potters who want to expand their skills and work on bigger projects.

the Sculpture on the Edge Flaxton Gardens on the Sunshine Coast. While some of the art prizes are quite significant; I’m just super grateful to be accepted at this stage.

I think Tammy is a great teacher but I’m always there to join and assist. I love that people always have more fun than they expect – they’re always more creative than they expect and in the end they get to take home something they can use every day, that they’ve made with their own two hands!

Where else can we find your work locally?

You will be exhibiting some of your work in the coming months, can you share a bit about what you have going on?

I'm very excited to have been accepted into the Sculptures in the Garden which is a prestigious sculpture competition held in beautiful Rosby Wines in Mudgee. This is where the “big” sculptors and sculptures can be found (some need installation using large machinery).

I’ve also had a trio of sculptures accepted in

I want to choose a small number of suitable retail partners so that I can maintain quality in supply and variety.

Currently my work is sold at Wauchope Creative Hub and Southwest Rocks Community Gallery. I am about to publish a Product Preview booklet as a Retail Partner Proposal. I want to choose a small number of suitable retail partners so that I can maintain quality in supply and variety. Some will hopefully be local (please contact me if you think that’s you) but I also have potential partners in Sorrento, Melbourne and Sydney beaches.

What are some of your aspirations for the future of your art practice?

I will continue to look for opportunities to enter into art competitions in Australia and overseas. I love a new challenge and I create

sculptures specifically for the exhibition, whether there’s a theme or not. I have just finished some crazy little “celtic style cone cups” for the Newcastle Cup show in November and hope to enter a couple of sculptures in the South West Rocks “Sculpture Rock” running in December.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

It’s rare for me not to be at my studio but I do try to have a healthy work-life balance because I have an awesome family. I am working towards opening the studio to the public occasionally next year but for now it’s by appointment only. Follow me on Instagram / Facebook for announcements.

Otherwise call for a visit to the studio: Unit 2/1 Karungi Cres, Port Macquarie 0408 189 008 made.from.mud.ceramics@gmail.com GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 39

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Kyll Goodsell LAKE INNES FIRE BRIGADE

Kyll Goodsell has been part of the Lake Innes Fire Brigade for 22 years. He experienced first hand the catastrophic 2019-20 bushfires and knows the incredible importance of having a strong local fire brigade, good community facilities, and an emergency plan. The new fire station at Lake Innes is a wonderful start, and Kyll encourages the community to visit, get involved, get educated, and support the station and team in any way you can!

H

i. How long have you been part of the Lake Innes Fire Brigade? What keeps you motivated to serve the community in this way?

The Lake Innes Rural Fire Brigade has been part of my life for 22 years.

Moving to the Lake Innes area, my father was in the brigade, and thought it a wise idea to join the brigade given the threat of bushfire.

It became a hobby, and the vast range of training, experience and people in the RFS quickly motivated me. Volunteer community service became important to me, as I often say to people when they ask why I have such commitment, “if it was you in an emergency and no one turned up how would you feel”.

Deep down it gives you a sense of achievement, that you have selflessly participated in helping others to overcome misfortunes.

Can you share a bit about the rest of the team?

Our team at Lake Innes Brigade, is a diverse range of wonderful people. As we are a volunteer organisation, our members are from the local and broader community with a huge range of different professional and non-professional backgrounds, cultures and expertise. We have a blended community of 42 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

supporters, active and non-active members which creates new friends and a network we can rely on.

Can you tell us about the new fire station and its facilities? How does this station compare to the previous one?

of the rural community resilience program, the Australian and NSW Government gave organisations the opportunity to apply for funding. We took this opportunity to develop and submit an application based on a cost effective design and cater for the needs of the brigade and community.

Easy, there is no Given the merits of comparison to the old our application, we steel shed. The evolution were fortunate it was We need of the brigade has been considered and granted, ongoing, and typically ongoing and as a result, we have we have grown out of participation from this magnificent building. the old and now into a the community to new modern fire rated How will the new understand what facility which caters for fire station and its we do, and how the future of the brigade enhanced facilities they can assist in and the community. improve emergency various roles.

Our journey prior to the response in the Lake Bushfire Local Economic Innes area?

Recovery Fund (BLERF) Our emergency response Grant, saw us trying and facility is vital for protecting the community. to extend a dilapidated shed and basically on In the 2019-2020 fires Lake Innes was isolated, the back foot with the limited donations and and the gathering point for information and fundraising activities we do. refuge was the old fire shed, which although we How long has the project for the new station been in development, and what were the key motivations behind upgrading it?

After the 2019-2020 catastrophic fires, as part

improvised at the time, clearly had insufficient facilities to cater for this and future emergencies or disasters.

Our new facility was located strategically, being just off the Pacific Hwy, and the gateway to

Our response times are based on the availability of our volunteers, they are the backbone to our organisation, and their commitment is invaluable.

Port Macquarie and Wauchope, providing great coverage for not just the Lake Innes area, but for the whole district.

Our brigade responds not only to bushfires, we are also called to motor vehicle accidents, structure fires, floods and storms - assisting other agencies such as FRNSW, NSW Ambulance, SES, Forestry and National Parks. We also are called for deployment at times to other regions of NSW, Australia and overseas.

Our response times are based on the availability of our volunteers, they are the backbone to our organisation, and their commitment is invaluable.

With our growth and reliability Lake Innes are called to well over 300 incidents a year.

For those in the community interested in joining the brigade, what are the steps involved, and what roles are available to them?

First step is not to be afraid to visit our station, have a chat and look at our resources. We need ongoing participation from the community to understand what we do, and how they can assist in various roles.

Second step. Access the NSW Rural Fire Service on-line application portal, https://www.rfs.nsw. gov.au/volunteer/join-the-nsw-rfs Once approved, we offer bushfire training,

national competencies and a large range of advanced training. Best of all it's free, and you are given a nice uniform to be proud of.

“What you put in is what you get out of it”, saving lives, protecting people and property, and an awesome feeling. The opportunity to learn new and valuable skills that will not only assist you in your voluntary role but in day to day life and even your workplace.

It’s an opportunity to meet people you wouldn't normally meet. We have no expectation of commitment. We respect and cater for people’s work commitments, other interests or even those who may not wish to be front line fire fighters and contribute in other ways. For your safety however, we do expect attendance to training to ensure you are up to date and to maintain your competency if you wish to be a frontline firefighter. We are always recruiting, be firewise, give it a go.

For those unable to volunteer, how can the community best support the fire brigade, particularly during bushfire season?

Our community and business houses are key supporters for the brigade. The best way to support is through seeking knowledge and an understanding of our operations.

Monitor our social media website. We are always seeking donations, whether it be money, goods or services for the day to day expenses, or

maintaining the station and appliances in their pristine condition. https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/ volunteer/support-your-local-brigade What are some key fire safety tips that you’d like to share with the Lake Innes community, especially for the upcoming fire season?

Ensure you have working smoke detectors.

Reduce the fuel, mow the paddocks and clean the gutters. Refer to NSW RFS website for more information - https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/planand-prepare How important is it for households to have a fire plan, and how can the fire brigade assist in educating the public on this?

Very important - be prepared and survive.

We have information available at the station and personal assistance to evaluate your situation.

In my opinion, hope for the best and plan for the worst.

Plan and Prepare, information available https:// www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare What are your hopes for the future of the Lake Innes Fire Brigade now that the new station is up and running?

My hope is for a resilient brigade and community. We’ve achieved a significant milestone with the new infrastructure, but the true key to our ongoing success lies in the people - our dedicated volunteers and supporters. Together, we can continue to build on this foundation and maintain our effectiveness in serving the community.

Thanks Kyll GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 43

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We also offer dolphin spotting river cruises, our signature Ocean Blast Fun Ride and jet ski hire for all the fun you can have on the water!

Short St, Port Macquarie. 0419 620 765 portjet.com.au

DVINE EXPERIENCES

BILLABONG ZOO At the multiple award-winning Billabong Zoo you can get up-close and personal to Australian and exotic animals. Pat, feed, hold, hear and see over 100 species of mammals, reptiles and birds.

61 Billabong Drive, Port Macquarie, billabongzoo.com.au

HELLO KOALAS GALLERY + GIFT SHOP

“Jump aboard the DVINE Bus and explore Port Macquarie’s top restaurants, cafes, vineyards, breweries, and hidden gems! We’ve done the research, so you can sit back and relax. Kid-friendly and an unforgettable experience. Call 0421 395 876 or visit www.dvinexperiences.com hello@dvinexperiences.com

Discover an amazing display of quality koala-themed gifts, souvenirs and family activity ideas, including paint your own koala sets. Say hello to 20+ one metre high Hello Koalas, hand-painted by local artists, part of the award-winning Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. 2/1A Blackbutt Rd, Port Macquarie. Open Mon to Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 9am – 1pm (28 Sept, 5 & 12 Oct). Ph 0416 641 482 (7 days) www.hellokoalas.com

WILDNETS ADVENTURE PARKS

FLORENCE JONES

WildNets Adventure Park is a fun day out for the entire family!

From the adventurous teen, energy-filled youth to the young at heart and one-year-old tots. Discover the forest’s flora and fauna from a completely different perspective. Bookings essential.

Guulabaa Way, Lake Innes | wildnets.com.au

Your friendly Wine & Cheese Store. Choose something delicious to go - grazing boxes, wine or foodie gift - or take in the view and enjoy cheese, wine and all the good things in house! 74 Clarence St, Port Macquarie, Bookings for 10 or more - 0475 740 621 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 45

Matthew Bruce is an accomplished fighter in a number of different fight styles. Currently ranked 7th in the world in Kickboxing after competing at the World Championships in Germany last year, he is off to represent Australia again this year in Vienna in the hopes of reaching No.1 World Champion!

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You compete in a couple of different types of fighting. Can you tell us about the different types and your experience with each?

I have competed in four different styles of combat: Mixed Martial Arts, Muay Thai, Kickboxing and Boxing. All styles have their own rule sets and can be challenging to go between disciplines especially when you haven’t fought one for awhile.

I have only competed in MMA once, which ...about five is the style they fight years ago and in the UFC, and boxing the coach thought I have fought in fight I was good enough nights, King of the to compete so we Ring tournaments and booked a fight and NSW Championship tournaments. Muay Thai I won and from I have fought for a State there I fell in love title and an Australian with the sport.

Title. Kickboxing I have fought for Australian Titles and represented Australia last year in the World Championships in Munich, Germany and am currently ranked 7th in the World. I am representing Australia i Matthew. How did you again this year in the World Championships first get into kickboxing in Vienna, Austria and looking to be World and martial arts?

Champion and ranked number 1 in the world.

Great question, I first got How often do you usually train? What is a into kickboxing about typical training session like?

3 years ago when an During a fight camp I usually train 6 days a opportunity came up to fight in a kickboxing week and I like to get two training sessions in bout down in Canberra. As I fight more than on each of those days. Training sessions can one style I thought why not as I didn’t have consist of anything from cardio, strength and any other fights booked at the time. We went conditioning, pad work, bag work, stretching, down and I ended up winning by knockout in wrestling, Brazilian jiu jitsu, shadow sparring the third round. and sparring.

As for how I got into fighting, I had been

H

training at a local gym about five years ago and the coach thought I was good enough to compete so we booked a fight and I won and from there I fell in love with the sport.

When I am not in fight camp I generally like to train 4 to 5 days a week with some of those days being 2 sessions a day.

Continued over...

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In kickboxing you are currently ranked 7th in the world. Can you tell us about what it has taken to reach this level so far?

I have been focusing a lot on my cardio and strength and conditioning seeing as in the World Championships you could fight once a day or up to 3 or 4 times on the same day depending on the fixtures.

To be ranked 7th and inside the top 10 of the world, I would say the ability to fight anybody, and on any day, would play a big part in it. I have built my fight career on not giving up and always pushing my limits and fighting out of my comfort zone. The more active you are and obviously the more wins, will send you further up the ladder. You have to be willing to take every opportunity given to you and always be ready.

You competed last year in Germany, and this year you are off to Vienna to compete for the World Championship! What have 48 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

you been focused on in the lead up to Vienna?

Anytime I get the opportunity to fight my mind always goes straight into focus mode.

Knowing what it took last year to get as far as I did has helped me a great deal in my preparation this year. I have been focusing a lot on my cardio and strength and conditioning seeing as in the World Championships you could fight once a day or up to 3 or 4 times on the same day depending on the fixtures.

What are you most looking forward to about competing on the world stage again? What is the competition like?

I am most looking forward to the opportunity to compete for a world title and climb that

ladder again and to also represent my country and the Port Macquarie area on the big stage.

Most of the fighters representing their countries in the Worlds are their national champions, and some are already World Champions.

The competition is the best in the world. This is the equivalent of the Olympics for the combat sports that are not in the Olympics. Most of the fighters representing their countries in the Worlds are their national champions and some are already World Champions. So you are really having the opportunity to test yourself against the best to see where you stand.

year and buying merchandise. My coach Alex and the Rogue PMQ team have levelled me up to be the fighter I am today, preparing me and always working on my strengths and weaknesses. My sponsors have all been a help, I can’t thank them enough, they have given me the support and opportunity to chase my dreams over the years and I could not be more grateful. The community support is unreal, the way they all gather together to support me and other local athletes is why we are one of the best places in the world to live. The support, both nationally and internationally, lets me know just how far I have come and how many people I have reached and connected with and I appreciate each and every single one of you!

Thai Champion Nathan “Carnage” Corbett.

Thanks Matthew

What has the support been like from your family, friends and community?

The support has been nothing short of amazing.

My wife Kellie and kids Layla and Jayde are my biggest supporters, they are always helping me prepare for my fights. My friends are always cheering me on and sending me messages of support before fights and throughout the

What have been the biggest challenges and highlights in your fighting career so far?

My biggest challenge is mostly just trying to get a fight. I have had a lot of opponents pull out or not take fights when I am on a fight card which has added up to some time between fights. I have had a few minor injuries but nothing major, so I am very thankful for that.

My highlights are being a current Australian Champion, representing Australia on the biggest stage at World Championships, being ranked 7th in the world and training with some of the greatest fighters in the world. I have had the opportunity to train with UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon “Bones” Jones, UFC Former Featherweight Champion Alex “The Great” Volkanovski and 11 x World Muay GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 49

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COVER DISH.. ARANCINI BALLS FROM ZEBU

Drift BAR CAFE RESTAURAN T

Welcome to Drift Bar Cafe Restaurant, where culinary delights meet a cosy atmosphere!

Whether you’re craving our classic offerings, chef specials or exploring our diverse vegetarian options, we have something to tantalise every palate. Bring the whole family along - our kids' meals, complete with an exciting activity pack and a delicious ice

cream cup, are just $12, making them perfect for a fun and affordable school holiday treat.

And that's not all! Our much anticipated spring menu is on the horizon, promising fresh, seasonal flavours that will delight your senses. Stay tuned and keep an eye on our socials for updates.

Come drift with us and experience casual dining at its best!

W E L C O M E

T O

FRANKIE’S CAFÉ Fun Vibes, Delicious Food & Sunny Mornings!

Our space has been created to share with you, yes YOU! With a fun team and a delicious menu why wouldn’t you want to come down and enjoy it with us!

Our burgers are fantastic and a great reason to forget your lunch during the work week, not to mention the most delicious and freshest salads.

14 Clarence St Port Macquarie Open daily 6.30am to 3pm 6583 7387 | frankiespmq@gmail.com frankiesportmacquarie.com.au

Fresh juices are perfect for these warm spring days or treat yourself to an iced coffee or chocolate.

Come and check out our cabinet of amazing sweet treats and pair any great cake with a great coffee.

Open 7 days a week from 6:30am till 3:00pm - closed Public Holidays.

F R A N K I E ’S /frankies.pmq

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CASSERAS Welcome to Casseras, Port Macquarie’s iconic and family run bakery producing the highest quality bespoke pastry and bakery delights. Open for breakfast and lunch, serving quality coffee, salads, fresh baguettes and sweet treats.

Catering available.

3 & 4/10 Bellbowrie St, BLOOM PMQ Port Macquarie At the cozy boutique cafe with a rivercasseras.com.au view, you can enjoy modern Australian dining with a Singapore flavour, coffee Gabriel- and Opensip Mon - Friby 6:30am indulge in treats from the house-made cake cabinet with gluten-free 2pm & Sat 6:30am - 12:30pm options, while the variety of kids' menu choices ensures everyone finds something they love.

1/74 Clarence St, Port Macquarie. 6584 1223 bloompmq.com

CHOP ‘N CHILL Chop ‘n Chill, a story told through food. A mix of two dining concepts, east meets west with our own playful twist!

Cocktails, cold beers, wine ‘n bubbles. Open breakfast, lunch ‘n dinner and anytime in between! Town Green, 17-19 Horton St, Port Macquarie, 6583 9155

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M U S T E AT S

CARAMELS AT CATHIE Try our refreshed summer menu full of mouth-watering options, made from local high quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick takeaway coffee or a leisurely dine-in meal, we’ve got you covered 7 days a week!

Shop 8/1601 Ocean Dr, Lake Cathie. www.caramels.com.au 52 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

BOATHOUSE BAR & RESTAURANT Step aboard and join us at The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant, where every day feels like a holiday! Sip on a refreshing cocktail while watching the yachts pass or indulge in a delectable seafood platter. From casual Sunday sessions to family dinner dates, there’s something for everyone to savour. See you soon!

20 Park St, Port Macquarie | 6589 5200

CHOW HAUS We’re back in a new location!! Waterfront views, coffee, breakfast and lunch and night time pop ups! Work lunch, afternoon snack, catching up with friends, we got you covered, Even an afternoon coffee to wind down. Open 8-2 Wednesday Thursday Saturday Sunday and 8am-7.30pm on Fridays. 11 McInherney Close 0434 542 700

BAKED CULTURE

CHAR BAR CATERING Good food! Good times! Good people! We know how to party! Let us cater for your wedding, corporate event or next private function with an array of options available.

Stefan: 0423 688 860, Liz: 0432 243 740 charbarcatering.com.au

MISS LUCY IZAKAYA

Hand rolled croissants, artisan sourdough. coffee and more! Got a craving for a freshly baked Danish or Almond croissant? “Our bakery in Wauchope offers the highest quality products using traditional mindful methods” 31 High street Wauchope, 5564 1146

Connect with friends over conversation and cocktails, Miss Lucy welcomes you! Small bar, huge vibe. linger on the lounges or relax under the trees looking at the stars. Fun and funky food and serious cocktails! 3/26 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie, booking4misslucy@gmail.com Open Tues - Sat, 5pm til late

ZEBU BAR & RESTAURANT

BLOOM PMQ

Welcome spring with open arms at Zebu Bar & Restaurant! Indulge in our delicious new menu as you soak up the sunset views. And don’t let the school holidays stress you out - bring the whole family for a buffet breakfast and enjoy special discounts for locals. Good food, good vibes, and good times await!

1 Hay St, Port Macquarie | 6589 2888

At the cosy boutique cafe with a river view, you can enjoy modern Australian dining with a Singapore flavour. Sip coffee by Gabriel and indulge in treats from the house-made cake cabinet with gluten-free options, while the variety of kids' menu choices ensures everyone finds something they love.

1/74 Clarence St, Port Macquarie. 6584 1223 bloompmq.com GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 53

focus_contributor.

Palate with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

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t’s true what they say, is it not? It’s the little things that make a difference. In a world full of never-ending options, the choices we make every day seem to know no bounds. Scrolling through never ending news feeds, searching for one item and having pages and pages of it come up in every way, shape and form – plus a whole lot of other random stuff you never knew that you needed.

For those of us that fall naturally in the more indecisive realm of humanity, the sheer volume of information we need to sift through for even the most mundane of decisions is quite overwhelming.

Whether it is merely doing your grocery shopping and comparing - literally – apples for apples (don’t get me started here, but this year are the varieties on offer off the charts or what?), or making a more substantial purchase – lawnmower, laptop, car…..the list goes on and the considerations can seem endless…in fact making one curl up in the foetal position and make do with the ancient lawnmower, or even go without an apple!

In the world of today marketing and advertising is insidious, it is built cleverly into every move we make, every little thing we click on online.

Cookies and algorithms are busy analysing our preferences and predilections all the time, notifications are alerting us to the urgency to 54 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

make that purchase…how many other people are looking at the same hotel room? Stocks are low and time is running out on that sale item.

No time to waste, retailers know once you’re hovering over their page that they need to grab your attention right now – before someone else does!

things…but it actually turns out they could be big things.

Yes, we’ve all been there, convinced into heading down a rabbit hole online having been transfixed by all the bells and whistles…aka bright and shiny marketing. Sure, sometimes it works out great and we discover something new and wonderful, even if it was something we never knew we needed before we clicked on it.

The trick to finding a way through this mindbending mess, and thus avoiding FOMO and other associated stress related phenomena, is to simply pause. Yep, The trick to don’t click now and finding a way definitely don’t put in through this mindyour credit card details. bending mess, and Take a break, walk thus avoiding FOMO away, go for a swim and other associated or a run or phone a stress related friend.

But if we’re coming from a more considered and sensible place, it is so often the case that the most reliable and trusted of the brands that we keep coming back to time and time again are such because they’ve earned phenomena, is to their stripes….because they And then when you simply pause. last, because we trust the revisit that thing you companies that make them, want/need again because there are those you might be able to little things that make a difference. more accurately cut through all the smoke and mirrors and work out just what it is that is really important to you. Is it free shipping, buy one, get one free, or a coupon code? Or is it the right model, the brand you trust, the one with the best after sales support?

Maybe they are little things in the scheme of

And because also, it negates the need to scroll through all the other stuff in order to get there.

So in fact it’s ok to be a creature of habit. Buy the brand you’ve always bought. Go to the restaurant you always go to. It’s the little things that mean a lot.

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Tacking Point Tavern celebrates Oktoberfest.

Fun sunn TA C K I N G P O I N T TAV E R N

Our shar

Oktoberfest

With men com

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ndulge in authentic German cuisine featuring traditional dishes and beer steins at the annual Tacking Point Tavern

Oktoberfest celebration from Monday October 7 to Sunday October 20!

The special menu includes freshly baked pretzels, oven roasted pork knuckle, schnitzel, sauerkraut and Oma Schmidt’s apple strudel and is curated by German born executive chef Michael Rieg.

Our grea durin men

The highlight of the festivities, the Stein Hold Challenge, will take place on Saturday October 19 at 1pm. Test your strength and endurance while enjoying live music and great atmosphere with friends and family.

Dressing up in traditional dirndl or lederhosen is highly encouraged! Don’t miss out on the food, drinks, and fun be sure to book now to avoid disappointment via the website tackingpointtavern.com.au

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Cocktail of the month

Miss Lucy’s

Margarita 45ml Blanco Tequila

1. Rim rocks glass with togarashi and salt blend 2. Combine remaining ingredients in shaker

15ml Umeshu (Japanese Plum Liqueur)

3. Add ice and shake hard for 20-25 seconds

30ml Lime Juice

4. Fill glass with ice and strain contents of the shaker into the glass

15ml Spicy Plum Cordial

5. Garnish with a lime wedge

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what’sat the ON Club ITALIAN NIGHT Every Tuesday from 5.30pm

TRIVIA AND SCHNITZEL NIGHT Every Wednesday from 5.30pm

SEAFOOD NIGHT & PUTT FOR DOUGH Every Thursday from 5.30pm

MEAT & SEAFOOD RAFFLES Every Friday from 6pm

MEMBER’S BADGE DRAW Fridays at 6.30pm and 8pm

SUNDAY ROAST Every Sunday from 1130am

HAPPY HOUR Schooners & House Wines | $5.50 Every Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday from 4pm to 6pm

COURTESY BUS Every Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 5pm Restaurant opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 11.30am to 2pm & 5.30pm to 8pm Sunday – 11.30am to 2.30pm ............................................

Port Macquarie Golf Club 700 Ocean Drive Port Macquarie NSW 2444 reception@portmacquariegolf.com.au | (02) 6582 0409

sports trivia, novelty games, $170pp Includes auctions, raffles, giveaways, 3.5 hour Limited numbers.

Book early.

drink package* & great lunch *Beer, wine and soft drink

F O R B O O K I N G S : C a l l ( 0 2 ) 65 82 0 4 0 9 w w w. p o r tm acq ua ri e g o lf. co m . au

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Wednesday 25 December Make Christmas Lunch GREAT! Celebrate Christmas with us at our Aqua Christmas Lunch and let our talented team cater for you!

Enjoy stunning river views, relaxing with friends and family, and a delicious festive four course plated lunch.

Make memorable moments with great food, great views, and great times – and a special surprise visit from Santa!

Tickets: $140 members | $160 non members + booking fee.

Bookings are essential and can be made through our website or by scanning the QR code below.

Hurry and reserve your table before the big day!

Go to thewestportclub.com.au for more info The Westport Club 25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 P | 6588 7201 www.thewestportclub.com.au

www.facebook.com/ thewestportclub www.instagram.com/ thewestportclub Scan for tickets

The Westport Club 25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 P | 6588 7201 www.thewestportclub.com.au

www.facebook.com/ thewestportclub www.instagram.com/ thewestportclub Scan for tickets

Pianist Hair with the

DIRECT FROM CARNEGIE HALL

From Sydney Opera House to the Glasshouse, Steinway Artist, Julian Gargiulo’s Australian Tour will commence in October. Commonly referred to as Pianist with the Hair, he is an internationally renowned classical pianist, composer, and humorist.

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is impressive career has seen Julian perform for people all over the world, from New York’s Carnegie Hall to Singapore’s Symphony Stage and his work has been featured on radio and television stations in North America, Europe, Asia, and most recently on BBC Radio 3 in London. Julian will grace the Glasshouse this month with an inspiring line-up of classical and non-classical works.

Hi Julian, thank you so much for your time.

Your concerts are always an interactive experience. You are so captivating, not only with your technical precision but also with your distinct humorous personality making for a highly memorable performance. What inspires you on stage?

Thank you very much Sarah. Well it’s very often the audience who inspires me because the show has such an interactive quality to it. I do depend on an audience who is willing to play ball and to be engaged in more ways than just listening to great works of classical masters.

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There will also be some tango pieces as part of my upcoming tour’s lineup and I will be debuting some brand new work of my own as well. There is definitely an interactive quality to my performances. I have to say though, in my experience with Australian audiences, I’ve always had a really good time! Australians want to have fun and I really want them to enjoy the show and have fun too, so we usually come to a good understanding!

Can you tell us a little about your career to date as a pianist and composer and perhaps some personal highlights you have had over the years?

I started as a ‘regular’ classical pianist, the kind that wears a penguin suit (ie, tuxedo) and performs a very standard classical piano concert (the kind in which pillows aren’t even distributed!). Over time I segued into what I do now, which merges the classical concert with elements of an interactive comedy show.

I would say some of my highlights include performing for the President of Singapore.

After that particular concert I was approached

by Steinway and asked if I would like to become a ‘Steinway Artist’ which was very exciting for me. I recorded in New York for their new Steinway Spirio piano launch, as well as throughout Asia, Europe, and North America.

More recently, I had the honour of recording with one of the most prestigious recording labels Deutsche Grammophon alongside the young and talented Spanish violinist María Dueñas in Vienna, performing a piece I had written. Our recording of my Violin Sonata “From the Window” debuted at number 1 on Amazon’s Fresh Classical playlist.

But ultimately, I will tell you that every time I perform live for a new audience and see the audience’s reaction and their excitement, for me that is an achievement and a highlight.

I often get asked “where was your most memorable performance”, and my answer is, “the concert I just finished playing.” The audience is giving me two hours of their time by coming to my show. Time is our most valuable asset and in entrusting me with theirs, they are giving me a tremendous responsibility!

Your program at the Glasshouse will include some of the usual classical suspects such as Mendelssohn, Schubert, Chopin, and Debussy, but I understand you will also be premiering some ‘unnamed work.’ Can you tell us a little about what you have in store for this show?

Yes, I am very excited about debuting this new piece which I wrote very recently. It’s a ‘toccata’ which comes from the Italian word ‘to touch.’ One thing I am very excited about doing with the audience in Port Macquarie is I want them to help me name that piece. I’m very curious to see what the Port Macquarie audience might come up with for this work.

For this performance, patrons will have the opportunity to literally see your hands projected onto a screen, as your fingers work their magic. How does this added layer offer another dimension to not only showcase your talent but also give an audience greater insight into your skill?

I think with any piano concert, the way a piano

is set up on stage and in relation to seats in any theatre, visibility is difficult from wherever you are sitting, while a focal point of any piano concert is being able to see the pianist’s hands at the keys. People want to be able to see how the music is being produced and making that possible with live screens is incredible for the audience. With today’s technology, it is simple to project an image of the keyboard onto a big screen, and suddenly the entire audience is right there next to you at the keyboard, as if seated beside you on the piano bench (though fortunately not quite).

What is on the horizon for you musically?

This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the Water Island Music Festival of which I am Artistic Director. 2025 will also be the 10th Anniversary of the World’s Biggest Stage Competition (formerly Getting to Carnegie), a musical contest I created. The world’s top young cellists will compete and the final four will premiere my new Cello Sonata. In a few weeks we will be holding the competition’s annual fundraiser called ‘Chopin and

Champagne’, a fun formula I’ve come up with in which different pieces of Chopin are paired with different types of champagne.

It’s a great way to learn about music and grapes, and as the evening progresses people get progressively more and more tipsy (and generous).

Aside from these events, I have several new commissions as well as other performances coming up in the United States and abroad.

But mainly I’m very excited about my Australian tour which includes a number of locations as well as Port Macquarie. I will be playing for the first time at the Sydney Opera House so the Glasshouse audience will get the Sydney Opera House experience without having to leave Port Macquarie.

Thanks Julian. Interview: Sarah Baker.

Direct from Carnegie Hall Julian Gargiulo will be performing at the Glasshouse on Sunday, 20th October 2024. Tickets glasshouse.org.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 65

LOTS OF GAMES AND PRIZES TO BE WON

TUE 5 NOV

Raffles Live Entertainment from 12pm Courtesy Bus from 11am Drift Dining Specials TAB facilities from 9am Swipe your members card at the kiosk to receive an entry in the Lucky Door prize

4 O W E N S T P O R T M A C Q U A R I E | P 6 5 8 3 1 1 3 3 | P O R T C I T Y. C O M . A U

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Heartbeat

The

OF

C

Bridget Rees on building a Musical Legacy in Dorrigo.

an you tell us about the origins of the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival, how it evolved, and what keeps you motivated to continue producing it?

The festival was my son Jack's idea, rooted in his passion for bluegrass and old-time music and a desire to create a family-friendly and participatory event in the scenic hills of Dorrigo.

The festival was initially supported by the Dorrigo Arts Council, but after ten years, it became an independent event. Over the past two decades, we've maintained the same vision, celebrating acoustic music while evolving the event to incorporate performers and audiences from across Australia and beyond.

When Jack moved on, I took over organising duties. For me, the festival succeeds when it offers an inspiring, nurturing space where people of all ages can connect, make lasting friendships, and experience the joy of music

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Bluegrass

together. Holding on to its community spirit keeps me going every year.

community of Dorrigo, both culturally and economically?

What are some of the biggest challenges The festival has always worked to foster a you've faced in sense of community, organising the bringing together locals festival, and how who have supported us.

We offer inspiring have you overcome Culturally, the festival workshops, them? puts Dorrigo on the map, performances, and a connecting the town with One of our primary community atmosphere musicians worldwide. challenges has been where friendships are Economically, the town's staying true to our easily formed.

Our nopopulation doubles during vision while balancing the festival weekend, alcohol policy helps growth over financial and the event generates foster a participative sustainability. We've visits throughout the year. also dealt with atmosphere.

We've also engaged the unpredictable weather, community in numerous like torrential rain projects, from working and droughts. These challenges required us with students to organising concerts and to adapt quickly, whether digging drainage workshops such as "Folk in the Round," a channels or hand-watering the grounds. I cornerstone community engagement event. am also proud that we managed to keep the festival going during the pandemic with a virtual event.

How has the festival impacted the local

Can you share some of the most memorable moments or performances from the festival’s history?

Over the years, I've been fortunate to work with dedicated volunteers, sound crews, and committee members. Seeing young musicians who start out shy later perform confidently on the main stage has been incredibly rewarding. Creating the Old-Time Music School is another highlight, and travelling to the U.S. as part of Performing Arts Discovery: American Sounds was an unforgettable experience.

How do you select the artists and bands that perform at the festival each year?

Artists undergo an annual application process, and each submission is carefully considered. Since 2011, we've welcomed international performers who add richness and authenticity to our lineup. Every year, I invite some performers to help curate a program that fosters creativity and collaboration. I also make it a point to feature local musicians, and I'm passionate about artists who write socially conscious music reflective of our times.

Moving forward, I'm excited to build on the foundations we've laid over the past 22 years. We're developing the kids' area creatively and musically, and I'm thrilled to progress the Old-Time Music School. Sustainability is a focus, and we're working towards becoming a waste-free festival. Continuing to invite overseas performers is also a priority.

What strategies do you use to engage with the festival’s audience and ensure they have a memorable experience?

How do you secure support for the festival, and what role do these connections play in its success?

Engagement starts with constantly asking what we can do for our audience, many returning each year. We offer inspiring workshops, performances, and a community atmosphere where friendships are easily formed. Our no-alcohol policy helps foster a participative atmosphere.

The festival relies heavily on a committee with the same vision. Securing grants can be challenging, but local arts funding bodies and our engagement with the town have been crucial. Our year-round contributions, such as cafe performances and collaborations with schools, help maintain a strong relationship with the community, ensuring ongoing support.

What are your future plans and vision for the festival?

What has the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival taught you personally and professionally?

I've learned the importance of bringing people together through music, and watching young people grow through the festival is a privilege.

I'm grateful to the volunteers and my family, who have supported the festival. Professionally, I've realised you don't have to reinvent the wheel - staying true to your vision and fostering a sense of joy and connection among your audience is key.

How can people make the most of the festival?

Technology makes it easier than ever. For the best experience and all the latest updates, simply visit the official website at www. dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au and plan your visit. With just a few clicks, you can explore everything the festival has to offer, from ticket options, camping and event schedules.

We look forward to sharing Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival with you all.

Thanks Bridget.

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LAKESIDE Festiv 2024 OVERVIEW

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ome and join us for an incredible weekend of entertainment at the Lakeside Festival, from Friday November 1st through to Sunday November 3rd. Now in its 12th year, the festival has become a highly respected cultural celebration.

FRIDAY: To kick start your Lakeside Festival experience, after a swim at one of the beautiful beaches, head to Club Forster for a night of comedy.

Prepare to laugh out loud with the amazing Troy Kinne, Des Dowling, Ellen Briggs, Brett Nichols and Steve Hoskins.

SATURDAY:

2024 sees the introduction of two performance stages which will allow for a continuous flow of music throughout the day, showcasing an outstanding line up of local and world class artists. Up and coming performers from school and community groups will perform with home grown superstars The Goodfellas and Anna-Vees Blue Smoke kicking up a storm.

Later in the day, rock on to the legendary Kevin

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To get the full Lakeside Festival details and purchase your tickets visit lakesidefestival.com.au

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To complete the weekend and just chill out, try some of the incredible restaurants and cafes.

Choose from The Lakes and Oceans Hotel, 33 Degrees, The Deck and Paradise Marina to complete the Festival celebrations.

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SUNDAY:

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Borich Express, Brooke and Adam, James Keith Band and Owen Campbell. The Rogue Traders will then light up the stage and the beautiful night sky.

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After a leisurely breakfast, take a stroll across the iconic Forster Tuncurry Bridge to John

Wright Park in Tuncurry. Get ready to party from 10.30am at the Lakeside Music Festival. As well as incredible live performances, there will be loads of kids activities, gourmet food and beverage pop ups.

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vin borich

sat nov 2 location : john wright park, tuncurry

Gates open 10:30am. tickets from: lakesidefestival.com.au

Live music australia - an australian government initiative 70 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

more Details

L A K E S I D E

F E S T I V A L

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WELCOMES HEADLINE ACT

ogue

TRADERS

James Ash, founding band member, keyboard and guitar player and Natalie Bassingthwaighte, lead singer and pop dance goddess have a wonderful connection. A er almost 20 years of creating music together they are excited to bring the electrifying sounds of the Rogue Traders to the Lakeside Festival and are ready to rock the Barrington Coast.

H

ave you visited the beautiful Barrington Coast before?

Nat - No, we have never been but we are super excited to bring our show to the Lakeside Festival. We have heard all about the natural beauty and the incredible venue where we will be playing at and just can’t wait to bring our party to you all.

What can fans expect from the electrifying sounds of Rogue Traders?

Nat - Get ready to party, get ready to have the best time, get your dancing shoes on, get your singing voice out and just have a good time.

That is what we are all about.

James - We don’t take ourselves too seriously but we take our music very seriously and every time we come on stage we make sure we reach everybody in the crowd. We will be playing a mix of new music and of course all the hits we are known for.

What are you most looking forward to whilst visiting us?

James - Bringing the band to a new, fantastic venue and giving our audience the time of their lives and Nat is the most generous and giving person with her time. She loves to meet her fans and spend time with them.

Nat - It’s all about taking the band into the local community. I want to spend time getting to know your beautiful home towns and wander and chat to people.

For me it’s all about connection, with both the local community and with the Earth.

It’s all about taking the band into the local community. I want to spend time ge ing to know your beautiful home towns and wander and chat to people.

Can you tell us about how music has influenced you both as I understand you both share a love of music from many genres and times, but both agree the real joy is in the introduction of new songs and artists.

James - Throughout our lives, we gather songs and anthems which hold special meaning for us, but it is ultimately our response to certain songs that is so important. There is so much amazing new music out there.

Nat - I am absolutely loving getting to know some new music in my life and am lucky enough to receive a special hand-picked playlist every week with real gems to discover.

What is the background to the name Rogue Traders?

James - The true inspiration is the 1999 movie Rogue Traders starring Ewan McGregor as

high-flying banker Nick Leeson. I wanted a name that described us, a dodgy group of people doing dodgy things!

Think Guy Ritchie’s iconic movie, The Gentlemen, for the full British accent experience.

How are you both supporting the next generation of musicians?

James - One of my kids is now seriously making music and I believe it’s not about thinking you have all the answers, but it’s really about just getting out of the way and letting them make their own magic.

Nat - We are very supportive of new musicians and say go out and find it for yourself. All of us in the band encourage anyone to give it a go and always say never give up, and above all be kind.

Do you have any final thoughts for Lakeside Festival party goers?

James - Fear of missing out (FOMO) is real, so don’t miss out on being a part of the Lakeside Festival experience in 2024.

Nat - Get ready to party, party, party with us!

Thank you both.

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c i s s a r u JCreatures G E O R G I E

F O G A R T Y

If you’re someone who grew up fascinated by dinosaurs or have kids who can’t get enough of these incredible prehistoric creatures, then the Jurassic Creatures experience might just be the perfect day out, and will open to visitors in Port Macquarie from October 19th-November 3rd

H

i Georgie, can you give us an overview of what the Jurassic Creatures experience is?

Jurassic Creatures is a live animatronic exhibition of dinosaurs that’s packed with fun activities for children. The dinosaurs are the main stars of the show, but we also have a range of interactive activities, from jumping castles to crafts, that engage kids in all sorts of ways.

We try to make sure it’s an experience that brings dinosaurs to life in an exciting and educational way, while also giving kids plenty of hands-on fun. There’s mini-golf, a ball pit, and fossil cracking for those who want to step into the shoes of a palaeontologist. It's a whole experience designed to spark joy and curiosity.

What is your role with Jurassic Creatures? When did you become involved with this event, and what sparked your interest in dinosaurs?

I'm the coordinator of the event, so I handle 72 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

the logistics of touring, setting up the this universal appeal—whether you’re five exhibit, and making sure everything runs years old or fifty. That said, the activities and smoothly. My journey with Jurassic Creatures setup are designed with younger audiences started when my son, who absolutely loves in mind. But truly, if you’re a dinosaur fan, dinosaurs, got me hooked on them too. His there’s something magical about standing enthusiasm for these next to a life-sized T-Rex ancient creatures is or Brachiosaurus, even really what sparked my as an adult.

The interest, and when I got What are your favouexcitement is the chance to be part rite aspects of being always fresh, and we of something like this, I part of this event? get to reach different jumped at it. Seeing the I really love travelling communities, often joy on kids' faces when and bringing dinosaurs in places where they walk through the to people all over experiences like this exhibit is something Australia. We tour that never gets old. don’t come around from city to city, so it’s very often.

Who is this experinot like we’re in one ence designed for? place all the time. The Is it suitable for excitement is always everyone? fresh, and we get to reach different communities, often in places where experiences like While it's primarily aimed at children, the this don’t come around very often. There’s exhibit is perfect for anyone who loves something so rewarding about knowing dinosaurs, no matter their age. We see a lot you’re giving kids and families a day they’ll of parents and even grandparents who get remember for a long time. Plus, hearing the just as excited as the kids. Dinosaurs have

ing about such a massive creature with these tiny little appendages. The T-Rex is definitely a fan favourite too; it's such an iconic dinosaur that people instantly recognize. The BrachioOne of the saurus, or “Long Neck,” more popular as many kids call it, is activities is fossil also a big hit. There's "wow" as kids walk cracking, where kids something majestic through the exhibit is can pretend to be about these giants, and priceless. palaeontologists and they really capture the What are some of dig for fossils. imagination. We have a the included acmix of dinosaurs in the tivities we might exhibit, from the terriexpect? fying to the more gentle giants, so everyone Besides the incredible dinosaurs, we have a gets to see their favourites. ton of fun activities for kids. There are jumpWhat’s involved in touring with this exing castles, a massive ball pit, and mini-golf, hibit? Is there a big team involved? so there's something for every kind of energy Touring is a big part of the operation, and level. We also have a craft zone where kids while we don’t have a huge team, it’s defican make dinosaur-related crafts to take nitely a dedicated one. Setting up the exhibit home. One of the more popular activities is is a big task - we’re essentially building a fossil cracking, where kids can pretend to be temporary home for dinosaurs wherever we palaeontologists and dig for fossils. It’s all dego. It takes about five days to set up the signed to be really hands-on and engaging, marquee, which is the structure that houses so kids are constantly learning and exploring the dinosaurs. Then we add all the extra in a fun way. activities around it. The dinosaurs themselves Do you have a favourite dinosaur? What are animatronic, so there’s a bit of tech that are the most popular dinos in the exhigoes into getting them all operational, makbition? ing sure they move and roar just right. It’s a Oh, I have to go with the T-Rex! I just love lot of work, but we have a close-knit team those little arms—there's something endearthat makes it happen. We’re always on the

lookout for people who want to join us and help bring dinosaurs to life for audiences all over Australia.

Where can we find out more, get in touch, or get tickets?

You can always call us directly at 0422 840 004 if you have any questions, or you can visit our website at www.jurassiccreatures. com.au. We’ve got all the information you’ll need there - tour dates, ticket pricing, and FAQs. We’re constantly updating it with new locations and dates as we tour the country, so be sure to check in often to see when we’ll be in your area!

Thanks Georgie.

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WAYNE GLEESON MAKOS TOUCH FOOTBALL

Wayne Gleeson is the President of the Port Macquarie Makos and his connection with the club goes back many years to when he was a young player on the field. We wanted to know more about the Summer Junior Touch Comp ahead of it kicking off this month, so Wayne has given us a rundown on what we can expect.

H

i Wayne. Can you tell us a bit about your history with the Makos and your current role?

Where do I start – I’ve played for longer than I can remember! I started as a young fella in the early 90s and fell in love with the sport.

Since then, I’ve played around 30 odd State Cups representing the Port Makos. Over the course of my Senior State Cups, I’ve managed to get a few silver medals, as well as some gold - it’s a great feeling for a country team to come away with the chocolates! Regional clubs are generally so far from other clubs in distance, that we don’t get to play week in/ week out against other teams in our divisions like they do in metro areas. So when it comes to the State Cup, it can take some time for us to find our legs. Port Makos often feature in finals matches, and it shows the strength, skill and determination of our players.

Over and above my local representation, I’ve played for our region at national events, and represented both NSW and Australia on many occasions, an achievement I am very proud of. This comes off the back of the competitive sides we have produced locally 74 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

and the pathways available to all of our junior and senior players.

After many years of benefiting from the generosity of our volunteers, last year I took up the role of Club President. I decided taking the lead role was a way I could give back and extend my passion to our current members.

I also coach junior and senior teams and even We love to get threw my hat in the ring the kids out and and became a referee! enjoying themselves, The Summer Junior Touch Comp is coming up soon, can you tell us about what we can expect from this comp and how it will run?

helping them make friends for life with their teammates and getting them frothing on our sport.

We have partnered with some amazing local businesses this year who have sponsored our competition, in particular Port Macquarie Panthers. This sponsorship is invaluable, and the club is extremely grateful to all of our sponsors. Being a not-for-profit sporting club, we utilise sponsorship funds to offset the costs of our competition allowing our players to have an even more affordable

sport to participate in.

Our junior comp is huge and such a fun time of year - we have lots of great kids coming through! We provide an inclusive, fun, memorable competition each year.

In addition to the

games, we will be running a bbq each afternoon, a Halloween lolly chase and dress up night, the Grinch might even make an appearance again this year. We love to get the kids out and enjoying themselves, helping them make friends for life with their teammates and getting them frothing on our sport.

How many teams are expected to be participating?

This year we have close to 90 sides, so roughly 900 kids running around!

Who is this comp open to? What age groups can play and how much experience do they need?

I get a real kick out of seeing kids get their competition face on and have a blast out in the sun with their teammates.

We start at under 9s and go through to U17s mixed. No experience is needed, just be prepared to have a good run around and plenty of fun with your mates.

Last winter we offered coaching clinics to help those who want to know a bit more before taking the field, and the first couple of rounds for our younger divisions this summer will also have senior representative players around to help give basic skills. This is just to make everyone feel more comfortable and build confidence.

What do you enjoy most about being involved in this Junior Comp?

The best part of my younger years was spent around a touch field. I want to see others have those same experiences I did and enjoy this awesome sport. I get a real kick out of seeing kids get their competition face on and have a blast out in the sun with their teammates.

What do you think junior players get

out of playing Touch?

What sort of feedback do you get from the kids?

There's so many benefits!

It keeps kids active, provides a break from devices, expels some energy and all with a big smile on their face.

It is especially great to see parents watching and enjoying their kids playing, as well as past and present players getting their kids involved and passing the baton on to our younger generation and future stars of the game. The kids seem to love the pace of the game, and the opportunity to continue being outside playing sport in the warmer months.

And I think they love the sausage sizzle!

What has the response been like so far for Summer Comp?

We are up on numbers from last year. We copped a bit of a hit post COVID and the rainy seasons we had thereafter, so it’s encouraging to have our numbers increasing.

We are also preparing our Representative kids for the Junior State Cup, which is in Dubbo this year.

tournaments encourages kids to sign up and give it a go. We have been running some squad training, skills and drills in preparation for our final trial on the 20th October, giving all kids every opportunity we can if they want to experience touch at a representative level.

Fingers crossed for a dry summer touch season and Tuffins Lane holding up.

Port Touch are strong advocates to the improvement of the drainage works being planned and worked on with Port Macquarie Hastings Council.

We understand how vital these grounds are to the sporting and tourism community of Port Macquarie and can be often seen at the council forums championing our cause.

Fingers crossed we see some action and improvement so we can continue to grow.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

To keep up to date, the Port Makos Touch Facebook and Instagram pages are our biggest resource. Links to competition draws, registrations and important dates are pinned to the top, along with photos showcasing our players!

You can also head to our website PortMakosTouch.com. If you see me or any committee members at the grounds, feel free to grab us if you want a yarn or more info!

Thanks Wayne.

Our strength at Junior State Cup GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 75

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focus_contributor.

UPDATE with RACHEL LEMAN

F R O M M I S S M O T I V AT O R

U N D E R S TA N D I N G E X E RC I S E I N T E N S I T Y T O P R E V E N T I NJ U RY

When it comes to exercise, not all workouts are created equal. It’s easy to think that more is always be er, but understanding the right intensity for your body is crucial to avoiding injury and making sustainable progress. Whether you’re new to exercise or have been at it for years, it’s important to recognise that a balanced approach to fitness is key to both your physical and mental health.

W

hat Does “Exercise” Really Mean?

If your doctor has ever recommended exercise, you might have wondered what exactly that entails. The Australian guidelines suggest 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, which is a great starting point. But what does “moderate exercise” mean? Think of it as activity that raises your heart rate and makes you break a sweat, but still allows you to hold a conversation. Walking briskly, swimming, or even dancing can all fit the bill.

But exercise isn’t just about hitting a target number of minutes. It’s about the quality of your movement and how it fits into your overall lifestyle. Incorporating a mix of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises can give you a well-rounded fitness routine that supports your long-term health.

The Mental Health Connection Exercise is often touted for its physical benefits, but its impact on mental health is just as significant. Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood, and boost overall wellbeing. In our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook the importance of mental health, but taking time to move your body can be one of the most effective ways to care for your mind as well.

A holistic approach to health means recognising that your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health.

This doesn’t mean you need to push yourself to the limit every day; in fact, quite the opposite. Rest days and adequate sleep are just as critical to your health as your workout routine.

Balance Is Key One common misconception is that working out harder or longer will lead to better results. However, “smashing yourself” in the gym every day can lead to burnout, fatigue, and injury. Your body needs time to recover, and this recovery is where much of the magic happens. Muscles repair and grow, your nervous system resets, and your mental focus returns.

Rest isn’t just about lounging on the couch, though - it’s about active recovery. Gentle activities like walking, stretching, or yoga can keep your body moving without the intensity of a full workout. Additionally, balanced nutrition plays a huge role in recovery. A diet rich in whole foods, plenty of water, and the right nutrients fuels your body to perform at its best.

The Importance of Strength Training Strength training isn’t just for those looking to build muscle or lift heavy weights.

Moderate resistance training is beneficial for almost everyone, regardless of age or fitness

level. Strength training helps with muscle activation, which can reduce pain, improve blood glucose regulation, support bone health, and help manage blood pressure.

For those who are just starting out, it’s important to understand where you’re beginning from. A proper assessment from an exercise professional can help tailor a programme to your needs and ensure you’re not overdoing it. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to ask for help. A wellstructured strength training programme can lead to significant health benefits, but it should always be approached with care and consideration for your current fitness level.

Listen to Your Body Finally, listen to your body. If you’re feeling fatigued or experiencing unusual pain, it might be time for a rest day. The benefits of taking a day off far outweigh the risks of pushing through and potentially causing injury. Remember, health and fitness is a lifelong journey, and the goal is to stay active and healthy for years to come.

At Miss Motivator, we believe in a balanced approach to fitness.

Stay strong, Rach GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 77

Smile Future INTO YOUR

ALL ON FOUR SMILE VS DENTURE WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Tooth loss and decay can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers solutions like the All-on-Four Smile and dentures. Both restore function and aesthetics but differ in convenience and longevity.

L

et's explore their advantages to determine which option may suit your needs best.

What is an All-on-Four Smile?

An All-on-Four Smile is a permanent solution for those missing most or all their teeth. It uses four strategically placed implants to support a prosthetic device made from materials like acrylic, plastic or chromium.

Advantages of All-on-Four Smile: - Stability and Durability: This fixed solution can last a lifetime with proper care.

- Natural Feel and Look: The prosthetic closely resembles natural teeth and feels more comfortable when chewing or speaking compared to dentures.

- Bone Health: Implants help preserve the jawbone, preventing bone loss, unlike dentures.

- Minimal Maintenance: Requires the same care as natural teeth, no special adhesives or cleaning solutions.

- Immediate Results: In many cases, new teeth are placed on the same day, offering an instant transformation.

78 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Considerations: It involves surgery, which may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with health issues or insufficient bone density.

Full healing can take several months.

They also require special care and need to be removed at night.

Which Option is Right for You?

Choosing between an All-on-Four Smile and dentures depends on your health, lifestyle, Dentures are removable prosthetics for and expectations. All-on-Four offers a more replacing missing teeth durable and natural feel and surrounding tissue. but involves surgery, They come in complete while dentures are Ultimately, the or partial versions and non-invasive and easier best option is rest on the gums, held to replace but may lack one that aligns with by suction or adhesives. stability. your needs. Consult What Are Dentures?

Advantages of Dentures: - Less Invasive: Dentures don’t require surgery and are a suitable option for those with health concerns.

with your dentist to weigh the pros and cons and help you decide the smile of your future.

- Flexibility: Easily modified or replaced as your dental needs change.

Considerations: Dentures may slip or shift during eating or talking, causing discomfort or embarrassment. They don't stimulate the jawbone, leading to bone loss over time.

Ultimately, the best option is one that aligns with your needs. Consult with your dentist to weigh the pros and cons and help you decide the smile of your future.

For more information, contact the friendly team at Sundial Dental to book your consultation today!

Port Macquarie – 02 6583 3533 Wauchope – 02 6585 2015 Laurieton – 02 6559 9276 Taree – 02 6551 1005

NOW OPEN AT LAKE CATHIE MEDICAL CENTRE Most Australian women will experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, however symptoms of menopause can start up to 10 years prior to that transition (perimenopause).

Once hormone levels start to become more erratic or decline, women may experience a range of symptoms including changes in mood, sleep, sexual and urinary dysfunction, cognition (such as brain fog), muscle and joint pain, and feeling uncomfortably hot throughout day and night.

Three key hormones play a role in these symptoms. Oestrogen is a potent anti-inflammatory and lubricant for the vagina and joints; it also plays a role in temperature regulation and brain health and impacts mood and sleep.

Natural progesterone is transformed into a calming agent in the brain and can help with sleep and mood (unlike the synthetic progestogens in the oral contraceptive pill which don’t have this effect). It will also keep your uterine lining healthy.

Testosterone, long thought of as the ‘male hormone’, is vital for women in building muscle mass, cognitive functioning, energy and sexual desire.

We have started a dedicated Menopause and Wellbeing service to help women find answers and effective treatments for this time in their lives. We welcome all women with suspected menopausal symptoms, whether in post or perimenopausal or women with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency.

We also treat Premenstrual DysphoricDisorder. For women who are unable to take hormonal therapy, we can discuss different options available to provide them with relief from their menopausal symptoms.

GIVE YOUR GROWING CHILD A HEAD START TO A BEAUTIFUL SMILE INTEREST FREE PAY M E N T S F R O M

$36/WEEK

Designed for little smiles, Invisalign First clear aligners provide a predictable comfortable way to straighten your growing child’s teeth. Even with baby teeth, treatment aligns teeth while expanding arches making room for existing teeth and incoming permanent teeth.

Visit the experienced team at Port Macquarie Orthodontics for your child’s free orthodontic assessment.

SPECIALIST ORTHODONTIST CHILDREN | TEENS | ADULTS

Dr Kate Brunsdon

Dr Casey Bye

The Menopause and Wellbeing Clinic at Lake Cathie Medical Centre 1459 Ocean Drive, Lake Cathie Book online via lcmc.com.au or call reception on 6584 8899 and request a Menopause Clinic consultation.

143A Horton Street, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 8425 info@portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au www.portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au

GREATER GREATERPORT PORTMACQUARIE MACQUARIEfocus focus6779

Prevention. Care.

Community.

Its accessibility is also the best with its central location, excellent onsite parking, spacious waiting areas, clinical rooms, nursing spaces and disabled access.

Port GPs is the biggest medical centre in the whole of the Hastings in terms of doctors and the variety of services under one roof. We will be celebrating our ten year anniversary this year.

80 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

We perform skin cancer operations, Intravenous infusions and womens health procedures plus other routine procedures like wound suturing and repair, dressings, immunisations, Spirometry and ECGs Clients can book appointments online 24/7 or call us during 8-5 on weekdays We are totally committed to preventative health and better management of Chronic diseases like Diabetes, Heart Disease, Lung disease etc.

Our family, serving your family You’ll love our modern facility, spacious rooms and state of the art medical equipment. With an incredible medical team to look after you, you’ll receive quality preventative care and disease management. Getting here is easy with ample parking, a welcoming reception and comfortable treatment rooms.

Kim Weir

Currently taking new patients

Dr Carlo Francescon

Business manager

Dr Stella Gonzalez

Dr Richard Johnson

Why choose Port GPs? BOOK ONLINE TODAY www.portgps.com.au

GET IN TOUCH 02 6584 4544 | Fax 02 6584 4633 In an emergency call 000 CLINIC HOURS Mon 8am – 12pm & 1pm – 5pm Tue – Fri 8am – 5pm, Sat/Sun Closed LOCATION We are centrally located at 38 Clifton Drive, Port Macquarie NSW 2444.

• Online bookings • Convenient location & parking • Full GP services • Top rated staff • Wide range of special interest areas

Pension card, Health Care Card, DVA Gold Card Holders and children under 16 will be bulk billed GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 81

R E - W R I T I N G

T H E

eauty of With DR KRISTY KOSTAL AS

Cosmetic Doctor, FRACGP B.Med.Sci. MBBS (Hons) FRACGP. MMed. (repro) DCH M.Med (for) MED0001195854 Specialist Registration in General Practice

Understanding Non-Surgical Cosmetic Treatments: What to Expect and How to Choose Safely

W

hat Are NonSurgical Cosmetic Treatments?

Non-surgical cosmetic treatments refer to procedures that enhance appearance without the need for surgery. These treatments aim to improve the skin’s texture, reduce wrinkles, tighten areas, or enhance specific features with minimal recovery time. Popular options include injections, laser treatments, and chemical procedures. There has been a big expansion in the field of non-surgical treatments, and there are treatments to suit every face, every budget, and every personal preference.

are risk-free because they are non-surgical.

While the risks are minimal when performed by a qualified health professional, it’s still essential to understand the procedure fully. It’s best to get any treatments performed by an experienced clinic with a good safety record.

Why Are These Procedures So Popular?

The growing popularity is largely due to the convenience. People appreciate being able to have a procedure done and return to their routine quickly. There’s minimal downtime compared to surgery, and the results can be more natural. Moreover, these treatments tend to be more affordable, and when performed by a trained health professional, the treatments can be transformative and also natural.

How Important Is a Good Consultation?

A good consultation is the cornerstone of successful treatment. During this session, a doctor will assess your skin, listen to your concerns, and set realistic expectations for the results. They will also review your medical history to ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure. This is the time to ask questions about the treatment process, expected outcomes, and any risks involved. A thorough consultation ensures that the procedure is tailored to your specific needs and that you are fully informed before proceeding. Importantly, consultations at professional medical services ensure that you receive safe, personalised care.

What Are the Common Misconceptions About Cosmetic Treatments? One of the biggest misconceptions is that they will dramatically change a person’s appearance.

Some fear these treatments lead to an unnatural or "frozen" look, but this is not the case when administered by a trained health professional.

Another misconception is that these treatments 82 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Why Is It Important to Choose a Certified Medical Professional? It’s crucial to choose a certified medical professional for any nonsurgical cosmetic treatment. They understand the underlying anatomy and can provide a comprehensive consultation to ensure treatments are safe and effective. Medical professionals also adhere to strict hygiene and safety protocols, reducing the risk of infection or adverse reactions.

What Questions Should You Ask Before Proceeding with Treatment? Before committing to any non-surgical cosmetic

treatment, it’s essential to ask your doctor several questions. First, inquire about their qualifications and experience in administering the treatment.

Ask about the potential risks, side effects, and expected recovery time. It’s also important to discuss the expected results and how long they will last. Finally, ask about follow-up care and what to do in case of any complications. This will give you peace of mind knowing you are in the hands of a knowledgeable and qualified professional.

What Can You Expect During and After Treatment?

During a treatment, a qualified health professional will assess your skin type, medical history, and aesthetic goals. It’s important to follow any aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results and avoid complications. The results are typically subtle and natural looking, enhancing your appearance without making drastic changes.

It’s vital to consult a qualified medical professional to ensure the procedure is performed safely and effectively. A thorough consultation will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision and achieve natural, satisfying results.

At First Care Dental, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care for the entire family.

Our mission is to ensure that every patient receives the highest quality of care in a comfortable and friendly environment.

Our clinic offers a wide range of services, including Preventive Care

Restorative Treatments Oral Surgery

Cosmetic Dentistry

Teeth Whitening

New Paitents Are Always Welcome Suite 8/113 Horton St, Port Macquarie (02) 6584 1355 www.firstcaredental.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 83

Ky

Saidey L I F E L I N E

Kelly Saidey is the Suicide Prevention and Postvention Manager at Lifeline Mid Coast. She shares some info about the dedicated team and volunteers here in the Port Macquarie region, and some vital information about mental health, how to get help, and how we, in the community can help others.

H

ow long have you been a part of Lifeline and what is your role?

I joined Lifeline Mid Coast 11 years ago as a Volunteer Telephone Crisis Supporter.

I was new to Port Macquarie at the time and joined to meet people and to begin a career in mental health. I have been in my current role as Suicide Prevention and Postvention Manager for over 6 years now.

Could you share a bit about the team here in Port Macquarie and the sorts of roles they cover?

We have a busy, inspiring community led team here at Lifeline Mid Coast.

Firstly, I will mention our team of 7 shop managers and over 300 volunteers that operate our shops. Our shops are vital to our 84 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

organisation as they are the sole funders for our community programs.

mental health peer workers who are able to use their life experiences to make meaningful connections and ease the mental health burden of our participants.

Our Crisis Support and Training team is managed by Di Bannister. This team continually trains and supports over 60 local We have a volunteers that man our community 13 11 14 phones in Port engagement and Macquarie 24 hours – 7 disaster recovery arm days a week.

We have a community engagement and disaster recovery arm where we respond to community disasters and attend local community events and trainings where we can.

where we respond to The Suicide Prevention community disasters and Postvention Team and a end local is managed by me.

We have a strong team community events Our team facilitates structure supporting face to face individual our services including and trainings where and group support for administration, human we can. people impacted by resources, finance and suicide (suicidal crisis, business. We are led suicide attempt, suicide bereavement or selfwith support by our CEO Catherine Vaara and harm). We have lived experience of suicide our 8 governing local board members.

You must experience many highs and lows working in the mental health and wellbeing space. What are some of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is the power of listening to someone during some of their darkest times. Mental health and suicide like to isolate people and stop them from seeking help; so when someone walks in our door or phones 13 11 14 for difficult and vulnerable conversations – it is a privileged place to sit and listen.

It is challenging when there are psychosocial When we ask barriers to people our suicide getting the help that attempt survivors We identified a need they need such as what they really in the community for a finance, transport, needed at that time relationships or access self-harm and or suicidal when things became to relevant services. But ideation support group too much; they at Lifeline, we don’t and we are looking usually answer with “I shy away from the forward to this group just wanted someone hard stuff, we keep launching in October. supporting people until to listen to me.

Our media campaign for we can find the right Volunteers for our 13 11 resources.

14 phones will begin in November and training What are some common misconceptions you have come across regarding mental health, particularly suicide?

Unfortunately, there is still a lot of stigma and shame around suicide which prevents people getting the support they need. We would like people to know that they can call Lifeline before going into mental health/suicide crisis.

Call to talk about the small annoyances – before they get too big.

What are some initiatives you have happening here in Port Macquarie? Are there any particular events coming up?

We are directed by our local community needs and often respond to community crisis or training community. We have our regular Eclipse (Support group for people that have attempted suicide), Suicide Bereavement (Support Group for loved ones bereaved by suicide, face to face or online) and Hospital to Recovery Program (Peer support following a hospital admission associated with suicide).

will begin again in February 2025.

There will be our annual Christmas memorials for loved ones bereaved by suicide in December.

All the information can be found on our website.

Do you have a message you’d like to put out to the general community about mental health and ways to manage it?

We have some great resources at Lifeline toolkits - toolkit.lifeline.org.au For those struggling with their mental health, or those close to someone who is, what is the first step they should take?

For those that are struggling, try to push through the negative thoughts to talk to a safe person. If you do not have a safe person, you can call Lifeline – sometimes it is easier to talk to someone that is anonymous. It is ok if you don’t have the words, words can be hard when in mental health crisis. Just telling

someone that you are not OK and if they can just sit with you for a bit can be enough to relieve some of the burden and then some words may come.

If you are supporting someone with mental health; the first step is to LISTEN! Listening to friends and family can ease the burden of mental health. When we ask our suicide attempt survivors what they really needed at that time when things became too much; they usually answer with “I just wanted someone to listen to me. I didn’t want them to fix me or tell me what to do…. just listen to me”.

How can we as a community get behind your work at Lifeline?

I think it is important for our community to know that suicide is the highest cause of death in our 15 – 44-year-olds. We lose 9 Australians a day, (higher rates to cancer and the road toll). Visit our community shop, donate or volunteer at one of our shops – they are saving Australian lives! We would not be able to provide our suicide services without our shops.

Businesses can get involved with us through trainings, fundraising events, grants and donations.

Where can we find out more about Lifeline or get in touch?

02 65 81 2800 lifelinemidcoast.org.au Lifeline Mid Coast lifeline_midcoast GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 85

focus_contributor.

Calm Find Your

with BERNIE GINNANE

Counsellor / Meditation Facilitator / Spiritual Life Coach

CALM YOUR MIND CHANGE YOUR LIFE

O

ne of the best ways to calm your mind is by choosing to stay in the present moment.

CHANGE YOUR LIFE

AND FOCUS ON YOUR BREATHING.

Create a regular practice that over time can become quite easy and natural for you to continue.

What Three Things are you Grateful for in this Moment?

Maybe set aside a specific time or situation to practice mindfulness.

Online sessions via Zoom

Your In-Breath Your Out-Breath

BENEFITS OF BEING IN THE PRESENT MOMENT • Can Help to Relieve and Be Better Able to Manage Stress and Feelings of Overwhelm.

One step at a time … One moment at a time.

• Can Help to Decrease Anxiety.

By giving less power to anxious thoughts about the past or worries about the future.

• Can Increase Your Creativity and Problem-Solving Ability.

When you are less distracted by thoughts of the past or the future, your mind is clearer and your ability to focus is stronger.

• Can Lead to Better Relationships.

By being more able to truly listen and engage with others which can lead to the strengthening of your connections with others.

1. COMMIT TO A DAILY MINDFULNESS ROUTINE

This could be whilst brushing your teeth, or whilst sipping your morning tea or coffee.

Or during the short walk to your car or round your garden.

Or as you sit in your car for a minute before opening the door to get out.

Or each time you wash your hands.

2. CHOOSE TO FOCUS ON YOUR BREATH DURING YOUR MINDFULNESS ROUTINE Observe each inhale and each exhale. Observe the length and the sensation of each breath.

When thoughts come, just notice them without judgement.

Possibly see any thoughts fading or floating away, before returning to following your breath.

3. COMMIT TO A DAILY PRESENT MOMENT GRATITUDE MEDITATION

• Can Increase Feelings of Contentment and Experiencing a More Meaningful Life.

Put a timer on for just two minutes a day.

Maybe twice daily.

By expressing gratitude for the experiences and small joys that the moments of each day can bring.

Sit comfortably. Breathe in through your nose, noticing your belly gently expand.

THREE WAYS TO CALM YOUR MIND AND 86 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Then breathe out through your mouth. Notice the air flow over your bottom lip and your

belly gently fall. Continue following your breath. Notice the sensations of each inhale and each exhale.

HOW CLIENTS CAN WORK WITH ME One-on-One sessions at The Wellbeing Centre, Port Macquarie.

For Counselling, Meditation & Mindfulness, Sound & Reiki Healing CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL youtube.com/@bernie888100/videos A FREE RESOURCE available 24/7 offering many Meditations and Short Chats.

MY PATREON PAGE IS BEING RELAUNCHED 1ST OCTOBER An online platform to access monthly content related to mindfulness and meditation, including recorded chats, meditations, journal prompts and more!

Email me for more details if you are interested to join.

HOW TO CONTACT ME Website: bernie-ginnane-counsellor-spirituallife-coach.mailchimpsites.com Email: bernie224@gmail.com Follow me on Facebook and Instagram facebook.com/bernieginnane instagram.com/bernie_ginnane/

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focus_contributor.

Breast Cancer wareness on

Womens

Health with

GRAYCE GERKE

FROM WOMEN’S HEALTH PHYSIO/ PHYSIO COLLECTIVE

U

nderstanding the Importance of Early Detection

Breast cancer, like most cancers, is most treatable when caught in its earliest stages.

Early detection significantly increases survival rates, with localised breast cancer having a 5-year survival rate of nearly 99% when found early. The goal of ‘Breast Cancer Awareness Month’ is not just to spread the word about breast cancer, but to empower women with the knowledge to protect their own health. While it’s essential to understand that not all lumps are cancerous, any changes to your breasts should be taken seriously. Take the time to conduct regular self-exams and schedule clinical screenings.

The Role of Mammograms Mammograms are one of the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early. Women aged 40 and older are encouraged to have yearly mammograms, while those with higher risk factors, such as a family history of breast cancer, may need to start screenings earlier.

Mammograms work by creating detailed X-ray images of the breast, highlighting any abnormalities or changes in breast tissue. While many women worry about discomfort during a mammogram, the benefits far outweigh the temporary inconvenience. Advances in technology have reduced discomfort and enhanced accuracy, making it easier to detect

88 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

even the smallest of irregularities.

Performing a self-exam monthly, ideally a few days after your menstrual cycle when breasts are less tender, is recommended, here's a guide:

family history, it’s easy to assume they are not at risk. However, around 85% of breast cancers occur in women with no family history of the disease. Another barrier is the perception that a breast cancer diagnosis is overwhelming or automatically life-threatening, which can cause some women to avoid screenings out of fear.

Catching the disease early often allows for more treatment options, less invasive procedures, and a significantly higher chance of survival.

1. In Front of a Mirror: Stand with your shoulders straight and arms on your hips. Look at your breasts in the mirror, and note if there are any changes in shape, size, or colour. Look for dimpling, puckering, or changes in the nipple.

Access to affordable screening can also be a challenge for some. If you’re concerned about the cost of a screening, many local and national organisations provide resources to make it accessible to all women.

2. Raise Your Arms: With your arms raised look for the same changes.

Advocacy, Awareness, and Action

Self-Examinations: Know Your Body While mammograms are a critical part of breast cancer detection, ‘self-breast exams’ can also be a powerful tool for women to get familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel.

3. Feel Your Breasts: Lie down and use the pads of your fingers to feel your breast tissue. Move in a circular motion, covering the entire breast area, including under your armpit and up to the collarbone. Check for lumps, thickened areas, or any changes in texture.

4. Repeat Standing or Sitting: Some women find it easier to perform the exam in the shower while their skin is wet and slippery.

Remember, most lumps are not cancerous, but any change is worth getting checked.

Breaking Down Barriers to Screening Despite the critical importance of regular screenings, many women still avoid them due to fear, lack of time, or misconceptions about their risk. For younger women or those with no

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than wearing pink ribbons and sharing stories.

It’s about taking action to reduce your risk, encouraging the women in your life to get checked, and advocating for wider access to breast health services.

If you’re unsure about when to get your first mammogram or how to self-exam, ask your healthcare provider. Share what you’ve learned with your family and friends and remind them to make appointments too. Taking care of our own health is the ultimate act of love for ourselves and those who need us. Let’s make this month about more than awareness - and more about action. ‘ Get checked, spread the word, and be vigilant about your breast health.

Plantar Fasciitis

U N D E R S TA N DI N G H E E L PA I N

Do you wake up each morning dreading the moment your heel touches the floor, knowing that sharp pain is about to hit? If so, you might be dealing with plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain.

W

hat is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot conditions, often developing gradually over time. It is characterised by heel pain that’s most noticeable with your first few steps in the morning but tends to subside as the foot warms up.

From an anatomical perspective, plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of fibrous tissue located

along the sole of the foot. This band runs from the heel to the toes and functions as a shock absorber, weight distributor, and stabiliser for the foot. Those with plantar fasciitis have developed micro-tears and inflammation in this band, leading to heel pain.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis Common factors contributing to plantar fasciitis include flat feet, outward-turning feet, tight calf muscles, poor big toe toe alignment, limited ankle mobility, and wearing inadequate footwear.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain upon taking those first steps after getting out of bed or after sitting for an extended period. Other symptoms may include heel pain after long periods of standing or walking, as well as discomfort along the arch of the foot and the inner part of the heel.

If you're dealing with heel pain or suspect you may have plantar fasciitis, reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help!

Ryan Samuels, Poke Acupuncture

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 89

Alena Piccolruaz

Flourishing LIFE PSYCHOLOGY

Alena Piccolruaz - Director, Clinical Supervisor and Principal Psychologist Flourishing Life Psychology Port Macquarie

C

an you share your journey into psychology? What inspired you to start Flourishing Life Psychology?

One day, about 20 years ago after working many years in the corporate world of publishing, advertising and marketing I decided that I wasn’t making any difference in the world, in that I wasn’t helping anyone or leaving any kind of legacy in the world. My focus then became on how could I change that. I became interested in healing based modalities through the body, essentially somatic therapies using voice, breath and movement to heal, in addition to meditation. I travelled to the US, India, UK and New Zealand to study these therapies and then started my own practice with adult clients in Sydney. In addition, growing up and seeing my own mother struggle with mental health issues inspired me to want to help others with their mental health. Studying psychology then really became the next logical step in the journey. I started my career working in schools which I believe gave me a great foundation for being a therapist. I then worked for other private practices until I decided it was time to venture out on my own. I started Flourishing Life Psychology in Sydney in 2019 but had plans always to move the practice to a regional area.

90 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

I wanted to practice in places where there were more difficulties accessing mental health. I then moved the practice to Taree in 2021 in the year when COVID was affecting all of our lives. I also started working in Port Macquarie in 2023 and opened up my own premises in Horton St in 2024.

What is the core philosophy behind Flourishing Life Psychology, and how does it differ from other practices?

The core philosophy behind Flourishing Life Psychology is about helping the person where they are at in their life i.e. at the point of where they are wanting to heal or change things in their life. Support and change works best when the client is intrinsically motivated to do this, especially with adults. With children and adolescents, they can sometimes need some encouragement to engage in counselling as they don’t understand the benefits and how it can really help their situation. Over the last few years we have become particularly interested in understanding and treating neuro-divergence or clients who are ‘neuro-spicy’. We work towards helping children and adults understand the strengths of their type of brain and to minimise the weaknesses through strategies and symptom reduction through the use of Neurofeedback.

Can you tell us about a particular approach or technique you are currently using in your practice? Why do you find it effective?

Neurodivergence was not a topic that was taught as part of my psychology degree. The more I work with people and understand what kind of brain a person has, it’s not only important for the therapist to best treat the client, but also helps the client to better understand themselves. I became interested to study in the area of Neurofeedback when a number of years ago I realised my children had ADHD symptoms. I started to ask myself ‘what could I do that might help ameliorate their symptoms’. I initially started with using Neurofeedback just with my children. After witnessing beneficial changes with my own children, this inspired me to help clients of the practice. Neurofeedback or Neurotherapy is a type of brain training and it was originally pioneered back in the 1950s and 1960s. It is finally starting to become more common in use in major city centres in Australia. We are currently treating children, adolescents and adults to help with symptom reduction for presentations like ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, attention, concentration, trauma, migraines, OCD, addictions, meltdowns, tantrums and impulsive behaviours. We integrate practical strategies

Neurofeedback or Neurotherapy is a kind of brain training.

It’s been around for about 30 years and it is finally starting to become more common in use in capital cities of Australia.

through talk therapy with the Neurotherapy/brain training which works directly on the brain to harmonise brain waves. It is non-invasive and works on the basis of neuroplasticity.

‘We are trying to harmonise one brain at a time’. At Flourishing Life Psychology, Neurofeedback is integrated into the practice so we are using talk therapy to teach practical strategies and then Neurotherapy to work directly on a client’s brain waves. Together these modalities can work together to attain more effective results for the client than just talk therapy alone.

The changes we see from Neurofeedback is that children can often stop getting into trouble or having as many incidents at school.

Sometimes we have seen the incidents decrease to zero once a client has been consistently having sessions over a number of months.

The impulsivity and lashing out behaviours can decrease, their focus and concentration improve, increase in patience, improvements in sleep, decrease in anxiety levels and parents report that their children can appear happier overall.

How do you integrate modern psychological research into your practice?

Integrating the latest psychological research into our practice is so important. Psychology is always evolving, and so an intervention that we may have studied as therapists even

Alena Piccolruaz and Sarah Wilkinson - Neurofeedback Practitioner pictured above.

a couple of years ago, when studying again recently, you can be amazed at the progress that has been made into how we can now deliver that same intervention to clients with better results.

Revising and attending more recent trainings of major interventions helps to keep our practice with clients up to date and in turn help clients more effectively achieve better results in their overall mental health. Because most trainings in interventions are also offered in an online format now, this helps psychologists in regional areas keep up to date whilst not having to spend more time and money travelling to city centres.

How do you integrate modern psychological research into your practice?

The field of psychology is always evolving and that is a big part of what I love about this work. Learning to help people in more effective ways and integrating that into practice to help others. At the moment psychology is evolving beyond talk therapy, and working directly on the brain to help harmonise people’s brain waves via Neurofeedback is just one of them.

Another is in the realm of helping people heal through trauma through the use of Eye Movement Desensitisation Experiencing (EMDR) and Somatic Experiencing through the body. I feel my interest in the realm of helping others

somatically through the body is coming full circle. Some people find talking difficult whether due to neurodiversity or of bringing up traumatic situations from the past that might feel too big to deal with. Neurofeedback and EMDR can help clients with these issues by decreasing the need to talk about content in depth.

How do you balance the demands of running a practice with your own mental well-being?

Balancing the demands of running a practice with your own mental well-being. That’s a great question and remains an important quest for me. Having children helps me to switch off as soon as I enter the door. Being able to compartmentalise work and home life is a must and getting regular supervision for client work and then ongoing therapy for your own life is so important. Prioritising sleep, eating well, spending time with family, friends and taking walks in nature have always been important to me. Being closer to nature was a major driver of moving to the Mid North Coast of NSW and away from Sydney. I believe that this has also helped me to balance these demands.

Flourishing Life Psychology Port Macquarie, Unit 5/124 Horton St Port Macquarie Contact Number 0433 905 239 contact@flourishinglifepsychology.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 91

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Since graduating with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2005, Dr. Raj has been working in private practices and has built a loyal patient base in both Port Macquarie and South West Rocks. He continuously invests in his professional education to stay up-to-date with the latest dental techniques and technologies.

Dr. Raj also ensures that his practices are equipped with modern equipment to deliver high-quality care.

Dr. Raj and his family love living in Port Macquarie, which they believe is one of the best places in Australia to raise children.

When he's not practicing dentistry, Dr. Raj enjoys spending time with his loved ones and pursuing his sporting interests, including cricket and badminton.

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After completing the necessary assessments, she settled in Port Macquarie in 2012, where she has become a valued member of the community. As a proud mother of three, Dr. Monika understands the importance of providing high-quality dental care for families.

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Dr. Monika believes in providing a personalised and patient-centered approach to dental care. She takes the time to understand her patients' needs and concerns, ensuring they feel comfortable and informed throughout their treatment.

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exciting new additions to the clinic have been included?

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Tell us about the services that you offer patients and anything you specialise in?

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 93

MICK DORMER PORT MACQUARIE SHARKS

Mick Dormer has stepped into the President role at Port Macquarie Sharks this year, a er being involved with the club for a number of years. The Sharks have done extremely well this season and Mick credits their success to a great club culture and everyone working hard to show up and be their best.

H

i Mick. Can you tell us about your history with the Sharks and your current role?

I moved to Port Macquarie in 2019 and got involved with the Junior Port Macquarie Sharks RLFC coaching the girls under 15s tackle team with my wife Mia. I joined the senior committee in 2023 when my kids went from juniors to seniors and was talked into doing the President's role this year by one of the pillars of the club, Dave Geary.

The Sharks have had a great season this year, what have been some of the highlights?

It has been an exceptional year for the club.

Picking up the group 3 Club Championship has been a highlight. Our First Grade finished minor premiers, our Reserve Grade finished 3rd, 18s Boys and Womens League tag also minor premiers.

Another highlight has been that the club entered its first ever open women's tackle side into the women's competition. The team, was 94 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

made up of 5 girls that the other coaches as IT HAS BEEN had never played prior to anyone you would AN this year. One girl had 1 meet. The results speak EXCEPTIONAL season of experience, 8 for themselves but YEAR FOR THE young girls stepped up if you ask any of his CLUB. PICKING UP from under 17s last year players the common THE GROUP 3 CLUB to opens because there theme is he is the best CHAMPIONSHIP was no under 19s comp, coach they have ever HAS BEEN A and four senior girls with had.

HIGHLIGHT. a fair bit of experience.

There are also key They all improved people working enormously as a team together to maintain over the year, finishing 5th. They won two a positive culture which has been really elimination semi finals but unfortunately lost important. We try really hard to look after 10-4 in the grand final qualifier. everyone involved in the club. Treating We also had 3 under 18s boys debut for first grade, Jack Tierney, Zeb Hogan and Ethan Clarke.

What do you think have been some contributing factors to how well you’ve gone this year overall as a club?

We are very fortunate to have a head coach in Mat Hogan who many believe could be coaching at the highest level. He is as dedicated to his coaching and continuous improvement in himself and his players and

everyone from our young ball boys and girls to our oldest spectators as equals and the way we would like to be treated. It’s a pretty simple formula. Just being kind and respectful to each other and the other clubs goes a long way. Not everyone gets this right and buys in, but I would like to think that if we can keep a similar crew together for a number of years that we can establish a standard that is not negotiable. When you read about any really successful organisation including

sporting clubs they have set standards around hard work, everyone contributing, positivity, good language etc that become part of their DNA, and they become and stay successful as a result. Melbourne Storm and the All Blacks are classic examples of this.

OUR FIRST GRADE FINISHED MINOR PREMIERS, OUR RESERVE GRADE FINISHED 3RD, 18S BOYS AND WOMENS LEAGUE TAG ALSO MINOR PREMIERS.

Have there been any stand out players?

rugby league players, man or woman you would ever come across in the game.

Under 18s – Zeb Hogan a young hooker that debuted for first grade this year. An exceptionally hard working young man and a future leader of first grade if he does not crack it in the NRL.

Firsts – Joel Antilla just epitomises heart, grit and determination and good sportsmanship.

He would be one of the lightest forwards in the first grade competition but would arguably have one of the biggest hearts. He puts in 110% every game, training session and any club event. He is exactly what we want at the Sharks.

League Tag – Ella Heeney, emerged this year as a real talent not only in league tag but also in women's tackle. She played for both teams all year and excelled in both. Hits a hole like an NRLW centre.

Reserves – Tommy Nunan another player that displays a bucket load of heart and determination and a genuine character to go with it. He is the team captain and a very good number 9 that is unlucky not to have made it into first grade. He just happens to have one of the best hookers in the competition in front of him in Mitch Squires.

We have an amazing group of volunteers.

From Lisa Hogan, Naomi Alchin and Kylie Hunt who keep our canteen running like a well-oiled machine to Trish Hona who looks after all our social media and rosters and Mel Rosenbaum who spent most of the season doing a thankless job on the gate. We have long term sports trainers in Geoff Smith and Lyn Gentle who put in an astounding amount of time into the club, and Bennett Powell who is one of the club’s most important and valued volunteers, running water and the kicking tee for every team and turning up to every first grade training session to keep the

Women's Tackle - Nic Pender, team captain and all around exceptional leader. Nic would be one of the best players in the whole competition and good enough to make the NRLW if she had a more recent birth certificate. She would be one of the toughest

Can you share a bit about other club members and volunteers that help to keep things running at the club?

water up to the boys. A hard working team of coaches and trainers for every team ensures every side is given the platform to succeed and a committee that works exceptionally hard in the background to make sure everything runs as smoothly as possible. A very good example is Chad McCarron, a former player and as passionate about the club as anyone I have met. He is the club secretary and does an enormous amount of unseen work that adds significantly to how well the club is running.

How do you plan on keeping the momentum going heading into next year's season?

Primarily we will be doing everything we can to encourage the crew that we have had this year to commit for the next few years. This will give the club the opportunity to build on the current success and establish the nonnegotiable standards that we can ensure form part of the clubs future DNA. Establishing this framework will give us the best opportunity to ensure the future of the club remains in good hands.

Thanks Mick.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 95

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We welcome Melanie, an integrative Naturopath Come and see her in store or book an appointment at a time that suits you

Our Team of Toni, Noel, Melinda, Melanie and Erica

Your partners in wellness,

Suite 1/85 Lord Street | 6583 4711 flynnsbeachandlordstreetpharmacy.com.au enquiries@lordstreetpharmacy.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 97

Andrea

Davidson Y P

S P A C E

M N C

Andrea Davidson is the CEO of YP SPACE MNC, a specialist Youth Homelessness Service that provides and manages safe and affordable housing responses to young people across our region. YPS has been working hard on some innovative solutions recently; including converting an old caravan park in Kempsey into the Ngurra Housing Project.

H

i Andrea. Can you tell us about the origins of YP SPACE MNC and how it has evolved over time to provide services for youth in need?

YP SPACE MNC (YPS), originally known as Macleay Youth Accommodation Services, was founded on October 25th 1985, in response to the Kempsey community's growing need for housing support for children and young people experiencing homelessness. Over the years, the organisation expanded its services. On September 30th 2014, YPS took over the Port Macquarie Youth Refuge, further increasing its capacity to assist children and young people in need. Today, YPS provides a wide range of services for children and young people aged 12 to 25 who are either experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness. These services include crisis accommodation, outreach support, transitional housing, temporary housing, and living skills development programs.

YPS provides crucial crisis accommodation for children and young people. What are some of the biggest challenges these children and young people face when they come to YPS? The challenges faced by many of the 98 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

children and young people coming to YPS are multifaceted and can be overwhelming.

Many arrive with limited or no support systems, dealing with issues like trauma, family breakdown, or family and domestic violence. They often lack the life skills needed to navigate housing, employment, or financial responsibilities. In addition, there are mental health concerns, substance abuse problems, and difficulties in maintaining education or employment. The transition from instability to a structured environment can also be daunting for these children and young people.

Could you briefly explain how the different programs work, and how they support young people on their journey to independence?

YPS has developed several programs that help children and young people build the necessary skills to achieve stability and independence: Reality Renting: Educates participants about renting - from finding properties to understanding leases, maintaining properties, and handling rental obligations like electricity and dealing with tribunals like NCAT. Money Minded: Focuses on financial literacy - teaching budgeting, saving strategies, understanding taxes, banking, and superannuation.

Silent Stuff: A workshop on sexual health -

addressing topics such as STI prevention and treatment, contraception, and debunking myths.

Coaching for Success: Develops emotional and organisational skills, helping children and young people stay motivated, set goals, and build willpower to achieve them.

Each program is designed to address different aspects of life, equipping children and young people with the practical and emotional tools they need to become independent.

The Ngurra Housing Project is a unique initiative. What inspired the transformation of The Central Caravan Park into housing for youth, and what progress has been made so far?

The inspiration behind the Ngurra Housing Project grew from the growing housing crisis and cost of living, which pushed YPS to think creatively. YPS sold some of its assets, including a house in Wauchope and two shopfronts in Kempsey, to purchase a rundown caravan park and transform it into affordable housing for children and young people.

Since acquiring the park on November 30th 2021, YPS has made significant progress.

With funding from the Regional Youth grant, six cabins have been purchased, the property has been fenced, the driveway repaired, and a drop-inr centre and amenities block are

under construction. The six cabins are now used as temporary accommodation (TA) while YPS continues to support residents with case management and wraparound services. YPS is actively seeking more funding to expand the project by adding another six cabins, allowing more children and young people to build rental histories and eventually move into long-term housing.

What has the community response been like, and what plans does YPS have for the future of the Ngurra Housing Project?

The community response has been generally positive, recognising the need for affordable housing for children and young people in crisis. There is a strong desire for the project to succeed and provide a lasting solution to child and youth homelessness in the area.

Looking ahead, YPS plans to expand the Ngurra Housing Project into the Port Macquarie LGA and increase its housing portfolio to offer more opportunities for children and young people to transition into stable, independent living.

Many young people under your care have complex needs. How does YPS tailor its services to meet those individualised needs?

YPS understands that every child and young person’s situation is unique, which is why it adopts a personalised approach. Caseworkers

YPS is actively seeking more funding to expand the project by adding another six cabins, allowing more children and young people to build rental histories and eventually move into long-term housing.

conduct thorough assessments to determine each individual’s specific needs and then develop tailored support plans. These plans may address housing stability, mental health support, education, employment, and life skills development. The aim is to provide holistic support that empowers children and young people to achieve their goals at their own pace.

What role do education, training, and employment play in your programs, and how do you encourage young people to stay engaged in their personal development?

Education, training, and employment are crucial components of YPS programs, as they provide the foundation for long-term stability and independence. Programs like "Coaching for Success" help children and young people develop the necessary skills to excel in these areas. YPS also collaborates with local schools, TAFE and employment agencies to offer opportunities for children and young people to re-engage with learning or enter the workforce.

Engagement is encouraged by focusing on each individual’s strengths, offering mentorship, and

creating a supportive environment that fosters personal growth.

As YPS continues to grow, what are your long-term goals for expanding your services and reaching more young people in need?

YPS aims to expand the Ngurra Housing Project into the Port Macquarie LGA and increase its housing stock to meet the rising demand for affordable accommodation. Additionally, YPS is committed to growing its outreach services and developing new programs that address the evolving needs of at-risk youth. The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable model of care that provides children and young people with the resources they need to thrive. This ongoing growth will also need the support of government to provide ongoing funding to continue to grow in a sustainable way.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

For more information, you can visit the YPS website at www.yps.org.au, where you can view the Service Charter and find details about the Ngurra Housing Project and other services.

Thanks Andrea.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 99

Rick and Val Dilger moved into the GemLife Rainbow Beach community in February and have been thoroughly enjoying their new lifestyle, getting active in a number of the different sports and activities available. When they heard about the inter-resort event the GemLife Games, where teams from different communities get together on the Sunshine Coast for some friendly competition, they couldn’t resist giving it a go.

Rick+ V

Dilger

H

ello Rick and Val. How did you first hear about the GemLife Games, and what inspired you to participate?

Rick: Our friends Bob and Libby, who live at GemLife Palmwoods, told us about the games. They attended last year and said: “You’ve got to come up, it was so much fun. Whether you compete or not, it is well worth the exercise”. We entered the competition with that in mind. Win, lose or draw, it really didn’t matter. We wanted to be part of the experience.

Val: Bob and Libby kindly put us up during the games on the Sunshine Coast. We’ve been friends for years, having lived on boats together. Being a new community, GemLife Rainbow Beach originally didn’t have a team to compete, so we joined the Gold Coast and Tweed Waters team. They helped us a lot and 100 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

were wonderful, friendly people.

Can you tell us about the sports you decided to compete in?

Val: Having lived on a boat and caravan, we both enjoy adventuring, so lawn bowls is different, but we’ve fallen in love with it.

They needed more women in the team, so I decided to get involved.

We have a beautiful undercover lawn bowls field here, where we can play in any weather, which is great for keeping active.

In the past, we’ve participated in sports like sailing, with Val and I living on a boat for seven years cruising the coast.

Rick: We competed in lawn bowls. Having only taken up the sport six weeks before, we were rank amateurs. In the past, we’ve participated in sports like sailing, with Val and I living on a boat for seven years cruising the coast. I’ve surfed, swum and snorkeled, and Val has played tennis, squash, aerobics and gym work. Having not practiced for quite a long time, competing in lawn bowls seemed easiest. Had you told me three years ago we’d be lawn bowlers, I would have laughed. We’re having a lot of fun though and there’s great camaraderie.

What was your training and preparation for the games like? Have you found the process challenging or more enjoyable?

Val: We picked up the training and practice in preparation for the games. We’d play with a group of about 20 people, which was a lot of fun. We were hoping we wouldn’t be too sore and sorry after training – it took us a

while. We’ve come back from the competition as much better bowlers.

I’ve just finished a yoga class and the young teacher commented on how it’s the way of the future, because it’s so community minded and that’s what people our age need.

Rick: The process was enjoyable. We didn’t expect to be world beaters in a mere six weeks, but our skills improved immeasurably. While we came dead last, we learned a hell of a lot in the competition.

Val, you have shared that both you and Rick have seen improvements in your health since moving to GemLife Rainbow Beach. How has being active and engaged in your new lifestyle contributed to your overall well-being?

Val: We’d been living in our van for 14 months before moving to GemLife Rainbow Beach in February, so had little opportunity to formally exercise, other than walking. Here, there’s exercise classes, yoga and aqua aerobics within a 100 metre walk. It is very convenient and there’s no excuse not to do it. It’s also a great way to meet new people. I’ve lost seven kilograms and Rick about 10 kilograms as a result of exercise and a change of health. All the stress is gone and we’re so happy.

Other than the physical benefits of your training, what else have you enjoyed about preparing for and participating in this competition?

Rick: The friendships and camaraderie have been fantastic. The whole crew in the lawn bowls team was supportive, welcoming and happy to share their knowledge. It’s been a very positive and enjoyable experience.

Val: It has given us the opportunity to meet people we might not normally meet, so we’ve expanded our horizons so to speak.

You have just returned from the Games on the Sunshine Coast, how was the overall experience?

Rick: It was great. We looked forward to it for quite some time and would happily do it again.

Val: We took our cocker spaniel, Lexie, with us, so she got a holiday as well. She had a ball. It was also a chance to catch up with our children and grandchildren who live at Lennox Head on the way up and back. We weren’t on any time constraints, so that was a bonus.

What has been the most rewarding part of your journey from moving into the

community to now taking part in the games?

Rick: Meeting new people with a similar outlook and mindset. We’re all here for similar reasons – downsizing, not having to maintain a big house, and putting some cash in the bank for our later years.

Val: I've just finished a yoga class and the young teacher commented on how it’s the way of the future, because it’s so community minded and that’s what people our age need. If something happens to one of us, we have support and people around us. It’s easy to get involved and everything, like a gym and pool, is available. A lot of older people worry when they sell their home they’ll lose their independence, but you’ve got it here and everything is easier. It’s opened new opportunities, like competing in the games.

Do you have any words of encouragement for other over-50s who might be hesitant to try something new or get involved in community events like this?

Val: Since the team has come back from the games, there’s a lot more activity and competitions starting here already which is great. We’ll continue to play socially.

Rick: We encourage others to get out there and have a go. It certainly can’t hurt you and new experiences are so good for you.

Thanks Rick and Val. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 101

Business focus on

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focus_contributor.

BUSINESS

D

rum roll please… The results are in for the 2024 Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards!

What an accomplished list of winners and finalists represented at Business NSW Gala event at Sails Resort Port Macquarie - by Rydges on Friday 20th September!

Winners from Business Port Macquarie are as follows!

Outstanding Young Business Leader: Laura Mayes LJ Finance Capital Outstanding Business Leader - 20 Employees and Under: Stacey Morgan Port Macquarie Performing Arts Outstanding Business Leader - 21 Employees and Over: Catherine Shaw from The Nature School Employer of Choice - 20 Employees and Under: Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic Excellence in Innovation: Birdon Group Outstanding Community Organisation: Liberty Domestic & Family Violence Specialist Services Outstanding Local Chamber: Business Port Macquarie Excellence in International Business: Birdon Group Excellence in Micro Business: Any Occasion Cakes & Party Food, Letz Get Lit 2444, Love Letters Excellence in Small Business: Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic

VOICE with ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: Birdon Group Winners from the Regional Awards will be heading to the State Awards being held Wednesday, 30 October 2024, Best wishes to all.

I was fortunate to meet recently with a representative from the Ocean Pool Committee.

It was great to be able to ask many questions and to be able to see the concept plans. What a great facility this will be for the community.

Being free it will be great for the whole community from families young and old, schools, business and a great tourism attraction that the whole area will benefit from. I look forward to seeing this project come up out of the water.

The 1st of November sees our annual golf day that we run to raise funds for Westpac Helicopter Service. This is a fantastic organisation that helps many in our community. You never want to have to use it but it is comforting to know that it is there if we need it. It costs a lot of money to keep this service in the air, most of which comes from public donations so please get your teams together and join us for this fun packed day. Go to www.businessportmacquarie. com.au to register.

Congratulations to the team from Thrumster Business Park on registration of the first stage.

This will be a fantastic business hub for the area and we look forward to watching the estate grow with current and new businesses coming to town.

Also a big congratulations to Christie & Peter Cristoforo from X Golf. I recently attended their opening night and was amazed at what

a fabulous facility this is! Boasting 6 interactive screens with many differing programs to suit your golf level, (mine was not great but fortunately I didn’t injure anyone!), so much fun. I was very impressed by the big hitters that played off for longest shot. Great spot for golf enthusiasts, those that want to have a bit of fun, those improving their swing or families as there is also a kids’ course. With catering and a bar on site it’s also a great spot for team building and Christmas parties. Make sure you check it out.

17th October, at CSU we are hosting a Cyber Security Network breakfast. Is your cyber security up to date? Do you know the consequences of a cyber breach? Make sure you are covered as being hacked and losing your identity can cause many long-term problems. This is one event you can’t afford to miss. Following this event, at 9.15am we will be holding our annual AGM for those that would like to stay on or would like to join us. Have you ever considered joining the board of Business Port Macquarie? If so, please contact Malcolm on 0422 562 300 as we have a few positions available.

Don’t forget our casual coffee catch ups the first Wednesday of each month at the Corner Restaurant Clarence Street at 10am. For catering purposes please register your interest on our events page.

Until next month enjoy the sunshine and remember… Smile at people you know and those you don’t. Not only may it make their day but they will wonder what you have been up to.

Have a great month. Alex.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 103

focus_contributor.

EDUCATION

UPDATE with STEPHEN PARES

REGIONAL SERVICE LEADER C AT H O L I C S C H O O L S O F F I C E , HASTINGS REGION

A

A True Pathways Program: Charting Future Success at MacKillop College

t MacKillop College in Port Macquarie, the transition from Year 10 to Year 11 is a pivotal moment for students.

The unique Year 10 - 11 transition program offers a rare opportunity for 16-year-olds to choose an educational pathway tailored to their skills, abilities, and learning styles. This innovative approach ensures every student is positioned for success in their future endeavours.

Collaborating with Newman Senior Technical College, MacKillop College provides a comprehensive experience where students can explore a variety of courses and learning programs. This exploration phase allows students to determine whether a technical, skills-based vocational program or a more traditional academic pathway aligns with their aspirations.

My colleague, and MacKillop College Principal, Cath Eichmann says, “All Year 10 students meet with the MacKillop

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College Leader of Careers and Pathways to discuss their future learning goals. These support meetings are the cornerstone of the program, ensuring that each student’s journey is thoughtfully planned and supported.”

needs are met, providing an environment where they can thrive, whether at MacKillop College or Newman Senior Technical College.

The school’s commitment to personalised education underscores the values of catholic education in the Parents are Hastings, where encouraged to every child is given be part of the decisionthe opportunity to making process and succeed according to be as informed as their unique talents possible to foster and interests.

Parental involvement is also a cornerstone of the program as explained

by Eichmann, “Parents are encouraged to be part of the decisionmaking process and be as informed as possible a collaborative to foster a collaborative In essence, the Year environment where environment where 10 - 11 transition students and parents students and parents program was first can make informed can make informed introduced by the decisions together. . decisions together. This highly respected Parish partnership continues Priest, the late Father as students and parents Leo Donnelly some discuss subject selections 30 years ago. His foresight exemplifies with school leaders before finalising their the unity and forward-thinking ethos of choices.” a catholic education, guiding students The model ensures that every student’s

towards a bright and fulfilling future.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 107

Macquarie Business Accountants are dedicated to providing accounting services and solutions for business owners.

Ben Healey, Chen Gaul, Nick Bown, Karen Lotter.

C

an you provide an overview of MBA?

MBA is one of the leading accounting firms in our region, with five partners and offices in both Port Macquarie and Brisbane. Each partner brings extensive specialist expertise across multiple industries, allowing MBA to provide tailored solutions for the unique challenges that businesses face. Our comprehensive understanding of industry-specific regulations enables us to help clients achieve the best possible financial outcomes.

MBA delivers high quality services across various areas, including being one of the largest administrators of Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) in New South Wales. This experience allows us to maximise the benefits of superannuation for individuals and as a strategic business tool. Our reputation in taxation, particularly for SMEs and high-networth individuals, is also highly regarded. Our

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specialised advisory work includes, but is not limited to, strategic planning in relation to tax-effective entity structures, family business succession, asset protection, estate planning, and private ruling applications.

How has the firm evolved over time?

Over the years, MBA has grown to become a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike. This year, MBA merged with CTC Accountants, a local firm with over 30 years of experience. The merger brought CTC’s talented and experienced team of professionals under the MBA banner, further enhancing the resources and expertise we offer to our clients.

Our dedicated team of professionals has developed expertise across various fields, enabling us to provide comprehensive financial solutions. As we’ve grown, we’ve remained committed to building strong, long-term relationships, ensuring that our skills and advice evolve alongside the clients and businesses we serve.

How do you customise your accounting

services to meet the unique needs of each client?

We believe that building personal relationships and gaining a deep understanding of our clients' goals is fundamental to delivering exceptional results. Financial decisions are often influenced by long-term plans, family dynamics, and personal dreams. By understanding these aspects, we are able to tailor our services to align with each client's unique circumstances.

Whether it's strategic tax planning, superannuation advice, or business consulting, our approach is always tailored to meet the specific needs of the client. We provide proactive advice, ensuring clients are wellprepared for key life and business events, from business formation to exit and retirement planning.

What do your clients appreciate most about working with MBA? Our clients appreciate MBA’s dedication to providing accurate, timely, and ethical

to stay up to date on the latest developments in taxation, superannuation, and accounting software. By staying informed about changes in the industry, we ensure that our clients benefit from the most relevant and current advice.

In addition, MBA has adopted a paperless office policy, leveraging digital solutions to enhance efficiency while reducing our environmental footprint. This initiative reflects our commitment to being responsible global citizens and aligns with our focus on sustainability and innovation in the accounting profession.

services that instill confidence in their financial decision-making.

What sets us apart is our commitment to ongoing communication, not just during tax season but throughout the year. Many clients are surprised to learn how much we can improve their financial outcomes simply by planning well in advance.

Our approach is more than just bookkeeping or tax compliance; we focus on providing strategic advice that helps clients plan for long-term success. Our partners, in particular, bring a wealth of knowledge in taxation and superannuation, with expertise in complex business structures adding significant value to the services we provide.

How does MBA stay ahead of industry changes and continue to provide cuttingedge advice?

At MBA, we are committed to continuous learning and professional development. Our team participates in regular in-house training and attends industry seminars and conferences

Why should businesses choose MBA over other accounting firms?

MBA stands out due to our personalised approach, backed by a highly skilled and experienced team of professionals. Our partners and managers take the time to understand each client’s unique objectives and financial situation, allowing us to provide tailored, strategic advice that other firms may not offer.

We pride ourselves on our responsiveness, transparency, and clear communication, ensuring that our clients' needs are met in a timely manner.

We continually adapt to the changing needs of businesses by incorporating new technologies and offering services that address emerging trends and regulations.

How does your firm support clients beyond traditional accounting services, such as in strategic planning or business growth?

How does your team foster long-term partnerships with clients?

Beyond traditional accounting services, MBA acts as a trusted advisor in strategic planning, business consulting, and long-term financial growth. We work closely with clients to develop strategies that align with their goals, whether it's preparing for expansion, managing risk, or planning for a business exit and retirement.

Building long term relationships with clients is central to how we operate. We invest the time to fully understand each client’s business, industry, and financial goals, which allows us to offer personalised, insightful advice.

By fostering trust and open communication, we ensure that clients feel supported and empowered to make informed financial decisions.

Our philosophy is to empower clients with knowledge and skills. By ensuring they understand complex financial concepts, we are able to deliver more effective and costefficient advice that aligns with their long-term objectives.

What role does technology play in your approach to accounting and client service?

Technology plays a crucial role in how we deliver efficient and accurate services. MBA employs advanced technologies, including cloud accounting, real-time financial reporting, and automated processes, which allow us to streamline compliance work and focus on the strategic aspects of financial management.

This tech-forward approach maximises efficiencies, enabling us to dedicate more time to high level value-adding services such as strategic taxation planning, entity structure management, and superannuation advice.

Our expertise in specialised areas like business entity structures, complex tax strategy and superannuation means we can offer clients insights that go beyond the numbers, helping them achieve sustainable financial growth and success.

Macquarie Business Accountants are dedicated to providing accounting services and solutions for business owners.

Our office is located in Port Macquarie, however we can, and do service clients all over Australia.

If you would like to contact us online, or request an appointment connect with Macquarie Business Accountants 11 Murray St, Port Macquarie, NSW, 2444 02 6584 7776 info@mbacc.com.au mbacc.com.au

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 107

focus_contributor.

Marketing

MIND with SIS HIGGINS

PICKLED PEAR MEDIA

A

“DATA, DATA ON THE WALL… WHO’S THE FAIREST OF THEM ALL?”

h, metrics. The enchanted mirror of modern marketing.

But instead of a jealous Queen peering in to see who’s more beautiful, it’s you, it’s business owners and the sales and marketing team trying to figure out if their marketing is working. In this day and age however, it’s not magic spells or poison apples that win the day; it’s data. So, let’s see how you can use data to determine if your marketing efforts are the fairest of them all - or at least pulling their weight.

The Magic Mirror: Your Metrics You’ve got a marketing campaign running, you’re posting on socials, sending emails, even running a cheeky little Google ad, but how do you know if all that effort is paying off?

This is where metrics come in. Think of them as the magic mirror on your marketing wall.

They don’t just tell you “Yes, your campaign is winning hearts (and wallets)” or “Nope, time to try something else, mate”. They show you exactly how things are going. You just need to know what to look for.

Vanity Metrics vs. Valuable Metrics Not all metrics are created equal. Just because something looks impressive doesn’t mean it is. These are called vanity metrics - the shiny numbers that make you feel good but don’t tell you much about the health of your business.

For example: • Likes and follows on social media? Lovely for the ego, but they don’t pay the bills.

• Website visitors? Great, but if they’re not converting into paying customers, it’s just digital window shopping.

you more to win them over than you’re making from them, you’re in for a pumpkin ride back.

• Customer Lifetime Value (CLV): This metric tells you how much revenue a customer is likely to bring over the course of their relationship with your business.

On the other hand, valuable metrics - like conversions, customer acquisition cost (CAC), and return on investment (ROI) are the ones that reveal the true reflection of success.

Instead of asking, “How many likes did that post get?” ask, “How many sales or leads did that post generate?” See the difference?

• Bounce Rate: Ever had someone walk into your store, glance around, and leave without buying anything, (maybe you’ve done that)!

That’s your bounce rate. If it’s high, maybe your website needs a refresh, or your product offering isn’t as irresistible as it could be.

In reality, no one proposes on the first date.

Depending on your business model and the stage of where your business or campaign is at, if brand awareness is your goal and not leads, then vanity metrics may just be the data you look at. Brand Awareness is the dating phase!

The key is to treat data as a living, breathing thing. If your metrics show that your Google Ads are performing but your Facebook ads aren’t, shift your budget, adjust your approach, try new things, track the results, and see what works best.

Data: Your Friendly Fairy Godmother

Final Word: Mirror, Mirror...

The beauty of data is that it tells you exactly where to wave your magic wand next. You don’t need to guess which marketing tactic is your Prince Charming, (your data) will tell you.

Here’s what you should be keeping an eye on:

Marketing success is all about constantly checking in with that magic mirror - aka your data - and making informed decisions.

• Conversion Rate: This shows how many people took the action you wanted (e.g., made a purchase, signed up for a newsletter).

• Cost Per Acquisition (CPA): How much are you spending to get a customer? If it’s costing

Adjust Your Spellbook

Need help? Contact Pickled Pear Media, we’ll review it with you, put your marketing plan into a jar and pickle it so it keeps for as long as you need it to.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 109

Michael Ferguson W A U C H O P E

V E T S

Michael Ferguson is a local veterinarian at Wauchope Vets.

His love of caring for animals started early and he now has years of experience in looking after our beloved family pets.

H

i Michael. What inspired you to become a veterinarian? Was there a particular moment or experience that shaped your decision?

I have always loved nature and being outdoors, preferably with animals. I grew up surrounded by lots of big dogs as we lived in Colombia and they doubled up as guard dogs. We had one of the very few female dogs, and she would attract male dogs to our house, so it was chaos as 11 of our neighbours dogs would descend on our house looking for her... so I had to help a few vets patch and bandage up my other dog who kept getting beaten up! I spent several holidays in western QLD helping on a cattle station which convinced me I wanted to be a vet.

Can you share some highlights from your journey into veterinary medicine, from your education to where you are today?

At high school in Colombia I volunteered to help out at the local zoo, preparing food and feeding the animals on the weekends. It was pretty wild, with minimal OH&S with many exotic wild animals that would be dumped there after being snatched and illegally traded but it was very 110 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

rewarding work.

We highly recommend socialising and learning how to train and build your pets confidence and that starts long before you collect your puppy!

I didn’t get straight into vet school which was actually a blessing.

I had a year of doing traditional science subjects at university and that really cemented my desire to get into vet school. Vet school was some of the best times of my life.

What is the most rewarding part of being a vet, and what challenges do you face on a daily basis?

The most rewarding aspect is helping people by treating and keeping their best mates alive and thriving. We all invest a lot into our pets and they are very much a part of modern families, so to be able to help treat and reassure people their beloved pet will be ok, is very gratifying.

It is often quite hard and we face lots of different challenges to achieve these outcomes, particularly as we have to achieve it without any Medicare or financial backing that we take for granted in our human medical system. The hardest part is trying to keep my hard-working team continually positive and be engaged when we unfortunately have to deal with pet

owners who don’t always share the same concerns or have unrealistic expectations.

What are some of the most common health issues you see in pets, and how can pet owners prevent or manage them?

We see a real variety of issues, from leukaemia in young dogs, complex medical cases like Cushing’s disease, to itchy scratchy pets. But sadly we are seeing a lot more behavioural cases since COVID19 as a whole raft of pets grew up in virtual isolation and they are now struggling with the fact that their owners, (who were with them 24/7), are now back at work. These pets are often very anxious and uncertain of how to behave or how to deal with being left at home on their own. We highly recommend socialising and learning how to train and build your pets confidence and that starts long before you collect your puppy! We see a lot of seasonal issues, like Tick Paralysis which sadly are mostly when owners forget to apply the correct products, so we have reminder systems and new long lasting products to help avoid this.

With 90% of the issues we see, getting early prompt and accurate diagnosis and advice from the right people is the best and most cost-effective thing pet owners can do.

year for us equates to 7 years for our pets, so health issues will develop much quicker in your pets.

Whatever health issues your pet is suffering from your veterinary team are the best resourced at keeping your pets happy and healthy. Social media is certainly not an independent or impartial source of health or veterinary information. Find a vet you like and trust and develop a good relationship with them is the best advice I could give.

If your pet stops doing something they used to do, there must be a reason, and often that is pain. Remember, pets do not vocalise when they are in excruciating pain!

Are there any specific signs or symptoms that pet owners should never ignore?

Don’t ignore the slow subtle changes in your pet, at any age! Age is not a disease, but we obviously will be more likely to see issues such as cancers, arthritis and medical problems as they advance in age.

You know your pet better than anyone, don’t ignore issues such as changes in their breathing, activity levels, lumps and bumps (even if they never appear to bother them as the nasty lumps rarely do!) or changes in their eating, drinking or toilet habits. If your pet stops doing something they used to do, there must be a reason, and often that is pain. Remember, pets do not vocalise when they are in excruciating pain!

Ensuring their quality of life is our priority – you are their whole lives, so we aim to make it the best possible!

How often should pets visit the vet for check-ups, and why is preventative care so important for long-term health?

What advice would you give to pet owners about ensuring the general health and happiness of their pets?

It depends on the stage of their life – puppies/ kittens initially need monthly visits then annual health checks at a minimum, while senior pets need check ups every 6 months. Things can change very quickly in our pet’s health, and they can be very good at disguising symptoms so it’s vital we get regular thorough health checks frequently to avoid missing any important changes that may be occurring and give them the best quality of life.

Regular health checks are really important. One

What advice do you have for helping pets

feel more comfortable during vet visits?

We encourage all pet owners to socialise and expose their pets to all sorts of environments (especially the vet clinic) from the moment they first get them. We really encourage owners to bring their pets in the clinic for ‘Happy Visits’, they get some treats and belly rubs, hop on the scales, and get comfortable with being in the clinic. We also use a whole range of treats, aids, natural pheromones and anti-anxiety medications to help make every vet visit as fun, relaxing, and non-threatening as possible. We strive to make sure the owner is relaxed and comfortable too, because their pets pick up our vibes amazingly well. If your vet suggests some of these for your pet, please follow their recommendations for your pet’s sake!

What are your personal goals for Wauchope Vets in the future?

My goals are to continually upskill myself, my team and improve our skills and services for all the local pet owners. We are developing great relationships with other veterinary and pet service providers, (trainers, physios and specialists) to expand the services we can offer and recommend.

I recently organised some training days not just for our staff but for all local vet teams to help improve the quality of dental services and behavioural medicine which was great and hopefully we can do more of!

Thanks Michael.

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123tix (Terry Wilcox & team) Atlantis Creative (Chris Rockstrah) AVI Protection Group Better Business Taree Blueprint Life Coaching Branch Productions (Nathan Branch) Business NSW Business Port Macquarie Brown Out (Warren Brown) Camden Haven High School Charles Sturt University Charles Sturt University First Nations Chatham High School Cloud Concepts Complete Risk Solutions Constable Printing CowanCreative DeadlyScience Dept. of Employment & Workplace Relations DYMK Explore Barrington Coast Focus Port Macquarie GEM Socials Glasshouse Port Macquarie Gloucester Highschool Hastings Business Women’s Network Hastings Rotaract Hastings Secondary College Westport Campus P+C Hastings Women’s Business Network headspace Port Macquarie Intersport Port Macquarie Ink Lens Media (Nathan Hollingworth) Innovate Event Solutions (Sean O’Brien) Jack & Co Johnson & Mongan Julia Livingston Kempsey Adventist School Kempsey Highschool Kempsey-Macleay Country University Centre Kenny Little’s Fruit & Veg Legacy Port Macquarie Lemonade Crew Lindsay Moller Productions LPR – Local Pest Experts Macleay Options Inc Macleay Valley Country Universities Cenre Mackillop College Port Macquarie Macquarie Signs and Tinting Magnified Accounting Manning Great Lakes Memorial Gardens Manning River Lions Club McCann Media Group McNeil Architects Melville High School Men and Women at Work Mid North Coast Local Health District Mission Australia Nautilus College Page Conveyancing Peter and Louise Rourke Port City Bowling Club Port Combined Netball Club Port Macquarie Hastings Council Port Macquarie SRC (Charles Sturt University) Propel Funeral Partners QualOT Hand Therapy Quota Taree Rotary Club of Kempsey Rotary Club of Lower Midcoast Rotary Clubs of Port Macquarie Rotary Club of Sunrise Port Macquarie Rotary Club of Taree Rotary Club of Taree North Rotary Club of Taree on Manning Regional Australia Bank Rydges Port Macquarie Snap Port Macquarie St Agnes Catholic Parish St Columba Anglican School St Joseph’s Regional College Steve & Jack Foye Stihl Shop Sunrise Interact Rotary TAFE NSW Taree High School Taree Lions Club Taree Quota Club Taree on Manning Rotary Telstra NSW The Resolution Network Tradie Leader Lady Trish & Eddie Wood Tutor Teach University of Newcastle Upbound Vanity Day Spa Wauchope High School Wingham High School Wild Things Native Gardens Zebu Bar + Grill Zonta

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING LUMINOSITY Luminosity Youth Inc. is both delighted and grateful to have the support of the following sponsors and scholarship providers. We are truly humbled by the level of local support the Summit has received and acknowledge that it would not have been made possible without their generosity and support.

S U M M I T P R E S E N T I N G PA R T N E R

F O U N D I N G PA R T N E R S

R E G I O N A L S C H O L A R S H I P PA R T N E R

P L AT I N U M S P O N S O R S

F U T U R E L E A D E R S C H O L A R S H I P PA R T N E R S

SUMMIT SUPPORTERS

Department of Employment and Workplace Relations are proud supporters of Luminosity Youth Summit

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Illuminate

Jones Florence

with KATE WOOD-FOYE THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL ENTREPRENEURS, I N N O V AT O R S , L E A D E R S AND GAME CHANGERS.

Suzanne and Bronny have created a unique, unpretentious and inviting space for lovers of wine and cheesy goodness. Together their respective worlds of fashion and food have collided delightfully in a deliciously designed hybrid venue named Florence Jones. The design and delivery of the space and experience recently earned them a nod as New Business of the Year at the 2024 Business Port Macquarie Awards.

W

ho or what inspired the drive and determination within you to take on this artisanal journey in your funky Fisherman’s Wharf venue - where did it all begin?

to take home.

Bronny has long held an idea to open a cheese store. With her qualifications as a chef and 10 years working for Australia’s Cheese Guru Will Studd, she had talked for many years about starting something small to be able to share her knowledge of all things cheese. We talked about it when we met and continued to discuss it over the years. I have been coming to Port Macquarie for over 30 years and when we came together we quickly realised that there was a space for something here. We had been visiting our local bottleshop in the western suburbs of Melbourne where you could also enjoy wine on premises, with a small snack offering and they had a really small offering of cheese. Bronny would sit there and say they need to sell more cheese so when you leave with a bottle you could also grab some cheese

What were the key ingredients to realising the Florence Jones vision and when did you know it had truly come to life?

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The Fisherman Wharf venue was a huge undertaking and with much discussion and utilising my background in fashion and design, we worked together to create the aesthetics of the venue. Something that wasn’t pretentious, welcoming, not a bar, not a deli, just a space to be enjoyed…and take in that view!

The most important components to realising Florence Jones was Bronny’s passion for food and wine and my passion for fashion and design. There was also a lot of discussion about what we wanted Florence Jones to be, and how we wanted to be perceived and getting the ‘feel’ right. It was really important for us to create a welcoming and warm space for the community to come in and feel comfortable straight away.

The product was really important, an offer that was unique to us, a little bit of Melbourne and “Indie” wine offering - the balancing act was real. To see the surprise and glee on people’s

faces when they walk in the door, look at the space, the cheese fridge, the wines and then the view and keep coming back, is magical.

You specialise in artisanal cheese, food and wine and celebrate high quality small batch producers. Who curates the line up of delicious offerings and creates experiences like the Cheese & Wine flight?

Bronny with her experience in hospitality and the cheese industry curates the menu and cheese selection. Rotating through a selection of local and international cheeses and pairing them with appropriate gourmet condiments is an opportunity to showcase quality products to the Mid North Coast area. The wine offering is a combined effort based on our own personal likes and the desire to support smaller producers.

What has been your most effective tool/s or attribute/s as business owners that have enabled you to steer Florence Jones from a passion project and a seed of an idea, to successful commercial reality?

Listen, learn, and remain true to what you believe in. Recognise what is not working, why,

and move on. For us it’s – remember who we are and what Florence Jones is – we are a wine and cheese store, an experience, an affordable luxury that makes you feel good!

What has been the most surprising element of being in business?

The old saying “you don’t know what you don’t know until you know”. The amount of new learnings that go along with being in business has been huge. However, being your own boss... wow, it is still a pinch ourselves situation, the buck starts and stops with us.

You both have had careers in and out of the foodie world. As creative and business minds do you subscribe to a firm business plan or follow your gut instinct?

We have a business plan that has some “not negotiables” and “it’s important to me” actions. We are also big believers in things happening for a reason, and opportunities and challenges will present themselves. It’s what, and how we deal with them, and that goes back to the “Plan”.

What has been your greatest achievement in your business journey so far?

Conversely, what was your greatest challenge?

Every day is an achievement, but moving from Melbourne to Port Macquarie with the idea of Florence Jones, to where we are now, with the incredible local community support we have

Support from the local Port Macquarie community as well as those from further afield has been an amazing bonus and one we truly appreciate. We would not be here without them.

established, has been a definite highlight.

Winning the Best New Business Award was amazing and to have that acknowledgement really helped to push us to constantly improve.

We have created a space where people come and gather with friends and family and sometimes on their own to celebrate, commiserate or just to enjoy the view.

Conversely our greatest challenge has been to accept that we can’t please everyone and can’t be everything to everyone. Importantly what we have achieved and set out to do, was to offer something that makes us happy. The offer and the service, we don’t always get it right, however we always listen and learn. As a dear friend said – fail fast, learn quick!

How important has it been to have the support of the community and building a Florence Jones tribe?

We love our tribe, and many have been on our journey from the beginning, and some we now consider friends. Support from the local Port Macquarie community as well as those from further afield has been an amazing bonus and one we truly appreciate. We would not be here without them. We have watched complete strangers start talking together as they watch

the passing traffic (land and sea). They say it takes a village to raise a child... and Florence jones is our baby!

How instrumental have sages and critics been in the evolution of your business? What is the most valuable lesson they taught you?

We have been fortunate enough to have met and been introduced to some amazing individuals in the community who have assisted us in our journey so far. We have also been given valuable feedback both positive and negative which we have used to evolve into where we are today.

The most valuable lesson has been to listen and adapt where and when needed.

What can we expect from Florence Jones as we launch into the summer season?

We love that Florence Jones still has so much potential and we are only just getting started. We look forward to having some more cheese and wine education nights in the future along with some local and not so local collaborations. There are still lots of ideas brewing and just like a good cheese and wine Florence jones will get better with age….so watch this space.

Thanks Suzanne and Bronny.

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focus_contributor.

LEGAL

There’s no ace

LIKE HOME – planning for retirement living

Y

ou may have seen that the government has recently announced changes to the aged care system, described as “once in a generation” reforms.

The recent changes are specifically about aged care, and overall provide for a small increase to care fees in order to fund an increase in services supporting older people to live independently, for longer. However the reforms also introduce the prospect that operators can now retain a portion of the refundable accommodation deposit (RAD, commonly referred to as a bond) paid on entry into aged care. This was not previously allowed.

The fees and arrangements around aged care and retirement living can be confusing at the best of times, and are a common reason for enquiries with our office. There are many different options offering different levels of care and independence, governed by different rules and with very different financial structures.

Retirement Villages: Retirement villages are purpose-built communities that provide independent living, with varying levels of care, and which may allow for a transition from lower to higher care accommodation.

Residents typically will lease their homes, and pay an ongoing rent. Financial arrangements for retirement villages vary significantly between operators but will often provide for a significant

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Light with NICK LAWTON

L AW Y E R / D I R E C TO R P R I E S T L E G A L

entry payment or loan by a resident to the operator, with an “exit fee” or “pre-paid rent” deducted when a resident leaves.

Facilities provide comprehensive care services, including personal care, nursing, meals, and social activities.

Retirement villages will often provide for recreational facilities, social activities, and security services alongside care services. However residents will routinely forfeit anywhere from 2050% of their entry payment on departure.

The Australian Government provides subsidies to help cover the costs of residential aged care, however, residents may need to contribute based on their financial situation. Often a Refundable Accommodation Deposit is paid, and until recent announcements, that amount was (as the name suggests) entirely refundable on the death of a resident.

Lifestyle Communities: A growing segment of the market are lifestyle or over 55’s villages which provide for accommodation in a manufactured home or villa. These villages often provide facilities like swimming pools, clubhouses, and organised activities, but are more geared towards independent living than a retirement village.

Residents will generally own their own home, but not the land it is located on. They will pay a weekly or monthly site fee to the operator.

When a resident leaves they are able to sell the dwelling, and the purchaser will enter into a new site agreement.

As there are no exit fees, purchasing in a lifestyle community often offers a better financial outcome than a retirement village, but the services available are much more limited.

Residential Aged Care Services: As health and mobility needs change, many individuals may require more assistance. Residential aged care is suitable for individuals who need 24/7 support.

Home Care: The recent changes are an attempt by government to bolster home care services, and allow more people to stay living independently in their own home for longer.

The growth of these services has resulted in more flexibility for many people in planning their retirement living, and the transition to higher levels of care as required.

Choosing the right aged care or retirement living can be a complex and emotional journey.

It requires careful consideration of personal needs, preferences, and financial circumstances.

Whether opting for independent living or seeking comprehensive support in residential aged care, understanding the available options empowers individuals and families to make informed decisions.

Should you have any questions about the options available to you, or require advice, then the friendly team at Priest Legal is here to help.

focus_contributor.

MONEY with BEC FARNSWORTH FA R N SWO R T H F I N A N C I A L

I

Fixed vs Variable Rates - Wh you nd to know

t’s the age-old question, do I fix my loan or leave it variable? We have seen a number of lenders reduce their fixed interest rates in recent months, making them more appealing to mortgage holders. In the dynamic landscape of the Australian housing market, choosing the right mortgage is a pivotal decision for homeowners and prospective buyers alike. A significant choice that borrowers face is whether to opt for a fixed or variable interest rate on their mortgage. Each type of rate comes with unique benefits and drawbacks, and understanding these can help individuals make informed financial decisions.

Fixed Interest Rates: The Stability Option Fixed interest rates allow borrowers to lock in an interest rate for a predetermined period, typically ranging from one to five years. The primary appeal of a fixed-rate mortgage lies in its predictability. Borrowers know exactly what their monthly repayments will be throughout the fixed term, simplifying budgeting and financial planning. The certainty of fixed repayments provides peace of mind, particularly for first-time buyers and those with tighter budgets who want to avoid the risk of rising interest costs.

Fixed rates do have drawbacks. If market interest rates decline during the fixed term, borrowers may miss out on potential savings that could come from lower variable rates. Fixed-rate mortgages often come with restrictions on extra repayments with no ability to offset and may

impose penalties for breaking the fixed term early. This lack of flexibility can be a significant consideration for those anticipating changes in their financial situation.

maintaining the flexibility of a variable rate on the remainder. This approach can be beneficial in an unpredictable interest rate environment, allowing borrowers to hedge their bets.

Variable Interest Rates: The Flexible Choice

Making the Right Choice

Variable interest rates fluctuate with market conditions and are closely tied to the RBA’s cash rate. Borrowers with variable rate mortgages may experience changes in their monthly repayments based on economic factors. Variable rate loans often come with additional features that enhance their attractiveness. Many offer flexibility in making additional repayments without penalties, access to offset accounts, and the ability to refinance or repay early with fewer fees. This flexibility can be particularly appealing for borrowers looking to pay down their principal faster or who may want to access funds for other investments.

When deciding, borrowers should consider several factors:

The primary downside of variable rates is the uncertainty they bring. As the RBA adjusts rates, borrowers may find their repayments increasing, which can strain budgets. This unpredictability can be daunting for those managing tight financial margins.

Split Loans: A Balanced Approach For those torn between fixed and variable rates, split loans offer a middle ground. A split loan allows borrowers to divide their mortgage into both fixed and variable components.

This strategy provides the stability of fixed repayments for a portion of the loan while

1. Financial Situation: Assess your current financial stability and future goals. If you value predictability and plan on maintaining a tight budget, a fixed rate might be more suitable.

Conversely, if you’re comfortable with some risk and anticipate income growth, a variable rate could be advantageous.

2. Market Conditions: Keep an eye on economic indicators and the RBA’s stance on interest rates. Understanding the broader economic environment can provide insight into whether rates are likely to rise or fall.

3. Loan Features: Compare the features of different loans, such as the ability to make extra repayments, access offset accounts, and potential fees for breaking a fixed term.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on individual circumstances and risk tolerance. Whether opting for the security of a fixed rate, flexibility of a variable rate, or a blend of both, the key is to find a mortgage strategy that aligns with your long-term financial objectives. If you would like to discuss your mortgage options, then contact me at farnsworthfinancial.com.au today!

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We asked staff members of Forestry Corporation of NSW to share their favourite NSW State Forests places to visit.

Why? Because who knows better than those who look after the forest and maintain these special places.

Ste Forest

“Once a year, we travel with a few other families and stay at Moonan Cottage in the small town of Moonan Brook at the western base of the Barrington Tops. We take day trips to ‘the Tops’ and our must stop places always include Moonan Outlook, with views for days to the south and west and brilliant sunsets. It’s just magic” - Louise, Manager Tourism & Partnerships

S E C R E T S

“Gumgali Track in Orara East State Forest doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves and the view is delightful! But my absolute favourite spot is Mobong Falls Track in Wild Cattle Creek State Forest. It’s a great bushwalk beside Mobong Creek, with a beautiful little waterfall and abundant birdlife. You can also enjoy a picnic (there are a couple of tables) or a cheeky little swim.”

- Renee, Forestry Worker “Coopernook State Forest is one of those places that slowly grows on you with repeated visits.

There is so much history there, and I understand why people refer to it as such a peaceful spot. It really is!”

“My favourite site is around Sealy Lookout in Orara East State Forest near Coffs Harbour.

It’s not too remote, easy to get to and there’s some great lookouts and walks in unique areas.”

- Owen, Forestry Worker

“Tirrill Creek in Bulga State Forest. Subtropical rainforest can be found in spots along the creek line, as well as scenic rockpools for splashing your feet in. Pretty special.”

“I love a bit of fishing, so Koondrook and Perricoota State Forests adjacent to the Murray River down on the Victorian border are always on my list. Great spots for fishing for native fish (Murray Cod and Yellow belly) as well as boating and kayaking. Bermagui State Forest on the NSW South Coast is also excellent for fishing and camping, while Currowan State Forest near Batemans Bay has good bass fishing and canoeing.”

- Mark, Ecologist

- Rob, Partnerships Leader

- Leah, Partnerships Leader

“Guulabaa – Place of Koala in Cowarra State Forest between Wauchope and Port Macquarie.

It’s so close to the Pacific Highway but still home to a beautiful native forest. It’s also home to WildNets, The Big Koala (part of the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail) and the soon-to-be-open Wild Koala Breeding Facility managed by Port Macquarie Koala Hospital/Koala Conservation Australia. With picnic facilities and walking trails in development, and Bunyah Café coming soon too (thanks to Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council), this tourism precinct is a must-stop for any visitors to the Mid North Coast.”

- Kathy, Senior Manager Country & Community

For more information on these and other great State Forest destinations, visit forestrycorporation.com.au/visit or follow

@visitnswforests

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SO, YO U DEC IDED TO PUT A LL YO U R A DVERTISING DOLLARS INTO

DIGITAL ONLY? Liked by your Mum and 7 others (that are probably your friends)

WHEN YOU ADVERTISE IN FOCUS, YOU GET

UNMATCHED VISIBILITY

10,000 P RI N T E D C O P I E S

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25,000

M O N T H LY R E A D E R S HI P *

The visibility of your business, your brand and you are the centrepiece of any good local advertising campaign. When you advertise in FOCUS, not only will you be seen in 10,000 gloss copies every month in and around town, but we offer free graphic design and photography services - when you look your best, so do we!

online 5k

900k

ISSUU RE ADS ONLINE>

ISSUU IMPRESSIONS ONLINE

monthly average

Read our printed copies of FOCUS online anytime, anywhere at issuu.com/focus.mag. With over 540 back issues and counting available to read on mobile, ipad and desktop.

20,000

SOCIAL FOLLOWERS^

FOCUS Magazine is a publication by locals, for locals.

We’re renowned for beautiful creative design and exceptional photography throughout our pages.

Inside our content is all positive interviews with real people who live, work and play here. People who are actively participating in this community by making a difference and leading the way to shape a vibrant future for our region.

We capture the best of entertainment, food, fashion, business, real estate, health, education, travel and so much more. Combined with our signature emphasis on local that has made FOCUS an award winning publication that locals love, trust and read.

LOCAL FACES. LOCAL STORIES. *Readership is estimated based on 2.5 readers per issue. ^Total combined likes of our social media pages. >Monthly unique readers on our Mobile editions.

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David Gray THE LIFESTYLE G R O U P

What do you consider to be your most significant achievement in your role so far?

C

an you share your journey leading up to your current role as CEO of both the Lifestyle Group and Ideal Property Group?

My career in real estate spans over 25 years in all aspects including both residential and commercial. In this competitive market, I honed my skills and became a full-time auctioneer, earning an award of NSW REI Auctioneer of the Year. Along the way, I also developed a passion for property investment and development.

In 2017, my family roots on the Mid North Coast brought me to Port Macquarie, where I was inspired to create a business that reflects both my professional expertise and personal values. This transition allowed me to blend my passion for real estate with my commitment to community, enabling me to foster connections and support local initiatives. My journey has been shaped by a dedication to excellence and a desire to make a positive impact, both in the industry and in the communities my businesses serve.

Leading the expansion of our group to include 20 real estate offices and a portfolio of holiday properties on the Mid North Coast has been a lot of fun and provided personal satisfaction especially when witnessing my team evolve and thrive as the business grows.

How has the group evolved under your leadership?

I began my journey in 2017 with the acquisition of the Elders Port Macquarie and Wauchope offices.

Two years later, I founded the Lifestyle Group, expanding our regional footprint whilst venturing into holiday properties; which saw the inception of the Ideal Property Group, starting with The Med at Crescent Head and soon after, Camp Jordan in Port Macquarie on the banks of the Hastings River. It has been a true privilege renovating and restoring these iconic community landmarks.

What is your vision for the future of the Lifestyle Group and Ideal Property Group?

Our vision for the future is to transform the way people connect through property. Vibrant spaces that foster community, collaboration, and belonging. We want to inspire connections that last a lifetime, enriching lives and strengthening communities.

Continued over...

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David Gray

THE LIFESTYLE G R O U P

What values are most important to you and your company?

We have four core values within the group; “Embracing Change” which encourages adaptability, while a “Growth Mindset” fosters continuous learning.

A “Relationship Focus” emphasises collaboration and connection, and “Thriving on Energy” brings enthusiasm and positivity to the group.

Can you share some of the key community projects or programs that you are and have been involved in?

It’s important to me to foster a sense of gratitude and responsibility, ensuring that as we thrive, we also uplift those around us, creating a cycle of support and encouragement that benefits everyone.

Community is at the core of everything we do. We encourage our employees to take paid time out of work for charitable activities, and we actively support initiatives like the Self Seen Mental Health luncheon, Liberty Domestic Violence, Clean Up Day, and FACE IT Childhood Dementia Awareness. We partner with various nonprofit organisations and sports associations throughout the regions we serve.

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What inspired you to become actively involved in community initiatives?

Giving back to the communities that have supported our growth is a fundamental motivation for me. I believe that our success is intertwined with the well-being of the people and places we serve. By actively engaging in community initiatives, whether through charitable donations, volunteering, or partnerships with local organisations, I aim to make a positive impact and contribute to the prosperity of our neighbourhoods. It’s important to me to

foster a sense of gratitude and responsibility, ensuring that as we thrive, we also uplift those around us, creating a cycle of support and encouragement that benefits everyone.

Ultimately, my commitment to giving back is about building stronger, more vibrant communities for the future.

What role do you believe businesses should play in their local communities?

Businesses should actively engage in their local communities as a fundamental part of their mission and values. By fostering meaningful relationships with community members, they can better understand local needs and challenges, allowing them to tailor their services and initiatives accordingly. Supporting local events, collaborating with not-for-profits,

By investing in local projects and partnerships, businesses can help drive economic growth and sustainability, creating a positive ripple effect that benefits everyone involved.

and encouraging employee volunteering not only enhances a company’s reputation, but also contributes to a stronger, more vibrant community. By investing in local projects and partnerships, businesses can help drive economic growth and sustainability, creating a positive ripple effect that benefits everyone involved.

Ultimately, when businesses prioritise community involvement, they not only elevate the awareness of their brand, but also help cultivate a sense of belonging and mutual support that enriches the lives of all residents.

What motivates you on a daily basis?

Grow; Prosper and Belong are embedded within the culture of my team and stands at the foundation of my beliefs in a fulfilling life. The group has a strong belief in the growth of each other, our clients, the community and market share. I’m heavily motivated by mentoring and encouraging my team on their own wealth-

creation journey.

Dave, what have you learnt over the years not only in business but working in regional towns that you would like to pass on to others who would like to follow in your footsteps?

My great-great uncle was instrumental in building one of the first houses in Hat Head, a legacy that sparked my passion for sustainable

growth and development in regional towns.

Inspired by his pioneering spirit, I channelled my energy into one of my most recent projects: The General Hat Head, a full-service grocery store designed to meet the everyday needs of the community, and The Bunker, a new holiday property which sits adjacent to the store and just a short walk to the picturesque waterfront.

This venture is not just about providing goods and services; it’s about creating a vibrant hub that fosters connection, supports locals and welcomes visitors to this magical little town.

Throughout this journey, my commitment to enhancing regional communities goes beyond mere business; it’s about nurturing a sense of belonging, promoting economic resilience, and ensuring that growth benefits both current residents and future generations. By prioritising sustainable development, I hope to inspire others to invest in their communities, fostering a cycle of growth that is both responsible and rewarding.

Thanks David.

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CA M P J O R DA N S There are a variety of accommodation options to suit, including deluxe bell tents, self-contained cabins offering river views, renovated airstream caravans & refurbished shipping containers. Each room is designed with rest & relaxation in mind with optimum adventure available at your doorstep. We are also pet friendly and would love to chat with you about booking in to our pet friendly accommodation options.

T H E B O AT S H E D ‘Explore Port Macquarie like you never have before’. Jordans cater for all your water sport needs; cruise the Hastings River in one of our BBQ boats, head out fishing in the new polycrafts or explore the secret beaches along the banks of the river with a kayak or paddleboard.

Jordans staff have the experience to make your day on the water the highlight of your holiday.

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T H E MED MEDITERRANEAN SHORES MEETS THE COASTAL CHARM OF CRESCENT HEAD A Mediterranean-inspired retreat in the heart of Crescent Head, where the charm of Europe meets the laid-back allure of the Australian coast. With its iconic tiled roof and warm terracotta tiles, our motel is a unique haven that transports you to a world that feels straight out of Europe.

There’s simply no place like it in Crescent Head – a distinctive setting where memories are made. A variety of accommodation styles are available to suit every need and budget.

From a wedding party of 50 people to a family gathering of 6 to 8, or simply a quick overnight stop for one or two. All guests are welcome to make full use of our complete range of facilities.

T H E GEN ER A L HAT HE A D

The General Hat Head offers everything you need for your weekend escape. A boutique supermarket for your everyday necessities, a convenient bottle shop to pick up your favorite beverages, bait, ice and a coffee cart to fuel your mornings.

Grab some fish & chips on your way to the beach from Captain Salty’s or savour their famous cheeseburgers. Whether you’re stocking up or indulging in local treats, The General Hat Head has you covered!

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KITCHENS

DAVE PAINE

P O R T K I TC H E N WO R L D O W N E R

T

ell us about yourself and how long have you been in the trade?

I’m Dave Paine and together with my wife Nik, we have 3 beautiful daughters and 2 granddaughters, and we recently built our new home on the Hastings River at Sancrox.

I’ve been in the kitchen manufacturing industry for over 30 years. I started my kitchen business at 23 years old straight out of my apprenticeship and have been servicing the local and surrounding areas since.

Why did you start your own business?

I’ve always had a passion for building and design and constantly strived to be the best I could be. I felt starting my own business was the most logical and fulfilling step forward.

Tell us what customers can except when hiring your company?

It’s not always just kitchens, we also do bathrooms, vanities, walk in robes, any custom-built joinery you can think of!

Customers can expect a combination of expert craftmanship, attention to detail and commitment to delivering high quality results.

We work closely with our clients to understand their visions and needs.

Clients can expect clear and consistent communication throughout the project from design to completion.

How do you ensure that the project stays on budget and on schedule?

Here at Port Kitchen World, we follow a well-structured process from the initial consult with thorough planning, constant communication and realistic timeframes.

Sourcing the best quality materials and establishing an accurate budget from the start.

The team here at PKW all work closely together to ensure efficient project management, and pride ourselves on only using local trades that we know and trust.

How can our readers get in touch with you?

Visit our showroom at 43 Jindalee Road.

If you are building or looking to renovate call our office on 6581 4747 Also follow along on facebook or Instagram @portkitchenworld GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 129

TILE & GROUT MAINTENANCE

T R A D E S

Y O U

C A N

T R U S T

CATHERINE + BRETT BAM TILE RESCUE PORT MACQUARIE

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ow long have you been in the trade? I’ve been in the trade for eight years now. I worked for Tile Rescue as a repair technician for almost two years before buying into the franchise.

impact. This little business contributes to the community we live in and that’s something we’re proud of.

Tell us what customers can except when hiring your company? We work hard to make sure that our customers get the best service we can provide.

Our after sales service We want you to Why did you start your is important to us own business? I feel like be as happy with too, it’s not a case of this is a valuable product our work as we are finished and forget. to offer the community.

We want you to be as and before we leave We were an essential happy with our work we’d like to hear you business during COVID as we are and before say “Wow” at the very because what we do is we leave we’d like to least when you see important and can save hear you say “Wow” the finished work. people thousands of at the very least when dollars. There are very you see the finished few people able to seal a work. leaking shower as effectively or as quickly as How do you ensure that the project stays us with such an impressive warranty and for on budget and on schedule? We provide such an affordable amount. Our product is a a free inspection and quote on each job tenth of the cost but still has a massive visual

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before it’s done. Our prices and services are standardised according to what each rescue job costs so that we can be sure no surprises pop up.

How can our readers get in touch with you? We are active on social media, look us up at Tile Rescue Port Macquarie and Tile Rescue Coffs Harbour.

Google is very fond of us and will point you to the franchise’s website. There’s a whole call centre on the other side of the 1800 number that will put you in touch with us, but the simplest and best way is to call our office and have a chat at 0435 930 985

PAINTING

SHANE ROCHE

CALL US FIRST PAINTING O W N E R

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ow long have you been in the trade?

I’ve been involved in the painting and decorating industry for over 25 years now, having initially picked up a brush for the first time back home in Ireland where I was born and I lived until moving to Australia around 14 years ago. As an active person who enjoys being on their feet, I quickly grew fond of the physical demands of the job and began to see a potential career path ahead of me. I haven’t looked back since.

Why did you start your own business?

Starting my own business was a natural progression for me, having worked in the profession for so many years. As with many other business owners, I started to notice areas that could be improved upon or done differently while working for other employers.

As an ambitious and determined person, the challenge of running my own company also appealed to me. I feel fortunate and proud to have served the Mid North Coast community with Call Us 1st for over 10 years now.

Tell us what customers can expect when hiring your company?

First and foremost they can expect exceptional service from both myself and the crew. Ensuring customer satisfaction is our number 1 priority here at Call Us 1st, and we take great pride in that. A quality finish is also a non-negotiable for us, our fully qualified and professional team will ensure each and every job is completed to the highest industry standards.

How do you ensure that the project stays on budget and on schedule?

This boils down to three main factors, experience, planning and communication.

With over 25 years in the industry, I’ve developed a keen eye for spotting problems before they arise and implementing contingency plans for when they do, this allows me to provide accurate estimates for both budget and schedule. Additionally, I visit each of our job sites daily to inspect progress and am in constant communication with all of my foremen to ensure each and every job

comes in on budget and on time.

How can our readers get in touch with you?

For quotes, both big and small, feel free to contact me directly on 0420 218 934 or alternatively by email at contact@ callus1stpainting.com.au. I look forward to chatting with you!

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BATHROOM

EDMONDS RENOVATIONS

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ow long have you been in the trade? Dan has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry.

He became a sole trader, bathroom renovator in the late 90s. Prior to this he was a sole trader Wall and Floor Tiler.

Jack and Wil both began their apprenticeships straight after Year 10 as Wall and Floor Tilers.

Jack (the oldest son) is currently undertaking his course in bathroom/laundry renovations expecting to receive his licence early next year.

Every client is different in respect of what they expect – we take the time to understand the clients needs from the beginning, so we can provide the end result they are looking for.

At Edmonds Bathroom Renovations, we don’t rely on multiple trades. By keeping external trades to a minimum we can complete projects faster with no delays waiting on contractors.

This approach also ensures that every job is done to our high standard, on schedule and with the quality we demand, resulting in quicker turnaround and top quality work for our clients.

Why did you start your own business?

In his earlier years Dan was a Wall and Floor Tiler having completed many commercial projects and heritage tiling around Inner-City Newcastle, including the Civic Theatre and the Bond Building which still stand today. Like many tradesmen after mastering his trade he became a sole trader and once his reputation was established, business just came from word of mouth. He moved from the Hunter Valley to Port Macquarie in 2001 and business has been solid ever since.

Our typical bathroom renovation is completed within 2 weeks. With extensive experience in all aspects of tiling we can deliver exceptional results, which is very important for specialised tiling projects. We have the depth of experience to handle specialised jobs.

Another rewarding part of our business is improvements to homes for the disabled and elderly. We can assist with installation of handrails etc. by modifying their home to support their specific needs.

Tell us what customers can except when hiring your company? We are a team of three – Dan and his 2 sons Jack and Wil. 132 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

How do you ensure that the project stays on budget and on schedule? We provide fully detailed quotes up front ensuring transparency from the start.

Clients are given allowances for PC items and tiles preventing any unexpected costs at the end of the project and keeping the budget within their control.

We endeavour to be upfront and honest in our quoting process – if the plan is not realistic for the budget we discuss this up front.

An important consideration for our clients when renovating is to ensure they understand hidden damage behind walls and floors can sometimes cause projects to go over budget, leading to unexpected costs.

We always make clients aware of the potential need for wall or floor replacement once they have been removed. As we don’t rely on multiple contractors we can maintain the project schedule with minimal delays.

How can our readers get in touch with you? edmondsrenovations.com.au Dan – 0415 938 390 Email – edmondsrenovations@gmail.com

SOLAR

SOLAHART B E V E R L E Y ,

T A H N E Y

&

V I C K I What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your work? How do you overcome them?

Currently the downturn in the economy and ongoing rising costs with expenses such as materials, supplies, insurances while still being competitive in market is a challenge.

Also a big challenge to the business is customers focusing solely on price (cheapest) over quality, warranties, after sales service, local and employed staff and trades.

Tell us what customers can except when hiring your company?

Right from the start of contact with our admin/ sales team right through to the end of the installation or service. I strive to ensure that my staff deliver a very high standard of customer service and quality of tradesmanship. We are a big believer in building trust and confidence with our customers to ensure they receive the quality of services they require and desire.

How do you ensure that the project stays on budget and on schedule?

We are aware of the current economic climate, our services are personable to ensure that Bob, our sales consultant, visits our customers face to face. Bob will give a free no obligation site assessment to ensure that we are providing services to suit the individual customers needs.

This will ensure that we are sticking to their budget and providing an accurate quote with no hidden extras at the end of the installation.

H

i Tahney, How long have you been in the trade?

I have now been running Solahart Port Macquarie for just over 4 years. We took over from the original owners Tony and Sue right when COVID hit

How can our readers get in touch with you? back in 2020.

Vicki has been with Solahart for 15 years now and is a very valuable member of our team with her wealth of knowledge in the solar sector.

Call us on 02 6583 6600, send an email to admin@solahartportmacquarie.com.au or check out our website www.solahartportmacquarie. com.au We’re also on Facebook & Instagram!

Beverley is your first point of contact in the business and has been with us for 18 months.

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CLEANING

AMY WALKER WONDER WOMAN CLEANING SERVICES O W N E R

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ow long have you been in the trade?

Wonder Woman Cleaning has been up and running for 5 years now and we’ve grown in leaps and bounds

during that time.

Why did you start your own business?

I started my own business to be present with my children and to have a flexible schedule for the perfect work/life balance. Being a mum has and will always be my main priority in life and I needed my work to fit around that. Running my own business allows me the flexibility to attend all school and sporting events for my We meet every beautiful daughters.

Tell us what customers can expect when hiring your company?

new client and go over their exact expectations, we have a system in place that records what the clients top priority out of their clean is and we tailor our pricing to suit the client.

Our customers' satisfaction is our main priority at Wonder Woman Cleaning, we start every new client with a meet and greet and go over their expectations and tailor every package to suit the clients needs. No two houses or jobs are the same so why should the price or clean be the same? We keep our staff the same each and every clean, we’re punctual, reliable and always arrive with a smile on our faces. We work to the highest of standards and our little team is like a family!

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How do you ensure that the project stays on budget and on schedule?

We meet every new client and go over their exact expectations, we have a system in place that records what the clients top priority out of their clean is and we tailor our pricing to suit the client. We never change prices unless agreed upon with the client beforehand and we work our pricing structure to the job as opposed to an hourly figure, so

the job is always done to our highest standard regardless of how long it takes.

0401 912 040 wonderwomancleaning2444@gmail.com

GLASS

JOHN & KRISTY LEES S H O R E L I N E GL AS S F E N C I N G

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ow long have you been in the trade? I have been in the trade itself for 20 years, starting out as an apprentice with my Dad, Uncle and brother who are also glaziers specialising in frameless glass installations. I completed my Glazing apprenticeship with them, and in 2011 I pursued my own frameless glass business with my family. I am a fully qualified Glazier with extensive experience in the frameless glass industry, working on many prestigious residential and commercial glass jobs.

Why did you start your own business?

Starting my own business felt like a natural progression in my career, allowing more flexibility and more opportunities. I wanted the opportunity to do things my own way and develop the confidence of being able to run my own successful business. It has allowed my wife to become a partner in the business with me, and it has become our pride and joy together, and as a family. I enjoy making sure every job is completed to a standard I am happy with, and knowing that every customer is happy with the result. It always mean so much more when it is your own business. We are always looking for opportunities to grow and develop further, and enjoy the aspect of running our own business and being able to give back to the local community through donations and sponsorships where we can.

Tell us what customers can expect when hiring your company? As a family ourselves, we understand that the client ultimately just wants to feel that they received the best value for money, a positive customer service

experience and a quality installation without any stress. We try to keep it simple and as easy as possible for our client.

You can expect honesty and expert knowledge in the design and safety of your required job, whether it be pool fencing, balustrades or showers. If chosen to complete the work, Kristy’s intention is to keep the customer involved and up to date with the progress of their job, whilst keeping in alignment with expected completion times. You can expect a professional team that brings their family values to each job. My aim is provide an exceptional quality glass installation, ensuring I lead every job we install personally. We ensure all glass and hardware is high quality, compliant and to Australian Standards and Regulations.

in the office and on the road to ensure our team are running all jobs on time.

Our quoting style is kept simple, so our budgets are accurate and efficient for our clients both commercial and residential. Planning ahead is important to us, particularly during the lead up to the Christmas season to help ensure we meet all our clients expectations.

How can our readers get in touch with you? John can be contacted directly on 0425 389 295 or email admin@shorelineglassfencing. com.au Website: www.shorelineglassfencing. com.au Most of our clients follow our social media.

How do you ensure that the project stays on budget and on schedule? As a family that works together, it means we are always discussing our clients needs and required timelines. We use the necessary processes both GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 135

POOLS

NARELLAN POOLS MID NORTH COAST

JASON HARDES, COREY HARDES A N D L U K E W I LTO N

Narellan Pools - MID NORTH COAST’S trusted pool builders and best quality pools

H

ow long have you been trading and what achievements have you made?

Narellan Pools Mid North Coast is a locally owned franchise based in Port Macquarie and has now been operating for over 5 years in the local area. We have installed hundreds of dream pools and won many awards in this time which we are very proud of. We recently won a highly commended award from SPASA for an install in Lake Cathie.

team, they have over 45 years of pool building experience.

Tell us what customers can expect when hiring your company?

Our clients can expect a clean and professional pool build from a dedicated team along with excellent communication and support throughout the project. Our ethos is to help our clients create their own resort like feel in their homes with the best quality pools

by Narellan Pools – Australia’s highest quality pool shells.

Who are the owners of the business?

How do you ensure that the project stays on schedule?

Jason Hardes, Corey Hardes and Luke Wilton own and run the Narellan Pools franchise on the Mid North Coast. Between the 3 of us, along with our highly skilled and professional

We ensure that we are on time with our installations by not overbooking ourselves and ensuring that we can deliver our installs as promised on time. Our team is dedicated to

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one job at a time, and we pride ourselves on delivery efficiency and time management. It’s the benefit of having our own employees and not outsourcing our work.

How can our readers get in touch with you?

Narellan Pools Mid North coast has a local showroom and office in Central Road, Port Macquarie. We can meet in person or on site to discuss all dream pool requirements. Phone Kylie our business manager on 0438 208 233 or email mnc@narellanpools.com.au to make a meeting time.

AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE 2024 FIBREGLASS POOL UP TO $80,000

Narellan Pools Mid North Coast

MADISON WILSON ANY OCCASION CAKES & PARTY FOOD LETZ GET LIT 2444 LOVE LETTERS PMQ

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LITTLE WHISPERS PICNICS & TEEPEES.

ow long have you been in the trade? I’ve been in business since 2018, starting with Any Occasion Cakes & Party Food. Over the years, I advanced into event styling and Marquee Letter and Number Lights, first starting with Love Letters PMQ then extending to Letz Get Lit 2444. The final piece of the puzzle was adding unique themed picnics and teepee slumber parties through Little Whispers Picnics & Teepees.

Why did you start your own business?

I started my business to bring a personalised, heartfelt touch to every event. Whether it’s a custom cake, a stunning lighting setup, or an unforgettable Pop-up Picnic or Teepee Sleepover. I wanted to offer something unique that makes each occasion special. With a vision to create a one-stop shop that handles cakes, event decor, lighting, and full event setups, I’ve ensured that my business stands out. This has been proven by the many awards we’ve won,

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including 1st place for Wedding Cake Designer of the year and Excellence in Micro Business at both Local & Regional level - with state level next month!

Tell us what customers can expect when hiring your company? Clients can expect a comprehensive, full-service experience that goes beyond custom cakes and desserts. Our offerings include Personalised Backdrops, Audio Guestbook Phones, Inflatable Party Houses, Shimmer Photo Walls, Lolly Carts, The Original Polaroid Camera and Sunglasses Walls, Lolly Dispensary Walls, Bulk Styling with Wedding Signage, Lounges and Rugs, Ceremony Signing Tables, Mobile Bars, Fairy Curtain Lights - the list goes on and on!

Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or corporate event, we deliver creativity, quality, and meticulous attention to detail. With multiple industry awards recognising our personalised and innovative services, clients can trust they’re working with the best when they choose us!

How do you ensure that the project stays on budget and on schedule? I prioritise open communication with clients from the start, ensuring that the budget is clear and customised packages fit their needs. With transparent pricing, we offer creative solutions within your budget. On the scheduling side, our reputation for reliability ensures everything runs smoothly and on time, from cake deliveries to full event setups.

How can our readers get in touch with you? Call or Text Maddie: 0458728857 Pop into our shop: 2/158 High Street Wauchope 2446 Or Find us online: Any Occasion Cakes & Party Food Letz Get Lit 2444 Love Letters PMQ Little Whispers Picnics & Teepees.

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SHUTTERS, BLINDS & AWNINGS

W

HAT WE OFFER

Newton Blinds has so much more to offer than you probably realise. We invite you to pop into our amazing showroom during spring and ask us about our displays and products.

This month we focus on our complimentary interior design service with qualified Interior Designer, Julie de Lepervanche from INSIDE Interior Design.

Julie is working with us on Thursdays. Please call 0419 277 651 to arrange a complimentary design consultation either In-home or in our showroom.

If you're looking for a "spring refresh" or need assistance with a new build, Julie can assist you with all aspects of design including colour schemes, spatial planning, furniture selection and of course soft furnishings. Together you will create a considered, bespoke and cohesive look which will ultimately add value and joy to your home.

All aspects of a room can fall under the expertise of a designer making your life simpler and less stressful. Listening to an interior designer will ultimately help prevent costly mistakes. Items selected will be practical, the correct scale/size, provide colour, texture and compliment each other.

Interior designers are experts at giving your home the "wow-factor" or creating a subtle 140 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

arrangement of calming tones and sentimental pieces.

Newton Blinds also has some wonderful

Designers see things that you may have missed and have a high level of understanding about "design" in all its facets.

of what you can achieve using any fabric from

Our "In-house" design service allows Julie to take a comprehensive look at a space and quickly mark out its potential and what needs to change to function effectively and present itself in a better light.

focal point in the room. This looks particularly

Designers understand the technicalities of placement, colour, texture and pattern in a room and can provide fresh ideas for you to consider.

Alternatively, Julie can assist you in the showroom with fabrics and design decisions.

Taking that step to create a new space is costly so it's advisable to call a professional.

bespoke lampshades on display as examples our extensive range, and have it made into a beautiful custom lampshade to create a wonderful in the bedroom as bedside lamps.

You can keep your existing base or have a custom timber base designed to compliment your new fabric shade. We have some examples in the showroom which are made locally.

We also feature fabrics in ready made cushions from Laura Ashley and Zaab and of course our beautiful range of Laura Ashley bedding.

Let’s not forget our amazing Armadillo rug range whilst discussing fibres, we have many

Interior design and textiles go hand in hand and what better place to go than Newton Blinds.

We offer an extensive collection of fabrics and fibres for your soft furnishing needs. Julie is able to curate all aspects from curtains, blinds, cushions, bed heads, lampshades, banquette seating, table ware and rugs.

samples for you to peruse.

Our fabric collection includes:

money. Newton Blinds is proud to offer a

• Laura Ashley

• Ink and Spindle

comprehensive design service.

• Walter G

• Maurice Kain

Come on in to the showroom or ring to

• Charles Parsons

• James Dunlop

book an appointment with Julie and take

• Mokum

• Nettex

advantage of what we have available to

• Warwick

• Porter and Stone

elevate your home or office. We're experts

• Beaumont

• Willie Weston

in bringing your home to life!

Rugs are an essential element in interior design, defining a zone within a larger space, adding comfort, texture, warmth, colour and pattern to your flooring.

Julie can coordinate your fabrics and rugs creating a seamless process, saving time and

OUR HOMES ARE OUR SANCTUARIES AND WHEN WE BUILD OR RENOVATE A HOME, WE ARE CREATING SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR OURSELVES AND OUR FAMILIES TO LIVE AND FIND PEACE. When considering fittings for your home, factor in quality designer hardware that will not only complement your unique style but last the test of time. Designer hardware and quality replica door fittings are available now at Romer Locks, and we believe you will love the new display range now in store from Iver, Tradco and Zanda.

"Naturally, Romer Locks can advise on all of your door hardware requirements, including mortice locks, handles with plates, rim locks, barrel bolts, flush bolts, escutcheons, and pull handles, but many people don’t realise that we also supply other replica hardware like light switches, window fittings, curtain ties, cabinet fittings and hinges." says Gavin Romer

Why buy door hardware from a locksmith?

Because we understand your doors and security needs better than anyone. We stand by our quality locks. Come and see our range today.

Shop 1, 1a Blackbutt Rd, Port Macquarie

P: 02 6581 4470 e: shop@romerlocks.com.au NSW Police Master Security Licence No:409482308

focus_contributor.

HOME

Styling

with ANTHONY BERINGEN

FROM OPEN HOUSE FURNITURE

T

TREND ALERT: ORGANIC MODERN HOME INTERIORS

he organic modern interior design style has emerged as a captivating blend of contemporary aesthetics and the natural world's raw beauty.

This style has evolved from Scandinavian and Japandi influences, creating a serene yet sophisticated atmosphere. Let's explore the origins, key elements, and practical tips to incorporate this style into your home.

Evolution from Scandinavian and Japandi Styles Known for its minimalist approach and functional beauty, Scandinavian design has significantly influenced the organic modern style, characterised by clean lines, light wood finishes, and a neutral colour palette. Japandi, a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design, further refines this aesthetic by incorporating the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which celebrates imperfection and natural materials.

Natural Materials Central to organic modern design is the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, clay, and concrete. These materials are often left in their raw, unadorned state, showcasing their inherent beauty. Light wood finishes are common, but mid-tone and darker woods can also be used.

hues. These colours create a serene backdrop complementing the natural materials and allowing the organic elements to shine. Colour, such as moss green, terracotta, or jewel tones like emerald and sapphire, can be introduced through accent furniture, artwork, or decor to add vibrancy and visual interest.

Introduce Organic Shapes: Break up the uniformity of modern interiors by incorporating furniture and decor with organic shapes.

Minimalist Design

Incorporate Greenery: Houseplants are a must.

They not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also improve air quality and create tranquility.

Embrace a minimalist approach by decluttering your space and choosing furniture with sleek, uncomplicated lines. Each piece should stand out on its own. This minimalist ethos creates a sense of calm and order, essential for a tranquil living environment.

Biophilic Design Biophilic design principles aim to strengthen the connection between indoor spaces and the natural world. Incorporate elements such as indoor plants, large windows, and ample natural light to enhance the organic atmosphere.

Textural Contrast Combine smooth, modern surfaces with rough, organic materials to create a dynamic and engaging space. Pair a sleek marble countertop with a reclaimed wood dining table or a polished concrete floor with a plush wool rug.

Neutral Colour Palette

Tips for Incorporating Organic Modern Style

The colour scheme is dominated by neutral tones such as white, beige, grey, and earthy

Opt for light wood furniture and finishes to create an airy, natural look.

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Play with Colour: While neutrals form the foundation of organic modern design, don't be afraid to introduce bold or contrasting colours in accent pieces such as cushions, rugs, or artwork.

Focus on Sustainability: Opt for sustainable materials, reclaimed wood or eco-friendly fabrics, and prioritise quality over quantity.

Use Sculptural Lighting: Choose sculptural light fixtures that serve as both functional and artistic elements.

Incorporate Nature Inspired Art: Select artwork that reflects the beauty of nature which reinforces the connection between indoors and outdoors.

Maintain Open Layouts: Keep your space open and uncluttered to promote a sense of flow and harmony and allow natural light to permeate the space.

Whether you prefer the light, airy feel of Scandinavian influences or the more refined, urban vibe of darker woods, organic modern design offers a versatile and timeless approach to interior decorating.

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Embrace adventure with the All-New Lexus GX. Sporting a 3.5L V6 twin turbo engine with Crawl Control and Downhill Assist Control¹ plus a 7-seat configuration², it’s the ultimate blend of power and comfort. Rugged yet stylish, fearless yet finely crafted, experience the wildly refined Lexus GX for yourself.

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL LEXUS DEALER TODAY LEXUS OF PORT MACQUARIE | 181 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie sales@lexusofportmacquarie.com.au

| PH 02 6583 9122 |

Pre-production GX Sports Luxury & Overtrail models shown. Final range and specifications may differ from those depicted.

Requires compatible device, USB connection or Bluetooth® connection for vehicles fitted with wireless CarPlay®, mobile data, network reception & GPS signal. Mobile usage at user’s cost. Apps subject to change. For details see lexus.com.au/connectivity. ¹Available on Overtrail models only. ²Available on Luxury & Sports Luxury models only.

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