Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i191 by Focus

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191 FEBRUARY 2022

K A R I N A

D E I C H L E R

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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HEM PROPERTY IS THE HOME OF HAPPY EVER MORES... Moving home is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make and for each person it means something different. Whether it’s a fresh start, first time buying, an addition to an investment portfolio or the end of an era selling the family home, it can be life changing. That’s why at HEM, your move means far more to us than just simply another deal or transaction. We take your outcome personally. Our experience, market knowledge, negotiation and sales strategies will give you total peace of mind that in a booming market, you’ll get the best possible result. But beyond this, it is our holistic, client focused approach that helps you every step of the way, from preparing the home for sale to finding the next one, that makes the process simple and stress free. So if you are thinking of a move, don’t just sell or buy, demand the best and let us help you achieve your happy ever more.

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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W HAT’S ON THE WHARF REVUE: CAN OF WORMS

LIVESTREAM IN THE GLASSHOUSE STUDIO

Tuesday 22 & Wednesday 23 February, 8pm

ADELAIDE WRITERS’ WEEK Monday 7 to Thursday 10 March, 6-7 sessions per day

SONGS OF JAMES TAYLOR AND CAROLE KING Saturday 12 March, 8pm

ROCKIN THROUGH THE AGES Friday 11 March, 7.30pm

Scan the code or go to auglasshousepm.sales.

THREE LEGENDS

ticketsearch.com/login

Friday 25 March, 8pm

FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888

glasshouse.org.au

Follow Glasshouse:

@ GLASSHOUSE You’re invited GLASSHOUSE SELECT THEATRE PROGRAM LAUNCH Thursday 3 February, 6pm

EXHIBITION

LIAM BENSON: YOU ALREADY KNOW LIAM BENSON & ANNA-WILI HIGHFIELD

Saturday 5 February to Sunday 24 April

EXHIBITION OPENING Friday 11 February, 6pm CONVERSATION SPACE Saturday 12 February, 11am EXHIBITION

ANNA-WILI HIGHFIELD: MATING DANCE Saturday 12 February to Sunday 1 May

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

Regional Gallery Opening Hours Tue - Fri 10am - 4pm Sat, Sun 10am - 2pm Closed Mondays

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PORT MACQUARIE 133-137 Gordon St P. 6583 3533

WAUCHOPE 51 Hastings St P. 6585 2015

LAURIETON 16-18 Laurie St P. 6559 9276

TAREE 4 6 A W y nte r S t P. 6551 1005 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Welcome to the February 2022 issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

hat a cover… even if we do say so ourselves. Here at FOCUS we pride ourselves on producing beautiful magazines each month for not only our readers, but also the people who are showcased in them. Whether it be our advertisers or the people we interview, we love making our local community famous. This month we put together our annual Weddings feature. We understand how much this industry has struggled over the last 2 years and hopefully heading into 2022 those bridesto-be who have been waiting ever so patiently to say “I Do” get that opportunity without further interruptions. Our cover star is Karina Deichler. An exceptional makeup and hair artist who many of you may know and may have even used for

an event. She features on page 18.

and Community Group of the Year: St Agnes’ Catholic Parish Flood Recovery Group. Over the next few editions we will be interviewing these amazing people to hear their story.

Also in this edition is another beautiful home from the Sovereign Hills Display Village. This month Vaughn Homes take us on a tour of their Camellia Design. Hopefully Check out this lovely heading into home on page 95.

Speaking of the next few editions, March is of course Women In 2022 those brides-toBusiness month. This is With Australia Day over be who have been always an exciting edition for another year we waiting ever so and we are again looking must congratulate the patiently to say “I Do” forward to putting it 2022 Port Macquarieget that opportunity together for you. We Hastings Council without further already have some great Australia Day Award interruptions. local women on board Winners – Citizen of the to interview. As always, Year: Jamie Donovan if you have someone you Young Citizen of the think deserves an interview in FOCUS please Year: Georgia Ryan email us at info@focusmag.com.au Senior Citizen of the Year: Larry Brook From the team here, Happy February and Environmental Citizen of the Year: Susan Baker enjoy our latest editon.

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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 02 6584 7433 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

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

OLDEST DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au CUTEST DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au COPY EDITOR Sue Chamberlain 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 2021 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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SCAN AND WIN

PRESENTED BY

PAY ME AVA NT PL A ILA BLE NS

NRMA PORT MACQUARIE BREAKWALL HOLIDAY PARK 27TH & 28TH MAY 2022

BOOTSANDBEACH.COM.AU

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Issue 191 - February 2022 INTERVIEWS

LUCY HUMPHRIES

WAYNE SAUNDERS

PHOEBE BENTLEY

Port Macquarie photographer Lucy Humphries loves capturing special moments for platforms including family, business and corporate, branding and events.

This local blacksmith creates beautiful pieces, from knives and tools to tree climbing spurs and sculptures. He also passes on his years of experience, teaching his craft in Wauchope.

Phoebe recently completed her HSC while also achieving outstanding results in swimming. In 2021, 17-year-old Phoebe achieved Olympic trial times for both 50 and 200 metres freestyle.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 42. Nathan Tomkins - From the Shaker PORT MACQUARIE

43. Alex Cassegrain - Grape Escape 44. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures 52. Alistair Flower - In the Front Bar 72. Vanessa Lawrence - Style Vibe Savvy 75. Peta Pinson - A Moment with the Mayor 77. Emilie Cooper - Legal Light CONTRIBUTOR

81. Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice

OF THE MONTH

90. Kate Wood-Foye - Business Illuminate

LOU PERRI

92. Lauren McAllister & Simon Bank - Business Minds

Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals. Thank you for your contribution to FOCUS. Follow us on 14 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus

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F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 2

SHAKESPEARE CAN SEEM INTIMIDATING. FEAR NOT! Mentor Jaimee Lindley will teach you tips and tricks for translating Shakespearean text, making it easy and fun! Participants will get an introduction to Shakespeare by workshopping comedic scenes, ensemble building activities and exploring bold acting choices. When Sunday 6th February 1-3pm Where Theatre Oz Port Macquarie More info Ages 12 + Cost FREE! Bring water bottle. Limited spots available! Register theatreozpm.com.au

ALL-DRAG REVUE

Prada Clutch’s ‘All-Drag Revue’ – Let us take you on a journey from where it all began, Darlings! Flanked by gorgeous men, Australia’s six-foot something songstress Prada Clutch & her ‘girls’ pay tribute to the history of Aussie drag – in concert. When Saturday 19th February, 8pm Where Glasshouse Port Macquarie Tickets glasshouse.org.au

VALENTINES DAY DINNER Champagne on arrival, $75m/$85nm pp When Monday 14th February Where The Westport Club Bookings 6588 7201

DIFFERENT STROKES

14 female artists are holding their first exhibition as a group – Innes Artists. The Exhibition is called Different Strokes. The group of ladies come from a broad range of ages and backgrounds, with a common interest in art. Different Strokes is about the importance of both the individual and the tribe from the perspective of female artists. When Tuesday 8th Feb to 27th Feb Where Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery, Gladstone

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HASTINGS BUSINESS

CINEMA UNDER THE STARS

WOMENS NETWORK

Newcastle Permanent’s Cinema Under the Stars is Australia’s largest free outdoor cinema program and it’s returning to Port Macquarie! So pack your picnic, gather your tribe and join us for a free and fun evening under the stars!

Kick off the New Year by sharing a friendly drink with members and guests to launch an exciting lineup of events for the first half of 2022.

When Friday 18th Feb 5:30pm - 9:30pm Where Westport Park, Port Macquarie More info newcastlepermanent.com.au

When Thursday 24th Feb, 5.30pm - 8pm Where Chop n Chill Town Green, 17-19 Horton Street, Port Macquarie Tickets hbwn.com.au

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Karina Deichler KARINA DEICHLER FIRST KNEW SHE WANTED TO WORK IN THE INDUSTRY WHEN A FRIEND OF HERS LANDED A JOB WORKING IN THE HAIR AND MAKEUP DEPARTMENT ON “HARRY POTTER”. WE CHAT WITH KARINA TO FIND OUT HOW SHE GOT STARTED AND WHAT THE HAIR AND MAKEUP INDUSTRY IS ALL ABOUT.

Photo @wildflowerportraits.com.au Photo @littleglimpsesphotography 18 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Photo @thephototrail Photo @wildflowerportraits.com.au

i Karina, how did you get into the hair and makeup industry? I went to the Special Penny Delamar Academy Occasions are at Ealing Studios in our exclusive venue I work freelance, London in 2010 where stylers and stagers. Although we are aiming I studied the 14 Week With over 30 years in to have a studio built Complete Makeup all things wedding, on the property towards Artist Course which they bring a level of the end of the year. included Prosthetics, unparalleled woohoo! Special Effects, Wig Can you tell us a bit Styling and Setting, professionalism. about your career so Period Hair and Makeup, far? Facial Hair, Knotting I first knew I wanted to work within the and Application, Fashion, Hair Cutting and industry when a friend of mine got a job Character Makeup by some of the industry’s working in the Hair and Makeup department leading Hair and Makeup Designers working on “Harry Potter” and I knew, right there and within the TV/Film Industry. then, that was exactly what I wanted to do. Do you work freelance or do you have a studio space? Ever since I can remember really, I’ve had a

fascination for Hair and Makeup, I can remember back in primary school, my friends were unfortunate enough to let me cut their hair, let’s just say their mums weren’t too happy with it though… Once I completed the Complete Makeup Artist Course I went on to do a lot of short films and music videos (all unpaid) for a couple of years, which I funded by working in a Hair Salon during the day and the local pub in the evening. From there I got my first paid feature film on ‘Borrowed Time’ and then I worked on ‘A Fantastic Fear of Everything’ and many various jobs with the BBC and Channel 4 in the UK. I then fell into the Theatre Industry and toured with Legally Blonde the Musical, Oliver! and Ghost, which then led me to a big Andrew Lloyd Webber Arena Tour of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ which is what brought me to Australia! I met my partner in Bali after I travelled there when I’d finished the show. Continued over... GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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We lived together in Bali for a year and then came back to Sydney where I worked on ‘Dirty Dancing’ through my persistent pestering of every single theatre in Sydney, along with a few other Wig Jobs I managed to get through contacts. We then moved back to Port Macquarie about 6 years ago when we fell pregnant with our first son. Which is when I decided to try out the wedding industry, and here I am. What do you enjoy most about working in the beauty industry? I’m basically obsessed with creating and recreating looks! The Visual Arts of it all, I really just love to have a vision in my mind and then create it into reality. All the different periods and styles of hair and makeup and how beautiful they all are, visually to look at. And seeing my clients fill with that joy it brings them, seeing themselves transform into a glamorous version of themselves, it’s fun! What have been some of the more challenging aspects of your job? It’s really a job where you get out what you put in. If you love it you’ll keep at it and you’ll go far with it. So it can be challenging to work for free for 2 years, juggling work and getting 20 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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up at 3am to get 3 buses into the middle of nowhere just to work for free on a music video. Or come to a new town over the other side of the world and hope it I never thought all works out. But yeah, I would go into just keep that positivity the Wedding that the work will keep Industry, but I am so coming and you’ll be grateful that I have able to also pay the bills. to detail must be on had the opportunity! It’s worth all those hard point and I take it very I wouldn’t change times in the beginning, seriously. to then make it to a anything. Are there any hair and point where that’s not a makeup “rules” that worry any more. you live by, or have You do a lot of heard of but know to wedding hair and makeup, what do you be totally false? enjoy about being part of someone’s I would say my biggest Makeup rule I live wedding day? by is, layering. Start small and layer! Know If I am completely honest, I never thought I your products and always keep up to date would go into the Wedding Industry, but I am with what’s happening and what products so grateful that I have had the opportunity! are new in the zoo! I wouldn’t say Makeup I wouldn’t change anything. To work for all rules are false, only because there are so many these beautiful brides over the past few years different types and styles of makeup, if you’re and to be a part of one of the most special recreating something then you can literally do days of their life! It’s such an honor to be a what you want and that’s where the magic part of it, it’s very special. So every attention

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Think about the dress and what is going to work with your Hair, either deciding on the style to be up or down. Does your hair hold a curl?

happens, thinking outside the box. What advice would you give to a bride when deciding on a hair and makeup look for their Big Day? Absolutely book a trial for the day, so that there’s room for trial and error. It gives the Bride the opportunity to actually see their vision and whether it is what they want on the day. Think about the dress and what is going to work with your Hair, either deciding on the style to be up or down. Does your hair hold a curl? Do you need hair extensions to get that look you want? How

does your hair hold with

Makeup Artist so I’ll definitely be continuing

humidity in the summer?

this for the next few years! Special Effects/

It’s always best to choose

Prosthetics and Period Hair and Makeup are

a style that is going to

among some of my favorites, so I’d say when

work with the dress and

the kids get older I’ll be aiming to go back into

hair which will last the

the TV/Film Industry.

day. Sometimes the style

Where can people check out your work

we want isn’t necessarily the most effective. What are some of your goals for the year ahead and beyond? We are aiming to put a salon at home, we

and get in touch? All my work tends to come through Instagram karina_hmu and Facebook Karina Hair and Makeup Artist which you can

have a large shed going in for my partner’s

message me directly through or you can email

business Quarry Gardens Australia, so we

me on karinahairandmakeup@gmail.com I’d

are going to build a salon on one side of

absolutely love to be your Makeup Artist for

that. I really enjoy being a Wedding Hair and

your special day! GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Glasshouse SELECT GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE PRESENTS A SOFT TREAD PRODUCTION

POL I T IC A L SAT I R E AT I T’S BEST

Ta k i n g o n e v e r y o n e f r o m President Biden, Gladys Berejiklian, Scott Morrison, Donald Trump, Jacqui Lambie, Pauline Hanson, Kevin Rudd, and Rupert Murdoch…

No pol lie is sa fe!

Funded by Create NSW

Tuesday 22 & Wednesday 23 February, 8pm 22 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Theatre Program 2O22 GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE AND CDP KIDS PRESENT

BOOK NOW: 02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au

PER FECT FOR AG ES 3+

Guess How Much I Love You A PLAY BY RICHARD TULLOCH ADAPTED FROM THE BOOKS BY SAM MCBRATNEY AND ANITA JERAM

PER FOR M ED L I V E ON S TAGE W I T H L I F E-SI Z E D PU PPE T S

Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund – an Australian Government Initiative. Guess How Much I Love You™ and © Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram 2021. Licensed by Walker Books Ltd. Guess How Much I Love You is a registered trademark of Walker Books Ltd, London UK.

This project is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW

Tuesday 15 March, 10.30am* and 1pm

*PLUS Post Show Q&A GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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FOCUS speaks with ensemble cast members Jonathan Biggins and Mandy Bishop on the latest instalment coming live to The Glasshouse this month.

ello Jonathan and Mandy. Thank you so much for your time. It is such a pleasure to speak with you both ahead of this quirky new comedic performance The Wharf Revue: Can of Worms. Tell us a little about what we can expect from this latest offering? (JB) It’s the latest instalment for Wharf Revue which has been running for 22 years. We now produce it independently, as there’s still a great audience for political satirical review. Post lockdown, if we can make people laugh through these troubled times that’s a great thing! The show promises lots of laughs with a satirical display of political and popular culture at its finest. What do you hope the audience takes away from it? (JB) Sometimes it’s a pressure release for people who are feeling frustrated or that the world’s become too complicated and too awful to laugh. It’s good to be reminded that you can still laugh at it. You can say to 24 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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an audience: we all share these views, we captivate the audience. Tell us about some might not be on the same side of the political of the personas you take on? fence, but we’re all living through these times. (MB) I love this job and I think we get to say It’s great that we can come together in the something important. I think it’s also valuable community of a live audience, and have it to know that the leaders of the country are reflected back through humans. And I ask the prism of satire. Some myself what would I say this show is darker do if I had a career in It’s great that than normal, and I think politics? What would I we can come that reflects the current say? I’d like to think that together in the kind state of affairs. And yet, I’d behave like the best of community of a there’s enough light ones. But, you know, live audience, and heartedness to offset they’re on a 24 hour have it reflected back that. media cycle which can (MB) There’s also a be a real trap. With the to us through the degree of naughtiness. characters that I get to prism of satire. A lot of our politicians play, there are a lot more have actually said some ladies in politics now, pretty funny things. which is fantastic. Jacqui That’s the lovely, alarming juxtaposition of Lambie calls it like it is and she’s a bit fun. dark and real, it’s like the little devil that Gladys Berejiklian pops her head up because appears on your shoulder and you think did everybody wants to know where she is and those people really say that? Did that really what she’s doing. It turns out she’s singing in happen last year? Amazingly, it did! an Armenian club with the premiers! There’s Mandy, your incredible vocal cords also Ivanka Trump. She’s great fun – she

appears with Donald as the Von Trump Family Singers. You have received rave reviews. This must give you satisfaction as we’ve all suffered during the pandemic and laughter is something we all need right now! (JB) The other good thing about laughter is that it enables you to say things that otherwise may not be said, and I think people have to try to hang on to a collective sense of humour. And that’s kind of been fractured and torn apart a bit at the moment. And I think it’s good to remind people that you can laugh, because laughter is a For example, way to open dialogue whether you’re a and conversation. And Scott Morrison fan or it can be non-polarising. you’re not a Scott And if anything we turning point for the need to find in these Morrison fan, the better. I think the times, it’s more a return humour radiates important thing about to common ground. In collectively through all the Arts, in terms of the theatre, you share that see the show. government support, is with an audience of just to legitimise it, put other people who you it on the agenda, talk may not agree with, but about it, talk it up, and you agree on one thing on that night – you encourage people to become engaged with are being entertained and provoked, and you it. Because the best way to fund the arts is to are reminded that you can talk about these have a paying audience. It’s ironic that in the things. As satirists we’re probably given a old Keating days, the Liberal governments slightly larger licence to say things that people had traditionally given more to the arts in on all sides might feel uncomfortable saying, financial terms than Labour. But Keating put and that’s a really useful thing. And I think as it on the agenda and made it important. The Australians, we have a self deprecating sense New South Wales Arts Minister Don Harwin of humour which is a valuable thing to hold certainly did that. Unfortunately, he’s gone on to. now, and it’s too early to say what the new (MB) To add to that, people come to the Arts Minister will do. show on opposing sides of the political fence (JB) I think it’s more than just the economics. and then wind up laughing at the same joke. It really is just talking about the value of it. For entirely different reasons. Somehow that And making people realise that everything humour brings about a greater philosophical from The Wiggles to Playschool, Love Island, point. For example, whether you’re a Scott The Bachelorette, Opera, it’s all part of the Morrison fan or you’re not a Scott Morrison same thing. All just part of the same spectrum. fan, the humour radiates collectively through Change – you can’t have one without the all that see the show. The writers walk a lovely other. And when people recognise that the knife edge of progress in public speech and arts, entertainment, culture are all bound up reflective political history. in each other, I think they’ll recognise their In 2022, it’s refreshing for the Arts to importance more easily. finally make a comeback after closures You both have esteemed careers. and lockdowns. How do you feel about Jonathan, starring in film, television and the lack of funding and government stage, and receiving an Order of Australia support and do you believe that there has for service to the Arts and Mandy, an been a turning point for the better? acclaimed actor, singer and comedian. Tell (JB) I don’t know that there has been a

us some of your highlights. (MB) For me, definitely playing Julia Gillard in ‘At Home With Julia’, because it was such an exciting time. She was in power at the time, so it was a lovely, fine line. I had to work off my own respect for her and still find her funny bones. I knew she’s a warm person from friends who knew her, so I just let her be the protagonist but also funny, which is hard to do. And also having a lead woman in a comedy at that time was quite rare. There was ‘I Love Lucy’ way, way back (and Fran Drescher in ‘The Nanny’, and then we’ve got some other Australian ones like ‘Kath and Kim’), but for my generation that was towards the beginning of the opening up for female lead roles. (JB) Well, obviously for me playing Keating in ‘The Gospel According to Paul’. I’d written a one person show. And I hadn’t done one of those before. So that was very rewarding and it continues to be rewarding. There’s been a book written based on it and it’s been on radio and they’re making a film of it. So it’s really been the gift that keeps on giving. But other things like all my plays from earlier days, when that was done that was very rewarding. Directing my production of Noises Off was rewarding, performing Tom Stoppard’s play Travesties as well. The other highlight, of course, has been being one of the creators of The Wharf Revue, which has had done over nearly 2000 performances. Thank you both. Interview: Sarah Baker. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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LUCY HUMPHRIES PHOTOGRAPHER

Focus speaks with Port Macquarie local Lucy Humphries on her love of capturing those special moments.

i Lucy. Thanks so much for speaking with FOCUS. You are a well known Port Macquarie local with a love of shooting authentic imagery for different platforms including family, business and corporate, branding and events. Where do you draw your inspiration? Hi Sarah, thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to share a little about myself and my photography. I think inspiration comes in many forms. I enjoy taking in the little details; the way the light catches something or a toddler reaching

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out for its mum’s face. Special moments are all around us if we take the time to look for them and they are seen differently, made into something truly magical, by someone looking in. As a mum, you may not see the way your partner looks at you with your children, but I do. Being invited into my client’s world is such a privilege and it’s such a fantastic feeling to deliver them a beautiful gallery filled with precious memories. When did you first pick up a camera and what is it you love about the craft? Like most photographers I have always been ‘the one’ with the camera in hand at

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I especially love capturing little moments between people, whether it’s a couple glancing at one another, a kiss on the head, or mum holding her little one close for a hug. To make those split second moments tangible is magic. Our children grow I especially love so quickly, moments capturing little change and families moments between evolve so it’s lovely, and people, whether it’s a important, to preserve couple glancing at those times in our lives. one another, a kiss on What type of every opportunity. I equipment do you the head, or mum actually learnt the art of predominantly use? holding her little one developing film in a dark It’s always been Canon. close for a hug. room from my dad who I use lighting when was a photographer too indoors and for product when I was small. shoots but predominantly It wasn’t until I had my daughter almost 5 my sessions are outdoors, making the most of years ago that my husband bought me a DSLR our beautiful surroundings. so I could photograph the children, and then I understand your pet peeve is those my passion for photography just escalated. awkward staged style of photographs, as For me, I enjoy how my own style is reflected you are so passionate about capturing real in my photographs. Every photographer and raw moments that can be cherished has their own slant on any situation and it’s forever. What have been some of your amazing to see how my vision for a photograph highlights looking back? or session shines through in the result.

This is such a tough question to answer because there are so many. I love working with local businesses and showing off their products and it’s such a joy to see my photos pop up on social media. I photographed little ones at daycare centres towards the end of last year and I really enjoyed giving my natural, unposed take on daycare photos. The families all absolutely loved them. There was also a formal session for a group of friends who were holding their own celebrations and that was so much fun, on the beach, in the drizzle. We had such a giggle and they’ll all treasure those memories. I’ve had the pleasure of photographing so many amazing families, from at-home sessions with chickens, horses and a dam, to quiet sessions with precious newborn bubs, to beach sessions where we all end up in the water. The diversity of my days is amazing, I can go from taking some product and team photos at a local business to an early evening maternity shoot in the space of a day and it’s so much fun. Of course, hearing my clients feedback is always incredible and I am very grateful they trust me with their memories. Continued over... GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Can you describe a little about yourself behind the lens? I’m a wife and Mum to a 9 and 4 year old and recently we added a puppy to the family too. I am constantly putting a load of washing on and give me one coffee and I can’t stop talking! I grew up in Lancashire in the UK and I’ve always been a creative at heart, from making perfume as a kid (water and flower petals is all it takes when you’re 5!) to studying art and design later in my education. 28 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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session but there’s never a need to worry. Let them be kids, that’s where the magic is! The Mid North Coast region offers such a picturesque landscape full of bustling industries and exciting people to photograph. What is it you love most about living in Port Macquarie? We feel so fortunate to call Port Macquarie home. It is such a stunning place to call home. Having been in Australia for just 6 years, and now I’m a wife and delighted to be citizens, Mum to a 9 and 4 we fell head over heels year old and recently in love with the country, we added a puppy to and Port Macquarie, the family too. I am instantly. constantly putting a I love the scenery, the I’ve travelled a lot load of washing on and climate (except for the around Europe. We give me one coffee and storms – you definitely honeymooned in won’t catch me I can’t stop talking! Santorini and the photographing them!) Greek Islands remain and the people. There one of my all time is a real sense of community, camaraderie favourite places to visit! and helping one another in the form of Working in childcare and education in the ‘mateship’ in Port which is so lovely to be a UK before we made the move to Australia part of and has only become more apparent helped me gain quick rapport when working in recent years. with little ones now. Parents often worry Port Macquarie offers such diverse that their kids won’t stay still or smile at their

family visiting later in the year. Away from the camera where would we landscape, from the gorgeous beaches to find you spending your own time? the deep greenery just moments away from We love exploring our region. There is so the coast of places like Sea Acres. We have much to see and do. We love the simple so much still to explore! things like a walk on the break wall with What is on the horizon for you as we an ice cream, dipping head into 2022? our toes in the water I am so excited at the beach, watching to work with more I love also the surfers and spotting families and give them collaborating; dolphins. Bliss! When the their own special we have such an kids are at school and I’m moments to treasure. abundance of not working you’ll find I offer a really simple

fantastic businesses

me grabbing a coffee and a cake in one of our fantastic cafes and watching the world go by. For people wanting to find out more about your work or engage your services, how can they best connect with you? You can check out my work and packages at lucyhumphriesphotography.com lucyhumphriesphotography lucy@lucyhumphriesphotography.com 0488 157 919. Thanks so much Lucy.

booking process to and creatives in Port really make it as easy Macquarie. It’s great as possible, we all to work together. have such busy lives and booking in your photos can be on the ‘to-do list’ for so long! I love simplifying things for my clients. There are also some really exciting things happening with local businesses which I can’t wait for so watch this space! I also love collaborating; we have such an abundance of fantastic businesses and creatives in Port Macquarie. It’s great to work together. Outside of work, my family are all in the UK and with recent events we haven’t seen them in so long, so I’m hoping we’ll have GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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The DunghuttiNgaku Aboriginal Art Gallery - a Cultural Gem on the Mid North Coast. The Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery (DNAAG) is a small notfor-profit gallery space which was established in 2008 to showcase artworks by Indigenous artists from the Macleay River valley and the broader Mid North Coast region of NSW. Situated in the Val Melville Centre in South Kempsey Park, the gallery is next door to the museum in the heritage listed building by architect Glenn Murcutt. There are always beautiful paintings and prints by established and emerging artists on show and for sale, demonstrating a wide range of traditional and contemporary styles. There is a permanent collection and regular themed exhibitions by both groups and individual artists.

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The Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery is always receiving new works and our website (dnaag. com.au) has regular updates about exciting initiatives and coming events. DNAAG also stocks a wide variety of giftware including scarves, caps, table linen, coffee mugs, and tableware. We are open 7 days a week from 10.00am to 4.00pm. Entry is free and visitors are always welcome. Come in and chat with our friendly and knowledgeable staff.

EXPLORE THE NATURE TRAILS

of the MACLEAY

There has never been a better time to escape and connect with nature.

he nearby Macleay Valley Coast, just a 45-minute drive north from Port Macquarie, features an abundance of picturesque trails itching to be experienced. We’ve connected with the team at Macleay Valley Coast for their advice on how to make the most of your time there. Can you help us out with some thought starters? Absolutely! Here are three ideas to inspire your next outdoor adventure in the Macleay. 1. Take a hike: Hat Head National Park is home to some great coastal walks such as Connors or Korogoro Walking Track. Top off your trek by sinking into the serene waters of Korogoro Creek which is at its best at high tide. 2. Get spinning: Hop on a mountain bike and explore the Kalateenee Mountain Bike Trails in South Kempsey. They’re well-maintained and feature options for riders of various experience

levels.

peeled for our new signage!

3. Go for an adrenaline-filled drive: If you’d prefer to stay off your feet, jump in a 4WD! Some beaches in Stuarts Point, Hat Head and Crescent Head allow beach driving with a permit. If you’re into more rugged terrain, we recommend trekking into the Hinterland for your off-road adventures.

A series of signs have recently been erected in eight locations across the Macleay including Kempsey, Willawarrin, Bellbrook, Crescent Head, Back Creek at South West Rocks, Hat Head, Stuarts Point and Grassy Head.

Do you have any tips & tricks for the best experience? There is no better way to get the most out of a new place than to learn about the history of it. So, while you are in each of these locations, be sure to keep your eyes

The signs showcase beautiful imagery and stories that share the local Aboriginal history of the area and link to information on nearby points of interest and trails that beckon to be explored. Visit macleayvalleycoast.com.au/naturetrails to learn more.

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WAYNE SAUNDERS IRONLORD FORGE

Wayne Saunders is a local blacksmith who creates the most beautiful pieces, he makes everything from knives and tools to tree climbing spurs and sculptures. He also uses his years of experience to teach those wanting to learn the craft through regular classes at his workshop in Wauchope.

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i Wayne. When did wonderful items so far on this journey, from you first start learning cookie cutters through to tree climbing spurs about blacksmithing and and sculptures, but lately I’ve mostly been knifemaking? asked to make knives, tongs and hammers. It all started around Do you have a favourite thing to create? Christmas time at the turn Not one particular thing, I really like the of the century. I had been travelling Australia variety and problem solving that comes and working my way around when I found with the forging art. Each area has its own out about the Artist Blacksmith Association of attractions. NSW. I’ve always been fascinated by forging Can you tell us a bit about the process of hot metal and decided to check them out and making something? have a go… the rest is It sometimes starts on history! paper but the favourite When did you first way I like to work is I love seeing decide to make it what I call freestyle the excitement more than just a forging, where I just and satisfaction on hobby and give it a light the forge, heat people’s faces, like go as a profession? up a piece of steel and the feeling I got In mid 2003 I’d work with the metal and when I first started reached a crossroad and hammer to let it evolve. manipulating hot had to decide whether Being a blacksmith to keep travelling or seems like it sits steel! stay. My blacksmithing somewhere between had been rapidly being a tradesperson improving and had and an artist, how become a bit of an obsession to be honest. So much creative control do you usually get I made the decision to jump in with both feet over the pieces you make? and go full time, it was scary at first but my Yes there’s aspects of both in this craft. skill level went through the roof from there. Back when I started I took on any job that What are some of the most common came in, but now I’m better established I can things you get asked to make? pick and choose the jobs I take on so I can I got to make some pretty weird and have the majority of control over the things I

create. You also teach others your skills, how do you like to run your courses and how often do you have students with you? Teaching has become a major part of the business and for the last 5 or more years I’ve been averaging between 40 and 50 courses per annum. What do you like about teaching and what is most challenging about it? Teaching has its own challenges and rewards. Each student has different strengths and weaknesses and the trick is to identify those and work with them to get the most out of their experience. I love seeing the excitement and satisfaction on people’s faces, like the feeling I got when I first started manipulating hot steel! Do you usually make things to order, or do you sell or exhibit work anywhere? Between my production work and teaching, I don’t often get the time to do customers’ work anymore. The free time I do get, I create items for the events that will hopefully be happening again in 2022, mainly the Sydney Knife Show, and the Ironfest event at Lithgow. How can people get in touch, find your work or book courses? People can book a course, make an enquiry or contact me through my website ironlordforge.com GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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THE

Players Theatre

INC.

PROUDLY CELEBRATES ITS 60TH BIRTHDAY

In April 1962 a small group of enthusiastic amateur thespians, including Terry Gould, met to discuss the idea of re-forming a theatre group. They were encouraged by members of the previous theatre group The Musical and Dramatic Society.

he first meeting was held on 9th May, 1962 in the Home Science Room of the Port Macquarie High School and resulted in the formation of the Port Macquarie Players. A steering committee was formed, and they enthusiastically set about arranging another meeting 2 weeks later to read and discuss a selection of plays with a view to performance. Terry Gould was the elected Producer, and the first play, Sailor Beware, was presented on 15th, 18th and 23rd June, 1963 at the Church of England Hall.

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On 2nd April the theatre is hosting an

rescheduling, we have our first production

open day and we are inviting the public

of the year, Oliver!, the well known

to come have a look around the building

musical adapted by Lionel Bart from the

and see and experience all aspects of

Charles Dickens novel. This is the story of

our theatre. Between 10am and 4pm

an orphaned workhouse boy who escapes

we will have members ready to answer

and makes his way to London where he

questions and explain the workings of our

meets the exciting characters of Fagin, The

community theatre. If you’ve ever thought

Artful Dodger, Nancy and Bill Sykes.

about getting involved, now is your chance

The show opens on 25th February and

to check us out and meet our friendly

runs every Friday and Saturday at 8pm and

team.

Sunday at 2pm until 20th March. Tickets

On 25th February, after many delays and

are available at playerstheatre.org.au

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Phoebe BENTLEY

St Joseph’s Regional College student Phoebe Bentley recently completed her HSC year while also achieving outstanding results in swimming. IN APRIL 2021, 17-YEAR-OLD PHOEBE QUALIFIED WITH OLYMPIC TRIAL TIMES FOR BOTH 50 AND 200 METRES FREESTYLE on the Gold Coast.

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i Phoebe! Firstly a huge congratulations on completing your HSC and finishing year 12. Throughout your school years you have earned some phenomenal success in swimming, and most recently achieved the required Olympic trial times in both 50 metres and 200 metres freestyle, while also smashing your personal best times at Nationals on the Gold Coast. Well done! What does this achievement mean to you? Thank you!! If anything, this achievement showed me that during your HSC year, it is possible to have a life outside of school. I have always put so much effort into swimming, so it was nice to see that my efforts had paid off. It also makes me hopeful that if I continue to swim competitively, I have a chance to try out at the next Olympic trials. I understand that last year you prioritised studying for your HSC over competing at the Tokyo Olympics. Was this a difficult decision? It wasn’t really a difficult decision for me. I’m not sure people really understand how

I have always put so much effort into swimming, so it was nice to see that my efforts had paid off. It also makes me hopeful that if I continue to swim competitively, that I have a chance to try out at the next Olympic trials.

Image: Port News

As much as I

would have much commitment and come up again and dedication is needed loved to go for the if swimming is still to make it to an event something I want to do experience, my such as the Olympics. in the future, there are main focus for 2021 There are people out always opportunities was finishing school there who dedicate their out there. and doing the best I livelihoods to training Now that the HSC is could at this. for these events and I behind you, what is am honestly just your on the horizon for everyday girl, trying to the year ahead? find a good balance between life, sport and Since finishing school, I have decided that study. I no longer want to take a gap year. I have Although I did make the Australian decided to go to university. I am still waiting Olympic Trials qualifying times, knowing the on my acceptance into university as I could level of competition that was there, I knew not get an offer without my ATAR. that I wasn’t up to that standard yet. As I will be making the move to Queensland much as I would have loved to go for the later in February which is very exciting. I experience, my main focus for 2021 was hope to be accepted into Griffith University finishing school and doing the best I could to study a Bachelor of Education. I want at this. to continue swimming and have been in I always knew that the trials would contact with coaches up there to discuss my

options. I have also been accepted into the Griffith Sports College (on the basis that I get accepted into uni), which is a program that aims to help students in sport manage sport and study effectively which is really awesome. Away from the pool, where would we catch you spending your down time? Like I mentioned before, I try to live a balanced lifestyle. My favourite thing to do is to go to the beach. Whether it’s going to see the sunrise or going for a swim when the sun is setting, I just find that the beach is a place where I am able to admire my own life and the world around me. I also try and find other things I can do beside swimming to maintain my fitness. Some of my favourites are Pilates and going to the gym. Thanks so much Phoebe. Interview: Sarah Baker. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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DINING GUIDE

COVER DISH GRANOLA CRUMBLE WITH YOGHURT & NOUGAT SEMIFREDDO, RASPBERRY GEL, FRESH SEASONAL FRUIT FROM BANKS CAFE 38 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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DINING GUIDE

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Great change IS AT DRIFT

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COME AND CHECK OUT OUR AMAZING NEW SPACE • Additional seating • Brand new kitchen • Alfresco dining over looking the greens • New weekly specials

Book a table online via our website or call the Club on 6583 1133 to reserve a table 4 Owen St, Port Macquarie portcity.com.au

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KEN LITTLE'S Welcome to Ken Little’s Fruit and Veg. Ken Little has been in the fruit and veg game for over 40 years now. As a family run business (Ken is pictured above with son Daniel, grandson Jaiden and Dan’s wife Rebecca), the team proudly promise the very best customer experience which is both convenient and enjoyable. Don’t forget we carry fresh organic produce every week straight off the truck and ready for you.

You can also shop online for our pre-made fruit, veg, combination and special packs that can be delivered straight to your door. Remember we have free home delivery available within Port Macquarie and we’re open for business 7 days a week. Always remember ‘fresh is best’ and to continue to support our local family and farmers. Ken.

BERRY COULIS 100gm mixed berries 25gm icing sugar 45ml Chambord Liqueur Puree ingredients THE POTION 60ml Coulis 30ml White Chocolate Liqueur (Mozart) 90ml Cream 15ml Vanilla Bean Vodka

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SHAKE IT UP Place all ingredients in shaker with ice, shake well Double strain into preferred glass and garnish with fairy floss Happy Valentines Day to all the Lovers out there, Love from the Whalebone Wharf Crew xxx

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GRAPE ESCAPE

NEWS FROM THE VINES

with ALEX CASSEGRAIN From Cassegrain Wines

TREND TOWARDS HERITAGE, TRADITION, AND AUTHENTICITY OF FAMILY-OWNED WINERIES GAINS TRACTION

amily wineries are It is the authenticity of family becoming more and more wineries that is appealing to sought out by consumers the younger, savvier consumer and wine collectors, an particularly. Enjoying a wine emerging trend evidenced by a experience is no longer simply significant increase in visitation of tasting the latest vintage of family-owned wineries and cellar chardonnay or shiraz. These doors, online subscriptions, online consumers want to know about purchases, and the family heritage, the engagement Searching for provenance of on social media something new the wines, and platforms. and different has the winemaker’s The rediscovery unearthed a virtual story that sits of family-run treasure trove of family behind each wineries has owned and run bottle. largely come

wineries that offer a

The spotlight about due to more personalised on value-driven, the surge in service to consumers. quality wines research by that have a consumers as compelling family lock downs narrative instils a certain je ne took effect. Searching for sais quoi that makes these wines something new and different has much more desirable. unearthed a virtual treasure trove of family owned and run wineries that offer a more personalised service to consumers. And this trend is set to continue well into the future.

Come and visit Cassegrain Wines and experience our family-owned, award winning wines right here in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Palate PLEASURES with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

BACK TO BASICS

fter all the Christmas, New Year and holiday madness, I thought it might be nice to get back to basics for this month’s column. After all, it is called ‘Palate Pleasures’… This month it’s time to explore what makes your mouth water, what sinful comfort food you crave after a bad day at the office, the meal you would choose if it was your last day on earth and the retro childhood treat that you would still clean your room for. Alright then, I suppose we’ll also have to touch on those foodstuffs that we similarly abhor – the stuff that makes our stomachs turn, skin crawl, reminds us of forcing it down in order to be excused from the table, or the packed lunch that invoked taunts and ridicule… Our passions for and repulsions against certain foods are as varied and individual as we are. They are as intrinsically linked to our genetic makeup as they are to our early childhood experiences with food, and then our subsequent journey into adulthood. Likes and dislikes are as much about our tastebud’s blueprints, as they are about what we were fed when we first got put onto solids. This is where nature and nurture are intertwined. What we were fed by our parents when we were very young was defined firstly by their cultural heritage, and secondly by society’s

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set of core beliefs at a particular time in history. But regardless of this very strong combination of influences, you still will almost certainly detest a food substance that your brother or sister loves. Although, if you were born into an Italian household, chances are you will grow up liking Italian food quite a lot (and not just because it’s the best food in the world, no bias here of course). Food and emotions are also inextricably linked. The relationship between food and comfort goes without saying, but food and its corresponding connection with taste and smell, is also hardwired to memory. Just as a certain smell reminds us so strongly of a particular time and place from our distant past, a certain dish, ingredient, childhood snack food or aroma of cooking can take us back in time to a place we either loved or hated. These intense food memories follow us into adulthood, where, if we’re game we may reexperiment with previously disliked foodstuffs later in life with surprising results. Certainly, our palates do mature with age and some flavours are just too intense for a child’s tastebuds, but also changes in pre-conceived opinions can have an enormous amount to do with different methods of food preparation. Brussell Sprouts anybody? This most detested of childhood vegetable memories can delight in the current day and age…

Boiled and shrivelled into a shell of its former self, wafting out that most distinctive caustic smell of brutally murdered vegetable… Not anymore – what about pan fried in butter with parmesan and walnuts – firm in texture, but cooked through allowing the vegetable’s flavour to meld with its accompaniments without overwhelming. Nutrients of this ‘super’ food still intact, not leached away in an angry sea of boiling water for half an hour plus. Amazing! And not to criticise 1970s cooking methods, there are many classics from this era – for instance there’s still something very now about a good prawn cocktail – but we have since come a long way in bringing out the best from our produce, as in taking gorgeous fresh and sweet prawns when they’re available as opposed to the deep frozen rubber variety paired with tomato sauce and who knows what? Not to mention we know a lot more about preserving nutrients throughout the cooking process. We can be grateful for the proliferation of the stir-fry and the wok – thank you Thailand! Eating Thai food taught us how good vegies taste when they’re crisp, not soggy. So perhaps it’s about time to try things we thought we hated, again. Food actually tastes better now! It’s one way to transform ourselves instantly to a cherished time and place, and even better shared with lovely friends and family… Happy eating 2022

Vyour A Cway AY TOTAL OF $25,000 INSTANT WIN PRIZES & TRAVEL VOUCHERS TO BE WON

UP TO $16,000 IN TRAVEL VOUCHERS TO BE WON

A CHANCE TO WIN $10,000 T R AV E L V O U C H E R M A J O R P R I Z E T O VA C AY H O W E V E R YO U P L E A S E Whether you prefer an exotic island escape, a romantic European getaway or why not keep it local with a trip around Oz, the winner can vacay their way

HOW TO ENTER

Spend $20 on food & beverage to receive an instant win scratchie for a chance to win amazing prizes or an entry into the major draw. Simply scratch the panel to see if you are a lucky winner. Make sure you fill out your details on the back and redeem your prize as per the scratch panel. Every Friday 10 names will be drawn from the promotion barrel, the winners will be invited to the Vacay Your Way Gala night on Wednesday 2nd March 2022 for a chance to win the major prize.

Please see our team at reception for full Terms & conditions. TP/01588. Club Member’s only promotion. Promotion starts 31/01/22 – finishes 02/03/22.

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 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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T MACQUA POR RI R

GRE AT E

GIG GUIDE

BRUARY

JESSICA FLANAGAN

MINNIE MARKS

JACKSON JAMES

SUNDAY, 6 12pm Royal Hotel Kew Craig Stewart 12.30pm Chop n’ Chill Simon Gudgeon

FRIDAY, 4

1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Steve Bennett

5.30pm Chop n’ Chill Andrew Cousins 5.30pm Wicked Elf Beer Pure Acoustic Duo 6pm Club Lake Cathie Stevie B 7pm Little Fish Café Suave 7pm Bago Tavern Turn Ups 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Brody Ireland

SATURDAY, 5

WEDNESDAY, 9 FEBRUARY 6.30pm Botanic Wine Garden Troy White

THURSDAY, 10 6.30pm Club North Haven Cheryl Hall & The Wisemen

FRIDAY, 11

SATURDAY, 12 12.30pm Chop n’ Chill Jackson James 2pm Brewhaven Afro Moses 4pm Wicked Elf Beer Andy Blackmore 7pm Bago Tavern Besty Andy 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Jackson James 7.30pm Settlers Inn Simon Gudgeon 7.30pm Hastings Hotel Boukabou 8pm Wauchope Country Club Steve Bennett

12.30pm Chop n’ Chill Andrew Best

5.30pm Chop n’ Chill Andrew Best

2pm Brewhaven Mat Brooker

5.30pm Wicked Elf Beer Ruby Blunt

4pm Wicked Elf Beer EMIR

12pm Royal Hotel Kew Heath Lancaster

7.30pm Hastings Hotel Dan Hopkins

6pm Club Lake Cathie Can’t Adult Today 7pm Laurieton Hotel Mat Brooker

7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Dusty Soul

7pm Bago Tavern Jessica Flanagan

7.30pm Settlers Inn Nikki Rudge

7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Acoustic Kick

1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Pure Acoustic Duo

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SUNDAY, 13 12.30pm Chop n’ Chill Goody 2 Shoes

MAT BROOKER

BRODY IRELAND

EMIR

SATURDAY, 19 12.30pm Chop n’ Chill Brody Ireland

5.30pm Black Duck Brewery The Coppertones

2pm Brewhaven Pure Acoustic

5.30pm Chop n’ Chill Mat Brooker

4pm Wicked Elf Beer Brock Colley

5.30pm Wicked Elf Beer Nikki Rudge

7pm Bago Tavern Geoff Jones

6pm Club Lake Cathie Rockabillys

7.30pm Hastings Hotel Jason Ray

7pm Bago Tavern Jessica Flanagan

7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Loose Change

WEDNESDAY, 16 6.30pm Botanic Wine Garden Pure Acoustic

THURSDAY, 17 6.30pm Club North Haven Can’t Adult Today

FRIDAY, 18 5.30pm Chop n’ Chill Mat Brooker 5.30pm Wicked Elf Beer Leigh I’Anson 6pm Club Lake Cathie Shane Peters 7pm Bago Tavern Alter Ego 7.30pm Bonny Hills Hotel Rockabillies 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club The Coppertones

FRIDAY, 25

7.30pm Settlers Inn Besty

SUNDAY, 20 12.30pm Chop n’ Chill Craig Stewart 12pm Royal Hotel Kew Jessica Flanagan 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Pure Acoustic Duo

WEDNESDAY, 23 6.30pm Botanic Wine Garden Leigh I’Anson

THURSDAY, 24 6.30pm Club North Haven Leigh I’Anson

7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Super Cell

SATURDAY, 26 12.30pm Chop n’ Chill Andrew Best 4pm Wicked Elf Beer Jackson James 7pm Bago Tavern Gotcha Covered 7.30pm Settlers Inn Chris Rose 7.30pm Hastings Hotel Subvertigo 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Dan Hopkins

SUNDAY, 27 12pm Royal Hotel Kew Reggie D & The Bloozers 12.30pm Chop n’ Chill Andrew Cousins 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Nikki & Besty GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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ECHOES OF PINK FLOYD

BOB MCKINNON PRESENTS

A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

3 LEGENDS IN CONCERT

Don’t miss the chance to relive all the great memories and all the great songs when these three music legends come together for one show only! NORMIE ROWE AM was Australia’s first King of Pop with hits including “Shakin’ All Over”, “Ooh La La” and “It Ain’t Necessarily So” and starred in a myriad of stage shows including “Annie”, “Chess”, “Evita” and as Jean Valjean in “Les Miserables”. He has done it all. DINAH LEE (the Queen of the mods) is a New Zealand born

singer with hits including “Don’t You Know Yockomo”, “Reet Petite” and “Do The Bluebeat” and is acknowledged as New Zealand’s greatest musical import to Australia. JADE HURLEY OAM, dubbed by Johnny O’Keefe as Australia’s King of Country Rock, is Australia’s very own Piano Man with the unique record that every record he has released has achieved gold, platinum and double platinum status. THIS IS NO TRIBUTE SHOW … THIS IS THE REAL DEAL

Bob McKinnon Presents

Australia’s largest scale Pink Floyd concept act Echoes of Pink Floyd announce their “A Journey Through Time” tour taking audiences on a musical and visual journey from Pink Floyd’s earliest days as darlings of 1960’s London’s psychedelic underground, all the way to their 1990’s powerhouse performances as the undisputed masters of stadium rock.

picked deep album cuts designed

Audiences will be treated to an extensive exploration of the band’s impressive catalogue as the gang from Echoes of Pink Floyd plays all of Pink Floyd’s biggest smash hits, as well as some lovingly hand-

audiences describing the show

to please the most committed of hard-core fans. The band’s aim is to authentically replicate the brilliant sights and sounds of one of the world’s greatest progressive rock bands of all time, Pink Floyd. The Adelaidebased tribute has been touring nationally since 2014, with as “amazingly awesome” and “a musical and visual journey that never disappoints”, whilst also likening them to “the original band”.

in concert

normie ROWE dinah LEE jade HURLEY

Friday 25 March, 2022 – 8pm

USE YOUR DINE & DISCOVER VOUCHERS TO BOOK

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE

NOW VALID UNTIL

Corner of Clarence and Hay Streets, Port Macquarie

BOOK NOW: 02 6581 8888 or www.glasshouse.org.au

Accept ed

here

$25 Disc over NSW Monday voucher rede to Sund emable Terms ay and condi tions apply

For more

informati

on visit

nsw.gov. au

30 JUNE 2022 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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THE SUN TOUR 2022

Bliss n Eso are performing at Panthers here in Port this month and we are pumped! Bliss n Eso are an Australian Hip Hop trio made up of MC Bliss, MC Eso and DJ Izm. We spoke to Eso and DJ Izm ahead of the show to see how they were feeling about finally getting back out on stage and into a huge national tour for their latest album The Sun.

i guys. How does it feel to be touring again? It feels absolutely awesome to be touring again! It feels like the stage is Bliss n Eso’s second home and we are home sick! Especially because of all the obvious drama that we have all been going through these past couple of years, it’s been a huge hit to the music industry so to finally be getting back out there and rejoicing this new album with the fans after such a long time is going to be unreal. This is what we do. This is a pretty big tour, where will you be travelling to? We don’t like just doing the big cities, we think about the little guy. So this is a big tour because we like to hit the regional spots where people can’t always get their way to the big cities. We plan to pretty much go all around Australia and hit up all of our favourite places! Can you tell us a bit about this album? This album ‘The Sun’ is definitely a mix of feels, we never stick to one kind of mood 50 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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or emotion or genre. There’s all different Like a dog going for a can of Pal! So we’re kinds of sounds on this album, there’s old hungry and that stage has got it coming. school sounds like ‘Send It’, there’s current You guys have known each other for a trap sounds like ‘OG’s’, we did a country long time, what does that dynamic mean song... So there’s no boxing us in, every for you when performing or creating album we do there’s music together? going to be something Brotherhood. Family. new, something Unity. This band wasn’t So this is a big fun, something created by looking in tour because adventurous... And I the classifieds and going we like to hit the think that’s what ‘The “hmm, we need a DJ”. regional spots where Sun’ provides. Bliss and myself (Eso) people can’t always What can we expect were already friends, get their way to the from the show? then I ended up going to Jam packed the same high school as big cities. fireworks! Jam packed DJ Izm and we became fireworks shoved right friends. We were friends up your bottom! The before we made the band fireworks will be coming out your mouth and and I think that’s the reason why we have had ears! Like we said before, this has been the longevity, I think that’s the reason why we’re longest time between shows for us, so to still together, we still love playing together. say that we’re hungry to eat the stage is an And the fact is DJ Izm and I are like blood understatement. I’m gonna eat that stage, brothers of the spiritual world and a different there’s going to be nothing left of that stage! dimension. To spend time with close mates like

This has been It’ were freestyle, off the that and create music top right on the spot, so together is Godly. It’s the longest there’s always a mix of been way too long! time between shows methods that we would What is some of the for us, so to say that come up with songs, inspiration behind we’re hungry to eat but inspiration is from your latest music? the stage is an everywhere. Life. Inspiration comes understatement. I’m What is it you love from a million different gonna eat that about Hip Hop music? places. It doesn’t come stage, there’s going Dude, EVERYTHING. from a special little to be nothing left of It’s got everything for golden pond called that stage! me. I think I fell in love inspiration, I could be with Hip Hop the first watching a TV series time I heard it, it must and get inspired for have been something like Ice Cube or NWA, a lyric, I could be reading a comic and be and it was this passionate, raw, I don’t give a... inspired, I could be listening to a song and attitude, rebellious and outside the box! And be inspired to write another song, I think everyone has the same story with it, when you that inspiration comes from all around us. rock up to a Hip Hop event everyone has that Hanging out, listening to beats and just vibing, same love and passion for it, especially that dropping a freestyle and then that turns into old school Hip Hop, it was so unifying. We all a song. The songs were all made differently, knew what we loved, that it was dope, and it some were like let’s go off into our separate brought us all together. There’s always a variety areas and write by ourselves and then come with Hip Hop, if I wake up in the morning back together, and then some songs like ‘Send

and I want to be inspired I’ll put on some Atmosphere, or something that makes me think a bit deeper, and then there’s other times where I don’t want to think I just want to party and I’ll throw on Old Dirty Bastard! We fell in love with the attitude of it, the explosiveness of the sound, a way for inner city kids to tell their story on a pretty cool platform. What are some of your goals or things you’re looking forward to in 2022? More of this! More of this and less of Covid. It’s unfortunate to bring it up again but it’s really stuffed a lot of things around for live music. We need to come back, we need the younger generation to get that chance. That’s the big thing for me, if we didn’t have those small pubs and venues to play at, you wouldn’t get that chance to sharpen your tools as a live musician, as a live performer. All those small gigs made us and built us up to the point where we could get onto that bigger stage, because we had the confidence from rocking those jam packed small gigs. I’d like the arts to get that chance again. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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focus_contributor.

in the F RO N T

BAR with

GEOFF C O NN O R

ALISTAIR F L O W E R

MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FLOWER HOTELS

RUGBY LEAGUE ENTHUSIAST & CEO OF THE HASTINGS LEAGUE

eoff, you’re a well known local in the Wauchope / Hastings area, how long have you been calling Wauchope home? Well I’m not really a local, I came here when I was about 12, about 1972 I think. My family is originally from Yarrahapinni, Mum and Dad moved to Sydney for about 18 months and then relocated to Wauchope. It’s funny how the term ‘local’ has changed, once upon a time you weren’t a ‘local’ unless you were 3rd generation ha-ha. You’re known for the work you do with the Hastings League. Tell us what your role is? And how did you get involved? I started out playing footy in the league, I’ve actually played 25 seasons across a few different clubs. I went across to play for Byabarra, I was one of the senior players. I ended up as president of the Byabarra Bulls, and then I started to get involved with the Hastings League management. I’ve been a part of the management of the Hastings League since 1993, and in 2002 I took on the presidency role. The Hastings League is one of the longest standing Rugby League competitions in Australia (outside the NRL). It’s been running since 1920, and we are really proud of that. Now I’m the CEO, I

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look after the draw, making sure players are by Lank Bain. The council bought the cleared and insurances are organised, that kind sporting grounds, but they built a community of thing. committee so the community still have a say How have you seen the League change in in how it’s utilised and operated. We are the the last 20 years? middle man, they talk to us and we talk to the It’s had its ups and downs, that’s for sure. individual clubs. We help make decisions that At one stage we had up to are fair for the community. 12 or 13 sides, it’s always How do you manage a rollercoaster ride. We’ve work and family The Hastings got 9 sides at the moment around your community league is one and the competition is commitments? of the longest strong. We have recently Owning my own standing Rugby signed the Flower Hotels as business gives me the League competitions the League’s major sponsor, flexibility to do the in Australia (outside which is exciting. We are volunteer work I love. the NRL) keen to kick off a strong I own Oxley Tyres, I’ve 2022 season. chopped and changed Why do you keep careers quiet a few times. turning up after 20 years? I started out as a Mechanic, once I finished That’s a complex question ha-ha – it’s a my trade I’d had enough. I actually went on big job, though I’m very very lucky – out of to own a seafood run (hawker’s license) for a the board I think we are all life members. We while. all enjoy it, it’s a team effort. We have a few As for family, my only daughter is a young blokes coming through, so the future paramedic in the Army, I’m very proud of her, looks strong for the committee. but she is based away. Aside from your volunteer role with Lastly, what is the best thing about the the Hastings League, you are also Hastings Region? the Chairman for the Lank Bain Trust We’ve got everything at our fingertips – Committee. What’s your role there? beach, bush, hinterland. The climate is perfect, Bain Park was donated to the community there is no better place on earth.

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IN THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY

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Image The Photo Trail & Wild Cosmo Flowers

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Happily ever after S TA R T S H E R E

Let us make your special day PERFECT Engagements, Weddings, Commitment Ceremonies and Renewal of Vows. We provide tailored packages that embrace your vision & your style…to create a memorable day. Contact our Meeting & Events Team on 1300 PANTHERS or port.meteam@panthers.com.au

1 BAY STREET, PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 | 1300 PANTHERS

panthersportmacquarie@panthers.com.au

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LONGVIEW FARM A UNIQUE WEDDING DESTINATION ON THE MID NORTH COAST.

Focus speaks with proprietors Luke and Leanne on their stunning award-winning rustic farm wedding venue in the Manning Valley hinterland.

i Luke & Leanne. Tell us about what makes this destination so special? Thanks Sarah. This is an 80 acre riverside property with 1.2km of private river frontage. It has been a festival venue since 1999. We are a boutique family-friendly venue with over 20 years experience hosting special events. I think the main thing which makes the destination so special is that everyone can relax together in a festival-style beautiful retreat. What are some of the features on offer? There are so many, including on-site accommodation in the world-famous Rotating House, deluxe glamping, camping ground, spacious open-sided rustic barn for the reception, decorations and furnishings, dance floor, pro AV system, grassed lawn games area, picturesque ceremony locations, 80 acre 58 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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property and 1km of had the best day and Every aspect of pristine river frontage. couldn’t have had a the service we Proper camping more perfect location. received from Luke amenities, hot showers. Everyone was bowled and Leanne was 500-odd pieces of props over by the place and fantastic from our etc for hire, cool room we hugely appreciated initial booking to our built in, natural tree the effort absolutely arbour archway on the everyone put in to pull wedding day. riverbed and incredible off an incredible day.” sunsets for your photos. - Maryanne & Nicholas What sort of packages can you arrange “We are so glad we chose Longview Farm for wedding couples? for our wedding venue. If we could give We can tailor the perfect package for your more stars we would! Every aspect of the special day. From the ceremony right through service we received from Luke and Leanne to our add-on inclusions, the choice is yours ... was fantastic from our initial booking to our it’s all possible here at Longview Farm. We also wedding day. Longview Farm was stunning include wedding planning and event runners and being able to stay for a whole weekend on your special day to ensure friends and made our wedding feel like a holiday where family can fully immerse themselves in your we were able to relax with our closest family wedding experience. and friends. “What a magical place to get married. We - Lauren & Dean.

We are an Award-Winning Wedding Venue Our LOCATION is prime. Only 1.5 hrs south of Port Macquarie, on the banks of the pristine Nowendoc River, Caffreys Flat. WHY Longview Farm? Nestled in the Manning valley with a stunning backdrop of lush green mountain ranges, grazing farmland and riverbanks. Relax, connect, and enjoy quality time together with your friends and family over a few days. Every package includes your ceremony, reception venue, accommodation, wedding planning, styling, rustic furnishings and lawn games. Our FACILITIES are unique. Our reception barn “The Partyshed” is 650 sqm in size with spacious dining area, dance floor, world class audio and lighting system, in-house cool room, food prep area, amenities, and mobile bar. For ceremony, you are spoilt for choice with our very popular riverbank or gum tree locations. And for accommodation we offer exclusive use of the luxurious “Rotating House” (as seen on TV), and camping ground with 10 x glamping tents and unlimited BYO camp sites.

For all ENQUIRIES: Email: leanne@longviewfarm.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 59 www.longviewfarm.com.au

Pure Acoustic

“If you like a good oldfashioned jukebox then you’ll love Pure Acoustic”

id North Coast duo act Pure Acoustic showcases the talents of Phil Matthews, a Conservatorium trained classical guitarist, with

a voice that impersonates so many favourites from Michael Bublé to Jimmy Barnes. With 20+ years performing across Australia working with artists such as Tommy Emmanuel, Phil has developed his own unique finger styling, taking on songs such as Lady Gaga’s Poker Face and Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody in all its glory on one acoustic guitar. Partnering with multi-talented harp blowing, soul singing, eye catching, box bashing percussionist Elke Matthews, our duo covers all the favourite classics from across the ages. We have a reputation for being the ‘singing

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jukebox’. We like to give our audiences the music they want and test their knowledge of pop culture along the way. With a repertoire of classic hits from across the ages so vast, we are sure to play your tune! Pure Acoustic perform almost everywhere. We specialise in private functions and corporate events. You can catch a Pure Acoustic live performance almost every weekend at a live music venue across the Mid North Coast, check out our Facebook events to keep up to date.

We provide professional sound and lighting equipment at all our shows, along with something a little different to most. We have an online jukebox request system, allowing our audience to request a song from 2000+ classic hits, straight from their mobile devices to the stage for a live acoustic rendition. We love music and we love our audience, we engage with guests for song choices and that interaction helps us choose the right setlist for a great time at any occasion.

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elope Mid North Coast NIC BODLE

After a period of great disruption to the wedding industry, Nic Bodle, talented photographer of Fox & Kin, saw a movement towards smaller more intimate weddings...

ic decided to put together a team of local vendors that together could provide complete wedding packages for those that were wanting to bypass the stress and time involved in planning a wedding and just get on with celebrating their love with those dearest to them... without sacrificing on luxury and style! Hi Nic. You have many years experience as a wedding photographer, and more recently started Elope Mid North Coast, what made you come up with this idea? With all the disruption to the wedding industry in the past couple of years *cough Covid*, more and more couples are rebelling against the idea of weddings as these huge, extravagant events with hundreds of people they don’t really know, a lot of money spent and a pretty big impact on the environment. I’ve always been an advocate for elopements and intimate weddings, as they have less environmental impact on the earth and a greater focus on the act of being married – and on the love two people share for each other. So when the pandemic brought the wedding industry to a standstill, I saw the opportunity to jump in and offer a service

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that I’m really passionate about – a quick, inclusive and earthfriendly elopement package that supports a small intimate ...for those who local vendors with wedding? are fond of the similar values. We offer a fully finer things, and who How did you go inclusive experience for from the initial idea want the complete couples who don’t want to having a team wedding experience a big wedding, but still of vendors ready to with the intimacy of want to treat themselves make a couple’s small and have an incredible an elopement and wedding dreams a day. Our Epicurean the footprint of a reality? Collection is for those picnic. I spoke to a lot of who are fond of the finer people about their things, and who want ideal luxury elopement the complete wedding package, or what was missing from their own experience with the intimacy of an elopement elopement – often it’s things like flowers, and the footprint of a picnic. It includes all good food or live music. So I made it my planning and paperwork, a custom ceremony, mission to bring those services together for photography coverage, live music, florals and the ultimate inclusive elopement experience a styled reception with a three-course meal on that feels just like a wedding but without location, wherever you’re getting married! You all the guests. Bringing the team together can contact us at www.elopemidnorthcoast. was easy as they’re all good friends of mine com to learn more and grab a copy of our and we work together a lot. I know they’re Booking Guide. reliable, professional, like-minded and the best Can you tell us about the team you have in the biz! brought together? What can Elope Mid North Coast provide Our stellar team of seven includes: me (Nic) for couples looking to elope or have the photographer and planner; Fred – our

wonderful celebrant (you might know her as Alison Bartlett); Josh, aka Lttle Kng, an incredible live musician; Alice our magical florist from Euflorial; Mikhayla – our talented stylist from One Day Weddings and Events; and Ellie & Brandon from Coastal Harvest, who are an amazing catering team who provide a portable kitchen, onsite chef and waitstaff. We’ve got you covered so you really can just show up, get married, and enjoy yourself! What has some of the feedback been like so far? Absolutely phenomenal! Couples are excited at the prospect of having an option to spoil themselves with all the luxuries that they thought they’d have to miss out on if they eloped. We have couples actually travelling from out of the area to the Mid North Coast so they can work with our team. People love the fact that they can have one point of contact for everything so they’re not trying to manage multiple vendors themselves and they don’t need to worry about forgetting anything because it’s all done for them. It’s amazing to see the level of enthusiasm we’re receiving from people planning their elopements and intimate weddings! What are some of the more challenging aspects of taking on planning someone’s wedding? I honestly love planning so much. Spreadsheets and PDFs are my love language.

It’s an opportunity to celebrate something that we often don’t celebrate enough in life – our love and connection to those dearest to us.

But sometimes planning comes to a halt when communications break down between vendors. Luckily with our team, we have fantastic communication structures set up so we are constantly in contact with each other and nothing gets lost or forgotten in the planning process. What is it you love about the wedding industry and working with couples? Without a doubt, the sense of joy in the air. It’s an opportunity to celebrate something that we often don’t celebrate enough in life – our love and connection to those dearest to us. I love the friendships that I form with couples as we plan their wedding, and their reactions when they see the photos of themselves totally wrapped up in a moment of bliss with their love. What have been some of your favourite or most interesting weddings to date? The weddings and elopements that stick with me and really affect me emotionally are the simple, quiet ceremonies in nature, with only the couple and a handful of their loved ones. There’s less fanfare and formality and more focus on the act of being married and the connection between two people. Some of my favourites have been couples getting married barefoot standing in the river, or on

top of a mountain. I always encourage couples to kick their shoes off and stand barefoot for their ceremonies as I think that connection to the earth really grounds them and brings them back into that moment and that place. What are you looking forward to in 2022? We’re working with so many amazing couples this year in some of my favourite spots on the Mid North Coast. We really are spoiled with the locations available to us here so I’m looking forward to getting out into the rainforest and onto the beaches and seeing the magic this team pulls together! You can follow us at @elopemidnorthcoast to keep up with the latest!

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WEDDINGS BY TWOTRIPLEFOUR AT CASSEGRAIN WINES PICTURESQUE GARDENS | UNIQUE RECEPTION SPACES | MARQUEE HIRE | LOCAL + SEASONAL MENU | BESPOKE PACKAGES | AWARD WINNING WINES Exchange your vows within the pristine gardens of Cassegrain Wines and celebrate the night away with your guests in our one-of-a-kind reception spaces - with twotriplefour's passionate team of chefs and a dedicated Events Team, you can be sure that your wedding needs will be met with quality and creativity. Photo credit (cw) Joshua Moses (top+center) | Gui Jorge Photography | Little Glimpses

SCAN OUR QR CODE FOR OUR BLOG + MORE! CONTACT OUR EVENTS COORDINATOR TO BOOK A GUIDED TOUR OF THE WINERY + DISCUSS THE DETAILS OF YOUR SPECIAL DAY!

10 Winery Drive, Port Macquarie | 02 6582 8320 | events@twotriplefour.com cassegrainwines.com.au | twotriplefour.com

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B R I DA L & FO R M A L NIKKI SMITH

Nikki Smith is the new proud owner of RSVP Bridal and Formal in Vernon Street in the heart of Coffs Harbour. We wanted to chat to her about 2022 and the buzz around weddings this year!

ikki, congratulations on being a new business owner – tell us about your experience in the bridal gown industry? Thank you so much. I started working for RSVP Bridal around 9 years ago when my youngest daughter started primary school. I gained some invaluable experience whilst working with a great team, and when the previous owner decided she was ready to sell RSVP, I saw it as the perfect time to take on the business of my dreams – I’m a lover of all things sparkly and beautiful. I wake up every morning and can’t wait to get in there! Every day is a different day and a bit of a dream come true really.

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What do you love about your role in helping brides choose their dream gown? I’m here for the bride! The day they walk into the store with their ‘entourage’ is a very big day for them. Each bride is unique and some have an idea of what suits them, and some have no idea. I find it quite fascinating working it all out, that’s the fun part. We try different gowns of all shapes and styles, we accessorise with veils and headpieces, the bride’s family and friends get involved and have a bit of a fun, and we generally end up where we need to be – with a beautiful gown for a beautiful bride. It’s so special being part of someone’s big day, it’s very fulfilling and satisfying, and for me it’s all about the experience.

COFFS COAST WEDDING GUIDE - A SPECIAL focus FEATURE

Can you take us through the steps of choosing the right outfits from colour schemes to trends to body types? From what I’ve experienced, a bride generally comes in with and idea of the colour schemes for her Satin has been a wedding. That may trend more be because she has charmeuse and velvet recently, with gone with her favourite making an appearance charmeuse and velvet colour, or with a colour as well, although the making an appearance that suits her venue. ever popular chiffon is as well, although the Although, some brides soft and pretty and is ever popular chiffon is wait until they find their available in a rainbow wedding gown before soft and pretty and is of colours. they make their final available in a rainbow We also have decision. mother of the bride/ of colours. I’ve found to ‘mixgroom dresses not match’ has been available in a wide a trend over the past few years, meaning range of sizes. As well as party dresses for bridesmaids have a mix of different styles, guests. but in the same colour. This has been How important is it to prepare your popular, particularly where there are a few wedding outfits in advance? What bridesmaids of different sizes and body timeline would you suggest? shapes. For a bride seeking a stress-free approach Satin has been a trend more recently, with to their wedding, I would recommend

ordering 6-9 months before the big day. That way the dress of your dreams will arrive in plenty of time for any alterations that may be required. As discussed when ordering, most brides will generally need a hem, and any tweaking to ensure the dress looks like it was made for her – maybe in the bust, or the waist, or adding straps etc. We have a fabulous ‘gown mechanic’, Donna from ABC Stitches, who we have always recommended for alterations. What’s the best way to find you? RSVP Bridal & Formal is located at 9 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour. Our contact number is 6652 7000. To avoid any disappointment, please be sure to give me a call to book an appointment. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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DESSERT FIRST

Martene George has always loved to bake, and after baking for family and friends for a number of years her creative - and delicious - designs started getting more and more interest, so she started Dessert First taking special occasion custom orders, and has now moved into her very own commercial cooking space!

Martene

i Martene. Has baking always been something you enjoy? It certainly has! I’ve always enjoyed baking and creating sweets from a young age… for as long as I can remember. When did the idea for Dessert First come to mind, and what was the process of getting After hobby it started? baking for After hobby baking family and friends for family and friends for for years, I started years, I started thinking and branded thinking that that maybe this hobby packaging and the maybe this hobby I I love could become things I needed to a career I would love. love could become make my small start Getting a small business a career I would have more of an started isn’t easy, it love. impact. Social media took a lot of time and was imperative for effort. After finishing helping me market my commercial cookery and sell my goodies, qualifications, I was working three jobs and through hard work and long hours while baking small orders from my mum’s after early mornings watching dough rise, kitchen, mostly for friends by word of mouth. I have got to where I am today… my own Eventually though, my baking orders grew commercial space in Port! and I dedicated more time to my own baking Do you mostly take special orders or are jobs, and spent less time at my other jobs. your treats also available at shops or I picked a business name, and slowly but stalls? surely I was able to purchase more equipment Most of my work is custom orders for 68 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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people’s special events… and I am busier than ever, booking orders months in advance! Although there has been interest from local cafés and businesses to stock my sweets in their stores it’s not something I am currently offering, but I am considering it for 2022. I did run incredible doughnut and cookie days, direct to the public, every Friday straight from my shop for the past 6 months. Doughnut days went off with a bang! The support from the community each and every week was mind blowing and I am beyond grateful. Because they were such a hit, doughnut days will return monthly throughout 2022 and for significant dates, and I will have the original goodies plus new

exciting products and flavours that I am keen to share with everyone. Watch Dessert First’s social media pages for dates, so you do-nut miss out. ;) What are some of your favourite creations to date? Aside from my beautiful custom cakes which are always designed with my clients’ ideas in mind and always look amazing, I am proud to have brought the New York style cookie to Port. My NY cookies are delicious as they are, or as a dessert covered in ice cream! You now have your own commercial space in Port, what was it like for you moving into a commercial kitchen? Yes, it was this time last year that I secured my very own commercial kitchen. Dessert First HQ is now located at 31 Uralla Road, Port Macquarie. It was easily the largest step in my business and career to date. Out of all my achievements, this was the most challenging, toughest and most testing of them all. Yet, so rewarding! After settling into my first year, I can say it was the best move I made! I have experienced a huge amount of growth for both me personally and my business. My commercial kitchen has enabled me to double my baking load yet halve the cooking time, maximising my fullest potential. I am very excited to see where this year takes me. I have so much planned so keep your eyes on Dessert First’s social pages to see where

we go. Dessert First into its fullest potential. What are some of the more challenging Switching my focus to my online store, aspects of your work? specifically my postal gift range. You’d think I would say refraining from Our fondant cookies and New York cookies eating all of the delicious cookies and are now available Australia wide. You can doughnuts would be the most challenging, order birthday gifts, thank you gifts, you but being a perfectionist name it and we’ll post whilst maintaining my them to all your friends time management can and family all over the Many of my also become challenging. country. Sounds like a clients come to If my work is not 110% pretty sweet idea ;) It me with their ideas, it will not go out the didn’t seem fair to keep colours and themes door. I will re-ice, reall these incredible and then I put my own pipe, re-decorate or start tasting sweets here, spin on them to keep again to meet my own when the rest of nation the design unique and professional standard. I can enjoy them too! personalised for each have high expectations How can people customer. of both myself and my check out your work brand, which I am very or get in touch? proud of. Check out our Your creations are always so beautiful, delicious creations on our Facebook and where do you get your inspiration from? Instagram social media pages and follow Thank you so much! I have always had a along to keep up to date with our indulgent very creative mind, even from a young age. I specials and new products. have consistently had the ability to invent and To get in touch jump online to our website develop original ideas. Many of my clients www.eatdessertfirst.com.au where you will come to me with their ideas, colours and find our custom order forms to fill in for themes and then I put my own spin on them cookies and cakes, completely customisable to keep the design unique and personalised to suit your occasion. Or if you are interested for each customer. in something a little sweeter or have a What are your hopes and dreams for question, simply send us an email info@ your business moving into the future? eatdessertfirst.com.au and we will get back I plan to continue growing and expanding to you! GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Start your year with a Brilliant Smile...

Whiten UP! Tooth whitening is a popular dental technique to rejuvenate the colour of your teeth and brighten your smile. If you feel that your teeth have become dull and yellow after years of accumulated STAINING, why not consider professional Tooth Whitening with your dental team?

aving an attractive smile At Sundial Dental we have invested in an - whether the smile you all-new take-home whitening system for our were born with or courtesy patients that brings you the best of both of a highly skilled dental worlds; the versatility of a take-home kit, professional - is important for peroxide gel and an LED light that returns self-confidence. On the other your smile to your whitest natural shade. hand, having grey, yellow or discoloured This easy to use technology is fast-acting, teeth could be enough to make someone safe, rechargeable and incorporates peroxide too embarrassed to smile. Moreover, stained and LED light. Our teeth can affect a patients wear the trays person's overall selfas prescribed by our It is usually image by negatively dental professionals for possible to affecting their self10-20 minutes a day for achieve a shade that confidence and their up to 5 days, until they is three to eight sense of self worth. get their desired result. So why not start your year with a Brilliant Smile... Whiten UP! Tooth whitening removes internal stains through a process called oxidation.

shades lighter, taking years off your smile and making you look and feel younger in 3-5 days.

Unlike simple scaling or polishing, whitening removes superficial stains caused by coffee, tea, Nicotine stains and red wine. The most common ingredient used for whitening teeth is peroxide gel (of varying strengths) and in some cases LED light. 70 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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The all-new take-home kit requires only one appointment, to assess if the patient is suitable for the whitening treatment. After the initial assessment you will take your kit home and you will be free to start your whitening from the very first day. *It should be noted that if you have advanced restorative crowns and fillings, this treatment might not be right for you. The benefit of the take-home system is that

YOU are in control of your whitening, and can choose the shade that YOU like. From the first day you can choose to do 1 or 2, 10-minute sessions and you'll see results almost immediately. The LED light included in your take-home kit is fully rechargeable and you can top up your whitening at any time down the track by purchasing additional tubes of the whitening solution for $25-$30 from your dental practice. What Can You Expect? It is usually possible to achieve a shade that is three to eight shades lighter, taking years off your smile and making you look and feel younger in 3-5 days. An added advantage is that you can target specific teeth that are more stubborn or stained. If your teeth become sensitive during the treatment, you can give them a break and resume after a day or so; this side-effect is transient, and with care causes minimal discomfort. The best bit is that you can expect a smile that looks years younger in just 3-5 days, so why not start your year with a whiter, brigher smile? Call your caring team at Sundial dental to whiten up 2022! Port 6583 3533 or Wauchope 6585 2015

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focus_contributor.

StyleSVibe AV V Y with VANESSA LAWRENCE FROM THE STYLE VIBE

Welcome back to another year of The Style Vibe Savvy! I truly hope everyone had a safe and happy Christmas along with a fun New Years and the opportunity to do whatever it is that makes you happy.

was completely blessed to spend time with my gorgeous children Tommy and Jazi along with family, friends and my loved ones eating beautiful food, sipping fine wine, shopping, swimming, laughing and of course a bit of dancing.

It is also my great pleasure to announce that I will be hosting this year’s event along with Comedian and ‘The Block’ star Andy Saunders.

Time flies when you are having fun and I cannot believe we are in February already.

As always this is the perfect opportunity ladies and gents to glam up! Whether you go cocktail style, go all out in a floor length Hollywood gown or a sexy cut-out asymmetrical dress – feel free to go OTT! It’s your night, dress to impress – I can’t wait to see you all there!

One of the great things happening this month is the long anticipated Port Macquarie Business Chamber Awards! Sadly postponed last year due to Covid, the 2021 Awards night (confusing I know) is all set to go ahead at Port Panthers on Saturday 19th February. This is going to be a fab night celebrating the success all of our wonderful local business finalists across different industries. 72 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Consider a long weekend away, Saturday night fancy dinner, Sunday boozy lunch and cocktails, or romantic candlelit dinner on VDay itself!

Another special date this month – the 14th is VALENTINES DAY! Who doesn’t love a good date night and

the chance to get dressed up right? Well with VDay being a Monday, there are so many options to make this one special! Consider a long weekend away, Saturday night fancy dinner, Sunday boozy lunch and cocktails, or romantic candlelit dinner on VDay itself!

Whatever you are doing this month, I hope you enjoy the beautiful weather, waterways, our cool hospo venues and of course our awesome community. With Love, Vanessa Jane x

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styles available, from boots, heels, pumps, sandals, lace-ups, sneakers and slip-on mules to make you feel put together in style as you tackle your busy day. All footwear will carry you through in supreme comfort; some are orthotic-friendly, allowing you to be in the same shoe from morning to evening. No sore feet here! Call in today to experience the high level of service provided by the friendly team, who will help you find your new favourites to fit your unique style!

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74 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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focus_contributor.

A MOMENT

Mayor WITH THE

with PETA PINSON

M AYO R O F P O R T M A C Q U A R I E HASTINGS COUNCIL

am so excited to be writing to you, and thank you to all of you who have sent your warm wishes of welcome to our new Council.

Last month I was given the great honour of joining my fellow Port MacquarieHastings Council peers to take the affirmation of the office of Mayor. This will be my second term as the popularly elected Mayor, and I am so grateful to you all for putting your trust and faith in my leadership once more. It is a privilege as Mayor to return to the position for a second term with such a progressive and productive team of people, and may the next two years and eight months bring much of the same. January flew by with two extra ordinary meetings, and we’ll meet again this month for the first ordinary meeting of the year. Already I have been buoyed by the meeting outcomes and the constructive dialogue taking place. I want to ensure you all that this term will be about delivery and decision making. I want us to be a productive and progressive council body capable of delivering – not delaying. As a new council of nine members with such

a good cross-section of youth, experience and genders, it is important that we seek to maintain a united front in our efforts to serve you in the best way possible.

As a new council of nine members with such a good cross-section of youth, experience and genders, it is important that we seek to maintain a united front in our efforts to serve you in the best way possible.

We heard a lot of stories during the election campaign about how we might do things better here at Council. I am looking forward to hearing from all of you on how we can be more focussed and how we can better serve you.

One of the key ways that you can keep us across any issues is to use the Report An Issue function on our website. Here, you will find a broad range of topics covering environment, waste, health and safety, animals, roads and parking that you can raise directly with council staff. This process allows staff to consider and respond to requests that may be directly impacting your way of life. Visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/Report-an-issue. These types of tools, along with our popular Have Your Say function, lets us know what

you expect from your Council. It informs us about what you think on various issues, and how we can do better.

This year I’ll be giving great thought to how we can better balance being financially efficient while still demonstrating our ability to deliver on our wide ranging services. I am looking forward to tackling these challenges and cannot wait to start making a positive contribution to the short, medium and longterm future of our region. Assisting me in my role as Mayor will be the newly elected Deputy Mayor Adam Roberts. I am looking forward to being able to work with Cr Roberts as he supports me in the role. The Deputy Mayor is an important office and holds important civic functions within the chamber, particularly in my absence. Looking ahead, Council will next meet on February 16. Details on the agenda and how you can view the meeting online will be made available closer to the date. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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focus_contributor.

LEGAL

Light

with EMILIE COOPER

L AW Y E R / D I R E C TO R P R I E S T L E G A L

Dividing fence disputes, Port Macquarie’s proposed Orbital Road issues and Space junk – Is there a connection?

ortunately, Port Macquarie’s proposed Orbital Road is unlikely to connect space junk with our dividing fences – particularly if it is never constructed. However, dividing fences, the Orbital Road and space junk do have one thing in common – each of them can result in disputes with devastating consequences if effective solutions are not found within a reasonable period of time. Recently, Russia fired a missile at one of its own satellites, causing it to explode into thousands of pieces of shrapnel that are now zooming around in “lower Earth orbit” at about 27,000 km/h. The debris almost caused an international incident as it nearly knocked out a Chinese scientific satellite. It was described as an “extremely dangerous encounter” by China’s Space Authority as the debris missed the satellite by 14.5 metres. Satellite collisions at 27,000 km/h cause them to explode creating more space junk, but at the same time potentially creating havoc with the systems which we have come to take for granted, such as mobile phones, the internet, up to date weather reports, and surveillance systems. There are currently about 4,000 satellites in lower earth orbit with a further 100,000 more satellites expected to be launched in the next few years. Like the proliferation of satellites, the population of Port Macquarie-Hastings and the number of dwellings approved by the Council are likely to continue to increase. In the last 5 years, Council have approved 4,000

new residential dwelling applications. At an average of 1.7 cars per dwelling, there are approximately 6,800 more cars on the road since 2016. The resulting bottlenecks and traffic jams are evidence of this and are disintegrating our quality of life. The Orbital Road is the proposed solution but it requires the acquisition of private property and will also have environmental impacts. Some new subdivisions have fencing requirements such as the requirement that all fences be of colorbond, or, alternatively, that all fences be made of wood so that koalas can climb them. However, in many subdivisions there are no developer requirements as to the type of fencing and this can cause significant antagonism between neighbours who are forced to share a jointly owned piece of property and don’t agree on its construction or maintenance – i.e. The Fence. Legislation assists in the resolution of dividing fence disputes (Dividing Fences Act 1991(NSW)) and issues which relate to the Orbital Road (Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991 (NSW)) and international treaties govern the use of space. The legislation or treaty provides a framework for parties to resolve their disputes “in the shadow of the law” but if that fails to take the matter to a Court or Tribunal for resolution. Court-ordered resolutions mean that there is a winner and a loser or sometimes just two losers (because neither party gets exactly what they want) but there are never two winners. Relationships are often permanently destroyed.

In the case of a dividing fence dispute, the loser will probably sell their property and move elsewhere. In the case of the Orbital Road, if your property is one of the properties that necessarily needs to be acquired at market rates, a dispute about the acquisition will mean that your life is impacted for a prolonged period of time with no end in sight. Mediation is a powerful alternative mechanism for the resolution of disputes. Mediation gives you much more control over the outcome. A successful mediation will ideally result in a win for each party. Neighbours can become friends again, owners of land required for acquisition can control the terms of the sale so that it better suits their needs. The consequences of not finding an acceptable resolution to a dispute in space are likely to be, as with most things astronomical, mind-blowingly cataclysmic. There are other advantages to mediation, such as efficiency, effectiveness, affordability, a lack of formality, and an opportunity to explore options not necessarily afforded by legislation. Critics of mediation might say “it doesn’t work”, “it’s too weak”, “you can’t enforce the outcome”. This may be true in some cases. However, mediation where both parties are engaged in the mediation process because each of them recognises that a resolution of the dispute is a better outcome than continuing the dispute will result in superior outcomes. If you would like to try to resolve your dispute through mediation, contact us at Priest Legal for more information. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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80 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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I WILL

aking a valid Will with a professional from the comfort of your home.

Recent stay-at-home orders in NSW have left many in the community contemplating their financial and legal affairs and people are using the extra time at home to catch up on important life admin. NSW Trustee & Guardian, the state’s largest Will-maker, recognises this demand and offers video conference appointments for people to make a Will during COVID-19 restrictions.

of an executor. The only difference is how we

in NSW do not have a current Will in place.

do that, and that’s through our flexible video

“Making a Will is the best way people can

conference service.”

protect themselves, their loved ones and future-proof their valuables and assets,” said

“Video conference appointments mean people can stay home, reduce physical contact, and still complete this critical document,” said Acting Chief Executive Officer Megan Osborne.

NSW government passed a regulation last year under the Electronic Transactions Act 2020 to

Ms Osborne.

allow certain legal documents to be witnessed

“This is our commitment to making our services

using video conference technology.

as accessible as possible for NSW residents.”

Since launching, NSW Trustee & Guardian

The Will-making service is free for people on

has seen an uplift for the video conference

the full Centrelink Age Pension.

service as an immediate solution to changing

For more information about the video

“It’s the same level of professional service you would receive in-person: we verify your identity, conduct capacity checks, discuss your wishes and provide expert advice about a range of issues related to your Will, including the role

restrictions.

conference service or in-person appointments

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That’s why the people of NSW have trusted NSW Trustee & Guardian with over one million Wills and counting. Video conference appointments available. Port Macquarie team: 114 William Street 1300 10 20 30

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focus_contributor.

BUSINESS

VOICE with ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

appy New Year! Hope you have had a great start to the year. We have had so much happening at the Chamber and planning for our year ahead hoping to make 2022 a great year for all. In December we wrapped up the year with a Christmas Party held at Sovereign Place Town Centre. The Chamber working together and collaborating with the other Network Groups including The Chambers from both Wauchope and Camden Haven, Hastings Business Women’s Network, Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association and The Micro Business Forum were able to present a cheque for $875 from proceeds raised on the evening to Jenny Watts from Bravehearts. This donation will help to educate 73 local children. We were also lucky enough on the night to be entertained by local up and coming talent Charlotte Schrader and wish her luck as she heads to France for 10 weeks to take up a scholarship she won. This year I am endeavouring to have a face to face coffee catch up with all of our members so that we can discuss your needs and how the Chamber can work with you, our local businesses, to support you so we can all support each other. The Chamber Executive meets bi-monthly with the Mayor

and CEO at Council, and Quarterly with our Business Awards Gala Dinner on Saturday State and Federal Members, so it is important 19th February where we recognise the that we are representing the needs of local achievements of business. If you haven’t businesses at these meetings. If there is an purchased your tickets yet please hurry issue that you would like us to discuss on as minimal seats are left. Either go to our your behalf please contact either Mark at website or call Katherine at the office. the Chamber office on 6583 4412 or myself We have a big year ahead of us with so many on 0414 772 771. Our opportunities and lots job is to lobby all levels planned. Apart from of government on your our regular monthly This year I am behalf so please engage network events we endeavouring with us so that they are will also be celebrating to have a face to face aware of your needs, Small Business month coffee catch up with and I’m really looking in March where in all of our members so forward to catching partnership with the that we can discuss up with those of you Greater Port Macquarie your needs and how I already know and Tourism Association meeting those that I the Chamber can we will be hosting a haven’t met before. work with you, our Boardroom Lunch on

local businesses, to We have our first 30th March with guest Chamber breakfast speaker Jon Dee who support you so we for the year on 10th you will know from Sky can all support each February where you get News “Smart Money” other. to breakfast with the and Planet Ark so keep animals at Billabong your eye out for that Zoo whilst we hear of one. lessons learned and putting plans in place for Have a great February and remember: the year ahead. All welcome, please go to “Success is not the key to happiness. the website to register. Happiness is the key to success. If you love We are excited to hold our black tie Coastline Credit Union Greater Port Macquarie 2021

what you are doing you will be successful.” Albert Schweitzer GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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TOP ACHIEVERS

Top ATAR

• • • • • • • • • •

Naomi Reed – ATAR of 99.40 Ella Hosemans – ATAR of 99.05 Jinuki Senanayake –ATAR of 98.90 Chloe Dowd – ATAR of 98.45 Matilda Lindeman – ATAR of 97.75 Tait McIntyre – ATAR of 97.60 Thomas Crundwell – ATAR of 96.30 Nicola Awad – ATAR of 96.20 Zali Everden – ATAR of 95.50 Bridget Jones – ATAR of 95.10

99.40 SIX All

Rounders

Students who received Band 6 in all of their subjects

FOUR

• • • • • • • • • •

George Teasdell – ATAR of 94.95 Bryce Turner – ATAR of 93.85 Jesse Beard – ATAR of 93.60 Olivia Jogever – ATAR of 93.55 Montgomery Moore – ATAR of 93.40 Nuala Tranter – ATAR of 93.35 Anneke Oliver – ATAR of 91.70 Kiarna Best – ATAR of 91.55 Emily Piri – ATAR of 91.35 Alice Charley – ATAR of 91.20

Top100

school in New South Wales

89 Band 6 results across the cohort

40% of students made the Distinguished Achievers List

students placed in the top 10 in the State for their subjects

Software Design and Development

Music 2

Construction

Entertainment Industries

Thomas Crundwell 1st in the State

George Teasdell 4th in the State

Will Oram 9th in the State

Cameron Anderson-Brown 4th in the State

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sCongratulations of 20 Class 21 of 2021

From the Principal — Mr Terry Muldoon

w them At St Columba to we have will transform the lives lives of our students of by purpose, offering the opportunities that service will allow them to haveand lives of purpose, service and engagement.

nty caused The 2021 St Columba by HSC Cohort the has produced COVID great results, even pandemic. with the disruption and uncertainty caused by the COVID pandemic.

eir diverse The exceptional results interests they have achieved across and such a wide range their of subjects capacity is a testament to their diverseto interests and their capacity to enhance their natural talents through hard work.

disadvantage” This group has shown that our students ofcan, living with great teaching and and family support, studying overcome the “disadvantage” in a of living and studying in a regional area and produce results that rank among the very best in the state.

capacity We offer our heartfelt to face congratulations disruption to each and every graduate and weand are in awe of uncertainty their proven capacity to face disruption and uncertainty and career with a positive attitude, goals. a sense of camaraderie and a willingness to work to achieve their academic and career goals.

of in the We know that future. this is only the beginning of the success stories that these young people will be a part of in the future.

mes after “Happiness the does notachievements come from doing easy work but from the afterglow of of satisfaction a difficult that comes after the achievements of a difficult task that demanded our best.”

A message of congratulations from the Head of Secondary School — Mrs Emma Bylsma

llent The Higher School Council, Principal School and staff of St Columba Certificate Anglican School wish to acknowledge results the excellent Higher of School the Certificate results of the oud academic Class of 2021. The Class of 2021, tradition our 15th Higher School Certificate of candidature, the have School, upheld the proud academic building tradition of the School, building on the achievements of those who came before them.

hieved In 2021, excellent we had 89 entries in the Distinguished results Achievers listacross from 38 students. This a year’srange cohort achieved excellent of results Higher across a range of Higher ievers School List. Certificate subjects. Among Approximately 40% these of student results impressive appeared in the Distinguished Achievers results List. Among these impressive results Ella Hosemans, were Tait McIntyre in 7 subjects, Chloe Jinuki Dowd and MatildaSenanayake Lindeman in 6 subjects, and Naomi Reed,and Ella Hosemans, Thomas Jinuki Senanayake and Thomas Crundwell in 5 subjects. These results saw SCAS rank 100th in the top 150 schools in the State.

d in the Some subject top resultstwo of note include: Bands; 100% of Extension 1 and 100% Extension 2 English of students Textiles achieved in the top twoand Bands; 100% of Textiles and Bands; Design students 100% achieved in theof top twoConstruction Bands; 100% of Visual Arts students achieved students in the top two Bands; 100% of Construction students oftware achieved inDesign the top two Bands; 89%and of English Advanced Development students achieved top two Bands; 83% students of Software Design and Development students ds; 80% achieved inof the topDance two Bands; 80% of Design students and Technology students achieved achieved in the top two Bands; 80% in of Dance the students top achieved in the top on 2 Mathematics two Bands; 78% of Extension 1 Mathematicsstudents students achieved in the top two achieved Bands; 75% of Extension 2 Mathematics in the students top achieved in the top two Bands. Fantastic achievements from our Class of 2021.

A world of opportunities... 02 6581 4188 info@scas.nsw.edu.au 3 Iona Avenue, Port scas.nsw.edu.au Macquarie 3 Iona Avenue, Port Macquarie GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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DARCY

PRESS Darcy Press has just completed his HSC, and a research project he did for his Science Extension class WAS ENTERED INTO THE SCIENCE TEACHERS ASSOCIATION OF NSW YOUNG SCIENTISTS COMPETITION by his teacher. So he was both surprised and excited to hear that he had won NSW Rural Young Scientist of the Year!

Y O U N G

i Darcy. Can you introduce yourself to our readers? Hi my name is Darcy Press, I’m 18 years old and recently graduated year 12 from St Columba Anglican School. My

S C I E N T I S T

my own HSC subjects, and my favourites were

derive a research question which entailed a

biology and physics, as I was deeply intrigued

lot of research across many literature sources.

by these branches of science. I also enjoyed the

I focused my research on biology and started

science extension subject, which is a relatively

looking for areas within this field that I could

new course, and engineering studies as they

investigate. Eventually, after a lot of research,

were both novel and interesting.

I narrowed down my research question to

You did a Science Extension project, can

focus on the properties of essential oils, but

friends, walking my two dogs and watching

you tell us a bit about it and why you

more specifically their antimicrobial effects.

Marvel and anime shows.

chose this project?

After closer inspection of available literature, I

hobbies include playing tennis, games with my

You have recently completed your HSC,

As part of the science extension syllabus,

what were your favourite subjects you

I was required to complete an independent

bactericidal concentration value of tea tree

studied at school?

research project, spanning across all of year

oil, which is just one of many antimicrobial

12. Initially, we had to design our project and

properties, and it became the focus of my

At school, I had the opportunity to elect 84 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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identified a gap in data relating to the minimum

focus_interview remote learning. However, due to setbacks, my teacher and project supervisor provided an extended due date, which provided me with the necessary time to properly analyse the data and write up my report. On the day that it was due, I felt a major sense of accomplishment and relief once I submitted my report. My teacher’s response was that I should be proud of myself for submitting such a high quality report. You submitted this project to the Science Teachers Association of NSW Young Scientists competition, how did you find out about this competition and what was the process of entering like? My science extension research project was also entered into the Science Teachers Association of NSW Young Scientists competition by my teacher. We were informed that regardless of the outcome, we would all receive a certificate of participation for entering, so there was nothing to lose by doing so, and it would be interesting to see if any of the projects entered would win any awards. The administrative process I had never required for entering expected to win this competition was all such a prestigious completed by my teacher, state-based award. I who alongside my hadn’t even project, also submitted considered the a lot of other students’ possibility of ever projects that would end winning an award as up receiving rewards for such so it was their efforts too. definitely a delightful How did you go in the surprise. What made competition? it even more It was during the rewarding was HSC exam period in early November when looking back at where I received an email I had started. stating that I would project: Determining the receive an award for this minimum bactericidal competition, and that concentration of tea tree oil against Escherichia my project was nominated to enter a national coli. BHP engineering competition – which for me How did you feel about the project once was amazing – and what made it even better it was completed? And what was your was that I found this out an hour before my science teacher’s response to the completed Advanced Maths HSC exam, which gave me project? a timely confidence boost and pick-me-up. Towards the completion of my project, I was informed that the online virtual award my research became a lot more stressful, presentation, that I was going to be featured as obtaining data from my results became in, was on November 25th, where mine among more of a concern due to the possibility of many others would be recognised amongst a further lockdowns, forcing me to return to

variety of different prize categories. I had only intended to tune into the livestream to watch my award, as I was busy studying for the HSC physics exam scheduled for the next day. They announced my award nomination – and hearing this brought about a sense of accomplishment as it was nice to be recognised for something for which a lot of time and effort was spent on. However, following on from this was the NSW primary and secondary rural young scientists awards so I decided to watch a little longer, curious about the projects that were submitted, and to my surprise I won NSW Rural Young Scientist of the Year. It was at this point that I ran downstairs and told my mum who also was thrilled and surprised to hear my news. What was it like for you to be recognised in this way for your work? Being recognised as the NSW Rural Young Scientist of the year and a semi-finalist in the national BHP science competition was amazing. I had never expected to win such a prestigious state-based award. I hadn’t even considered the possibility of ever winning an award as such so it was definitely a delightful surprise. What made it even more rewarding was looking back at where I had started my year of conducting research, beginning initially with uncertainty and not really knowing about what and how to research, and how I should start putting together a research plan, experimental proposal etc into action. Earlier science research projects that I conducted in year 8 and 10 were beneficial, however, the scale and depth of the year 12 project far exceeded these earlier projects. The opportunity to review available previous prize winning entries and note essential criteria to consider for my own submission, regardless of subject content, was very beneficial, along with obtaining access to up-to-date research papers. What are some of your plans now that you have finished high school? Would you like to continue to work in the field of science outside of school? As for my future career, I wish to continue to follow a science and engineering path. I have my mind set on becoming a biomedical engineer to help improve the lives of others. Now that I have finished high school, I plan to have a gap year and work before going off to university. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Congratulations CLASS OF 2021

ST AGNES’ CATHOLIC PARISH STUDENTS SHINE

Kashia McGrath | MacKillop College

Simon Meertens | MacKillop College

Alyssa Ishchenko | MacKillop College

College Captain and Student of the Year Kashia McGrath is on top of the world after receiving her HSC results including first place in NSW for Studies of Religion 1 and tenth place in NSW for English Advanced. With an ATAR of 99.85 and achieving all Band 6 results Kashia is the 2021 MacKillop College Dux. Kashia is planning to pursue a degree in Medicine at University of NSW. Her advice is to put “100% into what you’re doing and then trust yourself”.

Achieving in the top two bands across all his subjects resulted in an impressive ATAR of 97.6 for Simon Meertens. Simon was particularly proud of his Mathematics Advanced mark of 95. Looking to continue to reach great heights Simon is looking forward to studying Aerospace Systems Engineering at the University of Newcastle in 2022. To help future Year 12 students Simon says “find a routine that works for you”.

Congratulations to Alyssa Ishchenko who achieved fantastic HSC results. Alyssa was one of three students from MacKillop to achieve Band 6 results in every subject. Helping her to achieve an ATAR of 98.2 were her results in Mathematics Advanced of 94.6, English Advanced of 94.6 and 90 in Chemistry. Alyssa plans to undertake a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering at Newcastle University. Her advice to future students is to “make time for activities other than school”.

First Place in Diocese

Top Achievers Kashia McGrath 1st place Studies of Religion 1 and 10th place English Advanced Kimberley Palmer 4th place Mathematics Standard

All-Round Achievers Hannah Freeman Kashia McGrath Alyssa Ishchenko Mirren Campbell “Congratulations students on completing your schooling with a strong sense of purpose and the skills to navigate a path for the future.” - Stephen Pares (St Agnes’ Parish Education)

Hannah Freeman Chemistry, Mathematics Extension 1 and Studies of Religion 2 Mirren Campbell Dance Jadzia Stronell Drama, History Extension Ashley Ritterl Earth & Environmental Science, Geography Kashia McGrath English Advanced, Mathematics Extension 2, Physics, Studies of Religion 1 Abbey Cross Legal Studies Sophie Evans Legal Studies, Studies of Religion 2 Grace Kranitis Legal Studies

St Joseph’s Regional College 86 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Brody Styles Information Process & Technology and Software Design & Development Kimberley Palmer Legal Studies, Mathematics Standard 2 Gretel Worner History Extension Marie Tessede French Continuers Isaiah Tay Japanese Beginners Ebony Darcy Business Studies Blake Stainforth Design and Technology Alexander Byrne Engineering Studies Luka Marshall Food Technology

pmreglism.catholic.edu.au

...on outstanding results in the NSW Higher School Certificate ST AGNES’ CATHOLIC PARISH STUDENTS SHINE

Hannah Freeman | St Joseph’s Regional College

Chloe Eichmann | St Joseph’s Regional College

Estelle Cassegrain | St Joseph’s Regional College

St Joseph’s Regional College is very proud of the achievements of its Dux of 2021 Hannah Freeman who achieved an ATAR of 98.90. Hannah was recognised on the HSC All-rounder list and achieved Band 6 results in 2unit Biology, Chemistry, English Advanced, Studies of Religion, Mathematics Advanced & Mathematics Extension 1. In 2022 Hannah plans to study a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Medical Science) at the University of Sydney.

St Joseph’s Regional College wishes to congratulate Chloe Eichmann who was runner up to Dux in 2021 with an ATAR of 97.00. Chloe received Band 6 results in English Advanced, Mathematics Advanced, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education and Studies of Religion 2 unit, as well as a Band 5 in Chemistry. In 2022 Chloe intends to study either a Bachelor of Physiotherapy or a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy.

Congratulations to Estelle Cassegrain who received an outstanding ATAR result of 95.70. Estelle received Band 6 results in English Advanced, Mathematics Advanced, Modern History and Studies of Religion 2 unit as well as a Band 5 in Chemistry. In 2022 Estelle intends to commence a Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Sydney.

HIGH ATARS Kashia McGrath ---------- 99.85 Hannah Freeman -------- 98.90 Kimberley Palmer-------- 98.25 Alyssa Ishchenko--------- 98.20 Mirren Campbell --------- 98.05 Sophie Evans -------------- 98.05 Simon Meertens --------- 97.60 Hugh Robertson---------- 97.40 Ayaan Sharma ------------ 97.20 Chloe Eichmann---------- 97.00 Jadzia Stronell ------------- 96.10 Marie Tessede ------------ 96.05 Estelle Cassegrain ------- 95.70 Joe Lewis -------------------- 95.45 Samuel Cramer----------- 95.35

Grace Kranitis ------------- 95.20 Ebony Darcy --------------- 94.95 Gretel Worner------------- 94.65 Jared Humphreys -------- 94.60 Jaidyn Rossiter ------------ 94.60 Abbey Cross --------------- 94.55 Sarah Hatherly------------ 94.40 Jordon Hatch -------------- 94.30 Benjamin O’Brien -------- 94.15 Isaiah Tay ------------------- 94.05 Emma Howle -------------- 93.90 Emily Currey --------------- 93.60 Ella Handley---------------- 93.45 Jessica Hamel-------------- 93.10 Alexander Byrne --------- 93.00

MacKillop College

Timothy Kobelke --------- 92.45 Katrina Spurway---------- 92.25 Phoebe Bentley----------- 92.20 Luke Temple--------------- 92.00 Isabelle Champion ------ 91.85 Madison Cutajar --------- 91.85 Ashley Ritter --------------- 91.55 Abigail Gammon --------- 91.35 Chelsea Arnold ----------- 91.00 Jessica Ismay -------------- 91.00 Skye Lucey------------------ 90.60 Luke Wheate -------------- 90.50 Connor Warneken------- 90.35 Hugh Penson-------------- 90.00

pmaclism.catholic.edu.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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CAMPUS CONVERSATIONS

with KATE WOOD-FOYE

FROM CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY

Dr Jason Howarth is passionate about all things IT, from programming code, software development, cyber security and artificial intelligence. As Course Director and Senior Lecturer in the School of Maths and Computing he is challenging the next generation of Information Technologists to make their mark in a booming global tech industry.

hat started your journey and passion in IT? I learned to program using Basic in the mid1980s and was immediately attracted to problem solving using digital logic! Since then, I have learned many other programming languages, including C++, Prolog, Java and C#. It wasn’t long before I was teaching others, first as a tutor and then as an IT academic. Even after 20 years I still get a thrill when students grasp the logic and syntax of programming, and then start applying it to create innovative solutions to automate something! In early 2003 I shared this passion through my role as an IT academic working on many IT projects that use the Internet to improve access to online education. Other key projects included time with multinational education provider Prometric to write software to create and deploy online exams across their worldwide testing centre network. I have also worked on large-scale distributed software applications and a distributed software debugger that reconstructs the sequence of actions performed by hundreds of networked computers working together across the globe to perform computationally complex tasks. The Bachelor of IT is offered face to face on-campus at Port Macquarie. What makes it unique? Our Bachelor of IT is accredited by the Australian Computer Society at the professional level. It teaches the foundational skills needed by an IT professional, including programming, networking, database design, and project 88 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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management. Students also branch out to specialise in areas such as cyber security, software and web development, and network engineering. The course can be studied oncampus in Port Macquarie, with options for both on-campus and online tuition. It is a three-year full-time course. We really focus on the practical aspects in this course. We have a 25-seat computer lab that contains our own desktops, server, and networking equipment. Students use this lab to hone their skills and put in practice what they’ve learned. Students also get work experience for their specialist area. So they aren’t graduating with just a degree. They are also graduating with hands-on experience, which is great for their resume and for securing their next job in the industry. BIT graduates land diverse and interesting roles all over Australia and the world. What careers can graduates go on to enjoy and how can they make a difference? Our IT degree aligns with today’s exciting and in-demand areas in technology. This includes specialisations in network engineering, cyber security, software and web development, and artificial intelligence. Disciplines with career prospects for graduates that can make a difference across a range of important industries. For example, a cyber security specialist can forge a career in government, large and small business, defence, dedicated security firms, or even in their own start-up! This is what’s so inspiring about IT: your skills can be deployed just about anywhere. The University has recently partnered with global tech firm Axiom Connected, headquartered on the Port Macquarie

campus, connecting IT students and researchers. Tell us about this and why a strong industry connection and the Axiom co-location is important to BIT graduates? Partnerships between tech companies and academia are an important part of the industry landscape. We are so pleased that Axiom Connected have a presence on the Port Macquarie campus. We plan to work closely with them in the delivery and direction of our courses. This partnership will provide students with highquality work placement, internship, and ongoing employment opportunities. It also benefits Axiom Connected as they have on-campus access to a range of high-quality graduates as prospective employees. BIT graduates are in demand – what do you see as the most exciting opportunity? During my time as an academic, I have never had so many employers looking for graduates. There are career opportunities in government, multinationals, even in SMEs. Students with an IT degree and industry experience are snapped up quickly! Increasingly employers want graduates with cyber security, artificial intelligence, and web development skills, which has been accelerated by Covid-19 and remote working – the opportunities are almost endless. https://study.csu.edu.au/courses/technologycomputing-maths/bachelor-information-technology

Multisports Social Comp

Volleyball Social Comp

Badminton

Starts Back: Thursday 10th February 2022

Starts Back: Tuesday 15th February 2022

Social: Tuesday 5pm-7.15pm and Fridays 6pm-8pm

Mixed competition

When: every Tuesday between 6pm-9pm

When: every Thursday between 5.509.15pm

Team Registration: $100

Team Registration: $100 Team Game Fee: $60 each week

Mixed competition

Team Game Fee: $50 each week Call 6583 2501 or info@portstadium.com.au

Call 6583 2501 or info@portstadium.com.au

Eastcoast Futsal

Starts Back: Tuesday 4th January 2022

Starts Back:

Port Macquarie Basketball Association

Juniors – Monday 7th February

Starts Back:

Mixed – Tuesday 8th February

Monday 14th Feb (14’s and 16’s)

Seniors – Wednesday 9th February

Wednesday 16th Feb (18’s and Senior Men/Women)

futsaleastcoast@gmail.com

Thursday 17th Feb (Aussie Hoops) Friday 18th Feb (10’s and 12’s) portmacquariebasketball@gmail. com or www.portmacquarie. basketball.net.au

Seniors: Fridays 9.15-11.15am (from 4th February) Costs: Adults $10 + Seniors / Students $7 Equipment Supplied, No Partner Required Call 6583 2501 or info@portstadium.com.au

Sprockets Starts Back: Monday 7th February 2022 Sprockets is a Multisport Program for children aged 5 years and under Sensory Program for children aged 3 -18 months fun@sprocketsportmacquarie. com.au or www.sprockets portmacquarie.com

School Holiday Program Dates: These are conducted each School Holidays Costs: $30-$40 depending on number of days Hours: 8.30am-5pm Age: Primary School Age Lot of activities to keep the kids amused www.sprocketsportmacquarie.com.au

Port Macquarie Gymnastics Club Starts Back: Tuesday 1st February 2022 Classes for all ages including pre-school Kindy Gym, Pre-Levels, Teen Gym, Competitive WAG & MAG Programs office@pmqgymnastics.com.au

Port Macquarie Performing Arts Starts Back: Monday 24th January 2022 Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Performance Programs Kindy & Junior Combo Classes, Dance Acro, Twinkle Toes, Mini Movers, Kindy Gym Call 6583 3753 or admin@pmperformingarts.com

Phone 6583 2501 info@portstadium.com.au Cnr Hibbard & Hastings River Dr, Port Macquarie GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Illuminate with KATE WOOD-FOYE

THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL E N T R E P R E N E U R S , I N N O V AT O R S , LEADERS AND GAME CHANGERS.

Angela Frimberger is a leading light with a passion for business, animals and the environment, expertly combining her roles of parent, biologist, veterinary oncologist, small business owner and volunteer climate advocate and educator. Angela shines a light on environmental concerns and in 2014 trained as a Climate Leader by the Climate Reality Project and Australian Conservation Foundation. Locally she is known for her role as Chair and Treasurer of the Energy Forever community renewable energy project and also successfully manages her family’s adventure experience business, Façade Escape Room. Founding Climate Vets in 2016 and through her role as national Deputy Chair of Veterinarians for Climate Action, Angela leads important discussions to advance climate advocacy within the veterinary profession and the broader community.

ngela you are passionate advocate for the environment, inspiring, and educating and channelling your passion into numerous projects with purpose – what projects are you most excited about? There are three projects that I’m especially 90 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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ANGELA FRIMBERGER

excited about right now. My family’s local small business, Façade Escape Room (façade-escape.com.au), is flourishing again after the most recent COVID wave; and this is always throwing something new and fun at me! The local NFP I’m involved with, Energy Forever (pmhsn.org.au/energy-forever-inc), is embarking on a new social enterprise to support the sustainable growth of the original charity. Right now we’re exploring an exciting partnership with another community organisation, and a community battery, both potentially launching this next year. I’m also super excited about the growth of Veterinarians for Climate Action (vfca.org.au)! VfCA is growing so quickly – clearly our mission of addressing climate change on behalf of the animals resonates with many people both within the animal care profession, and animal lovers in all walks of life. You are a woman of many talents… nature lover, veterinarian, business owner, mother and climate change educator and social entrepreneur. You have passion for animals and nature, and have combined these passions in NFP Veterinarians for Climate Action. What inspired you to establish/be

part this organisation and how do you hope to make an impact? I’ve been a veterinarian for 30 years, and love the animal care profession for its compassion and dedication to health and welfare of both animals and people. I’ve also always loved nature, and I’ve matured at a time of increasing threats to the environment, so this developed into a passion to protect it. Eight years ago I received climate change communication training, helping me go from just being quietly worried, to actively working on the problem. When Jeannet Kessels, a veterinarian from Brisbane, contacted me three years ago to say she was worried about climate change too and wanted to start an organisation to help veterinarians act on it, I was thrilled to weave these two important threads of my personal mission together. The central message we want to share is that if you love an animal, climate change is important to you; and the most valuable action we can take it is elect and support policymakers to make the strongest and quickest possible emissions reductions. How important are collaborative pursuits and partnerships to your projects’ success?

cultivating our team has been a real delight. And of course, we love the THE CENTRAL creativity of building the games themselves, and MESSAGE WE the joy they bring to our WANT TO SHARE IS players. THAT IF YOU LOVE Absolutely vital! None of What has been your AN ANIMAL, these would have gotten biggest challenge CLIMATE CHANGE off the ground without in each of your IS IMPORTANT TO the wonderful teams I’m businesses and YOU privileged to be part of. projects? In parallel with your Façade’s faced the role as a veterinarian same challenges that and climate advocate, you introduced everyone in our community has in the last few and continue to run the highly successful years… In late 2019 we spent three weeks Façade Escape Room in Port Macquarie – fighting bushfires threatening our property what was your inspiration behind this? at home (happily, now a registered NSW Just fun! Façade started out as a goofball Biodiversity Conservation Area); and then of idea on a long car trip… Our family has always course, the shared challenges of COVID-19. enjoyed mysteries, games, puzzles – and that But with the amazing support of our team means of course we love playing escape rooms. and community we’ve been able to meet the We were talking about how great it would be challenges so far. Energy Forever’s biggest if Port Macquarie had an escape room so we challenge is volunteer workload. We have a wouldn’t have to drive so far away to play. small, highly dedicated group of volunteers but Someone jokingly said, “If nobody else will, we we always need more hands. This is the genesis should open one!” And somehow that stuck. of the social enterprise initiative, to generate We opened in December 2018, not sure funds to support a staff member. how Port Macquarie would take to something What drives you to inspire and educate so new and different; and the community’s the next generation in understanding and response has been just amazing. Becoming a mitigating climate change? How important member of the local business community has is it for you to ensure the next generation been so rewarding. The business has grown has a voice when it comes to creating much more than we expected – we now meaningful change? have 10 staff, which we never foresaw; and Climate change touches everything we care

about. We all love our families, and we try to ensure that their futures will be bright. We want our friends and neighbours to be safe and healthy, our town to thrive. We want our businesses to be successful in a healthy economy. As citizens and human beings we care about immigration and defence and we recognise moral and humanitarian problems. As a veterinarian and nature lover, I especially worry about biodiversity and the impact on animals – and I want future generations to be able to experience nature as I’ve been fortunate to. It’s critically important that the next generation be heard on climate change and other environmental matters – simply, it’s their future and their right. I’m passionate to do whatever I can to support their voice, including providing information and encouragement to help them to find it – but not putting words in their mouth. That said, ideally they shouldn’t have to. My generation has a clear moral responsibility to hand over a healthy, functioning environment to future generations, and we should do that regardless. How instrumental were mentors in your journey? What is the most valuable lesson they taught you? Critically important! Mentors provide information, and most importantly, encouragement and inspiration embarking on a new path. What is the hardest lesson you have learned in life and business? That I can’t control everything, and sometimes I have to let go. How important has risk been to the success of your journey? It’s always important to take (measured) risks. There’s no growth without going somewhere we haven’t been before. As a passionate professional and social entrepreneur with current and future projects on the horizon – what is one piece of advice you can share with others to enable them to have a positive impact on the world? Don’t give up. You’re more powerful than you think. If you think something is important, say so. Don’t be afraid to try something new – not everything will work, and that’s okay – that’s how we learn and grow. Thanks Angela. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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BUSINESS

MINDS

with LAUREN MCALLISTER AND SIMON BANK FROM WEBSTUDIO

Healthy Business Habits - Starting The Year on the Right Track. Welcome back to Business Minds for 2022. While we’re not exactly where we thought we’d be entering a new year, nevertheless - we are glad to be back.

t Webstudio, we have had to make some adjustments to our way of working - but we appreciate we are in the lucky group of businesses who can easily adapt, due to the nature of our work (and of course, technology!) It has been really incredible to see the pandemic response from other local businesses, who have been pushed to become resilient, flexible and dynamic as we navigate close contacts, positive cases - and of course, complex and ever-changing regulations. With so much we cannot control having such a huge impact on our business - we think February is a good time to take a look at what we can control - and make some positive changes where we can. Think of these as some ‘new years business resolutions’ to help you find some calm amongst the chaos. Empathy is everything. Now, more than ever, we are feeling the impacts of short staffing. People are realising businesses and systems are made up of real humans, who are essential to operations. At the end of every supply chain and logistics process is a real person, doing their best. Being kind to one another and trying to understand the challenges people are facing is the first step towards implementing changes that work to support your business - and your people.

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Clear communication. Businesses are having to make some tough decisions, and are often concerned with how these decisions will be met by their customers. Our advice here is - openly and clearly communicate information to your customers, using all the channels at your disposal. Talk to them on Facebook, send emails, make phone calls, post blogs. People are a lot more understanding if they have insight into your situation and are kept in the loop (as much as possible.) Know your limits - and honour them. At the end of the day, you can only do what you can do. Stay in contact with your team, touch base about how the current climate is impacting them and their families and take any suggestions they have into account. Create and maintain boundaries. With many of us continuing to work from home, at least a few days a week, it’s certainly making it harder to manage the work-life balance and “switch off”. Ensure clients know your working situation and set clear expectations for deadlines. Try not to step outside of the boundaries you set and aim to balance it out when you do. Overcome the overwhelm. At the end of each day, set out the next day’s key goals and highest priorities. Even if you can’t bowl over your whole to-do list, at least put a dent in it by checking off the most important, anxietyinducing tasks! Make this a routine - it will

boost your productivity. Clear your inbox, clear your mind. Is having 2,000 messages simmering in your inbox hampering your efficiency? Swimming in a sea of emails can really put a drag on your workflow - and it can mean important tasks fall through the cracks. We suggest clearing your inbox on a daily basis - it’s liberating! Search for ‘inbox zero’ on Youtube to learn the benefits and how you can make this a reality. Stay connected with your tribe, or find one! Having like-minded peers, who you can share ideas with and learn from, is vital for your growth and wellbeing in business. Consider starting a coffee group with people from your industry, to catch up with on a regular basis. Joining a networking group like the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce or Hastings Women’s Business Network could also be a great way to meet new people and build connections within the local business community. Celebrate the wins. Now, more than ever, we need to pat ourselves on the back when we achieve our goals - and take time to appreciate the good. Just remember, everyone is feeling the pinch, to some degree. But if we focus on finding joy, and helping others to do so - by keeping perspective and remembering what’s most important, we can make 2022 a positive and enjoyable year.

Welcome to G.J. Gardner Homes Port Macquarie. We specialise in building custom style homes.

Come and meet Drewe, Holly & the team at their brand new Office and Design Studio at Bay Park Plaza. 4 Bay St, Port Macquarie.

6533 1055 | gjgardner.com.au

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G R E AT E R P O RT M AC Q UA R I E

PROPERTY GUIDE

VAUGHAN HOMES S O V E R E I G N

H I L L S

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VAUGHAN HOMES S O V E R E I G N

ow long have you been living in the Greater Port Macquarie Community? We moved to the beautiful Hastings region in 1996 for the lifestyle change, so we understand the current trend of people wanting to make this region their home. Tell us about all the various builds you do? Vaughan Homes’ philosophy is to build modern homes that meet our clients’ needs, suit their lifestyle, are environmentally sustainable and energy efficient, and are completed on schedule and within budget. We have a great range of standard house designs but are flexible in that you can easily customise existing plans and we also build custom designed homes. We like to take a flexible and creative approach to the building process. Though there is no ‘standard’ home, our ranges include: Millennial A stylish, yet affordable range of single level homes that are under 200sqm, for compact blocks, first home buyers or anyone who would like to downsize. Lifestyle 96 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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H I L L S

A deluxe range of single level homes that There have been so many changes! are slightly larger, up to 250sqm. They are Perhaps the best change is the environmental designed for bigger families or those that like sustainability measures and advances in a bit more space to play. technology that mean our homes are better Entertainer for all of us to live in. A range of two-storey homes designed Tell us about your team and their area of for smaller blocks or to maximise your view. expertise? They all have at least two entertaining spaces, Vaughan Homes is local family-run business with a living as well as with licensed builder, a media or activities George Vaughan, room. very hands-on within George is Rural the company, both in GreenSmart A stunning range the office and project accredited and of homes designed managing on site. proactive in helping to take advantage of George has been wide or acreage blocks. building quality, family clients make the To let you spread out homes on the Mid North most of their sites a little more, while still Coast for 20 years. with practical advice maximising the use of George is GreenSmart on functionality. available space. accredited and proactive What part of your in helping clients make business are you the most of their sites most proud of? with practical advice on functionality. We enjoy the owners’ delight at moving Behind the scenes, George is assisted by into a home they have been so invested in Sheridan Vaughan in the office. making special to them and their family. Rachel Smithers is the new homes sales What have been the biggest changes you consultant and interior design consultant have seen over the last 10 years in the based at the stunning new “Camellia” display industry? house at 10 York Street, Thrumster.

Our small team means that our service is very personal and you are able to speak with someone who knows you and your build. When building with Vaughan Homes, buyers benefit from the expertise of our in-house designer to guide them through the process of selecting interior and exterior colours, finishes, and fixtures and fittings. We walk you through the process step by step ensuring it is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, bringing your ideas to life. By working together with an experienced team of local building professionals, tradespeople and suppliers we make sure each project is delivered on time, on budget and to a superior quality. You have a beautiful new display home in the Sovereign Hill Display Village. Take us on a tour of the home and some key features that help create the beautiful property. Camellia Design Stunning 4 bedroom home with 2 separate living spaces and a spacious alfresco complete with outdoor kitchen, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor living Sense of light and space with expansive 2.7m high square set ceilings and soaring skylights Extra height and width doors are a wonderful example of form and function, which not only look beautiful but also enable easy access whatever your stage of life.

The gourmet kitchen, dining and main living area forms the heart of this wonderful home with the added bonus of a butler’s pantry and homework or workstation.

Contemporary coastal aesthetic for a relaxing, holiday at home feel Mixture of low maintenance building materials with natural textures including a stone-look feature tile to the front entry and timber look tiles on the portico and alfresco complementing the hardwood timber posts and detailing and feature weatherboard façade. Oversized limestone look porcelain tiles to living areas. “Green credentials” – passive heating and cooling; louvre windows, skylights for natural light; solar panels and solar hot water. Zoned for family living with children’s or guest wing including 3 bedrooms, bathroom, separate powder room and laundry with great storage. The large glass door allows for privacy yet still feeling connected. The gourmet kitchen, dining and main living area forms the heart of this wonderful home with the added bonus of a butler’s pantry and homework or workstation. The main bedroom is at the rear of the home complete with private alfresco. There is a substantial walk-in-robe and designer ensuite complete with rain shower and double basins.

Who were the trades and suppliers that you used to build this home? Our high quality standard inclusions are sourced from local suppliers, always with the option to customise finishes. Our local team includes Affordable Plumbing, Drinkwater Electrical, FastPlast, Boral, PGH Bricks, John L Fisher, Colortile, Port Floorworld, EastCoast Roofing, Harelec, MasterCrete, Mitre 10, Accurate Tiling, Bunnings and many more so apologies for anyone I haven’t included. What are the top points that people should consider when looking to build a new house? My advice would be: The plan should complement your land, it should consider the orientation of the home on the land to maximise thermal efficiency, taking into account the slope of the land and advantage of any views. The plan should suit your family – thinking about what part of the home you will use the most i.e. do you need sound proofing to a cinema room or kids’ games room, or are you an outdoor lover and want a larger alfresco rather than two entertaining areas? Our goal is to build you a home that suits your lifestyle. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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WELCOME TO THE CAMELLIA DESIGN BY VAUGHAN HOMES

T I M B E R, C L A D, B R I C K R E N D E R, STO N E T I L I N G.. Vaughan Homes’ new display home facade has it.

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W E’ R E A L I C E N S E D A N D G R E E N S M A RT AC C R E D I T E D LO C A L B U I L D E R George Vaughan is hands-on within the company, both in the office and project managing on site. He is supported by an experienced team of local building professionals from Port Macquarie and the Mid North Coast. This includes qualified and reliable tradesmen, contractors and suppliers. They work together to make sure each project is delivered on time and to superior quality.

Your Local Builder VISIT US Currently by appointment only You can visit us at our display home 10 York Street, Thrumster NSW 2444

C O N TACT U S Give us a call 0423 534 144 Check out our website vaughanhomes.com.au

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HAVANA ENCORE, FORSTER MASSENA 30 TWO, SOVEREIGN HILLS

Top

DESIGN TRENDS

with McDonald Jones

TREET APPEAL A home’s roofline is key to curb side appeal. A growing facade trends is the striking skillion roof on new homes. The skillion style is perfect to achieve a stunning coastal look and we are seeing many customers fall in love with this across both single and two storey designs. Internally, the higher ceilings bring in beautiful natural light and externally there are many ways to bring in stone, cladding and natural finishes to give the home a unique feel. Massena 30 Two – Sovereign Hills VOIDS One of the many new architectural options in new homes that is proving to be a popular feature is the double height void, which spans over two levels inside entry ways or living areas. This feature provides that wow-factor, as well as a sense of height, space, and light. This feature is on display in some of our display homes, and it is the next step in the traditional ‘open plan living’ home design, which caters to modern families. Panorama 39 – Waterford Living

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Home design in Australia is constantly evolving to meet the shifting needs and lifestyles of families, so we chatted with New South Wales’ leading home builder, McDonald Jones on the top design trends, which are coming through new homes right now. THE NEW HOME OFFICE If lockdowns showed us anything, it was the importance of working from home. Floor plans in new homes will see a more dedicated space for the home office. Gone are the days of a little study nook where you feel crammed. The new home office takes pride of place and is now considered an essential element of new home living, where you can work and study from home in comfort and style. Panorama 39 – Waterford Living SKYLIGHTS Bringing light-filled and airy spaces into the home, customers are choosing to include stunning skylights into their designs, and many of the homes now on display show how this really impacts the overall feel of a room. Raked ceilings are perfect to include three Velux skylights, as seen in our Havana design on display at Forster. Havana Encore – Forster INTERIOR COASTAL STYLE Escaping to the seaside has never been easier, with more and more people seeking calming, cool whites, vertical VJ Board, coffered ceilings and large bi-fold stacker

doors to truly open the home up and offer a seamless transition between the indoors and out. This style is perfect for the North Coast, paying homage to its beautiful sandy beaches and national parks. Coastal is one of six styles offered at our MyChoice Design Studio, where our customers complete their internal and external colour selections. What is Coastal? Long gone are the days when Coastal style embodied beachside cliché decor and motifs. Today it’s a design used in both Classic and Contempo homes, and is identifiable by its perfectly relaxed, unassuming style, paying homage to its natural environment. And you don’t have to live by the beach to reflect the coastal interior design style in your home. Set against a crisp white backdrop, it’s an easy, casual look that transports you to a perfect summer day at the beach by using an ocean inspired palette of the beautiful colours of the sea, the sand, and the native vegetation. Bright and breezy, a Coastal style home creates a soothing connection between the indoors and out. All it takes to create a spacious coastal haven is a beautiful, carefully considered blend of natural

HAVANA ENCORE, FORSTER

PANORAMA 39, WATERFORD LIVING

MASSENA 30 TWO, SOVEREIGN HILLS

SAN MARINO MANOR, FORSTER

materials, expanses of glass, and a neutral palette of whites. The four sub-styles of Coastal are Beach House, Bahamas, Modern Coastal and American Beach House. Coastal styled display homes: San Marino Manor – Forster Massena 30 Two – Sovereign Hills KITCHEN BLING Barnhouse sinks and fancy tapware are soaring in popularity, with new home builders adding a real sense of style into one of the most important rooms in the home. From gold taps, full stone splashbacks, wine cabinets and larger butler pantries. The kitchen is truly the heart of the home and continuing your selected style through to the finishing touches has never been easier. Miami 16 – Waterford Living HERRINGBONE FLOORING Adding a real sense of luxe living is creating a talking point, especially when it comes to flooring, with people opting to install the Herringbone look to traditional timber flooring for a sophisticated look. San Marino Manor – Moonee Beach

OUTDOOR SANCTUARY The alfresco is growing in size and prominence with new home design, now featuring as an extension off the kitchen and dining room to offer a seamless transition between the indoors and out. Larger outdoor living spaces are an entertainer’s dream and are enjoyable year-round! San Marino Manor – Forster Panorama 39 – Waterford Living SUSTAINABILITY To meet the growing popularity of sustainable features in home design, solar panels are installed during construction on all McDonald Jones homes. To meet the growing trend of electric vehicles and future homes for everyday Aussies, they also include electric car chargers in every garage. INCOMING HOT TREND! Pet laundries will be coming in force this year, with even the furry family members getting a touch of luxury living in our new home designs. We all love spoiling our pets, so stay tuned! MCDONALD JONES McDonald Jones has built its success on the

belief that the best-designed homes bring out the best in the people who live in them. That a home with flow enables families to go about their day-to-day lives in welcoming spaces where it’s easy and harmonious to come together, and just as easy to find privacy and retreat. It’s this belief that makes a McDonald Jones home so special. For more than 35 years, the company has been building beautiful, architecturally designed houses across NSW and the ACT. As one of Australia’s leading builders, McDonald Jones prides itself on its affordable, award-winning homes, with an ever-expanding suite of single and doublestorey homes suitable for the whole spectrum of budgets, lot sizes and lifestyles. From the coast to the country, the suburbs to the innercity, McDonald Jones is bringing dream homes to life. Visit one of their 68 stunning display homes in 25 locations across NSW and find yourself at home in a McDonald Jones home. Head office: Level 4, 62 Norwest Boulevard, Norwest NSW 2153 Phone 1300 555 382 Website mcdonaldjoneshomes.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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McCulloch A G E N C I E S

McCULLOCH AGENCIES WAUCHOPE. YOUR GO-TO AGENTS FOR LIVESTOCK, RURAL AND RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

i Team, congratulations on opening McCulloch Agencies here in Wauchope. What was the reason behind opening your agency here? We saw a strong connection between Wauchope and the Hastings Valley, and Tamworth and north-west NSW. Many of our existing clients tended to migrate to this area for holidays and retirement. Wauchope is a thriving community and one that we feel is going to continue to grow. The opportunity to rejuvenate the local saleyards is also very exciting. With approximately 100,000ha of grazing country across the district, there are a lot of very good operators in the area and we would love the opportunity to support them in any way we can. There is a lot of history in these yards and the previous operators have done a great job, and we intend to build upon that legacy. Can you introduce us to the team that will run the Wauchope branch? We are extremely lucky to have recruited a great local team in John Corrigan and Lana Jones, both of whom have strong connections to the area and the industry. John has a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to livestock and in particular the local markets. Having been involved with the Wauchope Saleyards for the past 20 years, while also running his own cartage and contracting business, John is the ideal person to service our livestock clients in

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this area. Speak with John about yard sales, Moving into 2022 what are your AuctionsPlus, feedlot and processor markets. predictions for not only rural sales but Lana, being born and bred at Rollands livestock investments? Plains and with a passion for agriculture and in The whole east coast of Australia is particular horse sports, has taken to her new experiencing some of the best seasonal role like a duck to water. Having previously conditions on record. This, coupled with strong studied animal science at university and now export demand, will continue to underpin our completing her real estate qualifications, Lana market here. Supply chain pressures in the short will anchor the office in town and very soon be term have begun to impact the supply of cattle, providing leasing and property management but once this hurdle is overcome I think 2022 services to the area. will be another great year for I will also be spending Having been producers. a lot of time in the area involved with Real estate markets continue to with John & Lana, and I the Wauchope break records and whilst interest look forward to meeting Saleyards for the rates remain at the bottom of many of our clients and past 20 years, while the cycle, and impacts upon locals in the area in the also running his own workplaces due to COVID-19 coming months. cartage and fuel the great migration out of The agency recently contracting business, cities, this demand will continue, ran a huge cattle increasingly so for small rural John is the ideal sale with an amazing lifestyle properties. person to service our outcome for all How can our readers contact livestock clients in involved. Tell us about your team? this area. the day and some of McCulloch Agencies are a the highlights? full-service agency business, with offices in We were overwhelmed with the support for Tamworth, Quirindi, Sydney and Wauchope, this sale. We yarded over 1200 head on the day providing rural and residential sales, property and the sale was very well supported, with local management and leasing, livestock and finance. buyers and vendors and plenty from further Please give the team below a call to discuss any afield. Some very good quality calves and heavy of your needs. bullocks were yarded along with some nice John Corrigan 0427 871 157 lines of cows and young heifers. We had good Lana Jones 0458 372 428 support from online buyers on the larger lines Daniel McCulloch 0429 613 332 of cattle with some lines going to as far north as Guyra. Wauchope office (02) 6585 2142

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*The Guaranteed valueofofyour yournew newororapproved approved demonstrator Lexus at the of your finance contract, as determined by Lexus Financial Services If you to decide return *The GuaranteedFuture FutureValue Value(GFV) (GFV) isis the the minimum minimum value demonstrator Lexus at the endend of your finance contract, as determined by Lexus Financial Services (LFS). If(LFS). you decide returntoyour car your car to to Lexus at at the the agreed agreedGFV, GFV,which whichwill willbebeput putagainst against your final payment subject to wear fair wear and conditions tear conditions and agreed kilometres being met. The information providedprovided is generalis ingeneral in Lexus theend endofofyour yourterm, term,LFS LFSwill will pay pay you you the your final payment subject to fair and tear and agreed kilometres being met. The information nature. You should to determine determinewhether whetherLexus LexusOwnership Ownership Solutions is appropriate for your individual circumstances. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply.Ownership Lexus Ownership GFV nature. You shouldseek seekyour yourown ownfinancial financial advice advice to Solutions is appropriate for your individual circumstances. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Lexus SolutionsSolutions GFV products are available Lexus Financial FinancialServices, Services,a adivision division Toyota Finance Australia Limited 48 002 181, AFSL and Australian Licence 392536 products are availabletotoapproved approvedcustomers customers of of Lexus of of Toyota Finance Australia Limited ABNABN 48 002 435 435 181, AFSL and Australian CreditCredit Licence 392536 Images indicative only. Images indicative only.

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Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i191

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Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice

Kate Wood-Foye - Business Illuminate

Alistair Flower - In the Front Bar

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Vanessa Lawrence - Style Vibe Savvy

Nathan Tomkins - From the Shaker