Greater Port Macquarie Focus - Issue 100

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

March 2014 // issue 100

editor's note.

editor.

from the

jay beaumont.

Welcome to the March issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS. We made it!

This edition of FOCUS marks our 100th!

FOCUS was created in October 2005, and we launched our first issue for December 2005.

Since then we are proud to have produced something special every month.

Each edition really is a snapshot/timepiece of what is happening in our local area and as we look back on 100 editions, there is a lot of history that has been celebrated.

We've interviewed over 2,000 people, including locals and visiting artists, created over 8,000 unique adverts for local businesses, and taken over 250,000 photos.

Thank you to everyone who continues to support FOCUS and contributes to what we do each month, both internally and within the community also. We would like to extend a special thanks to Kate Wood-Foye who has contributed 100 Social Scenes! Thanks Kate INSIDE THIS ISSUE March for FOCUS is always the time of year when we take the opportunity to invite our local business women to take centre stage and promote themselves and their causes.

As always, they are a vibrant group of some of Port's best business minds - check them out starting on page 42.

contacts.

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS: 4/74 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 PHONE: 02 6584 7433 FAX: 02 6584 6733 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au TV: www.focustv.com.au Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors.

While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Greater Port Macquarie Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 86005 Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2009-2014 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

Wauchope will be seeing purple this month, with the annual Lasiandra Festival staring on March 3 - another bustling community with lots of passionate locals ready to welcome visitors.

And for the Blues and BBQ (and the beer!) fans, we look forward to welcoming you and your guests to the inaugural Blues & BBQ Festival on the Town Green on March 28 & 29, where PMQ will play host to Australia's largest BBQ competition! Entry is free from 9am - 2pm and $25 a ticket after 2pm. Tickets at www.bluesandbbq. com.au HANDS ACROSS THE WATER Last month I spent 5 days in Thailand riding 500 km on a push bike to raise money for a charity called Hands Across the Water. A big thank you to Sue Jogever and the team at Coast Front Reality, who contributed to my ride and helped me raise much needed funds to build a home for HIV infected children who were living in tents. My sponsored child, Dan, is pictured above. If you would like to attend the ride next year, please drop me an email.

Jay Beaumont – Editor jay@focusmag.com.au

SPECTACTULAR SHORT FILMS WITH SOUL Celebrating 23 years of short film excellence Flickerfest is Australia’s leading short film festival.

EDITOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

2007 Business of the Year 2009 Winner Professional Services 2010 Winner Professional Services 2010 Winner Business to Business Choice Award 2011 Winner Creative, IT & Communications 2012 Winner Creative, IT & Communications 2012 Finalist Excellence in Business 2013 HALL OF FAME

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Annalise Montgomery

Flickerfest 2014 brings ‘Spectacular Short Films With Soul’ to the Glasshouse, screening Best of Australian Shorts – a collection of entertaining, inspiring and award-winning Australian short films.

annalise@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont

Flickerfest is Australia’s only Academy® accredited and BAFTA recognised short film festival.

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ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones chrissy@focusmag.com.au

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COPY EDITORS: Jo Atkins / Reg Brookhouse jo@focusmag.com.au / reg@focusmag.com.au

TRAVEL EDITOR: Susie Boswell winwin@portpr.com

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

of the ancing Dwith hastings Stars P R E S E N T E D

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greater port macquarie focus 3

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You

Homelessness

Ahlia Westaway-Griffiths & Peter Carnaby

Matters Day No he didn't

The Homeless are often forgotten in the Lucky Country ... sadly, it is the reality for many - often through no fault of their own. The Youth Homelessness Matters Day (YHMD) committee is seeking to raise awareness and provide practical assistance and is seeking your help. Peter Carnaby from Youth Housing Support tells us more ...

P

eter, tell us about yourself and your role with Youth Housing Support.

I have called Port Macquarie home for almost 20 years and I love all that it has to offer, especially the beaches. It's such a diverse place with stunning natural beauty, rich culture and down to earth people. I feel so blessed to live in such a wonderful part of the world.

I've always been very passionate about social justice and caring for the most vulnerable people in our community. My involvement with homeless youth began in the late 1980s, when I worked with a church based streetwork team in Sydney. It was a very organic approach to meeting people's basic needs of food and shelter, as we scoured the streets in our renovated bus.

I now co-ordinate a service called Youth Housing Support (YHS), auspiced by Community Housing Ltd, a national not for profit affordable housing provider in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area. The YHS service targets young people who are homeless and at risk and aims to see them have a safe, secure and affordable place to call home. We provide practical assistance and supported housing for young people who lack strong family support and social networks.

Who is involved with the Youth Homelessness Matters Day (YHMD) committee and what roles do they play; what services are they connected to locally for youth?

The YHMD committee is made up of a dedicated team of people who are directly engaged with homeless youth.

Peter Carnaby (YHMD Chairperson) - Youth Housing Support (auspiced by Community Housing Ltd) Peter provides direct services to young people who are disadvantaged and homeless, including tenancy and financial management workshops, assistance to identify, secure 4

greater port macquarie focus.

and maintain the best housing solutions, and transitional supported housing. Peter is also involved in a number of networks and projects, acting as a strong advocate for young people.

Ahlia Westaway-Griffiths - Port Macquarie Hastings Domestic & Family Violence Specialist Service Ahlia’s role sees her specialising in Child and Youth Support work, working in crisis accommodation with women and children experiencing domestic and family violence, often resulting in homelessness. Ahlia works with young people providing case management, case co-ordination, referrals and advocacy. Ahlia is also involved in the LoVE BiTES domestic and family violence and sexual assault prevention program, in the Hastings. Ahlia chairs the Hastings Youth Workers network and is involved in community development events and networking such as White Ribbon Day, Teddy Bears Picnic and various youth events.

Alison Neale - Mid Coast Tenants Advice Service Alison's role as a Tenant Advocate is to offer advice and advocacy to all Social Housing and Disadvantaged Tenants (including young people) which may include representation at the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal. In her role Alison can empower tenants to assert their legal rights, while at the same time being made aware of their legal obligations. Young people are particularly disadvantaged in the rental market, increasing the chances of youth homelessness.

Other key members include: Sarah Mason from Vinnies Youth, Cassie King & Wendy Smyth from Christo Youth Services, Baz Brien from Reconnect.

Describe for us the current statistics in relation to Youth Homelessness in the Greater Port Macquarie Region.

The image of homelessness that most people think of is the older person sleeping

on a city park bench with all their possessions in hand. These are called 'rough sleepers'.

Homeless youth are much less likely to do this because of the risk to their personal safety.

Homeless youth are sometimes referred to as the 'hidden homeless'. Counting them is difficult, because they are not clearly identifiable and because they are usually transient, moving from place to place sleeping on a couch, hence the expression 'couch surfing'.

YHS statistics show that just over 500 young people (including accompanying children) sought assistance in 2012-2013.

These statistics include couch surfers, tenancies at risk of eviction, rough sleepers and young people in housing crisis from severe overcrowding, relationship breakdown, domestic violence and conflict.

YHMD is on in April; what are the key messages you are trying to promote this year?

YHMD aims to celebrate the strength and resilience of young people experiencing homelessness, provide opportunities for public support for the cause and break the stigma surrounding homelessness. This will better position the profile of youth homelessness on the political agenda.

What YHMD events are being held?

7 Days 'Couch Surfing' This ‘couch surfing’ event will involve living as if you have no home for 7 days. You will be required to stay at a different house each night while still completing your normal activities during the day. Couch surfing will commence on 3 April and culminate in a public sleepout on 9 April at Town Green in Port Macquarie.

You can participate by being a ‘couch surfer’ or being a host for one or more nights. For further information, please contact us via email below.

Q & A Forum: A panel of specialist homelessness and mainstream experts will convene at Rydges

to discuss the causes and effects of youth homelessness. Anyone interested in hearing more or asking questions is invited to join us from 5pm on 9 April. Limited seats are available.

Public Sleepout: The general public are invited to join the YHMD team to sleep on Town Green to experience first hand a night on the streets.

This will help us raise public awareness and send a clear message that youth homelessness is not OK. How can locals get involved in these events?

We would like to invite the community to get involved in this year's YHMD events by taking part in any or all of the above events. If your workplace/business would like to take part as a team, we encourage you to nominate a 'couch surfer' while the remaining team members open up their home and offer a couch for a night or two.

Please contact us by email for more information and registration hastings.nsw.yhmd@gmail.com How can locals who are supporting real couch surfers help them to get help where do they start?

As anyone supporting a young homeless person would know, young people are not homeless by choice. While we acknowledge there are young people who 'like to break the rules' or 'choose to be homeless', these are not the majority. Young people are often fleeing abuse including physical, sexual and emotional, they may have mental illness or have been living with someone who has mental illness or serious family breakdown.

We thank anyone who has given a homeless young person somewhere safe to stay and encourage them to contact any of the Youth Services mentioned above or email the YHMD committee, where we can refer you to the appropriate support service.

Thanks Peter.

inside this

Issue 100 - March 2014 Michael Bailey

16.

Michael Bailey, CEO of UAV Vision, designs and builds camera systems for aircraft.

Formerly Michael worked for Hovercam in the UK, who were recently awarded an Academy Award at the Oscars for scientific and technical innovation.

Sam Lewis

21.

For Sam Lewis, 2013 was also a year to remember. With sporting achievement after sporting achievement in triathlon, it is hard to believe that this young man has not long turned 16.

Both Sides

32.

David Hobson and Rachel Beck have joined their respective talents to produce Both Sides a wonderful musical odyssey that will showcase David’s amazing operatic style and Rachel’s warm and wonderful voice in ways you’ve never before experienced.

35. Baby Animals 69. Angus Gill 76. March for Melanoma 80. Lorraine Haddon 110. Hastings Photography Group Inc.

usual suspects.

the

11. what’s on for March 24. eat featuring local restaurants 27. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 37. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 65. starguide with Terri 72. tourism with Janette Hyde 73. travel with Susie Boswell 86. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti 87. real estate with Greg Trembath 87. landcare with Estelle Gough

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

www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/focus.mag www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

greater port macquarie focus 5

focusinterview.

B L U E S

A N D

B B Q

F E S T I V A L

Anni Piper is currently touring in the USA, but is looking forward to playing in Port Macquarie at the Blues and BBQ Festival.

ou’re appearing at the Blues

on resonator guitar.

and BBQ Festival in Port Mac-

It’s something I try to

quarie. Have you been here

showcase, because

before?

he’s just so good. Phil

It would have to be close to ten

is a newer addition to

years since I’ve performed in Port Macquar-

the band. He is a rock

ie. I remember waking up to your gorgeous

solid drummer, and I love

river view. I was with a record label from

his dry sense of humour.

Melbourne for many years, so most of my tour routes were down south. I’m looking

G etting to play the House of as in Chicago w s s ue Bl as it’ pretty special,io us such a prestigmajor a d venue an ” centre for Blues.

“

hold my instrument

Not that I don’t make a pretty mean pulled

anymore. After he was

pork in my slow cooker at home. How-

born, I found it difficult

ever, Black Eyed Sally’s in Hartford CT was

to get back into the music

incredible and a clear winner so far. Their

industry. I decided to record

Both the guys are fabulous

a good quality demo CD. It turned

travelling companions, which makes a

pork and beef brisket were great, but the BBQ chicken made my eyes roll back in my head.

forward to the drive, and I hear the Pacific

big difference when you’re stuck in the car

out to be good enough to win Best New

Highway has a lot more dual carriageway

for days on end.

Talent at the Australian Blues Music Awards

What does the future hold for Anni

in 2005.

Piper?

than in days gone by.

Tell us a bit about your style of music and your band.

Although I hate to pigeonhole myself,

Our stage show is very energetic. I use a wireless guitar system, which allows me

You have played extensively through

Undoubtedly there will be more meat

to get off stage and interact with the audi-

the USA. What have been some of the

related events on the horizon. I need some

ence. I often do the splits on stage, provid-

highlights?

down time in Australia, though. I’m almost

Getting to play the House of Blues in

finished a three month USA tour as we

my music can probably best be described

ing my outfit is suitable for such feats of

as Texas Blues. Stevie Ray Vaughan was a

flexibility.

Chicago was pretty special, as it’s such a

speak. I missed Christmas, New Year, and

How did you get started?

prestigious venue and a major centre for

my birthday with my family. This has been

huge influence on me when I was growing

I come from a family of academics with

blues. I also really enjoyed recording my lat-

my first winter tour of the USA, and I’ve

of the songs you will hear in the live show

no interest or ability in music. My mother

est CD, Split Second, at Showplace Studios

decided I loathe the snow. However, I’ll be

are original compositions. Lyrically I tend

was a doctor and my father was a univer-

in N J.

back in the summertime (July/August 2014)

up, and I just love a hot Blues shuffle. Most

In my experience, recording studios are

to write about subject matter that others

sity professor of agricultural economics. To

won’t go near. For example, the song

them, the idea of their teenage daughter

usually in dodgy neighbourhoods, but this

Jailbait is about a pedophile. Chasin’ Tail is

playing bass guitar was horrifying. But I

was the first time I’ve been to a studio in

about a rogue drummer who was always

persevered and left home at age 17 to

the same building as a girlie bar. A fun time

chatting up girls at gigs.

complete a Bachelor of Contemporary

was had by all (probably some more than

Music at Southern Cross University. When I

others).

Steele on guitar and Phil Measham on

fell pregnant with my son a few years later,

Have you had a chance to try the ‘Low

drums. I have worked with Richard for

I kept playing bass in bands until I was 8

and Slow’ American BBQ?

many years, and he is an absolute virtuoso

months pregnant and literally could not

I will be joined at the festival by Richard

6 greater port macquarie focus.

Yes, I have ... and yes, it’s spectacular.

to make some more noise.

Thanks Anni.

the plug!

The Blues and BBQ Festival is on Saturday 29 March. 9am - 2pm - FREE ENTRY. 2pm - 9pm $25 a ticket.

Tickets at www.bluesandbbq.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 7

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Team Currie r e l a y

f o r

l i f e

When it comes to Hastings Relay For Life, ‘Team Currie’ certainly has proved that there’s no ‘I’ in ‘TEAM’. Raising an incredible $16,572 for the 2013 event, team captain Fiona Rodgers and her crew of dedicated ‘relayers’ are again planning to fundraise their hearts out for this year’s event on March 22 and 23. Cancer Council NSW’s Eliza Voshege talks to Fiona to hear more about their plans for this year.

ow did you and your team come to be involved in Relay For Life?

Our team started in 2012 with our beautiful friend, Lyndall Currie, fighting a rare form of cancer that sat on her heart. She was diagnosed in March 2011 and had fought for an entire year when she recruited her friends to walk with her in support in March 2012. Her group of supporters were made up of her husband, Chris, her son Noah (who was three at the time), and friends she had made through work and her mother’s group. She was such an inspiring woman full of love and hope. Her motto was to ‘Never Give Up’.

Losing such a good friend must make being involved again difficult at times ...

The following year was just the hardest. We lost our beloved Lyndall on 6 December 2012.

We rallied together to support each other during our grief. I was nominated to take on her captaincy in her absence. We were determined to do this for Lyndall and to raise as much as we possibly could with her gorgeous mum, Margaret, and sister Melissa joining us on the team and travelling from the Blue Mountains for the relay.

We were given so much support and as raw as her loss was, people rallied around us as a team.

Your fundraising efforts last year were incredible! What did you do to raise so much money?

Our team worked so hard on collecting prizes for our raffle and approaching various businesses that were either connected to us personally and work places that Lyndall had worked at, such as 8 greater port macquarie focus.

the Mercure in Port Macquarie and Sydney. The ers from all ages of the community, all there for raffle money alone came to $4,000, all of which the common goal to try to raise as much money was donated into Lyndall’s account (which she for the Cancer Council as possible and to hopehad set up in the hope of making it to the 2012 fully end the day we will hear the words, "You relay). Family and friends throughout the world have cancer". The committee works tirelessly to supported us financially, helping our team raise provide such a wonderful atmosphere, with ena staggering $16,572. My mum shaved her head tertainment aplenty. It truly makes you feel proud and was able to raise $1,364 from that, which to be a local member of the community. was simply wonderful. We also utilised social Why should Port Macquarie-Hastings locals media in our fundraising efforts, such as get behind this year’s Relay?

Facebook.

I think every single community What are you planning for member, young and old and this year? every age in between, You will see We are trying our hardshould jump on board to survivors and es of the est to collect prizes and support such a worthy carers from all ag e for ther have called on some of cause, as we all know community, all al to try the common go oney our existing donators someone who has been m to raise as much to do it again. We have affected by cancer. We uncil as for the Cancer Co pefully managed to secure need to raise as much ho possible and to hear ill Coles Port Macquaw money as possible to e w y da e end th have ou rie as our ‘ticket selling 'Y allow the Cancer Council , ds or w e th location’ for this year. I am NSW to continue the cancer'.”

8 months pregnant, but I research into prevention, am doing my very best to keep support services, information motivating and recruiting more and advocacy initiatives. It would be team members as the captain. My newborn so lovely to see as many locals as posdaughter just might be the youngest Relayer sible there raising money and working for the on the field, along with her big brother, common goal of fundraising while supporting Sebastian, who has relayed for three years! We each other in a fight back against cancer. have used Facebook to encourage our friends If any local businesses would like to donate any and family to continue their sponsorship of our prizes or even to sponsor our team, please conteam. tact me on fionafrances@hotmail.com - you can What do you love most about Relay For Life? also visit http://relay.cancercouncil.com.au/2014/ What I love about Relay is the sense of comhastings_relay_for_life_2014/Team-Currie for munity. It is a highly emotional weekend, but direct sponsorship. highly rewarding. You will see survivors and carThank you Fiona.

“

focus_travel

on the

• Legendary Pacific Coast•

FAMILY HOLIDAYS JUST GOT CHEAPER ON THE LEGENDARY PACIFIC COAST, WITH THE LAUNCH OF A NEW BEACHES & BUSH CAMPAIGN OFFERING DISCOUNTS ON ACCOMMODATION, ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES ACROSS THE NSW NORTH COAST UNTIL THE END OF APRIL 2014. amily holidays just got cheaper on

businesses. Discounted activities along the route

The Legendary Pacific Coast with the

include horse riding, golf driving, wake boarding

launch of a new Beaches & Bush cam-

and water skiing, sky diving, jet skiing, canoeing,

paign offering discounts on accommo-

tag tours, camel rides, paint balling, surfing, golf

dation, attractions and activities across the NSW

and more are available as you take a road trip

North Coast until the end of April 2014.

along The Legendary Pacific Coast.

Hop on line to www.legendarybeachesand-

Attractions getting into the family holiday

bush.com.au to find special deals redeemable

discount spirit include Dolphin Marine Magic in

with more than 210 discount coupons for some

Coffs Harbour, Ballina’s Summerland House Farm

of this region’s favourite holiday haunts through-

and Crystal Castle, Port Macquarie’s Sea Acres

out the coast and hinterland from Great Lakes in

Rainforest, The Glasshouse and Bago Vineyard,

the south to The Tweed in the north.

Nambucca’s Bowraville Folk Museum, Military

There are discounts on accommodation, some

Museum and Mary Boulton Pioneer Cottages,

up to 50 per cent off, for holiday parks, house

and the Manning Valley’s award winning Honey-

boats, apartments “glamp” sites, hotels, hinter-

comb Valley Farm.

land farm stays and guest houses.

In Nambucca there are 14 discount offers

“This is one of the largest campaigns undertaken along our iconic touring route and aims to

available till 30 April. North Coast Holiday Parks

lure visitors with generous offers in great beach

are offering a road tripper discount. Get your

and bush locations along The Legendary Pacific

card signed when you stay on a site in two or

Coast.” said North Coast Destination Network

more of their parks and your 7th night is FREE.

Executive Officer, Ms Belinda Novicky.

Other holiday Parks serving up special offers are

The campaign is a major tourism initiative

Nambucca River Tourist Park, Big 4 Holiday Park,

funded by The North Coast Destination Network

Pelican Caravan Park and Valla Beach Holiday

with its member destinations (Local Government

Park. Free glasses of wine on Nambucca River

Economic Development and Tourism units), the

Cruises, extra value for children dining at Nam-

tourism industry and proudly supported by the

bucca RSL, watersports with Nambucca Water

NSW Government's tourism and major events

Ski and Wake Sports and bonuses at the Bow-

agency, Destination NSW, through the Regional

raville Folk Museum, Frank Partridge VC Military

Visitor Economy Fund.

Museum and Mary Boulton Pioneer Museum

Legendary deals are on line for Great Lakes,

serve up a full, family holiday experience in this

The Manning, Gloucester and Barrington Tops,

great destination of azure seas, pristine beaches

Greater Port Macquarie, Macleay Valley Coast,

and rambling waterways.

Coffs Coast, Nambucca, Ballina, Byron, Clarence

The Beaches and Bush campaign offers locals

Valley, Richmond Valley, The Tweed, National

a great opportunity to rediscover their own

Parks and Wildlife and North Coast State For-

backyard or travel to neighbouring regions to

ests.

enjoy a broad range of accommodation and activities an take up the great savings.

The Legendary Pacific Coast is the iconic holiday route from the Central Coast to the Tweed

Visit http://legendarynambucca.com.au for

visit www.pacificcoast.com.au or go directly to

all the discount offers, download your discount

the Beaches & Bush campaign http://legendary-

coupons and book directly with the featured

beachesandbush.com.au/ greater port macquarie focus 9

focusinterview.

k iChoonz k

James Byrne and Michael Eyb from iChoonz describe themselves as “human jukeboxes”, promising high-energy live gigs full of excitement, fantastic music and mind blowing performances. You can see iChoonz at several local venues throughout March … check them out!

W

ho are the various members of iChoonz, and what instruments do you all play?

JAMES BYRNE (Jim) - vocals, keyboards, percussion, acoustic guitar, sequencing and lighting.

LEE MURRAY - electric guitar, acoustic guitar, vocals, percussion.

MICHAEL EYB (Mick) - drums, vocals, percussion, acoustic guitar, business.

Where and when did you guys all meet? iChoonz the band is relatively new; however, the three of us have been great mates since the dawn of time. We all grew up playing music in other bands - in the ‘90s Jim was singing in Raw Material, Mick was drumming in Circle Of Fate and Lee was in the Triple J Unearthed winning band Plug - but it wasn’t until about 1998 that we formed a band called Meester Steenky.

This was different to other bands at the time, because we used a lot of electronic gadgetry to give us a huge live sound.

Meester Steenky ended in 2001, and we all ‘got a haircut and a real job’. But in 2011 Mick and Jim felt the itch again, so we formed a band named Mumford Disben. In 2013 Lee finished up his awesome local band Mum Says Rock, and after a bit of a rest he jumped onboard iChoonz was born!

What types of music do you most like to play as a band ... and how much does this differ to what you’d listen to if you were alone listening to your iPod or MP3 player?

As the name iChoonz suggests, we are a human jukebox of songs from every party friendly genre imaginable. We’re a loud and proud covers band that works hard to ensure feet are stomping, arms are waving and voices 10 greater port macquarie focus.

are chanting for the whole gig.

Just like the old days of Meester Steenky, we still use lots of musical technology to make our sound really big and impressive! The difference now is that the technology is so good, which allows us to achieve things we only dreamt of 15 years ago. So even though we’re a covers band, we can use this technology to give it the signature iChoonz sound and blow the audiences’ minds with terrific sound and lighting. Put on top of that our silly antics on stage, and we’re in seventh heaven!

Chances are, if we needed a bit of a personal ‘pick-me-up’, we’d listen to the songs we play, because they are so damn fun - so our MP3 songs would mirror our live set.

What do you feel the best thing is about getting up on stage and performing?

Sharing the stage with each other and getting lost in the music. Many performers rely on the energy given by the crowd to fuel their performance. iChoonz works the other way by looking towards each other to create that initial spark of excitement and then projecting that energy back at the crowd, dragging them along for the ride. So they’re really being invited to be part of our world for the night, and sometimes we take the show to them - it’s pretty common to see Jim grab a drum and a handful of drumsticks and launch onto the dance floor so the crowd can jam with us. It’s crazy!

Where is your home base these days? Did you all grow up there, or move to the area?

We grew up in the local area and like lots of people went searching for bigger things on our own separate paths in locations as far away as Sydney, Canberra, Bathurst, Wagga Wagga, Darwin and Brisbane. Despite this restlessness in our 20s and 30s, we came back home to settle and have families, and we now currently reside

in Nabiac, Taree and Bonny Hills. around the auditorium that will make the whole If an audience member was going to room become part of the show, and we’re describe your band in 5 words after a show, also incorporating projectors with video to what do you think they’d say? complement the live show. We’re also offering Most of our audience members are rendered other services like a professional Emcee and incapable of speech after a gig, because we’ve slideshows to complement the formal part of blown their minds clean away! But contained the event. It’s all very exciting, and something somewhere within their mumbling would most that has never been attempted by a band likely be the words: “Now I can die happy”! around this area before.

Of all the songs in your repertoire, What upcoming gigs do you have what is the one you most like around the traps over the next to perform – and why? month or so?

There are too many Because of our new iChoonz works to choose! Maybe you direction, there are fewer the other way by should come to a gig opportunities to see ch ea looking towards and tell us what your us these days (unless al iti in at th other to create d favourite one is! you’re getting married!) an t en m te spark of exci We hear that you’re However the month of at th g tin ec then proj owd, cr e th starting to focus a March sees us play at the at ck ba energy ong for al lot of energy into the Manning River Hotel (8 em th ng gi ag dr wedding and corporate March), East Port Bowling the ri de .” entertainment scenes.

Club (15 March), Harrington Tell us some more about Hotel (22 March), Tacking Point that.

Tavern (23 March) and Martines Yes, we sure are. We’ve played a Riverview Café (29 March). heap of wedding receptions and business Where can people download your music house parties and realised that we could or find out more info about the band? really make these extra special through Our new website has all the info on our live the use of better staging, sound and lighting. gigs, as well as what we can do to make your So we’ve embarked on a mission to reinvent wedding or corporate function the best one our live show with better sound, music and ever - go to www.ichoonz.net to get all the guff. effects lighting. This is massive, because our Alternatively you could contact the local area’s entire show is already automated, including the premier booking agents via www.live2u.com.au lighting. So we are expanding the wow factor You can also search for ‘iChoonz’ on Facebook, of our show to compare with other corporate YouTube and SoundCloud if you just can’t wait bands from the big smoke. This way you can until the live gigs to see or hear us! hire an entire experience for your wedding Thanks guys. reception, engagement party or corporate event Interview by Jo Atkins. that will leave everyone wanting more!

Photos left and centre by Live2U, shot on We’re including special lighting placed all location at Port Macquarie Golf Club.

“

AROUND THE REGION//MARCH 2014

Manning Gallery Artt Fair

Good Friday Seafood Buff Buffet et

Make the trip down the highway and come along to the FIRST EVER Manning Gallery Art Fair. Explore the rich diversity of fashion, art, designer wares and gourmet food PLUS kids’ activities and guided gallery tours. A unique gathering of stallholders will be offering handmade products and a delicious selection of drinks and snacks in the beautiful surrounds of the Manning Regional Art Gallery. Kick back from 1pm with the smooth sounds of local musicians and enjoy a cold glass of wine and gourmet grub on our back deck.

When Friday 18 April.

Where: Sails Resort by Rydges Port Macquarie.

Bookings from 6pm.

Price: $79 per adult (14 years and above) $49 per child (13 years and under) or children can EAT FREE on the Spinnakers Children’s Menu.

For bookings, phone (02) 6589 5100.

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When 22 March, 10am - 4pm Where 12 Macquarie Street, Taree.

More info from 6592 5399 or www.facebook.com/manningregaionalartgallery

Kamahl at Panthers Once heard, his voice is unforgettable. A sumptuous, bronzed bass baritone, it melts across melodies, imbuing them with a grandeur that is intimate rather than remote, because Kamahl has that singular ability to make it seem that he is singing to you, and you alone.

When Saturday 22 March.

Doors: 7.15pm | Show: 8pm.

Tickets Members: $37 | Non Members: $40.

Under 18s permitted with parent or legal guardian.

more information

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Foreshore reshore Markets Handmade Art and fresh local produce.

When Saturday 8 March; 8am - 1pm.

Where Westport Park, Buller and Parks Streets, Port Macquarie.

Garden Village Op Shop

Artist Market in the Vines

The Op Shop has many collectable items, clothing, kitchenware, linen and other household goods. Come and browse, then enjoy a coffee at the GV’s Coffee Shop. Don’t forget the Op Shop at Garden Village accepts donations of household items too.

An eclectic market bringing together a vibrant and colourful collection of works by local artisans and artists. To keep up to date with what’s on at either of our markets, you can find us on Facebook - The Artist Market In The Vines & Foreshore Markets.

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Open every Wednesday and Thursday from 9.30am -12.30pm and 2nd Saturday of each month 9 - noon (8 March).

When Sunday 23 March - 9am - 2pm.

Call the Visitor Information Centre on 6581 8000, or log on to the Port Macquarie events website: www.gpmevents.com.au

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greater port macquarie focus 11

focusinterview.

2014 Port Macquarie-Hastings

FESTIVAL Local residents Betty and Bill Boyd are proud that the Kendall Heritage Society will launch the Port Macquarie-Hastings Heritage Festival this year. Betty, Bill, and Debbie Sommers from the Port Macquarie Historical Museum provide us with an overview of the festival, which celebrates our unique history and runs from April 13 - 27 … etty, what is your role with the Kendall Heritage Society?

Betty I’m the Secretary. For a quiet little village, we have some astounding people in our Society. They produce volumes of information that would be lost to heritage if they were not so skilled at what they do. There are now three physical works around the area produced by this group: the Longworth Trail & the static display of the remains of the timber train engine plus the huge fly wheel of the old Boyd’s mill, the Henry Kendall sculpture, and now the anticipated Bullock Team public art work.

What activities and events are planned?

Debbie The Kendall Heritage Society is hosting this year’s Heritage Festival launch, and there are other events across the Port Macquarie - Hastings LGA to celebrate and highlight our rich and unique heritage.

This year’s Port Macquarie-Hastings Festival commences with the official launch on Sunday 13 April at Kendall; however there are several events running across that weekend at various locations. The festival runs through until Sunday 27 April.

This year’s Heritage Festival theme is Journeys, and local museums, heritage community groups and businesses have put together a great program of events around that theme.

Events include open days at St Thomas’ Church, Douglas Vale Homestead and Vineyard and the Mid North Coast Maritime Museum at Port Macquarie. There will be guided bus, train and walking tours at locations across the Hastings and temporary exhibitions at local museums, including the Camden Haven Museum and the Port Macquarie Historical Museum.

Also on offer are astronomical discovery presentations, family history research and exploration presentations, history talks, a community church service, concert, a heritage car display and art exhibition at Port Macquarie’s Historic 12 greater port macquarie focus.

Courthouse.

Betty: The launch of the festival has been given to Kendall, and we have a great program of events on Sunday, April 13. We begin the day with our popular Poets’ Breakfast, 9am, at Kendall Services and Citizens’ Club, where the local bards produce some excellent and often humorous works and the chef comes up with a delicious breakfast. No charge, unless you are breakfasting. In the club auditorium you will discover the many presentations of work being undertaken by our groups of museum keepers, family history researchers, maritime heritage people and others …

Noon will see the formal ceremony in the auditorium that declares Heritage Week in the Port Macquarie-Hastings and Kempsey open, with Mayor Peter Besseling presiding. At the conclusion of this brief formality, the company will move on to the Kendall Town Green, where the formal commissioning of the Bullock Team sculpture will take place. We will also have the pleasure of a visit from three Vintage Car clubs.

The Port Macquarie-Hastings Pipe and Drum Band will be in attendance to pipe the dignitaries to the Town Green, then march to the railway station to welcome the 1.27pm train to Casino, which happens to be commemorating the centenary of the arrival of the first passenger train to Kendall in 1914. At that time, the Camden Haven Miss Showgirl candidates will award the Manager and Driver of the train a commemorative certificate and flowers to mark the occasion, At the conclusion of the Town Green ceremony, the Laurieton Men’s Shed choir will present a program of lusty colonial songs and as the 1.27pm train moves through the adjacent railway crossing, we will be there to give them a hearty cheer!

Where can we find out more information?

Debbie The 2014 Heritage Festival Booklet is available from museums and heritage organisations, Council offices, libraries & Visitor Information Centres.

Why do you feel festivals such as this are all comers. important to our community?

How has the timber industry shaped our Betty Once you have travelled overseas & area? recognise the deep antiquity of historical features Bill The early settlers started cutting cedar, still present in other lands, you come to underwhich was called Red Gold, the tree that saved stand the necessity for people to know, respect the nation. Then sawmills came along and the & even enjoy the history that came before the land was cleared of millable timber, after which affluence and comfort we take for granted today. the land was cleared for farming and dairying.

In this young country we only know of the long There have always been timber mills in this area. history of our indigenous peoples; there is a short Will you be sharing your experiences at the two centuries of settlement by other festival? nations leading to this current Bill At the formal ceremony to day of the multi-cultural popcommission the Bullock Team ulation. Even now, much silhouettes at Kendall Town ie ar qu The Port Mac that was here from the Green, both Ray O’Neill ge ita er H Hastings early settlers has been and I will speak on our an es id Festival prov l ca removed, only restoralo bullock driving days. r fo ity opportun e ag rit he tion theme parks such d My fathers on both an s m museu shine the to ns as Timbertown can tell sides were timber tio sa ni ga or heritage of the way the REAL men, sleeper cutters, spotlight on our d share an timbertown, Kendall, pole cutters and log and to promote ctions, lle co ic or st hi began its life. cutters.

Generally all local es with the stories and plac Debbie The Port good bushmen were; it community.”

Macquarie-Hastings was only right to follow in Heritage Festival provides an their footsteps. My family on opportunity for local museums my mother’s side was closely related and heritage organisations to shine the to the McCarthy family, one of the world’s spotlight on our heritage and to promote and best axemen being the late Mannie McCarthy. share local historic collections, stories and places I was chopping down trees at about 8 years with the community. The festival provides the old. I was a very good sleeper cutter and have an community with an opportunity to discover, official record of squaring 50 sleepers in one day. experience and share in our unique local heritage I worked in the timber industry from 16 years of and to gain a true sense of place. age ’til I was 40, then had 3 years of ‘TimberBill, you’re a champion woodchopper. What town’, bullock driving and broadaxe demonstratare your proudest accomplishments? ing, before 27 years with the National Parks, Bill I started my racing axeman days at 18 Senior Field Officer and engaged in restoration and after a short break while working with the work of heritage properties. In my retirement I National Parks, continued racing ’til I was 63, had the pleasure of squaring the main girder of when a rotor cuff operation put an end to this. the Heritage Wharf at Kendall.

I competed at Sydney Royal and Brisbane Royal I enjoyed my days of racing axemen and chainand many towns up and down the state. Some saw racing, winning many major events, also my years I attended as many as 40 shows. career of chainsaw training ... but I now enjoy my My greatest thrill was to win the father and time on my property at Herons Creek. son chop with my son, Tom, at Brisbane, against Thanks everyone.

“

focusreview.

with Julie from www.gourmetgetaways.com.au

Cassegrain 2012 Edition Noir Merlot

local . dr p

Autumn wines are my favourite. As the weather cools, I look for a wine with more body and warmth. The Cassegrain Edition Noir Merlot is a silky red, with the aroma of berries and plum and a lovely rich, cherry and sweet plum flavour. It’s a medium bodied red, with a gorgeous velvety mouth feel. The wine has benefited from maturation in French Oak, which adds to the body and structure of the Merlot.

Cassegrain 2012 Edition Noir Merlot is drinking beautifully now but may reward short term cellaring.

GOES WITH: Pork Belly or Glazed Short Ribs.

COST: $25 or $20 (club price).

AVAILABLE: Cellar Door off the Pacific Highway, Port Macquarie, or at all good bottle shops.

Image of the month.

About: Our Image of the month was taken by photograoher Kevin Fallon, who dug a hole

WEBSITE: www.cassegrainwines.com.au

LOCAL

READ

in the sand to get right down at sand level to give the out of focus foreground and make the camel look smaller than it was. Kevin then laid down on his stomach and waited until it was perfectly side profile to shoot. Nailed it, Kevin!

Photo by: Kevin Fallon. Camera: Canon 5D MkII with 70 - 200 2.8 IS L USM zoomed in..

Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email editor@focusmag.com.au

Title. Sleep with one eye open Author: Beau Johnston The Zombie Apocalypse doesn’t start in America, China or Europe. It begins in our own backyard; Sydney, Australia.

with Eric from www.theotherchef.com.au

WH

It’s 2019 and the annual Zombie Horde Parade is about to commence in Sydney. Instead of the usual cast of jovial participants in fancy dress, the Sydney City CBD is inundated by a horde of zombies flooding out from the underground train station in Hyde Park and rampaging into an unsuspecting public. A large scale brawl erupts in the CBD as people suddenly realise that they aren’t just defending themselves, they’re fighting for their lives.

AT ’ S I N

Available on www.amazon.com Search: One eye open Beau Johnston

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Video OF THE

MONTH

New South Wales produces around half of the national production of corn, but only around 20% of that production is sold as fresh corn on the cob. The balance goes into the processing sector for tinned corn kernels and other products.

Whilst it is ranked in the USA as the third most popular fresh vegetable, it sits at 10th place in Australia although national consumption of fresh corn is increasing.

And why not? It’s such a versatile vegetable and is a good source of several nutrients. It is high in fibre, as well as containing folic acid, vitamin C and niacin.

Chargrilled corn cobs are a delicious addition to any BBQ, and there is nothing nicer than a creamy corn risotto, either with chicken or crab. Cook the corn cobs in plenty of water - and don’t throw the water away! Use it as the stock for the risotto, and you won’t be wasting all the goodness and flavour in the water.

Watch on your smartphone

VIDEO BY: Bob Log III ABOUT: Bob Log III is playing at the Blues and BBQ Festival in Port Macquarie on 29 March and has a message for all those thinking of attending.

Tickets at www.bluesandbbq.com.au WATCH AT: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MT-odMwVXIM

WHERE

Corn is grown locally by4th generation grower Matt Davis at Telegraph Point and is available from selected green grocers, including Ken Little Fruit & Veg in Munster Street. greater port macquarie focus 13

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Performing at the Players Theatre from March 14 to 30. ”

God of Carnage Never underestimate the pleasure of watching really good actors behaving terribly. The latest offering from the Players Theatre is a sophisticated version of this spectator sport, in which highly skilled stage performers take on roles that allow them to rip the stuffing out of one another, tear up the stage, stomp on their own vanity and have the time of their lives.

That’s what Craig Teasdell, Gina Mansfield, Julie Johnston and Lance Thompson are up to under the direction of Jim Matsinos at the Players Theatre, where Yasmina Reza’s God of Carnage opens on March 14.

This 90-minute play is set in the Darlinghurst warehouse apartment of a wholesaler and a writer, whose son has been injured by the son of a Woolahra corporate lawyer, and wealth manager. The two sets of parents meet to ‘discuss’ the playground fight.

Fissures in the friendliness are evident from the start, as the couples sip espresso, eat clafouti, look at art books, attempt to smoke cigars and drink rum, all whilst being interrupted by calls on a mobile phone. The men gang up on the women, the women gang up on the men, and the husbands and wives gang up on each other. The play is a subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) shifting ballet of emotions and loyalties among this fractious quartet.

Haven Fine Arts Haven Fine Arts is an art gallery and working studio located on the scenic Ocean Drive stretch in North Haven.

Diane Solomon Westerhuis is a talented artist and owner of the gallery and studio. You will often find her painting and creating a masterpiece upon your visit!

Currently on display is one of Diane’s own exhibitions, “going, going, gone: species to care for”, featuring portraits of a select few species that we have lost, or that we must care for to prevent their extinction. The exhibition includes oil, paintings, pencil sketches and one watercolour.

Haven Fine Arts also has a unique range of bespoke jewellery, eco-friendly art supplies, ‘Perfect Potion’ organic oils and lotions, Flicker candles and Haven Scents handmade soaps.

The gallery is considering a range of workshops throughout 2014 - hebel carving, ceramics for beginners, watercolour, pastels, oils, and sculpture for beginners.

A must see production.

Haven Fine Arts includes a gallery and a working studio, plus materials for sale to artists who are concerned about their practice and environmental impacts. The gallery supports local and emerging artists but is not limited by these preferences.

Diane encourages artists in diverse practices to exhibit, using a variety of techniques and materials, who wish to share images or tell stories with their artworks. If you are an artist who is ready for an exhibition, contact Diane on 0400 602 321.

Bookings: Glasshouse 6581 8888 or online www.playerstheatre. org.au or at the Players Theatre 1 hour prior to the show.

Visit the gallery from Wed to Sun between 10am - 4pm.

Other times by appointment.

14 greater port macquarie focus.

Lynn Mooney North Coast Sales Edstein Creative Stone has a heritage that dates back to 1896 and has been supplying monuments to the people of NSW throughout the years. Today the business is a state of the art company with industry leading technology for the production of a range of stone products, including the Traditional Monumental Line, Stone Benchtops and more recently, Stone Landscape and Pool Paving.

When the time comes to select a monument, our staff work closely with families in an effort to guide them through the process of choosing a fitting memorial for their loved one no longer with us. We have a wide range of memorials to suit any taste and budget, and our caring staff can assist with the selection. We also specialise in additions to existing monuments and restoration of older monuments requiring some tender loving care to restore them to their original condition.

Lynn Mooney, our North Coast Sales Consultant, is available in the Hastings and Camden Haven region every second Wednesday by appointment, so should you have any requirements, please feel free to contact Lynn on 6551 6266 to arrange an appointment.

greater port macquarie focus 15

focusinterview.

Michael Bailey, CEO of UAV Vision, designs and builds camera systems for aircraft. Formerly Michael worked for Hovercam in the UK, who were recently awarded an Academy Award at the Oscars for scientific and technical innovation. As a key player in the original development and design of the gas turbine engine powered helicopters, Michael was invited by Hovercam’s Phil George and Gifford Hooper to travel to the USA for the Award ceremony …

ichael and Phil, thanks for your time today. Please share your professional background with us …

Phil I used to be in the Royal Navy, where I did diving and I was an electronics engineer. This gave me a basic understanding of electronics and when I left, I started working as a radio/television engineer – this was back in the ‘80s, at which point my hobby was flying radio controlled helicopters.

At that point I was headhunted by the BBC to fly a helicopter they’d built with a camera on the front, to film their wildlife programs. They needed a skilful pilot, so I tried that for a while and liked it – and I decided to start a company doing this myself – this company is called Hovercam.

We were growing and needed an intern, and this is where Michael Bailey came along.

16 greater port macquarie focus.

He’d left school … green! … and talking about greens, he didn’t like eating his vegetables (laughs) – but at some stage I beat him into submission! Michael was naturally better on computers than I was – I was old school, and computers were new, so he was able to pick up on the new technology. He was able to use computer drawing programs, CAD, much better than I could …

I’m still running Hovercam today, travelling the world and working on projects in Hollywood …

Mike I started flying model helicopters when I was 8, and that’s when I met Phil – at the local flying club. He was the ultimate dream in terms of flying skill … I used to watch him flying this helicopter around and landing it, and he was like a celebrity … this was back in the early days before autopilots, tail rotor gyros, with old scabby engines in the freezing cold in England.

This actually taught you to fly a little bit better, because you’d sit in the back of a car! You’d park

your car into the wind, and if it was raining you’d stabilised camera systems for unmanned aerial sit under your tailgate and fly your helicopter vehicles, conventional aircraft, Navy vehicles and while you tried to stay warm! even robots. These can be used for firefighting, I went to college and studied to become a by the police, for surveillance, ground control and nursery nurse. I got in touch with Phil, as he many other applications. had a vacant position, and I continued to do the It’s said “necessity is the mother of course while I worked as a mechanical engineer invention”, so when you both worked apprentice with Phil. I started working for Phil in together to come up with a better engine ’96 ... yeah, I was green … and had several years’ design for your radio controlled helicopters, learning. I filled in on a few jobs as a pilot, I was a what was the need you were trying to meet? cameraman – I was hanging out of Phil’s full-size What did you think you could do better? helicopter with cameras, as he’s also a helicopter Michael There’s a camera system called a pilot, and I would operate the camera from this.

Steadicam, which is what a man can wear as We would design, make and then operate this he walks along like in the Rigby games - you equipment and learn how to improve the product see a camera operator running around with over time. a contraption on him and a floating camera Phil and I came to Australia in 2003 on a job, and then you have a full size helicopter with a and I loved the place … so three years later, in camera. A full size helicopter can come down to 2006, I sold everything up and moved here. I a height of about 300 feet on a film shoot, and started UAV Vision … and here I am today! then a Steadicam can get from 6 feet … so there So Michael, what does UAV Vision do? was nothing in between.

Mike UAV Vision was founded in 2006, Phil: A Steadicam is great for low level the day I came to Australia. I was down in carrying, but if you want to film at higher levels, the west of Sydney, and I had a business you need a crane. We were trying to do it partner then by the name of Grant Hughes, all in one … so you could film along a and we were making UAV (Unmanned flower bed, hop up over a tree, and Aerial Vehicle) helicopters – 50 then keep going up into the sky kg helicopters, gas turbine and enter helicopter world; powered and 3 metres long, so, it became a three for surveillance, scientific dimensional camera, reasons (i.e. going rather than a staged ’s So now, that e w out to find marine/ two dimensional … do what we ed wildlife), power pole lis camera. That’s bi ta -s make gyro r fo s inspections … we what film em st sy camera al ri ae did this for two d directors like! You ne an unm tional en nv co , years and designed can fly between es cl hi ve hicles a lovely machine for trees, chase a car, aircraft , Navy ve .” the CSIRO, then we follow it through a and even robots decided that making tunnel, then pop up cameras would allow us over a cliff. to actually make money.

How long did it take There’s an old saying: “How to perfect the Hovercam do you make a small fortune in … or indeed, is it still a work aviation? Start with a large one!” in progress?

So we used that, came up with a business Phil From ’91 is when my business initially model and started to make money making started, and it grew from there. It started as camera systems for the unmanned aircraft. piston engines shaking and vibrating and getting So now, that’s what we do … we make gyrowobbly shots and maybe having one useable

“

focusinterview.

“

It was the 86th Academy Awards for scientific and technical Innovation, so it was for the unsung heroes behind the scenes creating the technical wizardry.”

shot after the day’s filming. So, it became about tweaking everything, stabilising the helicopter and making it better each time … the whole process was crying out for a better engine to power it. It was constantly finicky, tuning these carburettors all the time; the engines would be out of phase or unstable, so you’d have to crash land – the big next step forward in engine technology came in roughly 2001-2002, when Michael was working for me, which was the gas turbine engine.

A gas turbine engine is designed for an aeroplane, which is really a jet engine, but we wanted to make it turn rotors through gearboxes.

It was quite complicated to come up with a design to make a helicopter fly with gas turbine power. This is why Michael and I sat down together to come up with a design that was revolutionary – it produces more power, it’s more reliable power, and it’s also very smooth, so there was no vibration that we were used too. And, the fuel was cheaper too!

Michael The other advantage was it was safer too, as it was less likely to fail.

Phil And these processes are still being finetuned today … everything’s becoming smaller and lighter, and nowadays there are autopilots too … it’s an ongoing process.

Why was Hovercam nominated for an Oscar?

Phil Specifically, the award was for USA, Hollywood, recognition of me and my business partner, Gifford Hooper, for the ongoing improvement of the Hovercam system. So, originally in 1991 when it was built, it was a struggle, but in 2002, when we put the gas turbine engine in and where Michael’s work came in, was when we had the most interest. Mike’s

work helped us big time – it gave us smooth of kilometres away. Probably most relevant in airframe, which helped us to do the job better, Australia is we work with firefighting aircraft; and we became recognised in Hollywood for we have gyro-stabilised camera systems that fly being able to do those jobs. around while there’s fire bombing going on, with So, when my business partner and I were their thermal infrared technology being able awarded the Oscar, we wanted to to identify where the hot spots invite Mike out to accept the are and pinpoint them within award with us as well. a 10 metre geographic What was the location … experience at the Everything we do Oscars like for you? is locally based – A gas turbine ed Michael It was software design, engine is design ch hi w e, an pl exceptional. It was hardware design, for an aero gine, lots of fun - lots of electrical design is is really a jet en to make but we wanted champagne, the all manufactured rough it turn rotors th Beverley Hills Hotel within Australia gearboxes.” … It was a massive and designed and night. And great thanks assembled in Port to Joan at Street Smart Macquarie.

Clothing, for helping me We moved here to look dapper in the tux!

Port Macquarie back in Phil It was the 86th Academy 2009 because of the lifestyle, Awards for scientific and technical from Sydney West. My wife and I Innovation, so it was for the unsung wanted to start a family, and we figured heroes behind the scenes creating the technical this was the place to do it! wizardry.

What’s you company’s mission Such a great honour … so moving ahead statement? now, Michael, what’s on the agenda for UAV Michael We make bespoke systems for Vision? particular high profile customers and look after Michael We don’t concentrate on the film what the customer wants; it’s all about the industry, because when I moved to Australia customer and them succeeding in their mission. and stopped working with Phil, I wanted to be We have several competitors – there are about honourable and not compete against him, so we 5 worldwide, and most of them are in the US. moved into the surveillance industry.

Technology is becoming better and better …

We create aerial surveillance systems; we so about 50 – 60 percent of our work here is in have a camera that can track a car or several research and development. people and zoom into objects from a couple Our mantra is to be the best – not necessarily

“

the biggest, but the best.

What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in the industry, Michael?

Michael It’s all about the technology.

We’ve had to change how we process the data: image processors and DSP (Digital Signal Processors) weren’t very powerful four or five years ago. Mobile phones have made this easier for us; mobile phone processors are very powerful, they have image processing capabilities, they have floating point operations, so we can do all of our mathematics very fast. That’s probably been the biggest change for us …

So, to finish up on a lighter note, what do you both do for leisure? Do you both still fly helicopters for fun?

Phil I have a toy at home, a Huey, and occasionally around once a month I might go out and have a bit of a bash, but not so much any more. It used to be a hobby, but now I’m doing it as a business, I do enough flying.

Leisure time for me now is diving!

So … you’ve gone from one extreme to the other! From up in the air, to under the water!

Phil (Laughs). Yeah, well when I was in the Navy I was a diver. Just yesterday, I went diving in a cave, playing with the sharks at Fish Rock.

Michael I have toys too, but rarely get to use them anymore. I get to do a lot of full size flying with the job, both rotary and fixed wing flying, and I get to travel extensively. For fun, I have a two and a half year old daughter and a beautiful wife, and I spend most of my time with them and building our house!

Thanks gentlemen.

greater port macquarie focus 17

18 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

The Hello Koalas Sculpture Project has received over 150 artist design submissions. The challenging task now is selecting just 50 for the large scale one-metre high fibreglass koala sculptures that will form The Official Hello Koalas Sc Sculpture Trail from September 2014. Port Macquarie Hastings Council is the principal sponsor. he Hello Koalas Sculpture Project has received over 150 artist design submissions.

The challenging task now is selecting just 50 for the large scale one-metre high fibreglass koala sculptures that will form The Official Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail from September 2014.

Port Macquarie Hastings Council is the principal sponsor.

“Hello Koalas has inspired people on a regional, national and international scale,” says Project Manager Linda Hall. “The design ideas, while very diverse, have one theme in common – every artist loves and respects the Koala!”

Community Champions are being invited to sponsor one of the fifty koala sculptures and support this significant community and cultural tourism project. Thirty-three sponsors are already in place, including Billabong Zoo, Charles Sturt University, Primary Healthcare, Panthers, Rydges Port Macquarie, Southern Cross Austereo, Ascot Park, Emerald Downs Golf Course, Sails Resort

by Rydges, Ricardoes Tomatoes and Strawberries, Port Macquarie News, Little Brewing Company, Focus Magazine, Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, Observatory Hotel, Carbon Reduction Institute, World Par-Tea and The Corner Restaurant at Macquarie Waters.

A happy meeting at the launch of the Hello Koalas project in December has led Community Champion Forestry Corporation of NSW to invite local artist Pauline Roods to paint a local forest theme and tie in with a future school education program.

Bago Vineyards has chosen to keep the job of designing and painting their sponsored koala sculpture in the family by engaging their talented daughter, Kellie Mobbs. Kellie, an accomplished

des textile print designer in her own right, says: “ 'My Amaze-ing Koala' design is a reflection of the bush magic experienced at Bago Maze/ Vineyards. It encompasses the spirit of the native bush scape and lilly pilly maze surrounded with seasonal grapes. The artwork features the native bottlebrush, kangaroo paw with splashes of wattles and gum leaves through a subtle breeze amongst the spirals of the Bago Maze. The design is a positive statement on the Australian Bush and native wildlife preservation.”

Community Champions, Brett and Jacqui Jones from McDonalds Port Macquarie have elected to go with a surf rescue theme. They are proud supporters of the Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club and see their sponsorship of a Lifesaver sculpture design as further supporting and profiling two Aussie icons – the lifesaver and the koala!

Port Macquarie resident, Suzi Fischer submitted a design for an Ironman Koala. Suzi says: “It represents those athletes who dedicate themselves to training for the Australian Ironman Triathlon, held every year in Port Macquarie. I founded Balmoral Triathlon Club (back in 1989, when I lived in Sydney) and have wonderful memories of my triathlon days. I moved to Port Macquarie three years ago and look forward to Ironman every year when I cheer on my old friends from Balmoral and my new friends from Port Macquarie”.

Cassegrain Wines will be giving their sponsored koala a genuine French theme when the sculpture is sent to Paris next month to be painted by Australian artist, Sophie Corcoran, who is living and working in Paris and enjoying the inspiration and creative energy of this great city. Sophie is looking forward to decorating this 100% Australian made fibreglass sculpture with

a wonderful Parisian scene before it joins the Margret said: “When I became aware that Sculpture Trail at the winery. local Member of Parliament for Port Macquarie Another sculpture is heading to the Leslie Williams was committed to making USA, although it won’t be returning! Texas our region more accessible for people with Children’s Hospital in Houston, host of the dementia, the idea of creating a design to Global Alliance for Arts and Health promote dementia awareness for annual international arts and one of our koalas took shape. health conference in April A phone call to Melbourne 2014, has purchased artist Kerry Smith-Taughkin, CO M M U N IT Y a koala sculpture who connects people CH A M PI O N S, for its permanent with Alzheimer’s and I U CQ JA D BR ET T A N art collection. In a school children through M O FR JO N ES collaborative art art, commenced the ’S LD A N O M CD making initiative, R IE A U creative process and CQ A M RT PO D TO the 450 delegates now we have Kerry’s H AV E EL EC TE RF will contribute their beautiful design for one G O W IT H A SU E.” EM TH fingerprint to an overall E CU R ES of our 50 koala sculptures. design of fingerprints Hopefully, it will help on the koala sculpture. The demystify the perceptions that fingerprints will celebrate each people have around dementia.“ person's distinctive sense of identity The Hello Koalas project team is and place within the global arts and health now showing Community Champions the community and create a permanent record first round of successful submissions to match of the 25th anniversary conference. sponsors with artists. According to Linda Hall, This design concept also draws on the fact an outstanding submission is the twin koala that the koala is only one of two animals with designs submitted by mosaic artists, Francessca an individual fingerprint and reinforces the O’Donnell and Vic Compton from Beechwood. importance of koala conservation to preserve the The two designs – Kalido and PK Performing species.

Koala – are a celebration of the arts in the Port Another recent coup for the Hello Koalas Macquarie Hastings Community. “We would Project was the announcement that the NSW like to see this pair of unique mosaic sculptures Premier, Barry O’Farrell has agreed to sponsor a located in the Forecourt next to the Glasshouse. koala sculpture. It will They are destined to become the “jewels in the feature an artist’s design that aims to raise crown” along the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail”. awareness of the State Government’s pilot For more information about the Hello Koalas scheme to establish Sculpture Project, log on to www.hellokoalas. the Port Macquarie Hastings region as com, email info@hellokoalas.com or call Linda the first dementia friendly community in New Hall on 0428 975 650 South Wales.

“

greater port macquarie focus 19

20 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview. nterview.

SA M For Sam Lewis, 2013 was also a year to remember. With sporting achievement after sporting achievement in triathlon, it is hard to believe that this young man has not long turned 16.

am was selected into the Triathlon NSW Junior Performance Squad for 2013/14, being the youngest of only 9 juniors selected across NSW between the ages of 23 to 16.

He has participated in the elite squad’s training camps in both the summer and spring holidays, as well as competing at National events in NSW, Queensland and Victoria.

Sam’s selection into this elite squad has been the culmination of juggling daily training sessions in swimming, cycling and running along with the demands of high school.

Success in this squad could lead to selection in higher performace pathways and later possibly the Australian Institute of sport (AIS) program.

Sam is no stranger to the podium, having been the first 'Prince' in Laurieton’s 'King of the Mountain' in August last year. He also holds the record for the most individual medals ever won at the NSW All schools Triathlon State Championships, winning 2 gold, 1 silver and 2 bronze in February 2013. He was a member of the Gold Medal winning St Paul's High School Triathlon Team that broke the state record time in the Intermediate Boys' event last year, with Sam’s 4 km run being the second fastest on the day.

As a result of his performance at the NSW All Schools Championships, he was selected in the NSW Combined High Schools Triathlon Team to contest the Nationals Championships in April 2013. At Nationals he won a bronze medal in the intermediate boys' relay - he was the second fastest swimmer (600 m) and gave his NSW team a 30 second lead on the third placed team.

Some of his other 2013 achievements include 1st U/16 finisher at the Port Macquarie Running Festival and second overall in the 5 km event. In November he

had a podium finish behind local professional triathlete Mitch Robbins at the Camden Haven Triathlon. He was the swimmer for the second placed team at the Port 70.3 ironman, having the second fastest swim time.

FOCUS caught up with It is really great Sam after his Trial Bay to be around the win and weekend at r othe people with and sm ia the Junior Triathlon same enthus from Championships … the athletes are eat for gr is ch hi for most of the NSW, w Congratulations on camps day, and I placed when we go on winning the triathlon we can or to events, as 4th in the under at Trial Bay, South West each really help push 17 year age group Rocks in February - were ” g. on other al and 16th out of 52 you expecting to come overall. out in front?

You must be pretty Although there was a fairly strong happy about that? field, I was confident of performing Yes, I was pretty stoked. well, as I was feeling good going with my What training do you do each training going into the race. week?

You are the youngest male to ever win I do four rides, four swims and four runs - I the event - 16 years and 4 months. How try to keep it even. Not all the sessions are does this make you feel about future hard; I probably only do 4 hard sessions a events and how competitive you will be? week - roughly one of each discipline. The rest A lot of the people who have won the of the time I work on strength and technique. event before have gone on to compete and As part of the Triathlon NSW Junior do very well at a professional level.

So knowing that I have won this event gives Performance Squad, what do they assist you with? me hope that I could definitely go on to win They help me with my skills and racing some other ones at the pro level. habits. It is really great to be around other For example, there is the 70.3 event and people with the same enthusiasm, and the also the European season, which I would like athletes are from NSW, which is great for to compete at and see how I go. when we go on camps or to events, as we can You have just returned from Brighton, really help push each other along.

Victoria for another big event meet - tell You turned down an invite to the us about that.

Australian U/19 Triathlon Team to So that was the 2014 Australian Junior represent Australia in London at the Triathlon Championships, for the sprint International Triathlon Union World distance draft legal. I competed in the under Championships; why was that?

19s division, which is the junior level. The Because I am only 16. I was 15 last year competitors at that event are essentially the when they invited me, and I realised that I best under 19s Males in Australia - so that still have three years to be able to go and was pretty cool to be able to race up the front

“

compete, so it wasn’t essential for last year.

It is pretty easy to get selected, as they take about 20 from each age group. I’ll give it another year or two before I go and compete over there.

You have a lot of support from your family.How does this help with keeping you grounded, so you can focus on school and pursue the sport in free time?

Yes, they are very supportive!

It can get hard to keep up with school work etc. when I am travelling and racing. So I really need their help to get to the events and make sure I don’t get in trouble at school if I get behind. (Laughs).

What are your future ambitions for the sport - what would be the ultimate event to compete in?

I hope to become a professional, but I need a back up plan so I need to focus on school for the next two years. I might have a gap year after school too.

My biggest goal would be to race at the professional level world event in Kona Hawaii.

Thanks Sam. 2014 achievements (11/1/14) 14th out 42 ITU Triathlon Oceania Youth Olympic Qualifier (26/1/14) 3rd in in U20 for the Elite Australia Day Aquathon (16/2/14) 1st Overall Winner Trial Bay Triathlon (22/02/14) 16th out of 52 2014 Australian Junior Triathlon Championships.

greater port macquarie focus 21

focusinterview.

N o r t h e r n E x p o s u r e 3

Anderson Wayne Anderson is a local artist who draws inspiration from his indigenous heritage. One of his latest works is entered into the Northern Exposure 3 exhibition at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery in Port Macquarie – an exhibition which showcases the talent of selected artists from the Mid North Coast. ayne, please share some of your family and indigenous history with us. I believe you were born in Taree and grew up in Port Macquarie ... what led you to move here?

Both my parents came from the Taree region. My maternal grandfather ran his own bullocky team in the forests around the region.

My Aboriginality is from my father’s side.

Dad’s mother was Doris Simon, a Worimi woman. I was born in Taree, Biripi country.

Dad’s work brought us to Port Macquarie, Birpai country, in 1962, so all of my schooling occurred here. Port was a sleepy fishing village at that time, with a population of just over 4,000 people. We spent a lot of time with family in Taree and Tuncurry.

What’s your career/professional background?

I began a teaching career in 1981 in Sydney, after attending University of New England.

I returned to Port Macquarie in 1995 as a Science Head Teacher after stints on both the Southern and Northern Tablelands. I am presently an Aboriginal Education Advisor with the Department of Education and Communities.

You’re a self-taught artist. What was it that inspired you to give painting a try?

I have always been inspired and amazed by traditional and contemporary art of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The dreaming stories, with connection to land and life,

22 greater port macquarie focus.

the variation in painting methods depending A work colleague showed me the brochure on what country you were from, the colours promoting Northern Exposure 3. I had been of ochres and nature and complexity comshowing her some of the paintings I had bined with simplicity: I just decided to give it a recently completed, and she suggested that I go myself! enter one in the exhibition. So I did, not really Your painting technique is highly indiexpecting it to be selected. vidual. What types of items do you use to Describe the painting you’ve placed create you artwork? Why don’t in the exhibition. How did you generally work with you create this work, and paintbrushes? how long did it take As a self-taught artist, I you to complete? have been trying various The painting has m ai My ultimate y m techniques, including developed over a p is to develo ith w r more traditional styles number of sessions. te in skills as a pa ay m le op such as dot painting.

I fi rst started paintpe a style that y tif en id n ru My idea is to have ing it at the Birpai ng lo in the s for a go and see what Men’s group. I was as being mine. A if that , ns tio comes of it. I have trying to develop more exhi bi ens.” happens, it happ also learnt weaving the technique of and string making painting with grass methods using local and was happy with grasses and plants. These the central area for experiences have led me to which I had a design in trial painting with natural grasses. It mind. In later sessions, the also connects me to a more traditional way central area was followed by the outer of painting. section. This process happened over a few What topics/subjects do you most like to weeks, as the ideas of the painting developed. paint (and why)?

What were you hoping to convey to I have no definite topic or subject, but like viewers with this painting? connecting my work to local country, a story It’s my view of the changing sky, looking of my experiences, plants and animals and through tea trees. The central branching of the sea. Other times it’s about patterns and the plant was to convey the rugged and hardy colours. Something happens that is pleasing nature of tea trees. The central area reprewhile doing the painting. sents the midday sky … the outer area the How did you find out about the Northern sky at dawn and sunset. I spent a lot of time Exposure 3 exhibition? What made you fishing both as a child and as an adult and decide to enter one of your works? have very fond memories of coastal tea tree

“

landscapes.

What would you ultimately like to accomplish with your art – do you hope to enter more exhibitions, for example, or perfect any additional painting techniques?

My ultimate aim is to develop my skills as a painter with a style that people may in the long run identify as being mine. As for more exhibitions, if that happens, it happens.

Are you available for commission work?

Where can people see more samples of your art or contact you if they’re interested?

A number of people have asked if I would do commissions after seeing examples of my work. Most of my work to date has been given as gifts to family. At this point I have said no to commission work, because I have doubted my skills. I paint for my own satisfaction - it’s a bonus if others enjoy it too.

As I become more confident with my ability, I think it may be an enjoyable challenge to complete commissions.

Thanks Wayne.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

Northern Exposure is now in its third instalment and has become renown for showcasing the vibrant creativity of the Mid North Coast. The 2014 exhibition will present a cross section of artistic practice, including sculpture, painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, mosaic and mixed media artworks.

21 March - 27 April at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery.

WHAT’S ON

MARCH

SATURDAY 8 MARCH, 8PM

WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH, 10.15AM

75 YEARS ON:

REEL DEAL

BUDDY HOLLY IN CONCERT

AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER

A tribute to the musical sensation Buddy Holly starring internationally renowned Scot Robin!

Movie & Morning Tea (morning tea: 10.15am, movie 11am)

Let’s go back to where it all began – Rock & Roll at its very best!

FRIDAY 14 MARCH, 8PM

WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH, 5.30PM

DAVID WILLIAMSON’S

ART AFTER HOURS

WHEN DAD MARRIED FURY

ART HISTORY LECTURE SERIES

FOOD IN ART In this lecture we see works of art which have decorated dining rooms, stimulated the appetite and celebrated food, from Roman times to the present.

The ‘Old Man’ is worth $100 million. He’s gone and married Fury, an American beauty queen half his age... this is no pre-nup...

21 MARCH – 27 APRIL

FRIDAY 28 MARCH, 8PM

NORTHERN EXPOSURE THREE

BOTH SIDES WITH RACHAEL BECK & DAVID HOBSON

David Hobson is one of Australia’s most renowned operatic performers. Rachel Beck is Australia’s leading musical theatre star.

A blockbuster art exhibition featuring over 30 local artists from the Mid North Coast.

Both Sides brings these two artists together in one very special and intimate performance for all ages.

02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au Government Sponsors A facility of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

Founding Sponsors

Principal Sponsors

Supporting Sponsors

Supporting Partners

THE ROSS FAMILY

greater port macquarie focus 23

Greater Port Macquarie

Cajun Salmon with Lemon Myrtle Yoghurt. from The Waterfront Resturant

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

greater port macquarie focus focus.

eat. ` Kakadu Plum Sauce.

Crocodile spring rolls w

OPEN GOOD FRIDAY - book early due to limited reservations once again this year.

Waterfront Restaurant

Restaurant Synergy

The Waterfront Restaurant (located in the rear of the El Paso Motor Inn

Synergy Restaurant & Bar, located at the Mercure Centro Hotel, where food and service works in harmony.

complex) is a family-friendly restaurant which caters for all occasions.

Whether you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary, are on your first date

Enjoy an intimate dining experience, serving modern Australian cuisine at its best.

or you're looking for somewhere to bring the family, the Waterfront is the place for you. We have a great selection of menu items, including

Intimate private dining rooms available for up to 20 guests, or for larger events, consider our spectacular ocean view roof top.

seafood, sumptuous steaks, chicken and lamb dishes. (Children's menu available.) We can also cater for special dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free - just ask our friendly staff for advice. We have outdoor balcony seating which overlooks our beautiful Hastings River. Please request a balcony table when booking if you would like to make the most of our

Balcony water views.

Good Friday: Full local seafood menu available - Including our popular Synergy platters for two.

Executive Chef Nathaniel.

fabulous view (weather permitting).

Cnr Hay & William Streets, Port Macquarie t 6583 0830 w www.centrohotel.com.au

Sunset Parade, Port Macquarie t 6583 1944

open 7 days, from 6.30am 'til 10am for breakfast; 5pm – late for dinner. Bookings essential.

open for breakfast: Mon - Fri, 7am - 11am; weekends 8am - 11am.

Dinner: Monday - Saturday, 6pm - late. For bookings please call 6583 1944.

Tuesday nights - buy one pasta get one for $5

Off the Hook

Café 66

Off the Hook is owned and operated by Paul and Narelle Walsh.

Café 66 is renowned around the world for their quality Italian cuisine and the warm family style hospitality. You can enjoy an intimate meal for two, or book a group function. There is also a daily blackboard menu to select from and a function menu that caters for all tastes and budgets.

Well we are all back at work but the sun is still out, the weather is still warm and the water looks great. Pop down and see the friendly staff at Off the Hook this weekend and enjoy the best fish chips in town.

Tuesday nights – buy one pasta get one for $5.

Hamburgers, cold drinks, your choice or grilled or battered fish with freshly made chips or salad.

Fishermans baskets, kids packs and so much more! See you soon!

The friendly staff.

Wednesday and Thursday breakfast – bacon & eggs + standard coffee, all for $10.90.

Takeaway menu also availble.

Head Chef Jamie Payten

Like us on Facebook.

Located along Port Macquarie’s Town Green. t 6584 1146 open 7 days, from 11am - late.

EFTPOS available; phone orders welcome.

66 Clarence Street Port Macquarie t 6583 2484 open Closed all day Monday and Sunday nights only.

No surcharge on Sundays. greater port macquarie focus 25

eat.

Easter Seafood Buffet.

Seafood Paella.

Mi Casa Café & Restaurant Enjoy the rustic atmosphere and Spanish vibe at Mi Casa Spanish Café, Restaurant and Tapas Bar. Wth great views overlooking the Town Green, the authentic menu brings a taste of Spain to Port Macquarie!

New Brunch, Lunch & Dinner Menu.

Try our famous 'Seafood Paella (pictured left), or the Pescado Al Horno (Baked Fish of the Day) matched with a glass of Carlos Serres Rioja Viura - perfect for a relaxing alfresco lunch.

• Friday live music and $5 beers • Try our sexy new Mi Casa Margarita!

Takeaway Coffees - Tapas - Spanish Wines

Owners Brendan & Jennis Field.

3/2 Horton Street (Located on Town Green), Port Macquarie. t 6584 4559 open Brunch / Lunch / Tapas: Wed - Sun from 11am - 2pm. Dinner: Tues - Sun from 5.30pm.

Spinnakers Restaurant + Bar Escape the bustle of the CBD and rediscover the tranquillity of the marina, with a sun kissed lunch or romantic dinner on Spinnakers Deck at Sails Resort by Rydges.

Join us on Wednesday evenings from 5pm - 8pm for live acoustic sounds and tasting plates overlooking the water ...

Wind down from a busy week at the office with our Friday Night Piano Bar, with live tunes on the Baby Grand from 5pm - 8pm every week.

Start your weekend off with a good dose of sun and fresh sea air with an alfresco breakfast amongst the yachts and stroll around the peninsula. Life is good!

DIARY DATE: Good Friday Seafood Buffet - Friday 18 April. Bookings from 6pm $79 per adult (14 years and above). $49 per child (13 years and under) or children can EAT FREE from the Spinnakers Children’s Menu

Located inside Sails Resort Port Macquarie by Rydges.

Park St, Port Macquarie at the roundabout, opposite Settlement City t (02) 6589 5100 open 7 days, breakfast, lunch, casual dining and dinner from 6.45am

Summer berry textures - white chocolate and pistachio.

Zebu bar + grill Squeeze out the last drop of summer with some live tunes, a relaxing drink and bite to eat on the foreshore at Zebu!

Pop into the bar and enjoy a cocktail or two, or reserve your waterfront table in the grill to experience contemporary coastal dining at its best.

If doing breakfast is more your thing - chillax on the water with our RISE BUFFET BREAKFAST - a huge gourmet selection including fresh juices, wheat grass, scrummy smoothies, extra yummy buffet goodies and made-to-order treats! 6.30am - 10am everyday!

DIARY DATE: James Squires Beer Degustation Dinner Wednesday 19 March at 7pm - $75pp Five Courses with five Beers - tickets available from hotel reception.

Scampis Seafood Bar & Grill Scampis Seafood Bar and Grill enjoys magnificent ocean views and a delicious menu, taking advantage of local fresh seafood and the expertise of an experienced head chef.

Scampis is the perfect place to relax and enjoy lunch or dinner.

Owners Mark and Jackie Holt.

40 William Street, Port Macquarie t 6583 7200 open 7 days for lunch and dinner.

Breakfast Saturdays and Sundays only.

26 greater port macquarie focus.

Executive Chef Adam Tait.

Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie t 6589 2822 w www.zebu.com.au open 7 days, from 6.30am - late.

Bar open noon daily. Bookings recommended.

focuseditorial.

1 World Par-Tea kerrie McMahon

louperri.

from The Stunned Mullet

putting it out there Once upon a time there was a little concept called ‘word of mouth’. It was a very simple yet powerful thing that didn’t cost any money at all.

You didn’t have to do anything to get it started; it happened all on its own, whether you liked it or not. nd sometimes you didn’t like it - its influence being so very potent that it could make, as well as break, your business.

There used to be no other form of promotion that could possibly create such a dramatic impact on your bottom line. It was as simple as that.

Things have changed a bit since those good old days. Nowadays we have this thing called ‘social media’. Social media seems quite benign at first glance. Really it’s just a way to see what your friends are up to and look at their photos. Isn’t it?

Certainly many of us thought this back in the day, only 5 or so years ago when we first started up our Facebook accounts.

Well, Facebook turned 10 on 4 February this year, and now boasts 1.23 billion monthly users, or about one-sixth of the world’s population. And if that’s not enough, those users have made 201.6 billion friend connections and have clicked the ‘like’ button 3.4 trillion times. That’s a lot of liking! (Stats courtesy ABC news: 4 Feb 2014).

And over the course of a month, 12 million Australians check their Facebook; 9 million of us check it every day. Considering that our entire population sits at about 22 million and that many of us are ageing or not yet literate - that is quite a significant chunk.

It should come as no surprise then that there has been a rather enormous shift in the marketing and promotion of businesses toward social media. Ah, ye olde word of mouth - those were the days.

Nowadays social media is a necessity for every business. An up to date and relentless online presence is crucial. And this no longer just means keeping your website current. Although there are others (twitter, pinterest, instagram etc), it has become essential to have a Facebook page. And not just to have it, but also to regularly post on it – not just about your business, but to post witty, funny, insightful and current stuff about life in general on your page.

It’s advertising, Jim, but not as we know it ... it’s word of mouth on steroids – “Big, HUGE” as my

A

19 month old says, as she stuffs a giant chunk of porridge in her mouth in the morning.

It means loads and loads of people can view a snapshot of your business at any given time, that the collective consciousness is yours for the taking whenever you are inclined to click a button.

You would think it might be overkill, that people might not want to see your shameless self promotion come up on their newsfeeds when all they want to do is cyber-stalk their ex-boy/ girlfriends. But the beauty of the business Facebook page is that only those who are actually quite fond of your business actually choose to like it in the first place.

Really it’s pure genius; you can talk to the people whom you are most relevant to, your most loyal customers and what’s more, you are visible to all their many friends – who potentially are in your target market too.

Social media - it’s amazing! Well, it’s pretty darn powerful anyway. But if good old word of mouth can break as well as make your business ...

Hmmm ... it would appear there’s no better way to name and shame than to air a grievance on a public forum. Yep - watch your telecoms provider squirm and, cool as can be - and even better - let your friends and their friends watch too. And think about it - no endless telephone queuing, no passing the buck to someone in a different department.

Just post it on the Facebook page. Instant and allpowerful genius! So turns out this social media stuff is more than just checking out what your buddy had for breakfast, or wondering if you look as old as everyone else in the Class of 1990.

As our digital world spirals into forces beyond our control, business owners are forced to be ever more prudent with customer service and quality control.

Not a bad thing that justice can be served and the big guns no longer have such omnipotent status.

But we still must remember that one person’s trash is another’s treasure and that the longer we spend hunched over our i-whatevers and not out there experiencing the real world, the more out of touch we actually get.

OFFERING 180 TEAS + EXCLUSIVE BLENDS FOR THE DISCERNING TEA DRINKER HAS PROVED A BOON FOR RELATIVELY NEW LOCAL BUSINESS, WORLD PAR-TEA. errie, since opening your premises in Port Macquarie, how has your business developed and grown for the tea products? Since moving World Par-TEA to Port Macquarie and starting our online business from home, within two years we required a bigger premises. Hence the warehouse/ shop; that was 2½ years ago. We now supply over 250 wholesale businesses Australia wide and retail online and in our retail shop.

our beautiful, elegant decor. Our menu has

As we have such a passion for great teas, we wanted to showcase our teas with food, so the ‘Tea Rooms’ came about - where we infuse a high percentage of our food with tea - now offering morning/afternoon teas, light lunches and our special TEA HIGH TEAS in a relaxed atmosphere.

destination? It’s certainly worth a trip to the

What are some of the best selling products, and why do customers love them? Our loose leaf teas, of course! Maybe our quirky and traditional tea ware too. We ethically source our teas straight from the tea fields, which means they are extremely fresh and most are organic or Fair Trade.

service and serve with fine bone china; the

Tell us about your morning teas, high teas and luncheons? With the opening of the ‘Tea Rooms’ just 10 months ago, we have had such an amazing response ... it’s so lovely to see the elderly’s faces as they reminisce with

Chef’ in developing our own bottled iced tea.

been created with good old fashioned recipes, whether it be scones of the day, gluten free cakes, Monte Carlos, hummingbird cake, Vietnamese chicken and prawn salad, Thai chicken sausage rolls or our vege burgers, just to name a few. High teas require 24 hours’ notice - bookings required. Most food intolerances catered for with notice.

What makes your shop a great industrial area. Our tea shop and Tea Rooms/ café have that wow factor effect. We hand blend/package and distribute over 180 teas + exclusive blends for boutique cafés, restaurants, Naturopaths, Iridologists, health retreats and delis. We pride ourselves on our customer decor is lace table cloths, vintage style. A perfect venue for birthdays, hens’ parties, baby showers and celebrations.

What is new for 2014? We now offer relabelling and repacking for tea minded businesses, and we’re working with ‘The Other Thanks Kerrie.

The Tea Rooms are open Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 3pm, call 6581 4833 greater port macquarie focus 27

28 greater port macquarie focus.

focus

editorial

Coffee and Tea BUZZ

Port Macquarie Golf Club

Harry&Vicki

from Café Buzz

Ethiopia is regarded as the birthplace of coffee; the famous story of the goat herder lingers to this day. In Ethiopia, we can find all-important elements for growing coffee: favourable altitudes, ample rainfall, a suitable temperature and fertile soil.

These ideal conditions have enabled coffee to your local Café BUZZ and can be taken home as grow throughout the country. beans, or you can ask the barista to make you Two of these regions are Limu and Yirgacheffe, one in house. The reward will be yours, as you both of which are represented on the coffee savour the flavours on your palate. wall of your local Café BUZZ. Every bag of BUZZ 250 gram coffee you Ethiopian Limu Washed Grade 2 is purchase will give you a FREE regular one of the premium gourmet coffee to enjoy at your Café BUZZ coffees worldwide. The bean to take away. Sit down and try a is medium in size and has different coffee. a distinctive rounded Tea lovers have a special Every bag of shape. Limu is one of treat with our Chocolate BUZZ 250 gram our best sellers and a Tea, a quality Sri Lankan se coffee you purcha coffee people enjoy Tea mixed with nibs of EE will give you a FR at y jo for the mouth flavours dark chocolate ... it is en regular coffee to ke ta to and sweet chocolate rich and smooth with the your Café BUZZ aftertaste. creamy taste of chocolate. away. ” Ethiopian Yirgacheffe BUZZ sends FOCUS our Grade 2 coffee is grown best for making their 100th high in the mountains in a edition. very small area of the Sidamo Please have a look at the new region - a rather expensive-tasting, BUZZ website. I have been working premium quality gourmet coffee worth every away updating everything to ensure you can penny. Notable is the unique taste - remarkably order your BUZZ tea or coffee direct from your soft, smooth and rich. More on the delicate side computer. with a medium body, excellent balance, and Please send your thoughts or questions to what many call a soft perfume-like aroma. harry@buzzcoffee.com.au Both of these delicious coffees are available at Harry.

What’s On at the Port Macquarie Golf Talented chefs Alex Hallam and Keiran English Club? With raffles and entertainment, have a fresh autumn menu now on offer, a delicious new menu from with a variety of choices to suit Aspire restaurant and a all tastes. Overlooking the relaxed atmosphere with picturesque golf course with Live t en nm friendly service, you ai fresh local seafood, succulent rt ente ! ch ar are sure to enjoy your steaks, burgers, $10 lunch M during 15 ay rd tu Sa ’ iff w experience with us. specials and more! Take a ‘Ske from 5. 30pm ch ar M break from the heat and Live entertainment or AND Steve Tayl enjoy a relaxing meal at during March! ch - Friday 28 Mar Aspire.

Open 7 days, lunch ‘Skewiff’ (Pictured from 8. 30pm.” and dinner.

Above) Saturday 15

“

March from 5.30pm Steve Taylor - Friday 28 March from 8.30pm.

Ask about our FREE courtesy bus to pick you up and take you home for your next visit.

Experience award winning dining at Aspire @ Port Macquarie Golf Club.

Come and join us for BINGO every Monday from 10.30am and every Thursday from 6.30pm, Wednesday raffles from 5.30pm with FREE Trivia and Members Badge Draw, and Friday night raffles and Members Badge Draw. Poker Thursday and Saturday nights- $10 entry.

Great Golf, Great Food, Great Fun!

“

greater port macquarie focus 29

The Point Fundraising Event The Point is Port Macquarie's newest restaurant and café.

meals in the fields

Chef Boyne was born and raised in Port Macquarie and studied

The laying hens are on their way back to their roost as the last rays of a gorgeous summer’s day disappear behind the hills to our west. We take our seats at a stylish long table set in the middle of a green paddock at Near River.

culinary career in London for 8 years, returning back home to Port

Already we’ve been served an exquisite culinary delight as a starter and in my hand is a wine matched to the course from Cassegrain wines. My partner has selected a beer from the Little Brewing Company as the beverage of choice. The produce for the evening’s dinner has been grown and raised in the very fields we are now sitting in, and then it has been brilliantly crafted and presented by Head Chef Blake Dyer and his award winning team from the corner restaurant.

they will be launching The Point Port Macquarie. This dynamic duo

Truly local food matched with local wine and craft beer.

Kylie at the dinner service! Kylie is hoping to raise $10,000 + for

The ultimate in authentic paddock to plate dining.

Multiple Sclerosis, and will be running 1,500 km between now and

Meals in the Fields. Two chefs. Five courses. Sourced from the fields you’re sitting in. the corner at Near River.

November to raise money for Multiple Sclerosis Australia.

Book at www.mealsinthefields.com Call 02 6587 6004 or 0412 995 256.

some great food, great views, and to donate and support a

30 greater port macquarie focus.

at the TAFE in both Port and Brisbane before continuing his Macquarie earlier this year.

Alongside his partner, Gabriel Eagleson, who was born in LA and has worked with 5-star hotels in Phoenix, New York and London, have a true passion for hospitality and look forward to bringing their global experience and enthusiasm to this beautiful Australian seaside town.

On Monday 24 March, the boys will be holding a fundraising event and donating 50% of their entire proceeds to help raise funds for Kylie Bulmer and her MS Challenge! This event runs all day and includes breakfast, lunch and dinner. Meet

So come out to The Point on Monday, March 24 to enjoy great cause!

Ken Little's Fruit & Vegetables Aussie avocados will soon be back on, with the supply increasing as the month marches on.

Prices will adjust accordingly. The Sheppard variety is the best buy.

All the new season apples are in the shop now except for Pink Ladies. They will be arriving mid March.

This month the stone fruit will start to disappear; however, sugar plums and Blue Teagan plums are still good eating.

New season William pears are a real treat and very reasonably priced. Extra good for the kids' lunch boxes.

Aussie navel oranges will be coming in mid March and the Valencias will soon be finished.

March is a good month for veggies, with local corn and beans the pick of the crop.

greater port macquarie focus 31

focusinterview.

Both

SIDES David Hobson and Rachel Beck have joined their respective talents to produce Both Sides – a wonderful musical odyssey that will showcase David’s amazing operatic style and Rachel’s warm and wonderful voice in ways you’ve never before experienced.

See these two brilliant performers cross genres, perform duets, and enact scenes from some classic musicals, all in the same show at the Glasshouse this month …

H

i David. Where did the inspiword! If we’re going to deconstruct Both ration come from to start a Sides - how did the idea for this show come musical career? about?

I’ve always been interested Rachel and I had just finished a tour of Chitty in music. I grew up singing in Chitty Bang Bang for a year and a half, and we church choirs, local musicals in Ballarat and I did just got on so well and our artistic temperabands when I was a teenager - lots of Rock ‘n’ ments seemed to marry … we did a little bit Roll and Jazz and Pop when I was at university; of recording to begin with last year during the I was also writing it. I had intentions of being a show, and our voices seemed to blend well and lawyer, but music got in the way. then we thought, “Wouldn’t it be great to actuI was more interested in being a composer ally do a whole show?” at this stage and probably being a We definitely have a wide palette jock. I’d written this Rock Opera to choose from to be able to [based on Macbeth] and translate stories; it’s a great my voice was heard on a mixture of Classical, music There’s a lot of demo tape. One of the theatre, Opera, popular humour in the people who heard it songs, Celtic, and a way of show. It’s the kind ve was from the Victorian of introducing audiences I lo performing that State Opera, and I did a to music they haven’t ve doing; I really lo in live audition as well … heard before and to our f el unpacking mys They thought it would personalities … it gives .” ce en front of an audi be a good idea for me us the opportunity to really to do a tour of The Pirates perform and also to be more of Penzance … way back in dynamic, as opposed to just the ’80s … so I went and did doing one character in a show. the summer tour, they produced my Is there anything else you’d like to work; then I went on as the lead, and they mention about the show? liked what they saw …

Fans of Rachel who haven’t seen me before I guess in a way my voice was pre-diswill probably be surprised to see me doing difposed to that [opera] even when I was singing ferent things and vice versa. Rachel’s talent is so my Pop; I had a high tenor voice and it had a wide and her voice is so rich and warm; she’s a slight operatic ring, I guess ... great communicator and she’s a great dancer I went to Italy and learnt languages and then and an actress as well … went to France to learn language, and I was There’s a lot of humour in the show. It’s the given a scholarship by Joan Sutherland and Rich- kind of performing that I love doing; I really ard Bonynge to learn, so literally was thrown love unpacking myself in front of an audience. in the deep end … and I fell in love with Opera A character masks a lot of what your natural obviously as a composer too, as I really enjoyed disposition is, and in these situations you can be the rigour of deconstructing these pieces and so free and really show the audience sides that finding out why they work … they wouldn’t generally see …

Deconstructing - that’s an interesting Thanks David.

“

32 greater port macquarie focus.

H

i Rachel. Give us a brief summary of your entertainment background …

I started in Cats and went on to This Man, This Woman, Hey, Dad! (the Channel Seven show), then a couple of city theatre company shows and Me and My Girl, Beauty and the Beast, Cabaret, Singing in the Rain, Les Miserables …

Did you always know from an early age that you were going to end up as a singer?

I think I hoped. I don’t think I knew, but I think you have that passion and that itch that you’re going to end up a singer … not a singer, a performer, really, for me …

Where did you and David first meet?

We met at a Carols by Candlelight. We do Sydney and Melbourne Carols, lots of the singers do it together, so we met doing that - and he’s always been extremely delightful.

And because he’s from the Opera world and the singing world, I don’t think I ever thought that our paths would cross as they have - so it’s been a wonderful surprise.

You were in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang together ... what was that experience like for you guys?

It was great; we had a fantastic time. You become very close to the people you play opposite and fortunately if the chemistry’s right, it’s a really fun experience - and that certainly was the case with David and I. Both Sides must be a very different type of performance for you, as you’re able to combine so many songs from different genres into one performance …

Yeah, that’s the wonderful thing about creating your own work and your own show. You do get to really put in and sing exactly what you’ve always wanted to sing or what you think would suit you, so it’s actually a bit of a combination of things that we both think are right.

We’ve got a new CD that’s attached to the show as well that the ABC’s putting out …

What are some of the pieces you’ll enjoy

performing most in Both Sides?

There’s a whole Irish section that’s really great. The duets with David are fantastic. The opening number is me singing Cabaret and he’s singing an operatic song over me as well.

There’s a beautiful Sound of Music section and My Fair Lady section in it as well, so it’s quite an eclectic mix. I turn up and do a bit of an Opera song as well, so we’re tackling new genres, which is fantastic as a performer.

What would you say to encourage people to come along and see the show?

It’s two performers having a lot of fun and exploring different sides of the performing arts and making fun of life. It’s such a wonderful array of different types of music, so many different genres, so there’s something there for everyone.

What else is on the agenda for you this year?

I’ve got my first solo album coming out in three weeks on 7 March, which is extremely exciting, through the ABC. I’m extremely excited about that and putting a lot of work into it and David’s and my show … we’re touring, we’ve got our album as well coming out for Mother’s Day, and I’m doing a one woman show as well which I’m writing at the moment, which will premiere at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival - so I’ll be back in Port Macquarie with that for sure.

Thanks Rachel.

Interviews by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

See Both Sides at the Glasshouse on 28 March at 8pm.

Tickets $69.90 adult, Glasshouse Friends Members $64.90.

Contact the Box Office on 6581 8888 or visit glasshouse.org.au for further info.

greater port macquarie focus 33

34 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

Hot off the success of their first studio album release in 20 years, This Is Not The End, and its Top 20 ARIA Album Chart debut, iconic Aussie rockers Baby Animals are thrilled to be embarking on a regional tour after much success in the capital cities and performances at A Day on The Green.

ince exploding onto the scene in 1991 Bortolin on bass - both amazing players. with the release of their first single, So we can get to know a bit about your music Early Warning, Baby Animals have be- where do the songs come from, who writes come one of Australia’s most successful them, and what kinds of processes go into creatRock outfits. Their eponymous album ing a new album? spent six weeks at No. 1 in Australia, We write it all ourselves. We spent about 8 months going eight times platinum. This Is Not The End, the writing and getting all the songs together. We deband’s first full-length release since 1993, marked a cided to work on it quite quickly and not to spend return to the charts. It made its debut at number too much time in the studio - we preferred to do a 19 on the ARIA Album Chart and number lot of pre-production first. three on the Australian Album Chart We put it together and mixed it in just a when released last month. few weeks - we kept it true to the kind FOCUS caught up with Suze, of stuff that we like, and it sounds le ab the band's lead vocalist about like a Baby Animals record. g in be st ju But e the enthusiasm they have for It's been a while since a to take that tim ople the band.

Baby Animals album was pe r fo d an ay aw t you So the Baby Animals are released - why so long, and to embrace wha u yo back, new album, new what were you doing in are doing when not invigoration - how has between? do come back is want we the tour been going so We did an acoustic record something that e want to take lightly; w far in capital cities? for Liberation about six years e th t of to make the mos It has been amazing, ago, and before that I did a solo .” ity un rt oppo actually - it was great to see record and went and started a so many loyal fans. There is a family. particular group of guys that come Just getting back in the room with to every show! Which is crazy, but nice Dave and doing the acoustic record made to see.

Dave and I realise we wanted to do another Rock We are getting out this month and heading to the record. regional areas, so we are looking forward to that.

The album debuted in the top 20; that must For the newer audiences, tell us about yourhave been a great feeling? selves and the band members.

Yes, it was actually, and more so because we did it Well, there is myself on vocals (Suze DeMarchi), all ourselves; we didn’t have the help of a big label, Dave Leslie plays guitar, and he has been playing with and it was very much driven by social media. me with for about 25 years and started The Baby So it was nice to get in the top in the first week, Animals with me, Mick Skelton on drums and Dario but we still have to get out there and work. But

“

because we love what we do and enjoy doing it, it is not a chore.

You say about the return album tour you feel more driven - can you explain that to us?

I think it is more that we don’t want to mess around with things; we did have a lot of time off, and we don’t want to waste this chance. The time off was the busiest time in my life, because becoming a parent really is the toughest job there is. But just being able to take that time away and for people to embrace what you are doing when you do come back is not something that we want to take lightly, and we want to make the most of the opportunity.

You’ll be appearing at LUSC in March - what type of show can we expect to see?

We will play a lot of the old stuff and a lot from the new album too. It's just a really good night of Rock, Baby Animals style.

We have a good time and we hope everyone else does too.

For old Baby Animals fans, what would you say to them about coming along?

Wear your boots and God bless!

Thanks Suze.

the plug!

Tickets are on sale now for the Baby Animals at the Laurieton United Services Club on Saturday 8 March. $40 Pre-sale or $45 at the door. Tickets can be purchased from Laurieton United Services Club or at thebabyanimals.com

greater port macquarie focus 35

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

W H E N D E AT H C L A I M S A L OV E D O N E , T H E R E ’S N O O P T I O N B U T AC C E P TA N C E , A N D G R I E V I N G B E G I N S. W H E N A C H I L D G O E S M I S S I N G, E V E N F O R H O U R S, I T ’S U N T O L D A N G U I S H . B U T W H E N T H E Y ' R E N O T F O U N D, S U S I E S E E S F I R S T H A N D, T H E AG O N Y G O E S O N A N D O N.

I

’m at a loss for words, sitting at the table at The Stunned Mullet with Robin Wright, and something of a stunned mullet myself. What can I say as this woman’s sad blue eyes fill with tears of pain, as she tells me something she can barely grasp: her 19-year-old daughter, her only child, is Lost. At. Sea. Somewhere in the immense vastness of the South Pacific between right here on the coast where we’re lunching and New Zealand, across 2000km of ocean. That she’s been missing for nine months now, since she set out among a crew of seven on a sailing adventure from Opua, in NZ’s Bay of Islands, headed for Newcastle. The voyage should have taken 14 days. The boat, the Nina (the Spanish name a cruel irony, it means “little girl”), has not been heard of since June 4.

I’m departing from lunching as usual with a leading local identity to speak with Wright – who’s indeed been a presence in Port Macquarie for the past three months, here since November with husband Ricky from their home in the US, in what’s been in all well more than a half-million dollar search for their little girl. An unlikely location to launch search flights? Not at all: when NZ authorities abruptly abandoned hope for Danielle and her crewmates shortly after they went missing, the Wrights from their home in Louisiana engaged aerial searches out of New Zealand and, here, aviator and charter operator Jack Hart of Macquarie Air to fly rescue missions, scanning the vast seas while it was thought Nina could be drifting westwards in current towards our coast. In fact, she could be anywhere in the world’s biggest ocean. Then, when a satellite identified a possible sighting around Norfolk Island, the parents came here to fly out personally on the search. A Sydney current affairs team made them jump through pre-production hoops, planning to meet them in Norfolk, raising their hopes of interest in finding the vessel, but ultimately failed to follow through. It was one of many bitter disappointments in a saga of too little at first and, ultimately, clues ignored, or that came too late.

Yet many have been generous with help. The cost of chartering aircraft big enough for the

36 greater port macquarie focus.

ROBIN WRIGHT

long range sorties, with two pilots, refuelling at Lord Howe Is and carrying the Wrights as spotters, was enormous. Rescue groups calculate $20,000 a day, including $1600 an hour for fuel. Fund-raising by various kind donors helped supplement the Wrights’ life savings. Hart opened his home here to the couple, offering domestic normalcy amid their despair, including them in his family Christmas. After flying in January to quiz NZ Transport Minister Gerry Brownlee and Kiwi maritime identities involved with Nina - and returning devastated - they were offered R&R at the beach in Coffs Harbour, at the home of police hero Al Sparkes, once a PTSD sufferer How long does d who understands hope persist, an it es dealing with at what point do tibly ep misery. Sparkes, dissolve imperc ow H n? io at into resign on a family oceanpast NZ’s northern “land’s on?” go pe ho es long do sailing adventure, end”, Cape Reinga, for with a daughter Newcastle. She hit 110km Danielle’s age, met gale-driven storms with 8m the Wrights five years swells in the Tasman Sea and on ago in the Caribbean. In June 3 crewmember Dr Evi Nemeth, 2009, when the GFC suppressed an eminent computer software scientist, demand for their building supplies spoke by sat phone to an NZ meteorologist who business, the Wrights sold their home advised riding out the weather. A text from and went sailing for over a year in the the boat on June 4 reporting her storm sails Atlantic archipelagos. Danielle, 15, and with shredded and that she was drifting with bare a typical teenage peer group, didn’t want to masts wasn’t received, only discovered towards go - but was exhilarated on her return. The the end of June when relatives pressed the Wrights had met another sailing family, also US State Department for phone data access. with a child around Danielle’s age, a son. The Authorities say no EPIRB alert from Nina was ever teenagers kept in touch. When the family invited logged. An NZ search, only launched three weeks them to sail from NZ last year the Wrights’ later, was abandoned in early July. New Zealand new business-broking enterprise was busy in a decided the boat had sunk without warning: reviving US economy, but Danielle had finished without warning even enough to deploy one of her uni exams. She was given her return airline several signal modes and, they insisted, without ticket to NZ in May, for her 19th birthday. She trace - even any flotsam. So the Wrights retained left home on May 12, celebrated her birthday a US satellite tracking service and volunteer in New Zealand on May 18 and set sail in Nina scientific search and rescue group to scour likely on May 29. The story since has many twists and regions of the ocean from space for clues to the turns. The boat, a reportedly well-maintained vessel’s whereabouts. When the suspect fuzzy 21m schooner with an accomplished skipper image resembling Nina’s dimensions was found and 8-man life raft, set out from Opua sailing near Norfolk and the US spy-satellite agency

“

ref refused to help with an enhanced resolution, the Wr Wrights began their investigation in person.

It’s been fruitless, as far as finding Nina and Da Danielle. But has it meant a dawning realisation?

W When I suggest contacting Dick Smith, aviator an and benefactor of difficult causes, to at least piece together a coherent scenario, Wright surprises me by not clutching the straw. Ricky Wright acquired his private pilot licence here in Port, but his wife’s equivocal when I ask if they'll renew searching for their “nina”. Yet a Mexican fisherman survivor washed up on an atoll midway between Australia and Hawaii last month claims he was adrift for 13 months - so how long does hope persist, and at what point does it dissolve imperceptibly into resignation?

Optimism - to acceptance of likely reality?

Does stepping into the scene of the loss assist understanding its probability, its inevitability?

Or: How long does hope go on? Wright alternatively welling with tears and smiling fondly at the odd quirky childhood recollections every mother holds dear – says she and Ricky have a strong faith, so she knows her daughter’s OK. Either she’s in heaven and at peace, or she’s drifting or shipwrecked, surviving on rainwater and fish, eventually to be found. Wright and I tuck into an elegant blue-eyed trevalla with tahini, radish, baby eggplant and pomegranate pearls, and sip bottled water, though my guest’s appetite is low. I hope Danielle too is having a meal of fish and fresh water today, somewhere in the ocean out there beyond our lunch table, as her 20th birthday draws near.

Lindsay Moller Photography

Below. Michelle Brainwood & Jamie Andrews at Sails Resort

s o c i a l s c e n e

Photo Credit Renee Bell Studios

Below. Shelley Spurrier & Christine Klinkenberg

with Kate Wood-Foye from Rydges Port Macquarie.

Right. Winner Lady in Red 2014 - Sandra Thompson with Eric Wilken Below. Erin Maher, David Walker, Kate Kelso with Bethmay Jones for her 40th b'day celebration

Left. The Ladies of Dragesque

Photo credit to The Cinamon Effect

Photo Credit to Lindsay Moller Photography

Social/scene.

Dare I say it or admit it - one hundred - a rather grand number and the very age of this magazine and indeed, this little column. t has been written in the wee hours of the morning or on a sunny afternoon on a beach in Vietnam, on a cruise boat off the coast of Mexico, at a ranch in Arizona and my balcony at home with stories from all of the fabulous Port Macquarie locals who share their celebrations every month. Size does matter and considering we are a relatively little place, we have a cracking little social scene filled with gutsy little get togethers that would put many a city to shame. Engagements, birthdays, weddings, dinners, brunches, high teas, baby showers, hens' hi-jinx, drag shows, fashion events, race day debauchery, awards dinners and general naughty nights out - we have it all, with plenty more to come.

Bethmay Jones, a fellow shy and retiring Aquarian, celebrated a day and night of 'DeVine' Naughty-40-ness celebrated with forty of Bethmay’s family and friends. Not one to do things on the small - the brunette beauty and her happy entourage were transported by the Bush to the Beach Bus to take in the sights and flavours of the Hastings, including Peak Coffee, Black Duck Brewery, Little Fish/Innes Lake Vineyards, Bago and Long Point Vineyards.

The merry band of party goers enjoyed many a local drop with hilarious antics across the town with tales of hysterics resulting in sore cheeks for a week! As the story goes, what happened on the bus, stays on the bus! The evening

celebrations continued at Zebu, where guests from Canada, New Zealand, Sydney and the Gold Coast, school friends from Kindy, Brian Corrigan and Sharon Grose, more Aquarians, Helene Gilmour and Jeannie Peake and the wonderful Avery clan enjoyed a ‘naughty' night sampling cocktails and more. Well done to hubby Scott, who covertly organised the special trip, and happy birthday Miss Bethmay.

Blue Mountains couple Michelle Brainwood and Jamie Andrews took the plunge after a romance that began back in high school when the pretty blonde caught his eye. It wasn’t until a few years later when Jamie left school that the couple started dating. Nine years later, they said “I do” on top of Harry’s Lookout in front of 80 guests, including Best Man Brendan Price and Matron of Honour Linda Bryan. The couple arrived at Sails Resort in Cruise in Style Limousines, with guests relaxing on the water and enjoying a three course feast. Michelle and Jamie’s wedding cake was created by Atmosphere Cakes, décor by Jill at Wedding Perfections, makeup by Hayley Dwyer at Le Rouge Make Up Artistry, flowers by Meredy of Glasshouse Flowers, Videography by White Studios and guests jumping in and out of the Happy Booth. The celebrations were captured by the beautiful Renee Bell Studios. Mr and Mrs Andrews jetted off to a relaxing honeymoon in Hawaii. Congrats, and bon voyage!

Spent a delightfully balmy birthday by the

pool in the sun with beloved family and bubbly followed by a surprise evening at Mi Casa Restaurant. Thinking I was heading out for a gals' night out, I was taken on a little wild goose chase via a certain cocktail bar then greeted by friends and their hubbies for a lovely dinner on the balcony at Mi Casa. It is fairly rare that a secret of any proportion can be kept in my place before I get whiff of the sneaky plans! Special thanks to Gemma Clifton and Sarah Ward, who organised a secret squirrel celebration - loved it - thank you! That birthday cake was ridiculously divine ... still working that one off!

Eyelashes, lipstick, bustiers and some serious booty! The brave and beautiful gals of Dragesque held their coming out party and launch at Zebu recently to a packed crowd.

Misty Boxx, Juliette de Schlong, Sweet Chilly Philly and Miss Holly Wood gave us a sneak peek of what is to come with some tasty and sometimes racy titbits from their show numbers. Cocktails and tequila-a-flowing, lots of laughs and some serious leg envy, with calf muscles that would put RuPaul to shame!

Viva La Rouge! Thank you to all of those involved with the Ladies in Red for the Salvos at Rydges. Just when I thought there couldn’t be another red dress in existence, 150 hot little numbers prove me wrong! The crimson beauties wore minis, ball gowns, cocktail, floor length, sparkly, chiffon, floral, stretch,

pinstripe and polka dot, all matched with stunning stiletto, patent, strappy heels and some seriously red-red lips! Thanks to Shanti Butterfly, City Limits, Inner Vision and Le Dãin designs for the stunning fashion and jewellery.

The gorgeous models who donated their time for the event - Marlene Stewart, Lyn and Amanda Rouse, Lillian Cavallo, Sinead Stone, Vanessa Lawrence, Rebecca Baker, Tayla Zeimer, Damian Sumner, Charlee Lawlor and Eric Wilken. Amanda Perrin-Sumner coordinated the fashion with makeup by Jolin Style and Tony Marchment Artistry, with amazing hair designs from Evelina Kemp. Matt J’s Pose it Photobooth had the girls in a red hot lather, with Lindsay Moller on the scene capturing all the fashion shots. Congrats to Sandra Thompson, who was named Best Dressed Lady in Red, with Jacquelene Fox with Best Red Accessories and Rachelle Dufty the Killer Red Heels. The gals hit the town with goody bags galore choc-o-bloc with sparkling Tsia, love heart lollipops and other cheeky treats.

It's been a whirlwind of unicycles, cocktails, body paint, leotards, feather boas, butlers, French maids, poison ivy, six inch stilettos, flappers, showgirls, gangsters, cowboys, pirates, white knights, degustation, wicked elves, black ducks, hipsters, cutthroats, Archibald, Goyte, and Don Quixote … Happy 100th FOCUS, and cheers to 100 more!

greater port macquarie focus 37

focuseditorial.

focuseditorial.

GO BLUE FOR AUTISM. Hastings Autism (HAARG) RG) is celebrating the uniquee streng strengths, th hs, ttalents alents l and achievements of people with Autism through an Autism Day at Port Panthers on 5 April; 10am to 2pm. There’ll be a fantastic kids’ activities area for children with Autistic Book your free Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and their tickets for the Day at www. siblings, parents and carers can learn m tis Au trybooking.com/ about the local services available : www.

DWPS. More info at the Autism Expo. There are will rg.au or o . m hastingsautis be seminars and our guest speakers ok .” bo ce Fa on find us include Dr Debra Costley, Ph.D - the Director of Education Development & Research for Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), who will be discussing ‘Adolescents and ASD’ ...

HAARG encourage schools to ‘Go Blue for Autism’ with an out of uniform day on 4 April. Funds raised This event hproudly sponsored by a Community Grant from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. through gold coin donations can purchase autism resources.

GR1,0IF0F0O

“

The Rotary Club of PMQ Sunrise are organising a charity bike ride for Sunday, April 13, on the North Shore. It’s called the ‘Griffo 1000’ in honour of local cycling legend Jack Griffin, who passed away last year from cancer.

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB

S

ave the date Planning is well underway for a charity ride to honour local cycling legend Jack Griffin, who passed away earlier this year. The ride called the 'Griffo 1000' aims to complete Jack's dream of cycling 1,000 km for charity.

Through four previous charity rides Jack rode 885 km and raised thousands of dollars for the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie Sunrise to donate to a number of charities in need, locally and abroad.

Leading the pack on April 13, 2014 will be Jack's son, Ray, and it is hoped that many local cyclists will join him to complete the 115 km course on the North Shore.

If your New Year’s resolution involves you getting back on the bike and motivated to complete a charity ride, then this is the ideal opportunity. Spectators and supporters are welcome to join in the fun on the day as well.

Jack completed a number of charity rides over the years and was 115 km short of completing 1,000 km for charity when he passed away. The Club made a pledge to him that we’d get that done!

Where will this year’s event take place, and what is the course like?

It will be held on the North Shore of Port Macquarie, where all of Jack’s previous charity rides took place. It’s a steady flat course. Simply turn right as you come off the ferry on the North Shore and ride up the road for a few hundred metres to reach the mustering point.

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Do you need to be fit, and does it have to be a bicycle that you ride?

Yes, each participant will need a certain level of fitness to complete the ride either as an individual for the 115 km or in a team.

Each participant must have their own bike.

What charity do the funds go to?

Hastings Cancer Trust - a fund Jack has supported in previous rides.

How can other locals get involved if they don’t wish to ride?

They can come along on the day, cheer

Our Port Macquarie Senior Citizens Club was established as a non profit organisation to maintain a meeting place for the social and recreational activities for the seniors and their guests.

Activities to benefit our members include New Vogue dancing, indoor bowls, darts, cards, and table tennis. These are enjoyed by our members seven days a week.

At various opportunities throughout the year we have bus trips, dinners and balls to allow a more formal occasion. This allows our club to

provide social and recreational needs for our members.

The club maintains the premise that you come in as a stranger, but you will leave as a friend.

If you’re over 50 and would like to meet some new friends, come and see us at 74 Munster Street, Port Macquarie. The office is open between 9am and 12pm weekdays.The phone number for more information is 6583 7149.

There is a small membership fee to join and most of our club activities are at a low cost of $2, which includes tea or coffee and biscuits.

on the riders, buy something to eat from the charity BBQ. Sponsor the event, support a rider and challenge them to complete the ride for a certain donation.

Once the 1,000 km are completed, do you have any plans to continue the event?

The focus at this stage is to finish Jack’s goal and then depending on feedback for the event from participants, sponsors, supporters and organisers, it may be something that Sunrise Rotary runs again.

The event: Entry is $75 per rider and $200 for a team of 3 who would like to complete the 115 km ride.

More details will be available shortly regarding registrations on the website. You can follow @Griffo_1000 on twitter If anyone is interested in sponsoring, supporting or participating (as an individual or team) in the event, they are encouraged to contact Janine Buesnel on 0418 418 755.

M AT E H E L P I N G M AT E

JOHN HARPER John Harper is a dryland wheat/sheep farmer from Stockinbingal, NSW. Married with three daughters, John’s simple goal in life was to be a better than average farmer and hand over the family farm in good condition to his children. Depression nearly destroyed John’s opportunity to fulfill this simple goal. Having no formal qualifications in mental health, John speaks from personal experience. Originally John became proactive because he wanted to help a mate avoid sliding into depression. In helping him John became aware that other mates were in a similar position. Indeed, many individuals in rural communities are in danger of falling into depression. A real danger in preventing depression is the fear we have in discussing mental health. John’s strategies are aimed at overcoming this stigma. John talks about what

he has observed since he had depression. The knowledge thus gained allows us to identify and address the problem of depression in ourselves, our families and in our mates. To meet John, visit the Wauchope Country Club at 10am on 31 March. More info: contact Trish Cheetham: 6585 8077.

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focusinterview.

by Michelle Newman from Newman Communications

The ‘Day in the Life’ series gives us a glimpse into the working lives of the people we don’t often see or think about, but who play an important role in keeping our community running.

organic farmer practices. attling the harsh elements His days are long and include routine work such and increasing pressure on as milking the cows and collecting eggs from the the agriculture industry, Chris Chicken Caravan, a moveable shed which allows Eggert from Oxhill Organics has the hens to roost in comfort and be moved to fresh worked on the land for more h pasture regularly. than 20 years, relying on his Chris has already completed a full day’s work own resilience and flexibility, and the strength of before most of us have had lunch, and he is still his family. working hard when we’re all getting ready Chris seeks out modern farming methods for bed. Life on the farm doesn’t pause that are sustainable both financially for weekends or holidays either. and environmentally. He became Yet Chris still finds time to certified as an organic farmer The outdoor host school excursions, 11 years ago and his small, e, work suits m train students and support family operated farming y enjo because I don’t WWOOFers (Willing Workers business near Wauchope e being stuck on th , on Organic Farms). produces organic milk and en computer. But th “I’m passionate about eggs. on I’m not that keen t of educating the public on the The 500 acre farm located ou wrestling snakes benefi ts of organic farming on the Hastings River has pipes either.” for the environment, animals, been in the Eggert family for produce and consumers,” Chris five generations and is also said. “We often open the farm home to 180 content cows and gate for groups to enjoy a hands-on 2,000 happy hens roaming on the farm experience and to learn more about the river flats. production of organic milk and eggs.

Despite the hard work, frosty mornings, hot “I like to do things differently from the norm. I’m sun and drenching rain, Chris likes working in involved in all aspects of the business and the the fresh air and enjoys a laugh – he recalls a whole chain of production, including marketing vet student trying to put milking cups on a bull, and distribution.” and discovering a deer in amongst the cows one Oxhill Organics produces fresh, high quality, Christmas morning. sustainable and nutritious foods while supporting “The outdoor work suits me, because I don’t enjoy families and contributing to the local economy and being stuck on the computer. But then, I’m not community. that keen on wrestling snakes out of pipes either,” The milk is sold as ‘Norco Perfect Organic’ and Chris said. eggs are sold under the ‘Oxhill Organics’ brand, When he’s not out in the paddocks, Chris is busy distributed between Melbourne and Noosa - and with farm-related activities like drought and flood locally through speciality retailers and farmers’ planning, staff rostering and attending conferences markets. to ensure he’s on top of the latest farming

“

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• My Day • 3.00am Wake up, get the cows to the dairy by 3.30am for milking 5.00am Feed the calves and finish up milking 6.00am Feed the chickens. Move the Chicken Caravan and shift the fences for the cows to provide fresh pasture. Irrigation and hand-feed stock if necessary 8.00am Home for the best bit of my day - breakfast with the kids 8.30am Prepare compost, attend to young stock, herd management, maintenance, wash the vat, prepare the dairy, pack eggs 1.30pm Lunch 2.00pm Get cows up for milking by 3.00pm 5.00pm Finish milking, collect eggs 6.00pm Prepare fences for the next day 7.00pm Dinner 8.00pm Back down to the farm to shift irrigation and check the baby chickens

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Tania Magon & Carol Round.

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All Round

THE ALL ROUND TEAM

from the services we provide.

What’s your business' competitive edge?

Together at All Round we have a wealth of experience and knowledge to assist our clients navigate through their financial, investment and taxation affairs. Our clients receive the collaborative, co-operative approach where we work together towards the same goals, providing the best outcome for them.

What are your areas of specialisation?

Carol is a Certified Financial Planner™ with over 15 years' experience in the industry providing investment advice to individuals to grow their wealth to provide for retirement and lifestyle goals. Not only does Carol give advice on shares/managed funds, but is also licensed to advise on property investing. As such, Carol can provide a wide ranging plan to secure your future financial freedom.

We both take pride in providing our clients personalised, professional and friendly services, Round approach works seamlessly. and our All R drives you in your business? We have What drive both always enjoyed helping small businesses, investors along their journey. As SMSF and in business owners and investors ourselves, small busine we recognise personally the challenges faced. our determination to be This only increases inc our clients succeed and benefit active in helping help

Tania is a SMSF Specialist Advisor, Registered Tax Agent and Public Accountant with over 20 years' experience in the industry. Tania provides professional taxation and accounting services to individuals, small businesses and self-managed super funds. In addition as a Xero Certified Advisor, Tania can help businesses achieve the benefits of Xero Online Accounting.

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Percival Property.

Real Estate Sales

What are you looking forward to in 2014?

We have had a brilliant start to 2014, achieving optimum results for our vendors through strategic planning and targeted marketing campaigns. We are enjoying working with our clients and love helping them to move forward. We are simply really looking forward to continuing to build on our successes.

What are some of the initiatives put into place to get your business where it is today? Building and bringing together this experienced, highly skilled and very passionate team has been paramount in our success. We are all focused on delivering first class service to our clients. Our sole focus is on them and how we can best deliver the result. All of the team input ideas, we brainstorm, we put in place the best and then set about improving that! We focus on building strong relationships

with our clients and that ultimately assists us to help our clients, which is what we all love to do. We have also invested heavily in the best technology available and are very systems focused, so streamlining our processes and achieving maximum efficiency is vital.

Where do you go for inspiration and new ideas? We love speaking with other business owners, looking at very successful companies that are outside our industry. You can learn so much from their successes and the things that didn’t work as well. People are willing to share more with you when you are not directly a competitor in their field. Our team will be attending AREC14 this year, which is the largest real estate conference in Australia. We believe by continually improving and updating our skills this ensures we deliver the best for our clients.

OUR focus IS PEOPLE & PROPERTY

REAL ESTATE SALES 106 William St, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 8606

PERCIVAL P R O P E R T Y

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Di Calder.

Licensed Sales Consultant

My business goal for 2014 is to continue to strive for the best possible results. I am proud to have joined the elite group of 15% top performers and became a Captain Club member late in 2013. This coveted award recognises highest sales results throughout the 700 strong real estate offices throughout the L J Hooker network within Australia and New Zealand.

I am driven by results and feel rewards naturally follow. My dedication to achieve is reflected in my results.

“

I have lived in Port for 33 years. I find building relationships comes naturally, and I enjoy making lasting friendships along the way. ”

LJ Hooker has supported The Australian Cystic Fibrosis Research Trust since 1998, and the network has proudly raised and donated over $5ml to this worthy cause.

Recently the team at LJ Hooker Port Macquarie assisted the Support Unit at Port Macquarie Primary School and granted the wishes of students by supplying 11 iPads as a result of fundraising efforts and donations.

If you too would like top prices and first class service, then contact this dedicated true professional ...

Di Calder 0412 65 4646 - dcalder@ljhpm.com.au

44 greater port macquarie focus.

Zoe Bevez.

Ella Baché Port Macquarie

Position: Salon Manager.

How long have you been with Ella Baché Port Macquarie?

It’s a family business, so I was practically brought up in the business, but I have been Manager of the salon for almost 2 years.

What makes you love your job in the salon? We have a great team in the salon, and all the therapists are very passionate and professional at what they do. The values and vision of the brand have shaped our therapists to be skincare experts.

Why has the family business been working with Ella Baché for so long now? My grandmother, Carol, started working with the Ella Baché brand over 35 years ago in her first salon, and we all agree with the Ella Baché philosophies of skincare.

As Madame Ella Baché herself was famous for quoting: “No two skins are alike”. Choosing your own skincare products off the shelf can be a hit and miss affair, and that’s why we always offer a complimentary skin diagnosis. Working with a brand that has the best understanding and education makes it that more inspiring and motivating, especially when you see the results.

There has been new imaging and branding coming through your salon. Anything else exciting coming up?

Yes, we have new treatments available this month, and Ella Baché is launching a new range Aromatique Detoxifying Facial, a powerful detoxifying and purifying skincare range that combats the harmful effects of everyday life on our skin.

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Susan Judd, Kelly Lamb, Ros Trotter & Kelly Malofie

Lead HQ and HR Culture.

Alex Glen-Holmes & Robyn Gleeson. Shelley Laing.

LEAD HQ

Robyn Gleeson - Managing Director - Elders Real Estate Port

Lead HQ can tailor a call campaign specifically for your business, assisting you to grow your customer base.

We are an innovative Port Macquarie based company, and our staff are locals. We work with clients to drive their business growth and deliver more revenue. We generate appointments, follow-up in sales or leads and can assist you to retain your customers and enhance your business relationships.

Want results? 'Have our people call your people today!'

Macquarie: What is your main focus for 2014? My sights are firmly set on the team, ensuring they have the most up to date tools, access to the best training and of course, personal mentoring.

What is your economic projection for the rest of the year?

It’s so exciting to see so much positivity and confidence across the board. This in itself boasts attitudes and provides a sense of relief for most we deal with daily. I see this year as one of our best yet.

What incentives does Elders have in place for the team members? The Elders Group are incredibly supportive and are continually providing opportunities for the team to receive individual

HR Culture

and team awards. We are going in for another round in March so

At HR Culture it's not just about systems and processes (although they are important too). It's also about improving communication and connections between individuals.

watch this space!

We can help you drive efficiencies in the workplace by utilising your most important asset: your people.

what I do and get a huge thrill out of assisting vendors presenting

Have staffing issues? We can help you 'Prosper through people'.

a book to help my clients.

Alex Glen Holmes - Sales Consultant - Elders Real Estate Port Macquarie: What drives your passion for you? I absolutely love their home for sale to get the very best result. I have, in fact, written Tell us about your business goals for 2014. This year has started with a big bang, which indicates growth and positivity. This year I will become an auctioneer, which will broaden my skills.

“

Friendly, focused and customer service oriented, our dynamic team come from a variety of backgrounds to deliver you results. ”

What community initiatives/charities or groups are you involved in? I have been on the board of the Chamber of Commerce for the past three years. I love getting involved in community events.

Beachside Medi Spa

What business goals have you set for yourself for 2014?

Our business goal this year is to increase our menu of services to provide our clientele with the latest non invasive treatments in the cosmetic industry.

How does your business address training needs/ education for staff/yourself? Education is so important, and information is always evolving in our industry. We like to keep up with current market developments by going to conferences and trade shows. I belong to an association that keeps us abreast of any new laws and employment issues.

What drives your passion for your role? I absolutely love seeing brilliant results with clientele; if they are happy with the result of a treatment and it gives them more confidence and self esteem, then that gives me the passion and drive to keep going.

Describe for us the benefits of doing business in a regional area like Port Macquarie. It’s not the rent, that’s for sure. But seriously, the people here are gorgeous, loyal and very friendly. Our Dr Robert and his wife Kim-Laura love coming to Port, because of the lovely people they meet here.

Aside from your products and/or services, what community initiatives/charities or groups are you/your business involved with? Beachside Medi Spa has donated to a wide range of charities and organisations over the years. The latest ones were the Hope Shop and Love your sister with Sam and his unicycle going around Australia.

greater port macquarie focus 45

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I love being “ around dogs - they’re very

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honest and will always let you know how they feel.”

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Careers Market

Marilyn Breen.

Promote your business and connect with potential future employees.

Delivering business advice and mentoring through the Small Biz Connect Program on behalf of the NSW Government is very challenging and rewarding.

The Mid Coast Careers Market is a fun and interactive, hands-on expo providing students the opportunity to engage with local industry and education representatives to discover a wide range of career and study choices. Held at the Port Macquarie Race Club, the event has always been popular and the organisers are looking forward to building on the successes of previous years by engaging 100 exhibitors.

“Last year 90 exhibitors from a diverse range of industry engaged with over 800 students and their parents, with many of those students going home with useful information and more direction in their chosen careers,” said Mid Coast Connect’s Partnership Broker Michelle Fisher. “This year we are endeavouring to showcase a greater range of local businesses that can deliver interactive information on careers available in their industry.”

Mid Coast Connect is seeking more local employers to participate in this important local event that will maximise the exposure of your business within the community. Education and training providers, as well as support services, are also welcome.

By exhibiting at the Mid Coast Careers Market, your organisation will have the unique opportunity to: • explain specific employment requirements to students, parents and teachers on career opportunities, employment requirements and pathways particular to your industry

Enterprise & Training Company Ltd.

As a frontline advisor, I thoroughly enjoy learning about the scope of our small businesses in the region and supporting them to achieve their desired goals. I am a great believer in connecting with our wonderful community and inspired by the amazing business owners in this region.

In the past 18 months, I have met with more than 250 business people and with the new subsidised programs available, I look forward to expanding those services into the wider community.

“

Through the ETC Community Support Fund, many organisations have benefited, including Hastings District Respite, REAP Port Macquarie Hastings, Wauchope High School Breakfast Club, Sailability NSW Port Macquarie Branch and many more.”

As ETC is not-for-profit, it is very rewarding to work for an organisation that gives back to our local community in our region. If you do need assistance with your business, make sure you give me a call on 0417 201 794.

• provide practical demonstrations of activities as performed in your workplace • promote opportunities for employment by having direct access to potential future employees

WORK

• support the development of skills and knowledge • build partnerships within our community

YOUR BUSINESS

SMARTER

There is no charge to exhibit, and lunch will be provided for exhibitors.

The Mid Coast Careers Market will be open to the schools and public from 10am to 2pm.

To enable your business or organisation to be part of the Mid Coast Careers Market, please contact Partnership Broker Michelle Fisher on 6562 5314 or 0448 877 953. Our website also has more information - www.midcoastconnect.com.au

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46 greater port macquarie focus.

etcltd.com.au

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Kerrie Whiteman.

The Pack Leader

Position: Dog Behaviourist and Trainer.

What business goals have you set for yourself for 2014? My goal this year is to build my mobile dog behaviour and training business on the Mid North Coast.

How does your business address training needs/education for staff/yourself? I hold a Certificate III in Dog Behaviour and Training through NDTF (National Dog Trainers Federation) and am currently doing a Certificate III in Micro Business Operations.

What drives your passion for your role? I love dogs. I love being around dogs - they’re very honest and will always let you know how they feel.

What have been some of the initiatives put into place to get you/your business to where it is today? The first was to get my Certificate III in Dog Behaviour and Training, and I’m currently working on a Certificate III in Micro Business Operations.

Describe for us the benefits of doing business in a regional area like Port Macquarie.

Living in a regional area for me is relaxing and laid back - the best move I’ve ever made.

Aside from your products and/or services, what community initiatives/charities or groups are you / your business involved with?

I'm having a stall at the RSPCA Million Paws Walk on May 25th so drop by and say hello. To find out more about my services please call me on 0404 835 285.

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Our clients can be sure that their property, which is often their largest asset, is safe in the hands of reliable, trustworthy and knowledgeable experts; and our tenants will continue to receive the responsive service they always have.”

Terri Tipper.

Position: Principal/Property Manager.

What are you looking forward to in 2014?

The internet is changing the way people search for rentals, so we’re changing too. I am excited to launch a new name and new look for my business - Rental Properties Port Macquarie.

By giving our business a stronger online presence, this rebranding will make it easier for potential tenants to find the right property, and for property owners to find the right tenants.

The new name will improve our web exposure, better capture those seeking rental properties online, and deliver higher returns and reduced vacancy rates for owners and investors.

We’ll also be welcoming new team members, including a new property manager and property assistant, to provide our clients with service that is second to none.

There are dynamic changes taking place in the local property landscape, driven by the development of education and medicine in our area. We’re building our business to service the predicted population growth and anticipated accommodation needs.

Despite the new look, some things will stay the same - like our commitment to look after properties as if they were our own. Our clients can be sure that their property, which is often their largest asset, is safe in the hands of reliable, trustworthy and knowledgeable experts; and our tenants will continue to receive the responsive service they always have.

What have been some of the initiatives put into place to get your business where it is today? Having worked as a property management specialist for 20 years, I have placed countless suitable tenants and managed

hundreds of local properties to provide owners with the best possible returns on their investment.

My concentration on property management combined with local experience, attention to detail and a prominent online presence means I am able to provide solid rental returns and ensure vacancy rates are very low.

Our business is booming, as tenants and owners alike recognise the benefits of dealing with a local property specialist who is solely focused on the investment and rental market.

Where do you go to for inspiration and new ideas? We listen to our clients and predict what the market needs.

By listening to the needs of prospective tenants, we provide useful information to investors, such as the type of properties in

Rental Properties Port Macquarie

demand and preferred locations. We also watch broader industry changes that influence the local market and share that knowledge with clients. It’s also important to stay up to date with the latest technologies, so we can make it easier for tenants and landlords.

We offer a Premium Tracker service which provides automatic email or SMS notification of properties that match unique criteria as soon as they hit the market, so renters can view properties as they are listed.

Our website also includes useful resources for property owners, online maintenance request forms and local information for out of town investors or tenants.

Inspiration also comes from building relationships and being connected with our community, through business networks and local groups.

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Kirsty Markezic.

Sales agents and sales support

What are you looking forward to in 2014?

Kirsty - I look forward to another successful year at Wauchope Real Estate and completing my Real Estate license, while furthering my skills in the industry.

Julie - I am looking forward to continuing to prove to vendors and buyers that successful property outcomes can be achieved through outstanding communication, unrivalled market knowledge and a deep commitment to meeting people’s goals.

Lisa - Another busy year with Wauchope Real Estate. We have started the year off with a record number of sales, and I look forward to continuing this throughout 2014.

Just like every year, I look forward to meeting new people in our community and of course, the chance at viewing some amazing

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Julie Slater. Licensed Sales Agent Lisa Wannell.

properties that are available in our region.

Where do you go to for inspiration and new ideas?

Kirsty - The results inspire me, there is something rewarding about building a relationship with vendors and purchasers and seeing their happiness when you have helped them achieve their dreams.

Julie - Wherever I travel, I love to look at the work of the best agents in the business.

I am constantly applying observations and learnings to further improve how I operate and deliver results.

Lisa - I like to think that my vendors inspire me and the people I work with. We all encourage each other and bounce off each with new ideas; we keep each other motivated.

What have been some of the initiatives put into place to get the business where it is today?

Kirsty - Building a tight knit team, and our attention to detail has been a major factor in our successes.

Julie - The most fundamental initiative that has driven our success is to create and deliver an integrated marketing and positioning strategy to define our competitive advantage for vendors and buyers. This clarity of purpose and clear sense of differentiation has yielded extraordinary growth irrespective of market conditions.

Lisa - I personally feel building our team at Wauchope Real Estate is a major factor in this; we are unlike any other agency in our area. From the appraisal right through to an achieved sale, we ensure every aspect is

Licensed Sales Agent

handled with the upmost professionalism.

We now have 5 sales agents that are 100% focused on listing and selling properties, as we do not involve ourselves in the rental side of things.

What do you consider to be one of the most important aspects of business?

Kirsty - Your reputation is paramount, to be a successful business in any community.

Julie - Honesty. Without it, in the short term or the long term, your reputation with suffer and ultimately you will fail.

Lisa - There are so many aspects that I feel are important. What I would regard as the most important are, honesty, knowledge, confidence, understanding and passion.

Being passionate about what you do is a characteristic that cannot be beaten.

• 2.4 acres set in cul-de-sac • 4 bedrooms, ducted A/C • Spacious living areas • 5 car garage, water tank • Situated in King Creek

$449,000

Build your Dream Home • Land size 106.4 ha (262 acres) • Level building sites with views • Power, phone, mobile reception • Fully fenced, dams for stock • 12 minutes to Wauchope E IC CED PRDU RE

Architecturally Designed • 7083m2 (1.7 acres) • 4 double sized bedrooms • 2 bathrooms & powder room • Outdoor area, wide verandahs • 5 minutes to Wauchope

Prestige in King Creek • Architecturally designed, set on 5 acs • 4 bedroom home with study • Formal lounge and dining, 9ft ceilings • Country style kitchen, open plan • Screened entertaining verandah

$760,000

Privacy, Space & Lifestyle

“Thone Cottage” • 2 acres on the Thone River • Spacious 3 bedroom home • Lounge with high ceilings & woodÀre • French doors, beautiful gardens • Verandah views of river, 20 mins to town

E IC CED PRDU RE

$699,000

$649,000

E IC CED PRDU RE

Premier Location, Beautifully Restored • 2 large bedrooms with ofÀce • Main with Àreplace & verandah • Kitchen with stone bench tops • Separate dining & living areas • Ideal location, landscaped grounds

$395,000

• 9.94Ha (24 acre) River frontage • Spacious 3 bedroom home with ensuite • Views from every room in the house • Sunroom, studio and separate living room • 12 minutes to Wauchope, suitable for stock

$749,000

Premier Position with Riverfront

AUCTION

AUCTION

EW G N TIN S LI

Two Homes in One • 2 acres parkland gardens • 6 beds, separate accommodation • In-ground pool and 2 large sheds • Large kitchen adjacent to BBQ area • 10 minutes to Port Macquarie

Phone 6586 4888 Julie Slater 0429 901 655

48 greater port macquarie focus.

Troy McKinnon 0407 002 317

Lisa Wannell 0409 125 664

Kirsty Markezic 0429 656 201

Michael Debreceny 0400 017 558

40 High Street Wauchope www.wauchoperealestate.com.au

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Buildingg real nships relationships tual based on mutual respect and support is thee key.”

WI B women in BUS|NESS

East Coast Laser and Cosmetic Clinic

Brenda Fernandez.

Michelle Newman.

Brenda Fernandez is Nurse Unit Manager and Director at East Coast Laser and Cosmetic Clinic. Brenda has great enthusiasm for keeping up with the latest effective treatments and with the best advice and knowledge for skin care. Brenda has attended many Cosmetic Forums and has undertaken advanced training in Anti-Wrinkle injections, volumisers and Laser, with the latest advanced techniques. Recently Brenda was invited to the Australasian Aesthetics Congress for Cosmetic Science in Sydney and will attend in March. This international event is a platform for professionals to share their knowledge and expertise.

What have been some of the initiatives put into place

East Coast Laser is a sanctuary where clients can confide in their concerns, look for affordable solutions and get results that ultimately improve their lives. We offer a superior service by investing heavily in ongoing comprehensive training for all staff. This reflects a dedicated, professional, caring, empathetic and knowledgeable team.

I put these principles into practice by helping my clients

Brenda believes the driving force behind her clinic success is passion and a strong sense of ethics. “It is easy to know your direction when you love and believe in what you do ... helping people to feel and look good inside and out”. Our vision is to become the most reputable, successful and result driven cosmetic and beauty clinic on the East Coast of NSW. Brenda’s love of her job, her family, loyal professional team and living here in beautiful Port Macquarie gives her a happy disposition, emulating a friendly personal service.

Newman Communications

to get your business where it is today? Building real relationships based on mutual respect and support is the key.

My business grew up around me, while I concentrated on helping other businesses grow.

Public relations isn’t about spin and stunts. It’s about earning a positive reputation by engaging with your stakeholders. It’s about knowing and understanding your audience, listening and responding to their needs, and communicating effectively to get your messages across. achieve their own objectives. And, excuse the cliché: I really love what I do.

What community initiatives/charities or groups are you involved with? I’ve made it a priority to get involved, give

Zoe Van Mill.

XYZ Support

What drives your passion for your role? Technical things are fun! And I love making those things easy for people.

And, what has got your business to where it is today?

Being genuine, honest, a perfectionist who always overdelivers, not watching competitors but doing things my way ... always pushing the boundaries to find new, cutting edge offerings, continually investing in training, research and product development, and giving to the community.

So what community initiatives or charities are you involved with? Well ... HBWN, Hope Shop, Micro business forum, UCFP - a project in Kenya to develop sustainable communities run by Port locals, Luminosity Youth Summit and HBEN, to name the more recent ones.

Lastly, you are going to be a mum soon. How will that affect your business?

back and build connections within our community.

I do everything I can to help out the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service - as a contributor, speaker and sponsor.

As a committee member for the Hastings Heroines event, I’ve met many amazing local women, and through my ‘Day in the Life’ FOCUS column, I hope to share people’s inspiring stories.

I was the inaugural Communications Coordinator for the Hastings Business Women’s Network and remain on the

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Because I deliberately grew XYZ to a sustainable size over the past five years, investing in training the team and encouraging owning roles and the right kind of independence, I am confident that despite my decreased hours customers’ expectations will continue to be met and exceeded by our brilliant team.”

subcommittee.

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Heroines Inspiring change in the Hastings.

The Hastings Heroines event is a local International Women’s Day celebration that honours and acknowledges the contributions of women who make a difference and inspire change in our community. The judges tell us about this year’s theme – inspiring change - and the exciting event coming up on Friday 7 March …

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eslie Williams MP, how did the Hastings Heroines event come about? As a judge, what are you looking for this year?

I’ve been pleased to be involved with International Women’s Day events for more than five years now. In partnership with the Hastings Business Women’s Network we held our first Hastings Heroines event in 2012 and have since honoured ten amazing local women who have made a real difference in our community.

The Hastings Heroines are women who go quietly about their work - especially those who do so voluntarily - generously giving their time to charities and community initiatives.

The awards celebrate the inspirational stories of unsung local ladies who are dedicated to improving the lives of others.

This year we will celebrate the achievements of women who have made significant contributions to their local community and used their ideas and influence to inspire social, political or economic change.

Kelly Lamb, the Hastings Business Women’s Network put on a fabulous cocktail event each year to announce the Hastings Heroines winners. What is in store this year?

This is one of the highlights on our annual

calendar, and everyone is invited to come along - members, guests, men and women alike.

Building on the success of last year’s event, e which was attended by more than 120 people o e s and raised over $6,000 for the local women’s refuge, the 2014 Hastings Heroines will be announced at a cocktail function att the CWA Waterfront Function Hall on Friday 7 March March.

Guests will be inspired by the stories of our three guest speakers - Carlene York, Belinda Carey and Tamara Campbell - who have all succeeded in traditionally male dominated fields.

Carlene York is the Assistant Commissioner with the NSW Police Force. Her career spans a number of areas, including forensic services, general duties policing and prosecuting matters of a complex and sensitive nature such as murder, sexual assault and armed robbery.

As the Northern Region Commander, Ms York is responsible for the delivery of policing services in an area covering 1/6th of the State.

She has reduced crime within our region, taken the area to its highest operational strength levels and in 2012 led the Strike Force which successfully captured Australia’s most wanted offender, Malcolm Naden.

Belinda Carey has worked at Expressway Spares for more than 10 years, firstly as a

heavy machinery mechanic and more recently as a sales representative. Tamara Campbell is a senior manager with Forestry NSW responsible for fighting fires and road maintenance.

Funds raised will be donated to Port Macquarie Hastings Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Support, for the ongoing refurbishment of the women and children’s refuge.

One of the key fundraising initiatives is the ‘Live it up locally’ raffle prize package valued at more than $700, featuring accommodation at the Observatory, dinner at The Stunned Mullet, breakfast at The Milkbar, a wine tour at Cassegrain and Cruise in Style limo transfers.

Lesley Tierney, you were an inaugural Hastings Heroine in 2012. What does that accolade mean for you?

It was certainly an unexpected honour to be acknowledged and a chance to reflect on my work with the community. I’ve been

lucky to have been supported by wonderful people over the years, and they all deserve recognition for their hard work.

You’ve been invited to sit on the judging panel this year. Why is it important that we recognise the achievements of women in our local community?

There are so many women in our area who are juggling work and family commitments and still find time to give back to the community. I believe with all of these responsibilities it can be particularly hard for women to find time to get involved and give that bit extra, so they are especially worthy of recognition. I take my hat off to them.

What I like most about the Hastings Heroines awards is that they honour the quiet ones who work hard behind the scenes, without expecting anything in return. These are truly good people with altruistic values.

Interview by Michelle Newman.

Tickets include a complimentary drink on arrival, light dinner and inspiring guest speakers. The winners of the 2014 Hastings Heroines Awards will be recognised and more than $3,000 worth of prizes are up for grabs. All proceeds from the event will go towards the refurbishment of the Port Macquarie Hastings Domestic & Family Violence Specialist Service (formerly the Hastings Women & Children’s Refuge).

DATE: Friday 7 March 2014 | TIME: 6-9pm | COST: $40 WHERE: CWA Waterfront Function Room 11 Horton St, Port Macquarie (Town Green) KEYNOTE SPEAKER: NSW Police Force Assistant Commissioner, Carlene York

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Naomi Hunter. Sherryl Robinson.

Laing + Simmons Real Estate

What are you looking forward to in 2014?

basis.

SR & NH: We are looking forward to the

Aside from your main roles, what community initiatives are you involved with? SR: Member of Sunrise Rotary Club, who are heavily involved in Community affairs with fundraising in many areas. Also a board member with ACES, who are a non-profit organisation who provide services for the disabled.

continuing strength and positive vibe in our market that has been the start of 2014. It is encouraging for our sellers to have strength and confidence in both numbers of buyers and their positive decision making. We have a great feel for our area and marketplace for 2014 and see it going from strength to strength - and are very excited to be part of it all.

Where do you go to for inspiration and new ideas? SR & NH: Being part of a great team that works well together is an inspiration on its own, as we all support one another and we are all supported by positive and progressive Principals. It is also great to spend time with other high achievers in the Laing+Simmons network, and we try to do this on a regular

Best thing about living and working in coastal area ...

NH: Our beautiful beaches, of course! I am a Lighthouse Beach resident and being able to walk along this magnificent beach every day is such a bonus. We have wonderful eateries, great attractions and with the airport expansion and hospital upgrade, there is so much opportunity for continued growth of our area.

Dr Brenda Rattray.

GP at General Practice PMQ

important aspect of this business is patient care What are you looking forward to in 2014? and being able to meet patients’ needs. My aim I have recently left the security of a busy and here is to go back to the ‘old fashioned’ general successful medical practice to start a new solo practice. Here you are guaranteed to see the general practice in Port Macquarie. same doctor each time and be known by In 2014 I am looking forward to name when you call up or walk in the building a successful and more t os m door - more personalised treatment. personalised family oriented he T general practice. important aspect The best thing about living and

is business is

of th working in a coastal/regional What is your role within patient care and t area? We have fantastic beaches, the business? Our business ee m being able to National Parks, perfect weather, has a staff of only two! My s. ed patients’ ne excellent health and emergency role is easy; I am the sole GP in services, schools and now universities. the practice with my husband, I suppose one of the best things is Clint, fulfilling every other possible it’s small enough to feel comfortable and role imaginable - from receptionist, to bump into familiar people when you are out and accounts manager, to IT technician, and so about, but it’s also big enough to have sufficient it goes on. resources and to continually get to meet new What do you consider to be one of the most people. important aspects of business? The most

WE UNDERSTAND THAT YOU EXPECT CERTAIN THINGS FROM THE SALE OF YOUR HOME. But it’s the surprise of getting that little bit extra that exceeds your expectations that truly makes you smile.

That’s what we offer.

That’s what puts the in Laing+Simmons.

Naomi Hunter 0434 358 298

The difference will make you smile.

Sherryl Robinson 0412 850 322

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Commitment, ccreativity, innovation, honesty hon and integrity are some of tthe key values that have led to our business success at Coast Front Realty.�

Sue Jogever.

The Team.

Coast Front Realty

What are you looking forward to in 2014? I am really looking forward to continued growth in our boutique business at Coast Front Realty. My beliefs are all about a positive experience for our customers when it comes to selling or buying real estate in our region and enjoying continued relationships well after the 'SOLD' sign goes up on the home!

came in contact with. At Coast Front Realty it is not about volume in our transactions; however, more importantly about the quality of our results and relationships which ensure a high 'word of mouth' referral business.

Commitment, creativity, innovation, honesty and integrity are some of the key values that have led to our business success at Coast Front Realty.

Where do you go to for Best thing about living and inspiration and new ideas? working in a coastal/regional I have always believed that area? Since my family and I e you should be a 'student relocated 4 years ago to this th ve lie I truly be r for life' and be inspired ou beautiful region, we have of s es succ ss ne si bu ue

by AMAZING people all enjoyed a wonderful iq ut bo with a passion and sense of 'community' and is in the power of our relationshipsr vision for life. I value the appreciate the natural we have with ou importance of mentors in beauty of our pristine clients. my life and have wonderful region and people that now relationships with business make this place 'home'. people in this region, which has Aside from your products motivated me to always continue and services, what community to improve my craft and excel in my initiatives/charities or groups is your industry. business affiliated with?

What have been some of the initiatives put into place to get your business where it is today? I truly believe the success of our boutique business is in the power of our relationships we have with our clients.

When I started in the real estate business, it was my focus and belief that I could make a difference in the way people were treated when it came to their real estate experience and to ensure that I made a positive impression and relationship with everyone I

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My strong community involvement with a wide variety of organisations such as Rotary Sunrise (Youth Director), Hastings Business Women's Network, Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce, Hastings Business Enterprise Network and charities such as Hope Shop, Salvation Army and Hastings Cancer Trust has led to a great sense of achievement in raising much needed funds for these worthy causes. I truly believe in 'giving back' to our community that I love and live in.

Greater Port Macquarie Focus

What are you looking forward to in 2014? We’re looking forward to expanding our brand and footprint within the NSW Regional landscape. We have four publications currently and would love to add to this in the future. We are also looking for new innovations to deliver faster and more efficient ways to meet deadlines, design our advertisements and meet customer expectations - that in itself delivers a challenge. What excites us that we are working on something new all the time.

Where do you go to for inspiration and new ideas? New ideas are something we are always working on to keep both our customers and readers entertained and engaged. For the most part simply asking people, "What do you like?" or, "What's getting your attention lately?" will give us a

good grasp on what is important to them, and then we can develop ways to address those needs.

For our designers, being given the opportunity to have creative freedom on our customers' artwork and the chance to try new techniques and ideas helps keep their skills fresh.

What have been some of the initiatives put into place to get your business where it is today?

We have a very open communication channel within our organisation, both for our staff and the businesses we work with - this allows for innovation from everyone. Having many people contribute creates more ideas and greater investment when it comes to getting the work done. Empowering people to contribute and be creative has helped Focus grow.

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Implementing ting a strong focus on maintaining aintaining a healthy and very ry positive work/life balance. e. A happy Bernie makes for a happy energetic sales agent.” gent.”

Dr Janine Stewart.

St Columba Anglican School

Bertrand Russell once said, “Mathematics possesses not only truth, but supreme beauty”. I caught the mathematics bug early on, and I quickly realised that the more I learned, the less I knew.

I continued my studies part-time whilst teaching full-time in suburban Sydney and after completing my doctorate in cellular mechanics, sought a change of scenery and moved to New Brunswick, New Jersey under the auspices of the Visiting International Faculty Program.

An opportunity arose to work in New York City as a consultant staff developer contracted to the New York City Board of Education, where I worked with School Leaders and District Administrators to implement city, state and national instructional initiatives.

After the better part of a decade in the United States, I was very excited to join the SCAS community at the beginning of 2013. SCAS is a dynamic place to work, and the BYOT program allows us to be creative with how we engage students with mathematics.

We utilise app technologies to make mathematics accessible to all students and are in the process of creating a library of interactive iBooks for use at all grade levels.

The purpose of these books is to provide an engaging opportunity for students to explore problem solving and to apply mathematics in a realistic and real-life context.

I am inspired each and every day by my students and of the firm belief that mathematics can take you anywhere … so where on Earth will you go?

Bernie O'Connor.

First National Sales

What are you looking forward to in 2014?

Continuing to do what I love! I am blessed that one of my passions is also my career. I am looking forward to reaching the goals I have set for myself, both professionally and personally. I am proud to be a successful woman in business and look forward to continuing along on this very rewarding journey. I am also looking forward to improving my yoga, my balance on my paddle board, my dance moves, spending quality time with my family and good friends.

Where do you go to for inspiration and new ideas? A walk on the beach is always good to clear my head, and my children can always be replied upon to give me inspiration; also, my work colleagues at First National, my friends and many of my clients.

What have been some of the initiatives put into place to get your business where

it is today? Implementing a strong focus on maintaining a healthy and very positive work/ life balance. A happy Bernie makes for a happy, energetic sales agent! I am also continually up skilling, so that my knowledge of the market is current and thorough. I recently attended a four day real estate seminar in Sydney.

Best thing about living and working in a coastal/regional area? The beaches, water sports and views from the cliffs! Also, the pace of life is slower, and I feel people are generally more happy here than in the big smoke.

What do you consider to be one of the most important aspects of business?

Integrity! It is everything, really. But also, you have to love what you do to perform at your best. And what’s the point of working at a job if you do not give your best! It is not good for you or those you come across.

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The Women of McGrath Estate Agents.

At McGrath Port Macquarie, Licensed Selling Agents Donna Spillane, Lisa Crispim and Kirstie Shaw are three ladies who continue to excel in the challenging world of real estate sales, whilst Property Manager, Natalie Manning, has established a strong reputation for efficiency and foresight, in the complex area of asset management.

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ONNA has become a familiar face around Port Macquarie; a highly-experienced property sales professional, she remains an active member of Rotary and is frequently recognised at the many “open home” showings which she regularly and very successfully conducts around town. A thorough knowledge of current real estate processes enables Donna to serve her clients to maximum effect and an enthusiastic commitment to McGrath’s unique marketing tools underlines a history of market-leading service and notable selling achievements.

a town which she has called “home” for the majority of her life and she has a unique understanding of the property market in that region. She continues to live in Wauchope, has extended family in the town and her son attends the local school. This intimate knowledge of the area is instrumental to her ongoing success as McGrath’s specialist for Wauchope and its surrounding communities.

A quote from Donna: “The property market is dynamic, once again and that is going to make 2014 an exciting year.”

NATALIE’S professional path is somewhat different. As Property Manager for McGrath, she is charged with the responsibility of caring for clients’ homes, some of which are investment properties and others, private family homes which have been temporarily vacated. Together with her highly-effective team, Natalie regularly achieves marketleading results for McGrath clients and does so with an effervescent, endearing smile and with a characteristically optimistic attitude.

LISA has extensive experience in property sales. She recognises that selling can be stressful for those families directly involved and as the process evolves, goes to great lengths to effectively (and compassionately) keep them informed. A Port Macquarie local, Lisa takes as much pride from her proven ability to relate honestly to people, as she does from her impressive record of sales successes.

As Lisa says; “I take my inspiration from the wonderful people that I meet every day. To be able to help them through their housing transitions is always a real joy.”

KIRSTIE developed her skills in Wauchope,

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From Kirstie; “I feel very fortunate to be living in Wauchope and to be representing McGrath. I love the community and I am proud to be able to deliver such a quality real estate service.”

And finally, from Natalie: “My friends and family see me as a very positive person and I like to bring that attitude to work every day. At McGrath, I am lucky enough to be working in a strong, positive environment and for 2014; my commitment is to make that even better!”

Maryanne Smallwood & Jill Keating.

Sonographers

What am I looking forward to in 2014: JK - I intend to continue to enjoy working in close harmony with my colleagues. Updating and consolidating my knowledge and skills to continue to provide comprehensive, quality ultrasound service for the women of Port Macquarie. MS - looking forward to new advancements within early obstetric ultrasounds

organistation Australians for Women's Health.

My Role: JK - Is to perform ultrasound examinations. We attend to Women with gynaecological issues, infertility, and of course pregnancy ultrasounds from dating scans, to growth scans in later pregnancy, and including the 12 week assessment scan for detecting the likelihood of certain chromosome abnormalities.

We also do 3D scans for those who would like a personalized image of their baby, with all proceeds going directly to the charity

- Genuine high quality compassionate service

MS - providing top quality OB/GYN ultrasound services to women of the Hastings region.

Important aspects of Business: Jk - To provide a professional but friendly environment for our clients, using high end equipment, and providing a high standard of service. MS with state of the art equipment.

Best thing about living in a coastal area: Having lived here for 25 years, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else! The beautiful clean beaches, rivers and hinterland, all within easy reach. Plenty of places to walk and cycle and swim in relative safety. Friendly faces when you walk down the street.

focusinterview.

By Jane Hillsdon Principal Consultant of Dragonfly Marketing

Plunkett’s Chemmart

Pharmacy

udy you are a bit of a business legend around these parts - having owned businesses in the region for over 30 years, raised six children and significantly contributed to the local community in many ways. I have to kick off this interview asking, how on earth have you managed to achieve all of this and still manage to project such energy and enthusiasm?

I have managed to achieve all of this because I have been a list person all my life!

I have also surrounded myself with great staff and learnt how to delegate tasks effectively.

Without my staff, I would be much less successful. I remain enthusiastic because I love my job, despite the challenges that continually cross my path.

You are a successful business owner but you are also very hands on as a Pharmacist. What is the most rewarding part about your role within your business?

The most rewarding part of my role is of course being able to provide good health advice and services to my patients and then to witness the effects of that advice and how it benefits my patients. In order for this to consistently happen, I need to ensure that I am a good Pharmacist first and foremost and that I also have well trained staff on my team.

What would you class as your biggest achievement in business to date?

My biggest achievement in business to date is actually surviving and being able

J

to maintain a successful business so I can so much more efficient. In hindsight continue to employ all of my staff! I believe though, even with all the sophistication to be successful you need to work hard and that technology brings, the core principle of provide a consistently good service to your pharmacies - providing great health services customers. to their patients - has never changed.

And, what are some of the more notable In relation to your business Plunkett’s challenges that you face within your Chemmart Pharmacy, what are some role? of the customer benefits that you offer The challenges I face in my role are that help differentiate you from the numerous, especially as the Government other pharmacies in Port Macquarie and continually cuts our remuneration. I have to Wauchope? consistently strive to make my business better We provide many services, including free all the time, just to keep up. My team and delivery, Webster packing, blood pressure I are doing this by providing better health and cholesterol testing and a baby nurse. services and advice to our patients, The services that are unique to which ultimately contributes to our stores would be the better health outcomes for provision of a Continence our customers.

Nurse, Ann Carney, our In order for this What changes have vaccination clinics, to consistently you noticed within which provide to happen, I need your industry over childhood, travel od a go ensure that I am d the past 30 or so and flu vaccinations, an Pharmacist first I also years, and how and our Chemmart at foremost and th have you adapted Health checks. We f af st d ne ai have well tr your business model are also the only .” am on my te or practices to take Pharmacy that is open advantage of these from 8am until 8pm, changes? seven days a week.

The changes within our What do you think are industry have been enormous over some of the important factors the past 30 years, particularly the changes that employers need to consider within technology. When I first became a when they are hiring and training Pharmacist, we used typewriters and hand staff? wrote most things. And then they invented When hiring staff I look for someone who fax machines - which I still think are a is smart, happy, well-presented, enthusiastic miracle! And then they invented computers! about their job and can demonstrate an Of course, computers just made our business eagerness to learn more. Staff training is

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essential to educate staff on a continual basis. In fact, I have included it as part of my employment contract, because in this challenging world there is always more to learn.

What advice do you have to offer to local business people wanting to enjoy the same success that you have experienced with your pharmacies?

The main advice I would give is to love your job. Be prepared to work hard, very hard, especially if you own a small business.

Always be open to new ideas and nurture a happy and efficient workplace for your staff.

Your staff are the key to your success and should be acknowledged as such.

And finally, if you could invite any three business people to lunch, who would they be and why would you invite them?

Christine Legarde, who is the new female head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). I would love to find out more about how she manages the world economy and big business to improve health outcomes around the world.

Peter Dutton, the Federal Minister for Health, would be invited, so I could hear his input on how our health dollars could be better spent. I’d also try to help him appreciate the integral role that community pharmacies play within our communities and try and establish what else we can do to contribute.

Gail Kelly, Head of Westpac, would also be invited. That’s one woman who knows how to run a good business!

Thanks for your time Judy!

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focusinterview.

MATTHEWS

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Using cans of auto paint to create her stunning works of art, Toni Matthews has painted mirrors, coffee tables, fridges, and ... well, there’s not much of a limit to what she can paint, really!

Having recently opened a studio/gallery in Central Road, Port Macquarie, Toni is able to create colourful, one of a kind pieces, and welcomes you to visit her creative hub … i Toni. What’s your background – where are you from originally?

I have lived in Port Macquarie for the last 32 years, so you could probably say I’m a local by now.

I was born in Goulburn, and my family of 9 moved to Tasmania when I was 2 years old.

This is where I completed my education and discovered my love for art.

I remember walking to school with my sister through the frost bitten field, and we would make pictures or draw our names as the grass crunched beneath our feet, or search for figures in the many clouds in Tassie skies.

What brought you to Port Macquarie?

I moved to PMQ in 1982 to join all my sisters (5) and started working at the pizza shop, which one of them owned. We all worked there and had good times, and the shop did really well, especially being the first one to open in Port. Also, the great weather brought me here. Compared to Tassie weather, this place is like Hawaii! Although … Tasmania is a very beautiful place. I still have family down there and love to visit when I can.

Who inspired your affinity for art ... were you able to paint or draw as a child?

My mum was my inspiration in art. She taught me how to see. I started drawing at a young age, which was mostly animals - particularly horses. Like most young girls I was 'horse mad', as my mum would say.

I always wanted one and would go riding can be completed, compared to paintbrush through one of the beautiful pine forests in work. Because the paint comes from a can, Tassie every chance I could. it all happens much faster. I watched a man I won a couple of art competitions at doing street demos in the city and wanted to school, and I remember my Year 5 teacher try it myself. asking if he could keep my projects for future Since then, I've developed a few students as references. My friends would techniques of my own, as every new piece is often ask me to help them with a learning stepping stone. I have theirs too. One of my sisters considered teaching this style still has pictures I did for her and already have 7 people when I was about 5. who are interested in I've always just been learning.

I can revamp n mirrors that ofte a pencil sketcher and I did my first the had a bit of a fear street demo on the lose paint around ith any rw edges and cove of paint, being a Town Green about decor e.g ch at m colour to permanent mark and a month ago and d an rs bathroom mirro rors. I not much room for completed two ir dressing table m ith error. I didn't pick up pieces. I will do w e m sa e th can also do a paintbrush for years, more, providing it's c.” coffee tables et or do as much art as I good weather, soon, should have. once I learn to overcome I worked in the hospitality the nerves that come with trade for roughly 25 years. I've an audience. also sold books, drove a 30 tonne I have put my work on Facebook dump truck, did traffic control, and worked and also just recently, some pieces on on a homestead, just to name a few. Variety Gumtree. is … as they say.

So, describe how you typically complete I started painting with brushes back in a piece of art from start to finish – what 2010, which was the first time I had painted tools/equipment do you use, and what since leaving school, many years ago. types of paint work best?

I’m curious as to how you discovered When I start a piece, I work from the top spray can art though ... was this an downwards, using tools like scrapers, saucers, accident, or did you witness others using paper and sponges. I have recently done the technique? some pieces combining the spray can art and I discovered spray can art about 18 months paintbrush work. ago and was amazed at how quickly a piece When the piece is finished, I put a couple

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of coats of clear on, which deepens the colours. I have only used cans bought from Super Cheap, which is enamel car paint.

What type of objects have you painted to date? Do you think the sky’s the limit as far as what types of things you could potentially paint?

I've painted fridges, filing cabinets, coffee tables and mirrors so far, with the idea of skateboards, surfboards and possible murals on cars etc. I have an unused airbrush still in the box, which I hope to teach myself to use for those projects.

I can revamp mirrors that often lose paint around the edges and cover with any colour to match decor e.g bathroom mirrors and dressing table mirrors. I can also do the same with coffee tables etc. Once I have learned how to use the airbrush, the list is endless as to what I can paint. I have lots of ideas for the future.

When did you open your business, Crafty Can Art Gallery, and where is it located?

I opened the gallery/studio in December, which is located above the Lifeline shop 1/19 Central Road, Port Macquarie.

What are your business’ opening hours?

Trading hours are Mon - Fri, 10am - 4pm; Sat 10am - 2pm.

Do you accept commission work, and how do people go about contacting you if they’re interested?

Yes, I accept commission work. I can be contacted by email: tonimatthews6004@ gmail.com or at the gallery.

Thanks Toni. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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By Glenise McLaughlin from The Natural Health Sanctum

By Dr Bobby Kumar from Bare Aesthetics

Why you need a massage.

I don’t know about your reasons, but I know why I need a massage.

WHEN DID YOU LAST HAVE A CHECK? hen did you last have a skin cancer check? Skin Cancer What you Need to Know: Of all newly diagnosed cancers in Australia each year, skin cancers make up approximately 80%. Skin cancers are caused by damage to skin cells resulting primarily from overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun (the primary cause in 95-99% of cases). Any sun exposure causes damage and increases the risk of developing skin cancer, not just sunburn or tanning.

There are three main types of Skin Cancer: • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) • Melanoma - the most dangerous and third most common cancer in Australian men and women Early Detection The sooner a skin cancer is identified and treated, the more effective and successful the treatment. Early detection of skin cancer can literally save your life.

W

By Brenda Fernandez East Coast Laser an Cosmetic Clinic

QuFiIcXk 58 greater port macquarie focus.

It’s important to be familiar with how your skin looks, so you can notice any potential changes that may indicate a skin cancer.

What to look for: • Any crusty sores or sores that are not healing • Small lumps that are red, pale or pearly in colour • New spots, freckles or any moles changing in colour, thickness or shape over a period of weeks to months (particularly those dark brown to black, red or blueblack in colour) A regular skin examination by an experienced Doctor is essential to early detection and management of skin cancer.

Dr. Bobby Kumar, Cosmetic Surgeon, brings his extensive knowledge and experience to Skin Cancer Assessment, Treatment and Surgery. Call Wendy on 1300 676 003 or 0430 491 009, or email bobby@bareaesthetics.com.au for an appointment today.

t's because I work hard, I give other people massages, I carry my grandchildren around, I go to the beach, I exercise, I sit in a chair, I sit in my car and because my body really enjoys being massaged, along with a whole lot of other reasons.

Massage can be particularly beneficial to people leading busy lives suffering from what is now commonly encountered work related stress. Massage will not only aid with mental relaxation, but will work on physical symptoms of back and neck pain that comes from sitting for an extended period of time at a desk or from physical labour.

The importance of taking regular massage has heightened in recent times, as more people recognise how beneficial it is as a way to counteract the effects of sitting in front of a computer screen all day. Work

I

related stress is a serious problem in society leading to poor health and disease; massage can help to alleviate daily stress and pain.

That is why I am pleased to tell you that the person that massages me is now working at The Natural Health Sanctum and let me tell you: I am pretty fussy as to who massages me.

Lisa Stephens has been a qualified Massage Therapist for the last 13 years.

As part of her full case history taking, she performs a postural assessment on all her clients. She also can adapt her massage style to your needs, because not everyone wants a strong remedial massage - some may just want a nurturing massage for emotional balance, or if you are feeling tired and run down.

So don’t delay; ring The Natural Health Sanctum today on (02)6583 3544 to book in for your good health massage.

hat treatments would you

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What does the treatment include

recommend for working

and what are the benefits? A medical

professionals that require

microdermabrasion that stimulates new

no downtime?

cell growth which results in smooth, fresh

We have a wide range of treatments,

and cleaner skin. Then we select from a

including The New Dermafrac - exclusive to

range of topical serums depending on

Port Macquarie.

your skin type- Peptides - anti-ageing -

How long does this take?

Hyluronic acid - hydration plumping and

It is a 1hour treatment.

- Kojic - lightening/brightening. These are

Does it hurt? There is no pain, no

directly infused into the skin using a micro-

downtime, with affordable, proven results!

channelling system. To finish, there is a 20

We can customise treatments to suit all skin

minute LED/light that helps to stimulate

types and conditions.

new cell growth, and it is quite relaxing.

This colourful eye scan could save your sight.

Dr. Bobby Kumar Cosmetic Surgeon Optical Coherence Tomography

Hot Flushes Driving You Mad? Are hot flushes driving you mad? It can feel like hot flushes take on a life of their own when you are going through menopause.

Waking up during the night hot and bothered, unable to get back to sleep, waking up tired in the morning, feeling like you haven’t slept at all, having to fan yourself when in company when no-one else has to, weight gain, memory loss, osteoporosis, depression and mood swings (just to name a few) are all symptoms associated with menopause. Actually for some women, menopause can be a very frustrating and unpleasant time.

Instead of treating menopause like a disease, here at The Natural Health Sanctum we consider menopause to be a natural process that every woman goes through. But this doesn’t mean you have to suffer – there are many natural treatment strategies that can support your body while going through this transitional stage in your life.

Easing your hot flushes and facilitating a good night’s sleep, assistance with weight loss and much, much more can be achieved using an individual customised health promoting program, because we believe one size does not fit all, designed for you by naturopath, Glenise McLaughlin, using both short and long term strategies.

Call the Natural Health Sanctum on 6583 3544.

Port Macquarie Eyecare Plus is pleased to announce the availability of exciting new technology to better serve our patients. Optical Coherence Tomography (commonly called OCT) captures images of the sensitive layers below the surface of the retina. This allows our optometrists to detect disease within the retina well before it could be detected by other standard clinical procedures.

The OCT procedure takes only minutes and is painless. It works much like an ultrasound, except that it uses harmless longwavelength light rather than sound. Combined with a powerful computer, the OCT can provide cross-sectional and 3-D images of the retinal nerve and blood vessel layers at the back of the eye.

The images are produced immediately for your optometrist to assess and discuss the results.

Diseases detected early with the aid of OCT include Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Diabetic Eye Disease, Macula holes and Retinal swelling and cysts.

The powerful computer also compares your results to population norms matched by race, sex and age. This allows very early detection and monitoring of abnormal signs. Should referral be required, we include the images to assist the eye surgeon with treatment and preservation of your precious sight.

Who should have OCT? Anyone who wants the best available eyecare but particularly those with a family history of eye disease or over 40.

Feel free to call our practice on 6583 7333 to make an appointment or make an enquiry regarding this exciting new technology.

Who can offer you: • Specialised training & qualifications • Comprehensive knowledge, expertise & experience • Surgical & Non-Surgical Procedures tailored to the individual’s needs • No gimmicks – only proven treatments & honest evaluations Dr. Bobby Kumar, Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, specialises in: Breast Augmentation: enhance &/or restore breast size, shape & volume Breast Lift: restore shape and position of breasts, typically after pregnancy, breast feeding &/or weight loss Breast Reduction: reduce size of breasts, common for women experiencing pain, discomfort or lifestyle limitations due to large breasts Tummy Tuck Surgery: restore a flat, tight tummy, typically after pregnancy &/or weight loss Facial Surgery: Facelift, Necklift, Rhinoplasty (Nose), Blepharoplasty (Eyes) – pursued by men & women seeking a long lasting refreshed and rejuvenated facial appearance.

NON-SURGICAL FACIAL REJUVENATION Who better to perform personalised consultation and treatment than a Cosmetic Surgeon, with the training and comprehensive knowledge of facial anatomy and musculature?

TIME FOR A SKIN CHECK? Dr. Bobby Kumar has extensive experience in the area of Skin Cancer & is now available for SKIN CANCER ASSESSMENT, TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT Call Wendy for an appointment on 1300 676 003 or 0430 491 009, or email bobby@bareaesthetics.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 59

Aging Gracefully Time takes its toll on the human body in different ways and skin is no exception.

In fact, the effects of excessive exposure of fair skin to the harsh Australian sun compounds the effects of aging. nitially, the changes are noted on the surface as blotchy, pigmented marks and fine blood vessels on the face. Later, skin begins to thin and sag due to collagen in the dermis (deeper part of skin) losing substance and the thinning of the fat layer beneath the skin.

Facial Rejuvenation is now well established, using skin care and protection as well as lasers and surgical methods as the basic building blocks.

Skin care is a must and refers to adequate moisturising of skin and avoidance of the use of drying agents including some soaps and cosmetics.

Skin protection is the use of suitable clothes and sunblocks and the avoidance of overexposure to the sun.

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60 greater port macquarie focus.

“PhotoThermoLysis” (photo=light/ thermal=heat/lysis=destroy) is the principle by which lasers work to rejuvenate skin. Both “skin peeling” and “non skin peeling” methods are available and PhotoThermoLysis produces new collagen, with a resultant increase in skin tone (firmness) and a decrease in the sagging of skin. In addition, the skin looks and feels better too.

“Dermal Fillers” are injections used to place synthetic collagen in the dermis and are appropriate for softening facial lines and grooves; in effect, this temporarily reproduces the effects of the laser treatment.

There are various grades of fillers used in different parts of the face: Subcutaneous Fillers are “heavy

duty” fillers which are used beneath the skin to improve contour defects in the face and the rest of the body.

The effect is very significant due to the volume and the nature of the filler used.

Anti-wrinkle injections are also used to soften facial lines by partial paralysis of superficial facial muscles.

Surgical methods of facial rejuvenation have become more sophisticated over the years, with the emphasis more on restoration rather than removal and/or tightening. In a facelift operation, where previously skin removal and tightening were the mainstays, now there is much less removal and much more restoration of tissues to the original site, reducing the effects of sagging and stretch.

“ Accessing the Hearing Specialist of Your Choice Has Never Been Easier. ”

Amplex Hearing Government Launches New Hearing Portal.

different aspect of the hearing industry. It taught me appreciation for the processes driving new technologies and the large number of specialist teams working together in research and development.”

A career spanning two decades and two continents has led Dr. Daniel Mestric to return to the Mid North Coast with greater appreciation With the opening of his new Port for all the community has Macquarie practice on Gordon to offer. The region’s well Street, it seems the people known audiologist has of the Mid North Coast e enjoyed a stimulating th once again have the g in w llo Fo career helping opportunity to access recent launch ent nm er those with hearing the unique skills of ov G e th of impairment. “I this well-travelled Hearing Portal , it feel privileged to audiologist. Following is now easier than have entered a the recent launch ever for eligible pensioners and ss profession that has of the Government veterans to acce afforded me so many Hearing Portal, it is the service. opportunities.” now easier than ever for eligible pensioners The audiologist’s and veterans to access the popularity bloomed ten service. New and old patients years ago with the success of his alike only need phone or call into the original practice in Port Macquarie. office at shop 10, 146 Gordon Street, Dr Mestric says, “I never envisaged Port Macquarie to register with Dr. Mestric. that original practice would grow “The whole process has been simplified so quickly, word seemed to spread far for people to come and see us again. A afield, and before long we were branching pension number is all that is needed now out interstate.” Not content with past for us to obtain any past records, and it’s achievements, in 2011 Dr. Mestric took all done instantly!” Rounding out another up a research position at the world’s decade on the Mid North Coast seems like largest custom hearing aid laboratory the best move yet for audiologist Dr. Daniel in Minnesota. “My stint at Starkey Mestric and his patients.

Laboratories gave me insight into a very

“

greater port macquarie focus 61

Every day without a SMILE is a lost day.

The ‘models‘ above are all real patients of saacks orthodontics with real smiles.

At saacks orthodontics we don‘t believe in a ‘one system fits all‘ approach. Every smile is unique. Every person individual. Every treatment we recommend is customised to achieve a better smile. We offer a range of orthodontic options from the best systems available in Australia and America. Plus, with Dr Eric Saacks overseeing all treatment plans you have the confidence of a renowned international orthodontic and periodontal specialist with the experience to further customise any treatment, ensuring the best possible smile for you.

Free orthodontic consultation We will explain, in detail, the treatment best suited to you or your child. Together with a timeline, costs and repayment plan options. No referral is necessary. It’s an absolutely no obligation consultation. Call 6584 2333

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greater port macquarie focus.

Achieve your dreams This weekend is all about you! A life changing workshop originally designed by the best-selling author Louise Hay (You can Heal your Life) which helps bring positive change and transformation into all areas of your life, including relationships, career, health, success and happiness. The powerful and effective techniques we teach are very simple and easy to learn. We can help you to create the life you have always dreamed of! If you really want to come, we can make it happen. The workshop is on Saturday 15 and Sunday the 16 March from 9am - 5pm each day. Learn to reprogram your subconscious mind and eliminate negative self-esteem beliefs and

self-doubt.

Improve relationships, make better choices, learn about mind and body connection, recognise negative emotions and how to eliminate self-doubt and limitations, learn to see yourself as valuable, beautiful and powerful.

Sue is a certified and licensed Heal your Life coach and workshop leader.

“Sue absolutely loves what she does, and this comes through in her work. The visualisation exercises were fantastic. I learnt so much about myself. It was a very powerful workshop!” Anna, Sydney.

Jodie Kennett, Louise Schneider and Jessica Moss.

JK Healthcare JK Healthcare will continue to conduct education groups in 2014, as well as still offering individual consultations.

Groups are interactive with a supportive learning environment.

Abe Dental Abe Dental is proud to offer our services to the Mid North Coast.

The boutique practice offers all facets of dentistry at the highest quality. Our friendly and professional staff will make sure your visit to the dentist is a pleasant, positive experience.

Using state of the art digital equipment and incorporating the latest dental education, our team of dentists can offer you all options for your dental needs. We offer a wide range of specialty services, such as cosmetic rehabilitation, orthodontics, implants, child dentistry, all under the one roof.

Our mantra is to provide the Mid North Coast with high quality, gentle dentistry at affordable prices. During your visit, you will be advised of all treatment options and associated costs. There are never any surprises, leaving you with a positive experience at the dentist.

At Abe Dental, you are our number one priority. So with your dental needs, make us your number one priority.

Call our friendly staff today or make an online booking via our website www.portsmiles.com.au We look forward to looking after all your dental needs and keep you smiling for life.

Accredited Practising Dietitian Jessica Moss will be presenting the sessions. Having relocated to the area in early 2012, Jessica has a keen interest in all aspects of improving health and nutrition for people of varying age groups and backgrounds, including weight management, food allergies and intolerances, heart health, childhood nutrition and bowel disorders.

Having recently presented a Men’s Weight Loss group, Jessica is now working on a Women’s Weight Loss Group.

Topics will include discussions on: Healthy body image Why do we eat what we eat?

Recommended serving sizes Physical activity guidelines Healthy meal and snack ideas Recipe modification Shopping tips, including food label reading.

Weight loss doesn’t have to be hard. Start slowly and work on making some permanent lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, reading food labels, suitable serving sizes, and limiting alcohol intake. Avoid fad diets and instead look at making sustainable and realistic health or weight loss goals.

Our group room is also available to rent privately, and we can also travel as needed to workplaces for staff training and accreditation. To be involved in our weight loss groups or to make an appointment with one of our Accredited Practising Dietitians (Jodie Kennett or Jessica Moss) please contact our friendly staff on: 6583 7717 or email admin@jkhealthcare.com.au

Massage by Ling It could be chronic back pain, sports injury, sore shoulder or just general fatigue; stress may be a factor, or perhaps it is the result of a doctor’s recommendation? There are many reasons why people turn to remedial massage and probably even more reasons why remedial massage, administered by a trained and trusted professional, can provide genuine relief.

He Ling Ying (Ling) the popular proprietor of Massage at Port Macquarie is highly qualified in Australia, as well as in her native China, and she uniquely and skilfully succeeds in combining today’s recognised contemporary techniques with time-honoured Chinese methods, to provide real assistance to those with physical discomfort, reoccurring issues or even common fatigue. In fact, Ling’s loyal, long-term clients are an ongoing testimony to her unchallengeable level of care.

Approved treatments are recognised by all major health funds and Ling is fully accredited by HCF, Medibank, NIB, ahm, Bupa, mbf health, teachers health fund, hbf, Australian Unity and many more, with HICAPS providing instant rebates in most instances.

A long-term member of the Australian Association of Massage Therapists, Ling practices from her serene, air-conditioned home clinic in the Lighthouse Beach/Shelly Beach area, where parking is just a few paces from the door. Warm, considerate and surprisingly strong, she cares for her clients – male, female, young and not-so-young – with compassion, respect, understanding and always, with traditional Chinese courtesy and values.

Roger Bates is a freelance copywriter

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greater port macquarie focus.

MARCH 2014

WITH TERRI

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

Love yourself enough to receive the best possible outcomes. This will ensure a peaceful, uncomplicated existence, giving you the quality time you need to immerse yourself in your personal life happily. Career and other responsibilities will fall into their rightful place, and life will seem better balanced. Garnet will enhance your passion for living.

LIBRA. September 24 - October 23

Avoid taking life too seriously at present; this is why all your fears and insecurities are playing with you. This is leaving you feeling trapped in life, instead of owning it and creating it. Try to connect to your silly self and do some pranking to lighten up your energy and brighten your world. Ruby shatters fear and leaves us feeling safe and comfortable in our reality.

You are a person of your word. Your wisdom will be greatly drawn on in this next cycle. To make the most of every possible opportunity, set some fresh goals and don’t compromise your standards. Your mind is likely to be busy recognising possibilities that exist, so make the most of this talent and seize the moment.

Amethyst is great for connecting to our higher qualities and life’s purpose.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

February 20 - March 20

June 23 - July 23 Ju

October 24 - November 22

You are gifted at being able to think laterally and offer practical solutions to life’s dilemmas.

For this reason, people are drawn to your energy. Hear the wise words you are offering in a counselling situation, as these words are channeling through you for your guidance as well. Protect your energy levels by thinking yourself in a bubble. Citrine shatters negative energy, wear some whilst helping others.

Self-esteem issues need to be addressed, as these will create scenarios that potentially ruin your most cherished feelings if not attended to. Know you are a beautiful soul, so you attract an abundance of nice things into your life. Smile at your reflection to realign your self worth with positive influences.

Citrine attracts abundance carry some.

ARIES.

LEO.

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

Listen to your wise words when helping others, as these are your answers too. You will be feeling quite independent and secure, as you make plans for your future happiness. You may need to protect yourself from energetic drainage, as your vulnerability increases simply achieve this by thinking yourself inside a bubble. Selenite is great for auric protection, carry some in stressful times.

A feeling of stagnation is taking place, because your fears have stopped your progress. You must take hold of them and reshape them, and then positive things will begin to flow again. Your soul is learning selfappreciation and self-love. Listen to your wise words, as they will provide clear direction.

Turquoise is great for self-confidence.

Your sensitivity is increasing, and so is your wisdom. This is the reason so many people are drawing strength from you at this time. If you find you are being drained or affected in a negative way, look inward and recognise all the qualities you bear that you are proud of.

This technique will charge your energy. Clear quartz enhances our energy carry some.

SAGITTARIUS. November 23 - December 21

You can expect an opportunity to fulfill a dream from a long time ago or one that you carried for a long time to cross your path very soon. Prepare your mind by recognising it and list every thing needed to make it a reality, then take action and acquire a few things from the list. This way you will be armed and prepared for it and little time will be wasted. Turquoise assists in recognition of one’s higher purposes.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

December 22 - January 20

Think about what you want, but be aware of why you want it, because if your motive is beneficial to your highest good, you are very clever at manifesting. If your motive is insecure based, you will align yourself with some big challenges. Remain in a positive headspace when goal setting, just to ensure a good outcome. Clear Quartz amplifies a happy mood; hold some to set fresh goals.

Look within and identify all your attributes and qualities that you chose to bring forth in this life that leave you feeling proud to be who you are. You are getting ready to step into a new cycle, and it will be very emotionally rewarding. Your nurturing compassion will be used a lot in this cycle, delivering great self-worth. Clear quartz will help maintain strong positive thoughts.

Patience is one of the higher lessons you’re drawing into your reality at this time. In pursuit of exciting outcomes where you have little control of timing, avoid making hasty decisions to cure frustration, as this will alter your happy outcome. Instead re-connect with the passion driving you.

Clear Quartz keeps us focused on positive outcomes, carry some. greater port macquarie focus

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T H E

W A U C H O P E

L A S I A N D R A

F E S T I V A L

2 0 1 4

Celebrate Wauchope 30th Annual • F E S T I V A L •

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T H E

W A U C H O P E

L A S I A N D R A

F E S T I V A L

2 0 1 4

• L A S I A N D R A F E S T I VA L

MONDAY 3RD

A wide array of community events will be held over the entire month of March in Wauchope to mark the 30th Anniversary of the Lasiandra Festival.

Women’s Bowls – Lasiandra Triples Wauchope Country Club

SATURDAY 8TH 10am Hastings Valley Miniature Railway – Family Day. Ride the mini railway @ Yippen Creek Reserve – Gold Coin Donation to ride.

Lions Club BBQ. Please wear covered footwear.

PROGRAM GUIDE•

Fashion from Heart to Heart Lingerie, Classique Fashions, The Department Store and Bodilines. Lucky Door Prizes, Raffles, Musical Entertainment from Rosa Van der Lay Entry: $5 per head Kids Under 16 FREE.

WEDNESDAY 12TH 8.30am Ladies Golf Day 5.00pm Men’s Bowls - JACK DWYER MEMORIAL TRIPLES Wauchope Country Club

Venue: Wauchope RSL Club - Entry: Children U18 - Gold Coin Donation Adults - $ 5.

SUNDAY 9TH 10am Bago Vineyards presents

7pm Lasiandra Rock N Roll Dance Wauchope Country Club Auditorium Entry: $ 5 Adults U/18 Free Music by Chuck E. Entry by Gold Coin Donation.

Lucky Door & Spot Prizes, Dance Competitions. Fun for all the Family.

SUNDAY 23RD THURSDAY 13TH 8.30am PURPLE PEOPLE SHOPPING DAY

6.30pm Lasiandra Disco

featuring the “LASIANDRA CUP”

Diamond Ring Golf Day Wauchope Country Club Sponsored by Jon’s Family Jewellers

Art & Craft Markets in the CBD. Judging of Staff Costume, Window Front & Premises Displays

SATURDAY 29TH

PURPLE & PINK DAY Timbertown Childcare

Venue: Wauchope RSL Club - Bookings Essential: $30 per head - Ph: 0412 137 621

6pm 30th Annual Lasiandra Festival Celebration Dinner & Presentations

“The Cedar Creek Band”

FRIDAY 14TH

Music 11am - 3pm Admission $ 5 Children U/5 Free including entry to Bago Maze.

3.30pm Lasiandra Junior Tennis Classic

EASTER MONDAY

Wine tasting/Local Cheese Platters

SATURDAY 15TH

WAUCHOPE JOCKEY CLUB’S 30th ANNUAL LASIANDRA TROPHY RACE

10am to 12 Noon Lifeline Garden Party

PRIZES FOR BEST PURPLE DRESSED

Kids face painting, balloons, gardening & cupcakes.

Further information:

Lifeline Shop, 41 Cameron Street, Wauchope

Secretary Chrissy Jones on 0412 137 621

1pm Hastings River Greyhound meeting

email lasiandrafestival@gmail.com or www.lasiandrafestival.com.au

2pm Wauchope Youth Theatre Variety Show Venue: Wauchope Arts Hall 3pm Lasiandra Fashion Parade Venue: Wauchope Country Club Auditorium.

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wauchope guide easy walking distance shopping

Class-ique Fashions.

The Jewellers Bench.

CLOSING DOWN SALE 50% OFF ALL STOCK

UNIQUE GIFT IDEAS FROM AROUND THE WORLD • Handmade Jewellery • Fashion Jewellery PURPLE PEOPLE DAY SPECIALS ACROSS THE STORE — Thursday 13 March

• Hurry in for a bargain.

• Closing for a break to travel. All stock must go by the 30 March.

• Thank you for your support for the past 7 years.

• Large stockist of Black Pepper, Marco Polo and other leading Australian brands.

• Size range 8 - 24.

33 High Street Phone. 6586 1324

Class-ique Fashions Style

Fit

48 Hastings Street Ph: 0499 187 750

Service

Heart to Heart Lingerie.

The Department Store.

LOTS OF PURPLE PEOPLE DAY SPECIALS THURSDAY 13 March • Medicare Rebate on Breast Forms • Breast Forms & Swim Breast Forms • Breast Form Lingerie & Swimwear • Posture Support Bras • Bridal & Shape Wear Remember to be measured every 6 months to see if you’re wearing the correct size bra.

CONGRATULATIONS ON 30 Years Wauchope Lasiandra Festival To celebrate 30 years of the Lasiandra Festival we will have 30% off selected items across the entire store on Purple People Day, Thursday 13 March.

Shop 6/7 High Street Web. www.hearttoheartlingerie.com.au Phone. 6586 0050 Mobile. 0438 443 124

House of Shabby Chic.

Pre-loved Upcycled Furniture & Gifts. Lots of fresh colours to brighten up any room.

Gifts, Antiques & Collectables. If you have a piece of furniture at home that you wish to have up-cycled to shabby chic style contact Lee at “House of Shabby Chic” for a free quote. Upcycled pre-loved furniture to shabby chic style. Open: Tues–Fri: 9.30am–4.30pm, Sat: 9.30am–2pm.

Email: houseofshabbychic@hotmail.com.au Lee Newman: 0408 491 144 2 Bransdon Street

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TURN SOMETHING OLD INTO SOMETHING NEW

New season’s fashion now in store!

22 High Street Phone. 6585 2299

Hastings Valley Property.

Hastings Valley Real Estate is conveniently situated at 32 High Street, Wauchope and is the key to all of your real estate needs.

We service both Sales and Rentals in the Hastings Valley and beyond.

Please call in to our office for all your real estate needs, you might be pleasantly surprised.

Proudly Supporting the Wauchope Lasiandra Festival — Congratulations on 30 Years

32 High Street Phone. 6585 2888 www.hvpm.com.au

focusinterview.

Upcoming Country Music Star, Wauchope's Angus Gill, has ticked a few boxes off his career bucket list, launching his new album and participating in the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January. Chrissy Jones chatted with Angus ... ou have recently returned from performing at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. What was that like?

Tamworth was an absolutely beguiling experience. I played 15 shows at various venues, including: the Oasis Hotel, the Atrium Shopping Centre, Toyota Fanzone, DAG Sheep Station, The Pub and the HQ Stage, which was a lot of fun.

2012 Star Maker winner Bob Corbett asked me to do a guest spot on his show and also two time Golden Guitar winner Pete Denahy on his Comedy Bluegrass show; it was brilliant to catch up with those guys and enjoy their amazing work.

Even though the festival was hot and dusty and my Suzi Quatro leather pants were sticking like dandruff to a shirt collar, it was all worth it … and so was the Johnson’s Baby Powder! For me, it was all about getting out there, selling some CDs, pulling some wild antics and having a ball.

At the Pub gig that I did in Tamworth, I was lucky enough to have multi Golden Guitar winning cinematographer Duncan Toombs’ company, Filmery, shoot a clip for me, which was a fabulous experience, with a super receptive audience. Angus Gill - live at the pub is on Youtube at: http:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYOdvMoavDo/ Equally enthusiastic was the crowd at the Cavalcade Parade, as we putted down Peel Street in the LIVEWIRE decorated Holden ute.

You've been to the festival a couple of times now; why do you keep going back?

Tamworth is about catching up with good mates that I only see once a year, having a yarn and hearing their stories. A lot of my CMAA Country Music College mates live on the other side of this country, so it is great to catch up with

angus gill

them at a gig.

Interviewing on the red carpet at the 42nd CMAA Country Music Awards of Australia must have been a wonderful experience?

It was hectic, but fun. I got to catch up with my mate, Travis Collins, who must’ve been on the same wavelength as me when he released his album of a similar name and a similar time, “Wired.”

Also speaking to my awesome producer Brad 'I’m really can to do gigs around the ur Bergen and Golden impressed by yo country. We are currently craft.

Guitar winner Tamara vocals and song arranging a songwriting e needs Stewart was brilliant, Our music genr ts like trip and also a brief tour tis after her hearing more original ar of NT and WA. great the work that is you telling that h ug ro You received a bit of th Australian story han to contained on my new ag praise in email form rn song .' - Lee Ke album, LIVEWIRE. r pe op st ow recently, who was that sh Wauchope Tell us about .” from? ill Angus G LIVEWIRE, which Yes, I did. It was extremely you launched at the rewarding to receive an email festival... from Country Music icon and 2008 On arrival at the festival, picking Australian of the Year Lee Kernaghan, up my completed CDs from Tamworth praising me on my first single, Tea and Biscuits, Transit was so relieving. I am so proud of this that I co-wrote with Tamara Stewart. He wrote: project, and the overall response has been over“I’m really impressed by your vocals and song whelming. Getting out and flying the LIVEWIRE craft. Our music genre needs more original artists flag at the Tamworth festival was truly awesome. like you telling that great Australian story through I managed to get the A-Listers to help me out song.” on the CD: legendary pedal steel player Michel Tell us about your new music video and Rose; Beccy Cole’s ex-husband and Australian where we can view it? fiddle champion Mick Albeck; Golden Guitar Creating the Tea and Biscuits music video with winning Roger Corbett; and accomplished pianist local videographer Adam Gilmour was so much Michael Varecka were the wired session musifun. I wish that Tam and I didn’t write such a decians joining virtuoso guitarist and drummer Brad scriptive song, because we had to clear out Nan’s Bergen. cupboards and ring friends to try and wing all of I can’t wait to launch it around the Mid North the props needed for the clip.

Coast, and I will be getting out as much as I

l i v e w i r e

“

The video was shot at a friend’s place in Comboyne, and we had my real Grandparents acting as themselves. I have no idea how we managed to talk them into it. Grandpa had to pretend he liked the cricket, much to his displeasure. Writing Tea and Biscuits with Tam was so awesome, and I will never forget that experience. It just flowed and we had a hell of a time drinking tea and eating Monte Carlo biscuits beside our laptop computers. The song was really honest, and I think the ’cricket’ part of the song was about the only detail we had to make up. The Tea and Biscuits video clip is now live on YouTube.

How can readers follow you on your music journey?

Cindy Myer from Webstyles in Wauchope has created a new website for me, and I feel extremely privileged to work with her. She's done a really funky job! Check it out at: http://www.angusgill. com.au/ and I’d love it if you could give me your 'like' on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/ angusgillmusic The Plug Angus Gill - LIVEWIRE is now on iTunes for only $11 or available from Bago Real Estate in Wauchope for $15.

Thanks Angus. greater port macquarie focus 69

w ith Crai g Smith

Rieker comfort & style Since 1874, Rieker has just wanted to help you relax in style. That’s probably why it has been able to become the world’s leading anti-stress shoe brand. Rieker’s philosophy is ingrained in every shoe it creates. When you wear a Rieker shoe, it is guaranteed to have all the attributes you need to feel a sense of ‘well-being’ in your everyday life.

N e w G M C r a i g S m i th AS A NEWCOMER TO PORT MACQUARIE, I HAVE BEEN AMAZED BY HOW MUCH IS HAPPENING IN THIS REGION AND AT YOUR GLASSHOUSE.

I

feel privileged to be managing such a world-class and award-winning facility and am impressed to see the building so busy so early in the year.

Last month we welcomed a major national conference, including a contingent of international delegates, to Port Macquarie for an incredibly full three-day conference program. Securing this conference was possible due to the full extent of resources available at the Glasshouse, and this event brought over 1,000 room nights to our local accommodation providers as well as incidental spending in restaurants, cafés and shops by hundreds of conference delegates.

Following this conference, we launched straight into a month of full houses in our theatre, including the Australian farewell tour for Bobby Rydell, Pirates to Pinafore as first in our series of Sunday Afternoon Soirees, and the successful return of Peace Train. It was wonderful to see the Glasshouse theatre full of happy customers enjoying such a diverse and high-quality line-up of entertainment. Importantly, a full theatre brings close to another 600 people into the town centre to enjoy a pre or post drink, meal or supper in our surrounding bars, cafés and restaurants.

Outside of the Theatre, the Glasshouse also had sell out events across our Gallery and Public Programs, with a full house in the Ross Family Studio for the first in this 70 greater port macquarie focus.

year’s series of Arts History Lectures, a packed Gallery for the opening event for our new exhibitions which include for the first time the Australian Chamber Orchestra as part of a new interactive Audio Visual experience in the Gallery.

Following on from a strong and exciting February, the Glasshouse has more in store for March, with events happening every day of the month throughout the many different areas of the building. This includes over 1,000 local school children coming in to see two sold out shows as part of the Glasshouse Education Program. On top of that we have another eight shows on offer in the Glasshouse theatre and a huge line up of film events, including the return of Flickerfest - Australia’s only academy accredited film festival, a free film event as part of Seniors Week and a screening of An Affair to Remember as the next film in our Reel Deal series, where you can enjoy morning tea followed by a classic movie on the big screen!

It is an exciting time to be managing such a diverse, active and successful facility with the Glasshouse Port Macquarie.

We are already achieving incredible success with sell-out shows and increasing numbers of commercial, community and conference bookings and like any business, there is always more we can achieve.

Look forward to seeing you at the Glasshouse.

Rieker is also dedicated to handcrafting the latest European fashion and offering it at an affordable price. With Rieker, you get the best of both worlds - ultracomfort and chic styles that give you certain a peace of mind. Take a step up into the world of Rieker shoes.

Durability – Extremely durable, Rieker shoes handle all manner of misuse and changes in

environment, without their stitching fraying and colour fading.

Comfort – Another added benefit of wearing Rieker shoes is comfort. These shoes are designed with the wearer’s foot in mind.

Material expands and contracts, and the soles are made of shock absorbing rubber that prevents you from feeling bumps when walking on uneven surfaces.

Fashion style – The range of sandals is very stylish and are bound to get you noticed every time you wear them.

These shoes are designed to keep your feet happy all day long! Let us help you choose the perfect style and fit at Colonial Cobbler today.

focusinterview.

m a c q u a r i e

Pony Club

the fun, friendly family club

p o r t

Port Macquarie Pony Club prides itself on being a fun, friendly family club that strives for the very best horsemanship and riding experiences for their members.

Chrissy Jones chatted with Maxine, one of the club members. here is Port Macquarie Pony Club (PMPC) located?

Port Macquarie Pony Club is located at Stuart Park, river end of Hibbard Drive, PMQ (adjacent to the Port Macquarie Rowing Club). It is a beautiful sand based, fully fenced area, where our members enjoy all equine disciplines available to them.

How long has PMPC been at this location?

PMPC has been established for many years and has been located at their home grounds at Hibbard Drive, Port Macquarie, for around 30 years.

Do you have to own your own horse to join a Pony Club?

Yes, unlike some riding lessons, Pony Club requires that you bring your own horse to Pony Club rally days and competitions.

Do I have to be a good rider to join Pony Club?

Port Macquarie Pony Club encourages all riders at every level. You do not have to be an experienced rider; many start as absolute beginners. Safety is paramount at each training day, with a focus on fun, enjoyment and positive learning experiences - no matter the skill level of the rider.

What activities are offered at Port Macquarie Pony Club?

Pony Club offers its members many and varied activities and disciplines. At PMPC the range is vast, including Dressage, Hacking, Jumping, Sporting, Polocrosse,

and Horsemanship, just to name a few.

Our members also enjoy Campdrafting, attending Pony Club Camps, Mounted Games competitions and One Day Events. i i disciplines di i li t provide id PMPC various equine to How old do you have to be to join Pony members with new learning experiences and Club? opportunities.

Pony Club is an organisation that invites The PMPC is made up of a wonderful youth from the ages of two years old group of parents, families and up to the age of 25 years, fully riders who share in fun filled supported and encouraged training days and who by their family and other PMPC is lucky always encourage the club members. enough to have 'have a go' option with What's so special s or ruct two regular Inst regard to horses and about Port ) ng ni ai at each rally (tr t their children's riding lis Macquarie Pony en n te day and we of experiences. It is a s Club? rt pe ex the help of very strong club which ne Port Macquarie ui eq s in variou e id ov pr frequently hosts Zone to Pony Club prides es lin discip with new rs be events, as well as our em itself on being a m PC PM ences and annual local events and fun, family oriented learning experi competitions. club which encourages opportunities.�

Some of our annual events riders of all ages and are the Carole Heta Memorial skill levels. Members are Gymkhana and the T-shirt Day, instructed in a safe, engaging which is a sporting and jump day. learning environment, focusing on Several of our members have achieved sportsmanship, horsemanship, and excellent results and are representing our are always given the opportunity to club at state events and have even attended further develop and nurture the care and national events. understanding of their horses and others What are some of the club's aims and around them. Throughout each rally day, objectives? riders are offered many activities and equine We encourage young people to ride and disciplines to enhance their skills and learning learn to enjoy all approved kinds of many and to embrace riding and the love of horses. different equine disciplines. The club provides PMPC is lucky enough to have two regular instruction and guidance in riding and Instructors at each rally (training) day, horsemanship and aims to instil in members and we often enlist the help of experts in

“

th correctt care off their th animals. We promote the the highest ideals of good sportsmanship, citizenship and loyalty and to cultivate strength of character and self-discipline.

When is the next Training Day for PMPC? The next rally (training day) for PMPC will be held on Sunday, March 16 at our home grounds, Stuart Park, Hibbard Drive, Port Macquarie. If you are interested, please contact Gail or Vickye for further details.

Interested onlookers are always welcome to come along at any time (without horses) to observe from our 'horse free' seated picnic area how much fun our riders have at our training days.

If you are thinking about joining PMPC, Gail or Vickye would be delighted to answer any questions you may have.

Pony Club New South Wales also has a 'come and try it' programme, whereby you can come for a day and try Pony Club to see if you like it (with your horse). However, prior arrangements need to be made with PMPC, so please call Gail or Vickye for more information.

Whom can I contact if I want to find out more about Port Macquarie Pony Club?

PMPC has a wonderful committee who can be contacted at any time. If you would like to find out more about PMPC, please call Gail Williams, Secretary, on 6585 3243 or Vickye McKechnie, Senior Instructor, 0419 438 002.

Thanks Maxine. greater port macquarie focus

71

focus_travel

focustourism.

Port Macquarie Tourism Association

T o u r is m

janette hyde.

February was a month full of exciting events.

T

he Grape stomping at Bago Vineyards, the Junior State Cup and the Port Macquarie Beatles Festival ... lots of fun for all involved and certainly a great boost to our local economy.

The National Tourism Awards were held on 7 February, and we were thrilled that the gold award for Tourism and Catering Services was awarded to The Corner Restaurant and the silver award for Local Government Award for Tourism to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. Congratulations to The Corner Restaurant and the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council on achieving national status at the Tourism Awards.

This month we mention Port Macquarie’s proud history. It is the traditional country of the Birpai, has a fascinating past since those days, back in 1821, when it was founded by the British as a penal settlement.

Why not do a walking tour? There is no better way to appreciate the town's history than on foot. Listen to the stories, visit some of our historical sights and see how our history is being interpreted. Further details at the Visitors Information Centre.

Visit the Port Macquarie Historical Museum. Its collection and themed displays tell the stories of Port Macquarie's rich and unique history and heritage. Take a walk through Port Macquarie's Historic Cemetery, the second burying ground, where nearly 1,500 soldiers, convicts and settlers are buried. The Innes Ruins and Douglas Vale Vineyard are also great places to visit to find our more about our history. Next month we have the Port Macquarie Hastings Heritage Festival.

ACTIVITIES PLANNED FOR MARCH 30th Wauchope Lasiandra Festival from Monday 3 - Saturday 29 March ...

The Lasiandra Festival includes family fun days, discos, variety shows, fashion parades, golf days, shopping days, garden party, Rock 'n' Roll dance, race days and finishes with a celebration dinner. www.lasiandrafestival.com.au 2014 Australian Open Pro Am Waterski Titles from 1 March - 2 March ...

72 greater port macquarie focus.

Stoney Park is proud to have created the ultimate skiers and boarder paradise, and March is shaping up to be one of Australia’s finest and most exciting events, with the pros vying for the titles in jump and slalom on the back lake and amateurs competing in age divisions for the slalom titles on the front lake. www.stoneypark.com.au Camden Haven Show 8 March - 9 March The Camden Haven Show holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Kendall and the surrounding districts, having maintained its rural charm and agricultural focus.

Events and exhibitions include: horses and cattle, poultry, flowers, fruit and vegetables, baby show, stalls, dog show, showgirls, art exhibition, photography, tractor display, Camden Haven Concert Band, rides and amusements, show bags and more. Camden Haven Show is one of the largest and most popular events in the Camden Haven region. www.camdenhavenshow.org.au BBQ Championships & Blues Festival from 28 March - 29 March ...

BBQ teams from around Australia will gather in Port Macquarie to battle it out for the 2014 BBQ Championships. Categories include pork, beef, lamb, chicken and ribs.

Over $5,000 in cash and prizes are up for grabs, along with the title of 2014 BBQ Pitmaster Champion.

Come down and check out the judging for the 2014 BBQ Championships. Saturday 29th from 9am to 2pm, open to the public.

Food trucks will be serving mouth-watering BBQ food for lunch. Entry is free. All ages welcome.

Don’t miss a great evening at one of the most iconic foreshores in Australia. Blues bands will hit the stage from 2pm to 9pm, together with food trucks serving authentic BBQ plates. Over 18s only. Ticketed Entry. www.bluesandbbq.com.au

T R AV E L D E S T I N AT I O N : F I J I

F

iji is a standout choice of travel spots for east coast Aussies in 2014, thanks to several happy factors. First, Fiji resorts have banded together in a big new push to appeal to Australian travellers.

Flash TV commercials are luring capital-city dwellers, but residents outside metropolitan areas also can source print and online ads for the specials, as well as - recommended - find them with the help of a proactive travel agent.

Many budget-priced packages are around, some featuring consolidated flights, accommodation and attractive complimentary inclusions. Outfits such as Luxury Escapes are experts at pressing airlines and resorts to trim rates, not in exchange for inferior service but to ensure firm occupancy levels. Tourism Fiji has recently appointed eastern states sales managers to boost travel agents’ product knowledge.

Another reason for Fiji’s heightened magnetism is it’s hoped after years of tension that our longtime Pacific friend is poised to trade its present regime for improved political stability after elections due in September. Canberra extended a renewed hand of friendship last month.

Travellers anyway aren’t ostensibly affected by the state of the government in Suva, but a return to democracy means resort owners can be more confident of their investment in tourism facilities and marketing. Now, the inaugural Fiji International golf tournament, minimum prize purse $1 million, is to be played at the Natadola championship course, beside the ocean on Fiji’s Coral Coast, in August - the first of five annual Fiji Internationals scheduled on the PGA Australasia Tour. In 2012, from latest full-year figures available, more than 660,000 visitors, mostly tourists, travelled to Fiji. Well more than half were from Australia and another 100,000 from New Zealand; another 1400 every week arrived from North America, followed by significant numbers from across Europe and Asia.

The flight to Nadi international airport, in the main island’s south-west, is a comfy three hours or so from Brisbane, four hours ex Sydney.

Your holiday begins immediately on touchdown when the tropical climate wraps you in its warm embrace and you’re greeted with ubiquitous wide Fijian smiles and the universal hello: “Bula!

Bula!” that right away becomes irresistibly part of your own regular vocabulary. English is the main language, currency is simple, a visa granted on arrival. More than 50 resorts span Fiji’s islands, of all styles. There are elite $2000+ a night retreats;

international hotels with 5-star facilities, spas, tennis and golf courses; small relaxed groups of bungalows - “bures” - on idyllic islands boasting superb water sports, right on down to more rustic, modest Fijian-owned escapes at corresponding budget prices.

Denaru has the advantage of being a short drive from the airport, so you’re checked in to your accommodation without spending precious holiday time on transfers. It’s home to familiar hotel names: Sheraton, Sofitel, Hilton, Radisson and so on, with air-con, restaurants, 24-hour service, big swimming pools, poolside cocktail service and swim-up bars: every appointment, especially for couples and adults seeking indulgence. I enjoyed a happy stay a few years ago at Sheraton, but Fiji for me spells more a quiet golden beach under a shady palm tree. This is more to be had on the Coral Coast, a string of resorts about an hour’s drive towards the island’s east from Nadi. Still with all facilities, here you find more relaxed, less formal, resorts catering particularly to families, pioneers of Fiji’s renowned kids’ clubs, and located within striking distance of the capital, Suva, well placed on tour bus routes: The Fijian, the Warwick, Outrigger ... variously offering both hotel-style rooms and individual thatched bures set in expansive grounds beside the beach, with real open-air Fijian atmosphere and wonderful casually-engaging Fijian staff.

Further towards Suva is the newer enclave of Pacific Harbour, again with a range of resorts: Royal Davui, The Pearl, most boasting good diving and game fishing opportunities. My favourite location remains the Mamanuca islands chain for the true “barefoot” atmosphere but with excellent facilities, a short and lovely cat ride from Denaru port. An ideal combination is three nights at Outrigger on the Coral Coast followed by another three nights at Castaway Island (see their helicopter transfer offer), the most beautiful and welcoming location in the Mamanucas. Here you can glide from the sandy step of your beachfront bure (air-conditioned, essential in Fiji) right into the clear blue ocean. Separate meal deals - excellent food at unmatchable prices (and sometimes completely free) - are offered throughout the year: keep a watch on the website castawayfiji.com.

At the higher end of tariffs in this archipelago is luxury Liku Liku Lagoon Resort on Malolo Island, for adults only (17+), with beachfront bures, some with private plunge pools, or premium over-water bures, the only over-water resort in Fiji. For all Fiji info, see www.fiji.travel greater port macquarie focus 73

authentic asia UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: VIETNAM & CAMBODIA mperors and artists, warriors and monks…surely nowhere boasts a more captivating array of culture, rituals and ruins than Vietnam and Cambodia. From tiny villages to great cities, every turn promises to reveal a triumph and Cruiseco can ensure you don’t miss a single one! As a pioneer of river cruises in Asia, Cruiseco has become the first choice for Australian travellers who want to ‘feel’ a country, not just see one.

survival, the mighty Mekong is a limitless source of intrigue as it takes you through a spell-binding mix of humble villages and world renowned cities. The Cruiseco Adventurer, limited to just 60 guests, is uniquely engineered to navigate these waters almost without restriction— taking you further than many comparable ships.

The Cruiseco Adventurer has set the benchmark for luxury adventure cruising on the Mekong.

With millions of Vietnamese and Cambodians relying on its waters for

Cruiseco Adventurer’s accommodation is spacious, private, cosseting and

Siem Reap

complemented by its bar, restaurant, lounge, sundeck, library, gym, and pool.

Each cabin offers an ensuite, individual climate control and comfy sitting area.

However, the favourite feature will be the private balcony, giving you a front row seat to an irresistible panorama.

Step aboard and prepare to be enthralled.

Plus all guests booking a Cruiseco holiday earn Qantas Points and complimentary Qantas Frequent Flyer membership.

vietnam cambodia •

Kampong Cham Kampong Chhnang Tan Chau Chong Koh Saigon Phnom Penh Sadec

an a na adventure dventure b by y luxury river cruise

My Tho

OUTSTANDING VALUE!

11 night fly, cruise and stay holiday includes: • Return Economy Class airfare from Sydney • 7 night luxury river cruise onboard Cruiseco Adventurer in a balcony cabin between Saigon & Siem Reap including all meals, local beers, spirits, soft drinks & onboard gratuities • Deluxe hotel accommodation: 2 nights at the Caravelle Hotel in Saigon & 2 nights at the Raffles Hotel D’Angkor in Siem Reap • Extensive sightseeing with expert local guides & transfers† • Breakfast daily, lunch and dinner as specified in the itinerary

11 nights from

$3,999pp twin share*

Cruiseco Adventurer offers regular weekly departures until March 2015

BOOK AN EXCLUSIVE CRUISECO HOLIDAY TODAY! Port Macquarie Travel 110 William St, Port Macquarie Phone 02 6583 1422 *Price is per person, in AUD, based on the lowest available twin share accommodation (Main Deck). Price shown is based on the lowest priced departure of multiple departures per month. include return Economy class international airfare, from Sydney including air taxes, 7 night cruise aboard Cruiseco Adventurer with port charges and on board gratuities, 2 night pre and post cruise hotel stay in Saigon and Siem Reap, extensive sightseeing and transfers. Offers are capacity controlled and can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Travel insurance is mandatory and is at an additional cost. †Does not include any additional accommodation or transfers made necessary due to flight schedules however this is available at additional cost. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency. Subject to availability at time of booking. Cancellation fees and conditions apply. For full terms and conditions see the Cruiseco Authentic Asia Vietnam Cambodia 2014-2015 brochure. Agents may charge service fees and/or fees for card payments which vary. Qantas Frequent Flyer members receive one Qantas Frequent Flyer point for every $1.50 spent on Cruiseco holidays. Points are not awarded on port charges, government fees, onboard gratuities and air taxes. Qantas Frequent Flyer complimentary membership is non transferable and not available with any other offer. To be eligible you must have made final payment on your package arrangements. Offer may be withdrawn at any time.

Lic no: 2TA000831

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

THE CRUISE SPECIALISTS INTRODUCING THE BRAND NEW LUXURY RIVER BOAT - CRUISECO EXPLORER ruiseco, the leading provider of cruising options in Australia and New Zealand, has announced that work has commenced on its second custom-built ship, the Cruiseco Explorer. The Cruiseco Explorer’s inaugural sailing is scheduled to depart on 21 October 2014.

Cruiseco is renowned for combining its luxury cruising expertise with local knowledge to create the most authentic itineraries. The launch of the Cruiseco Explorer signals a transformation of river cruising in Burma.

Its itineraries aɈord you the ideal balance of sightseeing and rejuvenating relaxation.

The new ship is a signiÄcant milestone for the cruising company as they launched the Cruiseco Adventurer in Vietnam & Cambodia in 2012. The Cruiseco Explorer will operate in Myanmar on the waters of the Irrawaddy, Upper Irrawaddy and Chindwin Rivers.

The ship is a Åoating Äve star hotel - restricted to 56 guests, Cruiseco Explorer exudes a relaxed sophistication and ‘private club’ feel. All accommodations come with a French or exterior balcony and bathroom. And deluxe suites even feature a Jacuzzi!

burma

Traditional in style, the ship will have an outside sun deck, a lounge and bar & restaurant. All of the public areas will be able to accommodate all passengers onboard at any time, and the restaurant will feature a fusion of traditional Burmese and western cuisines.

Of course your entertainment is not limited to the ship’s facilities. Evenings on board will include skilful demonstrations by local performers and the hospitality is delivered by a team intent on exceeding your expectations.

MANDALAY

“ Thank you for showing us Burma. We learnt so much and laughed such a lot. “

YANDABO BAGAN SALAY MAGWE

GUEST 2013

THAYETMYO PROME (PYAY)

NEW SHIP! NEW ITINERARIES! NEW BROCHURE!

YANGON

11 night fly, cruise and stay holiday includes: • Return Economy Class airfare from Sydney • 7 night luxury river cruise onboard Cruiseco Explorer in a french balcony cabin between Mandalay and Prome, including onboard gratuities, all meals, local beers, soft drinks and wine is served with lunch and dinner • Deluxe hotel accommodation: 2 nights at the five star Mandalay Hill Resort in Mandalay, 2 nights at the five star Chatrium Hotel in Yangon • Extensive sightseeing with expert local guides and transfers† • Breakfast daily, lunch and dinner as specified in the itinerary Cruiseco Explorer offers regular weekly departures until December 2015

11 nights from

$4,899pp twin share*

BOOK AN EXCLUSIVE CRUISECO HOLIDAY TODAY! Camden Haven Travel 75 Bold St, Laurieton Phone 02 6559 9048 *Price is per person, in AUD, based on the lowest available twin share accommodation (Main Deck). Price shown is based on the lowest priced departure of multiple departures per month. Package price includes return Economy class international airfare from Sydney including air taxes, cruise aboard Cruiseco Explorer with port charges and on board gratuities, pre and post cruise hotel stays and transfers as per selected itinerary. Offers are capacity controlled and can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Travel insurance is mandatory and is at an additional cost. Single supplements apply. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency.

Subject to availability at time of booking. Cancellation fees and conditions apply. For full terms and conditions please refer to the Authentic Asia Burma 2014/2015 brochure. Agents may charge service fees and/or fees for card payments which vary. †Cost does not include any additional accommodation or transfers made necessary due to flight schedules however this is available at additional cost. Qantas Frequent Flyer members receive 1 Qantas Frequent Flyer point for every $1.50 spent on Cruiseco holidays. Points are not awarded on port charges, government fees, on board gratuities and air taxes. Qantas Frequent Flyer complimentary membership is non-transferable and not available with any other offer. To be eligible you must have made final payment on your package arrangements. Offer may be withdrawn at any time.

Lic no: 2TA000831

focusinterview.

March for

Melanoma Personal experiences with Melanomas have inspired Paula Jackson and Kaela Croft to organise a march for a cure on March 23. Paula and Kaela are hoping as many locals as possible will join them at Rainbow Beach, Bonny Hills on the day, to not only help raise awareness of Melanoma, but also to raise funds for research …

P

lease share a bit of your story with us, Paula … where do you call home, and what’s your background?

I was first diagnosed with Melanoma in 2008. I had discovered a mole on my ankle that looked unusual, so I had it checked by my GP. I was sent to RPA to have a bigger area removed and my lymph nodes removed from my groin. At this time I had stage III Melanoma.

I continued to have regular checkups for the next 4½ years. This is when I had noticed that I had a lump on my ankle. I was sent for tests, and the results were stage IIII melanoma; this was in 2012. I am having ongoing treatment at the Melanoma Institute Australia.

I live in Wauchope, and I am a Childcare Educator at Riverbreeze Childcare Centre.

Apart from your own personal experiences, what other inspirations are behind the March for Melanoma event you’re organising?

As I am a patient at the Institute, I see how many people are affected by this disease and how we need to raise money for research so that we can find a cure.

My sister, Sue (Kaela's mum), who passed away in November 2013 from the same deadly

76 greater port macquarie focus.

disease, had only 13 months. This is why it is so important to find a cure.

Tell us more about the event ... where and when will it be held?

The march will be held at Rainbow Beach, Bonny Hills, on Sunday, March 23, 2014 at 8.45am for a 9.30am start time. We will meet at the Surf Club.

Describe the action that will happen on the day ... how far will you march/walk, and what other activities will take place?

The march will be a 3 km walk (1.5 km up and 1.5 km back). There will be a live band, Envy Days, a jumping castle, cake stall, sausage sizzle and canteen facilities, and Melanoma merchandise, including T-shirts, hats and drink bottles.

How many people are you expecting will take part in the event?

Last year we were overwhelmed with the response we had from the community; we had about 300 people taking part in the walk. This year we are expecting a lot more.

What local businesses/individuals have lent their support to the march, and what would you like to say to them?

We would like to thank our local Lions Club, Apollo Blinds Awnings and Shutters, Ritchie's Super IGA port Macquarie, local band Envy Days, Red Shed Hire, Fairfax Media, Hastings

Co-op Ice Creamery, Marine Magic Coffs people to march with you, a crowd to Harbour, Thompson's Trading and Sheds, cheer you on?

Wauchope Sports and Trophies, Wauchope We would love our surrounding comBonny Hills Surf Life Saving Club, Ocean munities to get behind us and march Breeze Cafe and Catering, FOCUS, for a cure; feet on the sand at Thompson's Building Centre, Rainbow Beach Bonny hills Lewis' Butchery Wauchope is what we need to raise and Bennett's Steel. awareness and funds. be The march will We would like to Registrations are held at Rainbow thank all sponsors available online on ills, Beach, Bonny H , 2014 at and supporters of and if people are 23 Sunday, March t ar st am Melanoma March unable to attend 30 8.45am for a 9. eet at the Bonny Hills; all of your the march, there time. We will m ill w ch ar m e Th assistance is greatly is an option to .

Surf Club km up .5 (1 k al w appreciated, and the donate.

Remember: km 3 be a ).” ck ba km 1.5 event would not be as every bit helps, big d an successful without your or small. support.

Bring your walking What do you hope the shoes and picnic rug and March for Melanoma will march together and make a achieve? difference.

We hope to raise awareness for MelaWhere can people find out more info noma and some much needed funds for or contact you?

Melanoma research, to help us find a cure.

For more information you can visit www.

People need to understand the importance melanomamarch.org.au or visit our Facebook of protecting their skin from the sun and be page, Paula and Sue's march for a cure, or aware of changes in their skin. Slip, slop, slap, contact Paula Jackson 0407 867 498 or Kaela slide and seek.

Croft 0427 250 395 or email How can the local community help you? paula707@bigpond.com Are you looking for donations, other Thanks Paula and Kaela.

“

Hastings Family Day Care ‘DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE’ A Family Day Care business is more than excellence in childcare when you are registered with HasƟngs Family Day Care.

It’s an opportunity to establish your own successful independent business and earn an income from home with the beneĮt of local specialist knowledge.

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each Educator.

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For more informaƟon: Contact the HFDC team on Ph: 6583 4660 Email: hasƟngsfdc@sjfs.stagnesparish.org.au - HasƟngs Family Day Care – 106 Horton Street, Port Macquarie www.stagnesparish.org.au/sjfs

greater greaterport portmacquarie macquariefocus focus 65 77

focusinterview.

CATHOLIC

SCHOOLS

week 9 - 15 MARCH 2014

relationships FOR LEARNING. At St Agnes’ Primary School we believe that every person is a unique individual, made in the image and likeness of God and with a desire and innate call to human flourishing.

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he individuality and dignity of every person is at the heart and centre of all of our teaching and learning practices.

The right of each individual child to be safe, supported and challenged, to develop their God given gifts and interests, to grow in their own independence and to thrive and flourish in the learning community, are the foundations for life long learning. We ensure that our school is a place of learning, where quality Catholic education for all students is provided within a caring, inclusive faith community.

Excellence in education is achieved by developing and maintaining relationships across the school community - relationships that call each person into wholeness and to understand that as Catholics, we are all invited to serve in ethical, values-based and intelligent ways. Teachers acknowledge each student’s previous learning, life experiences and relationships, providing the foundation for the student to actively participate in creating, applying and critiquing new learning.

So how do we achieve this at our school? Firstly, it is the quality of the influential relationships for learning that provides a foundation for impacting positively on student learning. Human beings are not only sacred but social and we become human by our relationships with others. Research tells us that excellence in teaching is the single most influential relationship on students’ achievement. Quality relationships between staff and students and

a strong partnership and sense of mutual respect and responsibility between the school and parents characterise the high quality educational experience for the St Agnes’ student.

Secondly, our teachers know each student as individuals and how to teach them. Our teachers use their knowledge of each student, establishing positive relationships that influence student outcomes in positive ways, and they exercise their influence across a network of relationships within the school.

Finally, school leadership is second only to teaching in influencing what students learn at school. This is achieved by establishing authentic relationships for learning that value and harness freedom of expression and the importance of including all voices within the community.

At St Agnes’ we have a deep conviction that Catholic education will strongly influence the formation of young people, resulting in students with confidence and character. Catholic education is a powerful means to achieve a more just, compassionate and peaceful world, and combined with our day to day interactions, we can make a significant difference to the lives of students, staff and their families.

“The Divine sleeps in every person like a seed. Just as the seed developed in the human Jesus Christ, so it is designed to awaken and enfold in every person”

A MIX MASTERY OF EDUCATION. St Joseph’s Primary School has an expectation that all children can learn at high levels, and we are constantly looking at how we can promote learning more effectively.

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ST. PETER's PRIMARY SCHOOL. St Peter’s Primary School is located on Ocean Drive in Port Macquarie and is part of the St Agnes’ Parish network of Catholic schools in Port Macquarie.

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t has an enrolment of 481 students, increasing yearly to an expected stable population of around 610 in 2017. St Peter’s supports the Melbourne Declaration which commits to “supporting all young Australians to become successful learners, confident and creative individuals, and active and informed citizens”, and to promoting equity and excellence in education. Our school is working towards the implementation of the Australian Curriculum which aims to “equip all young Australians with the essential skills, knowledge and capabilities to thrive and compete in a globalised world and information rich workplaces of the current century”. We believe all children can learn, and teachers work collaboratively to plan rich and engaging learning experiences to meet the needs of all children. Our children are encouraged to develop and use positive learning habits which build success in the classroom and in life. We value our partnership with the Parish and the wider community and work in close cooperation to provide the best educational opportunities and resources for our children. Our Parents and Friends Association (P & F) meet regularly to plan social activities for community building and fundraising activities to support learning. The St Peter’s May-Time Markets are always a popular feature on the Port Macquarie calendar, and Family Fun Nights and parent outings encourage close participation in the life of the school in a welcoming environment.

ver the past 3 years, St Joseph’s has developed a very comprehensive partnership with Newcastle University which has seen over 150 undergraduate teachers supporting our Literacy and Numeracy programs, which target essential learnings.

Complementing essential learning, members of staff are continually exploring ways to develop students who will be innovative and creative thinkers, who will value their individual learning and see the great potential in developing capacity through working collaboratively.

St Joseph’s places significant emphasis on creating diverse opportunities for children through a vast selection of additional cultural, social, sporting and emotional support programs.

Before and after school programs include:1. Kid’s Fitness and Games, 2. Concert Band and Instrument Tuition 3. Early Bird Reading, 4. Speech and Drama 5. Dance Club, 6. Joey’s Glee Club 7. Computer Capers, 8. Tournament of Minds At lunch, recess and periods throughout the day, children are offered a diverse range of activities for leisure, socialisation and constructive play. Options include 2 Adventure Playgrounds and

sandpits, lunchtime clubs, organised games and access to the Hub which contains the library and laptops for reading leisure or research activities. Our school constantly promotes healthy living and involvement in individual and team sports. We have had 2 recent representatives at the National level and many children representing at Zone, Diocesan and State level. The main target of our PD/H/ PE and sports program is to encourage involvement and a ‘healthy living’ habit, which we believe is a foundation in building emotional well being.

St Joseph’s has 3 key personnel to support the increasing need around emotional and social well being. The Social Well-Being Officer, Emotional Release Counsellor and our Educational Psychologist work together with teachers and parents to help our little people make sense of change or challenge within their lives and to build their sense of self worth and capacity to build positive relationships.

St Joseph’s is determined to work hard to support a rich and diverse education that promotes innovative, creative, healthy and well adjusted young people, who will embrace our uncertain and exciting future.

CATHOLIC

SCHOOLS

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MORE THAN JUST A great education.

Catholic schools educate over twenty percent of all children in Australia. In the Port Macquarie-Hastings area, parents choose a Catholic school education for 4,500 students in the region's five Catholic primary schools and four high schools.

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uring Catholic Schools’ Week we celebrate l b the distinctive features of our local Catholic schools. Some of these features include:

The spiritual dimension that gives students an opportunity to learn more about their faith in formal Religious Education classes and develop their own faith and spirituality. Retreats and reflection days help students to develop relationships with God and with each other. Community service programs provide opportunities to put into practice some important Christian values such as respect, compassion and reaching out to those in need.

Pastoral Care is a major focus of Catholic schools.

Our goal is to ensure that every student is known personally and has the opportunity to develop in a caring, supportive environment. In our secondary schools, pastoral coordinators lead a team of pastoral teachers who have responsibility for around

24 students each. d h A holistic education is central to the philosophy of Catholic schools. An extensive co-curricular program gives students wonderful opportunities to develop their personal gifts and talents. Our schools offer numerous sports, have bands for all levels of musical ability, choirs, public speaking and debating, Duke of Edinburgh award scheme and youth ministry activities.

The pursuit of excellence is a mantra and a perennial goal of our Catholic schools. The author Jim Collins reminds us that ‘the good is the enemy of great’. We challenge students and teachers to set their sights high and avoid settling for mediocrity or being ‘just good rather than great’.

Excellence in teaching and learning is a core focus every school day. A Contemporary Learning Framework guides teachers as they build a culture

of learning. Teachers work in Professional Learning Teams to continually improve what is taught and how it is taught.

Partnership with parents is valued. Teachers are in ‘loco parentis,’ that is, in place of parents while students are at school. Teachers work closely with parents to help children achieve their personal best.

High standards are valued in every aspect of school life – in personal behaviour, attendance, punctuality, manners, uniform, application to school work, homework and assessment tasks.

Choice in HSC pathways enables senior students to focus on their strengths. In Years 11 and 12 students may choose either an academic pathway available at both MacKillop Senior College and St Joseph’s Regional College or a vocational pathway available at Newman Senior Technical College.

Outstanding results are achieved by students

selecting both pathways. In 2013, 27 students achieved an ATAR of 90 plus and nominations were received in ArtExpress, OnStage, Encore, Callback and InTech. Achievements in the vocational pathway were equally pleasing with Newman students achieving 13 medals at World Skills Regional Finals and 59 students gaining apprenticeships and traineeships.

Collaboration and teamwork are keys to the success of our local Catholic secondary schools.

Overall coordination of the secondary endeavour under the leadership of a Coordinating Principal ensures equality of opportunity and standards across all schools.

Building community and quality relationships are central to our Mission as Catholic schools.

Witness to our Christian values and beliefs is a special focus for 2014.

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focusinterview.

LORRAINE

HADDON Principal - Port Macquarie High School

Lorraine Haddon took up the position of Principal of Port Macquarie High School at the beginning of the year. There are some major developments underway that will help to reshape secondary education in Port Macquarie, with both Port Macquarie High School and Westport High School to become part of a new secondary college in 2015 …

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hen did you take up your appointment as Principal at Port Macquarie High School?

I took up my appointment at the beginning of the year. I was able to visit the school for a few days on two occasions during Term 4 last year. This gave me the opportunity to meet the staff and familiarise myself with the school. While I was visiting, I attended one of the planning meetings for the college and met the rest of the Hasting Valley Community of Schools Principals. This was a great introduction to Port Macquarie.

How have you settled into the role?

I am very much enjoying my role and feel settled in the school and community. I have been a Principal for the last six years in a smaller school and a Relieving Principal for a year before that. Many of the day to day jobs are the same, but on a bigger scale.

There are of course roles that are specific to Port Macquarie, but with the support of the existing staff I am learning those.

I have been very impressed with our students; I meet with our SRC regularly, and I am delighted with their understanding and vision. The Bravissimo concert last week showed the excellent achievement of our 80 greater port macquarie focus.

students and the high standards we are Scholarship to England to study the teaching achieving. of Shakespeare. I was Deputy and Relieving Please provide us with a bit of a ‘potted Principal at Nyngan, before I was appointed history’ of your teaching career … what Principal at Wee Waa. have been some of your various roles/ What are some of the new ideas you're positions? planning to implement at Port High this I started teaching in North Western NSW year? at Quirindi. It was a great place to start, My passions are student engagement because there were many young staff and learning and promoting individual members with great teaching ideas achievement. I am at the moment and enthusiasm. I was an English, planning a program of support for History and Geography teacher, HSC students. This will involve the Girls’ Supervisor and a series of meetings with the director of the Year 12 and parents and school musicals. the development of a I have been I had two years off program that focuses ry impressed ve after that, returning on the time between ts; I with our studen to Australia to the trial exams and C SR r ou meet with am teach at Macquarie the HSC. I d an y, regularl r ei th ith Fields. I was Year This ‘gel’ period is w ed ht delig and g in nd ta Adviser there, critical for learning. rs de un taking my year I will be working on vi si on .” of 189 students promoting individual through from Year 7 to excellence and making 12. I also added Drama sure that each student to my teaching repertoire. I is supported to meet their went back to Quirindi as English individual needs. I will also be Head Teacher, where I was elected the focusing on staff development; I hope to President of the Peel Valley English Teachers be highly visible in the school and visiting Association. I became a Senior Marker for the classrooms on a regular basis.

HSC and won a Premier’s English Teachers How many students and staff does the

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school currently have … and how does this number compare to previous years?

The school has 725 students and 70 staff.

This year we have enrolled students from as far afield as Darwin, Adelaide, Cairns, Canberra and Geelong. We are continuing to get new enrolments each day. Historically our numbers are less, but there are demographic factors in play beyond the school’s control.

We expect that with the rise in numbers at all the local primary schools, our numbers will start to increase again.

A lot of locals have probably heard rumours about Westport High and Port Macquarie High amalgamating at some point in the future. What truth is there to these rumours - do we have a confirmed date for this process to take place?

Port Macquarie High and Westport High will both become part of a new secondary college next year. The process of forming the college is well underway, with an advertisement being published on Wednesday February 19 for the Executive Principal of the college. A name will be chosen shortly for the college.

This year both schools are working together on the 2015 transition program. A combined information night will be held at each of our local primary schools; the first

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“ will be at Tacking Point Primary on March 4.

We are also combining already for gifted and talented programs for both primary and high school students.

Moving into 2015, what will secondary education look like in Port Macquarie?

How many public high schools are we likely to have, where will it/they be situated, and how many students will it/ they cater for?

The two campuses will be enrolling students from Year 7 to Year 12. They will be located on their existing sites. They will cater for over 1,000 students.

The process of change can be a difficult and challenging thing for many people.

Why do you see the proposed changes for the school to be a positive thing for the local community? Why do we actually need these changes?

The college will a very positive thing for the community, because of the increase

compete in the modern world and achieve the goals they set for themselves. We also want them to become good, productive members of our community.

What facilities would these proposed changes offer to both staff and students?

The college students will have access to all the facilities in both schools. There are two Trade Training Centres in the college, Hospitality at Port Macquarie and Metals and Engineering at Westport. These facilities will available to all college students. The Marine Studies teaching facilities at Port Macquarie High will also be available to all. Port Macquarie’s beachside location enables many practical subject opportunities. Subjects such as Biology, Science and Geography have immediate access to the marine environment.

What challenges do you envisage will need to be overcome throughout this process of change?

We will need to make sure that we

There will be an een alignment betw ing rt po re d assessment an g in w lo al s, ol at both scho ss acce parents to easily t ou ab n io at inform r ei th the progress of ges an ch e es children. Th th t to e will be importan community.�

in opportunities for those in our secondary system.

Students will have a wider curriculum selection than they have ever had before. There will be able to access very dedicated and experienced teachers at both sites.

There will be a sharing of teaching resources and professional development between the schools. We hope there will be aligned curricular and extra-curricular activities using those with the most expertise in either school.

There will be an alignment between assessment and reporting at both schools, allowing parents to easily access information about the progress of their children. These changes will be important to the community.

We have to give our students the best education we can, so that they are able to

communicate effectively with the community, parents, staff and students. The vitality of the college will come as all working closely together to make the most of this opportunity. We will need to explore all the ways that this can be done, while making sure that all stakeholders are involved.

What will your role be throughout this process of change and into 2015?

My role will be to work with the Executive Principal and the Principal of Westport High to develop the ethos of the college and the details of its operation. We will be aiming to maximise the opportunities available to students. We will be actively seeking ways for the schools to work together within the Hasting Valley Community of Schools, including the new school at Lake Cathie, so that there are seamless transitions from the primary schools to the college.

Where can people find out more information about Port Macquarie High School and its future direction?

I am available at the school if people want to come in to talk about future directions.

I will be attending all the primary school transition meetings. We also have a website where you can access information.

Thanks Lorraine. Interview by Jo Atkins. greater port macquarie focus 81

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SENIORS WEEK

Robyn Butler.

Sensational Seniors Expo COUNCIL TO HOST SENSATIONAL SENIORS EXPO FOR SECOND YEAR RUNNING February 2014 Port-Macquarie-Hastings Council is ready to host a bumper program to celebrate NSW Seniors Week.

Commencing Monday 17 March, Council will be hosting the Sensational Seniors Expo, the Young at Heart Seniors Film Festival and lastly the Yarning Our Country knitted landscape project.

The main event to kick start the week is the Sensational Seniors Expo, which is aimed to help seniors discover an extensive range of seniors’ services and information all under one roof, thanks to our venue sponsor, Panthers.

A seniors working group with representatives from U3A, National Seniors and Department of Veteran Affairs and Heart Support has worked alongside Council’s Community Development Officer - Aged and Disability to create and deliver the expo.

With over 70 stalls to choose from, the expo

82 greater port macquarie focus.

will also include live entertainment, practical free workshops, free One Act Plays in Pier 1 and original artworks created by painter Maureen Hales.

At The Young at Heart Seniors Film Festival, seniors will have the luxury of enjoying a free 75-minute program of the best Australian short films featuring an actor over 60 in the lead role.

Last but not least, the Yarning Our Country knitted landscape project showcases the work of over 200 NSW knitters, from the ages of 5 to 101. Animals, waterfalls and more are all knitted in 3D to create a landscape, and this cute and quirky exhibition will be available for viewing at the Port Macquarie Library.

Dates and times: Sensational Seniors Expo: Monday 17 March 2014, 9am - 3pm at Panthers Port Macquarie.

Young at Heart Seniors Film Festival: Sunday 23 March 2014, 2pm (75min duration), Glasshouse Theatre. Book your free tickets at the Glasshouse. Yarning Our Country: now until 22 March 2014, Port Macquarie Library.

Welcome to yet another month in 2014! How humid has it been? he other night I got up and on returning to my bed, felt like I was sleeping on hot coals … hot sort, you may say … no! ... just a very, very humid hot summer night.

Firstly, congratulations to all concerned with the high level of co-operation and co-ordination of the emergency services and the brave students on the bus for their quick action and care to the injured and traumatised at the bus crash in Port Macquarie last month. From all reports, the actions of many made for a smooth operation of a very nasty accident. My thoughts and best wishes go to the people injured in this unfortunate incident.

BELLEVUE GARDENS … WAYNE HORSBURGH ... 'THE PEOPLE’S ENTERTAINER' Yet again Bellevue Gardens is hosting an afternoon of wonderful entertainment for the residents of the Hastings. Wayne Horsburgh has won several awards ... 5 times winner of Australian Entertainers ‘MO’ Award. Winner of the Frank Ifield 'Spur' award, and 2 times winner of Australian Club Entertainer 'Ace' Award. He was also inducted into the 2013 Tamworth 'Hall of Renown'. Wayne sings Country, love songs, songs of praise and many more.

Where: Bellevue Gardens Retirement Village.

Date: Sunday 16 March, 2014.

Time: 3pm.

Cost: $25 a head and includes hot and cold finger food, tea and coffee. BYO drinks (hic!).

Tickets: Available at reception desk at Bellevue Gardens ... hurry: limited tickets available. See you there!

EATING IN AUSTRALIA IN THE FIFTIES I know many who read my column will remember the following … I really enjoyed reading this info and hope you do as well: the younger generation will laugh and not believe this is how it was way back when!

Pasta had not been introduced Curry was a surname A takeaway was a mathematical problem Bananas and oranges only appeared at Christmas time.

Rice was a milk pudding, and never ever part of our dinner.

A Big Mac was what we wore when it was raining.

Brown bread was something only poor people ate.

Oil was for lubricating; fat was for cooking.

Cubed sugar was regarded as posh.

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Fish didn’t have fingers in those days.

Eating raw fish was called poverty … not sushi!

None of us had ever heard of yoghurt.

Prunes were medicinal ... that and olive oil? ... do I remember that!

Muesli was readily available … it was called cattle feed! Water came out of taps and if someone had suggested bottling it and charging more than petrol for it … they would have become a laughing stock.

THE ONE THING WE NEVER EVER HAD ON OUR TABLE IN THE FIFTIES … WAS OUR ELBOWS! (Close your mouth when you're eating, excuse yourself from the table, put your knife and fork together when you are finished … familiar?)

FINDING THE WAY LEARN TO MEDITATE ... REACH STATE OF BALANCE AND PEACE How would you like a two day course in learning about meditation, peace enlightenment and a state of balance? Well at WAUCHOPE LIBRARY on Monday and Tuesday the 3rd and 4th of March 2014, you can do just that. The course goes from 10am to 4pm both days and includes morning tea. Full price $50.

For more details, call Jean (meditation teacher, spiritual channeller, reconnective healing practioner) on 6586 1066 AFTER 6PM. CUSTOMER SERVICE … SUPERMARKET, RESTAURANT AND HOSPITAL! I am always going crook about this and that, so when some 'pleasant' remarks crossed my path, I thought I would include them in my column.

Firstly, to Claire at Coles at Lake Innes for her knowledge and helpfulness. How nice to have a person who really knows her 'deli products' … and apparently has a lovely smile … well done, Claire. To the staff at Scampis for their care and kindness to a 93 year old customer … thank you, Charlie and the girls … it did not go unnoticed.

Lastly, to Theresa at the Private Hospital for her loving care to the patients she cares for ... once again, your actions did not go unnoticed and were passed onto me.

Next month, Douglas Vale Heritage Day, Park equipment discussion and much more.

My friend Coral was talking to her little four year old grandson about the nativity story and he looked at her so sincerely and asked whether Jesus was a boy or a girl … out of the mouths of babes.

Keep smiling.

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Tender Loving Cuisine Plunketts Chemmart Pharmacy It's not always easy to look after your health, so we're here to lend a hand. Plunketts Chemmart Pharmacy has so many solutions to help make your retirement life easier. Judy Plunkett, business owner and pharmacist, has been an expert in providing health services and advice for over 30 years in our local community. You can trust us for helpful information and the right advice, every time.

Our in store Wellbeing Services are also designed to save you time and worry, making it easier to look after yourself better.

• Continence Nurse • Health Check Practitioner • Blood Pressure checks • Bowel Screening • Diabetes Support • Cholesterol checks • Medicine Manager - Webster Packing • FREE delivery Plunkett's Chemmart Pharmacy will be exhibiting at the Sensational Seniors Expo on Monday 17 March at Port Panthers.

Come and see us on the day and MENTION FOCUS to receive a FREE 1 WEEK TRIAL on Webster Packs.

For quality service and advice to make looking after your health easy, visit Plunketts Chemmart Pharmacy today at Port Macquarie and Wauchope locations.

Small, proud and successful businesses are the back bone of our rich economy. These businesses are usually started with the passion of one person, to provide a service that is as unique as it is a necessity. One such outstanding small company is Tender Loving Cuisine, an award winning service that provides healthy meals for people who are elderly, disabled or food intolerant.

In a business world where the production and distribution of food is becoming more and more a challenge, Tender Loving Cuisine has excelled and succeeded as one of the most popular and respected food delivery services along the East coast of Australia.

Beginning with a devoted group of office staff to the home made food production in its impeccable kitchen onto the friendly and professional delivery services by Managers in Sydney, the North and South Coasts of NSW and throughout Victoria, Tender Loving Cuisine has earned the respect of government departments and community organisations alike.

Founded by CEO Jack Barker almost 17 years ago, his vision was to offer a food product of the highest quality that is most affordable to people from all areas of our diverse community. When asked what he’s most proud of with TLC, he replies, “I wanted to create an organisation that was always customer focused, and I’m satisfied that our customers are getting a nutritious and delicious meal no matter what they choose from the menu. For me it’s all about community health and wellbeing ...”

Many dieticians and health professionals are confidently recommending Tender Loving Cuisine as a healthy option. To see whether TLC is available in your area, please go to www.tlc. org.au - or call 1800 801 200. Maria Mitzikis - Nutritionist.

greater port macquarie focus 83

Departs from Port Macquarie.

Discover NZ's hidden gems New Zealand is a stunning country, diverse as several continents rolled into one. Its two main islands offer several different regions, each unique in character. Explore this beautiful country with Grand Pacific Tours & Wauchope Travel on the 20 Day Grand New Zealand Tour.

This luxury coach holiday takes you at a relaxed pace through both the North and South Islands, with 5 two night stays and four breathtaking cruises.

Your holiday begins with a tour of the North Island of New Zealand. Highlights include time in the Bay of Islands, where you’ll take a trip on a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. This tour also takes you to cultural Rotorua, where you’ll see the famous boiling mud pools and awesome geysers. Visit some of the lesser-known gems of New Zealand such as Napier, a city renowned for its eye catching collection of beautiful art-deco buildings and the wine-producing region of Wairarapa.

After a relaxed ten days in the North, you’ll explore New Zealand’s South Island. Highlights include the TranzAlpine rail journey, a world famous rail

journey, where you’ll travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges. The tour also allows you to spend two nights in the adventure capital, Queenstown, where you can choose from optional tours such as the world famous Shotover Jet or a scenic helicopter ride. You will also enjoy a cruise on the Milford Sound, where you’ll see the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch aboard.

Grand Pacific Tours are experts at providing experiences where every detail is taken care of. From the time you arrive in New Zealand,

as you enjoy this magical destination.

For more information, call Wauchope Travel on 6585 2288.

Flexible learning options! If time is an issue for you, why not consider our facilitated

a friendly smile awaits. Renowned as the New Zealand specialists, this touring company have strong relationships with its suppliers to ensure you receive VIP treatment and excellent value for money. Robyn from Wauchope Travel was lucky enough to experience this first hand last year and can assure everyone of the quality of this experience. Let Grand Pacific Tours look after you

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Relax and enjoy the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, all at a leisurely pace. Visit all the ‘must see’ attractions as well as some of the lesser known regions - Napier, the Wairarapa and Blenheim. Includes 5 two night stays in superior accommodation.

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Ăź $100 discount per person Ăź Return Gold Class Coach transfers from 3RUW 0DFTXDULH WR 6\GQH\ $LUSRUW Ăź BONUS night pre tour accommodation Ăź BONUS Grand Pacific Tours Jacket & Cap per person Ăź $LUIDUHV WD[HV accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions.

For more information call 6585 2288 *Conditions apply. Price valid for travel ex SYD and includes pre paid taxes (subject to change). Prices are subject to change without notice. Such changes may be due to adverse currency uctuation. Single supplement available. **Savings amount of $100 has already been deducted from advertised price. Extra night (room only) is already incorporated into the above itinerary. Jacket and Cap are per person. Coach will pick up passengers from a designated coach stop in speciďŹ ed areas. Applies to new bookings only prior to 30 April 2014. No other special offers apply. Lic No 2TA 6027.

84 greater port macquarie focus.

Creating a learning culture within your organisation is a critical element of a positive work environment. It is more than just providing you and your staff with the skills needed to deliver your products and services; a training focused organisation builds the capability of its staff to sustain and enhance the productivity of the organisation as a whole.

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focusinterview.

SENIORS WEEK

Tony Sullivan, the Chaplain at Garden Village, coordinates several men’s groups within the village. He highlights the importance of these groups and the benefits to the men involved …

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ony, what’s your position at Garden Village?

I am primarily the Chaplain at Garden Village and am available to interact with Garden Village Residents in the AgedCare Facility. I also interact with our Self-Care residents individually and in groups. However, our management team recognised the importance of having programs that specifically focus on our male residents and have allowed me to be involved in this process.

How many men’s groups currently operate at the Village?

We currently have three men’s coffee mornings in different parts of Garden Village.

Two of those groups are in our hostels, and the other has been organised for our self-care residents.

The numbers who attend fluctuate and could be anywhere from 30 to 50 in attendance on a regular basis.

Our Men’s Shed is another asset that is available to our men. At present we have three weekly sessions for our hostel men that are staffed by qualified volunteers and staff members. For the remaining time the shed is open to our self-care men on a need to use basis. As you well know, every man needs a shed at times, and this is available to our men.

The whole purpose of our Men’s Shed is to connect with long held skills that our men may have. This allows them to work and to have a creative outlet for those skills. Our men are always busy building projects or repairing items for the many residents who live at Garden Village. We have also designed and built special projects that have been donated to charities or medical facilities in the Hastings Region.

But, work is not all the men do. It is well known that morning tea is served at 10am on

work days, and often some of the men come by just to join in the conversation.

Garden Village management fully supports and underwrites the tools and material that is needed for the operation of GV’S Men’s Shed.

What are some of the different kinds of activities these groups take part in?

It is obvious that the men’s coffee mornings and Men’s Shed are well attended, but there is more that’s available to our men. Our TEAM (Time, Events, Activities for Men), which is a selfcare group, get on the bus and head out on a monthly basis to a country pub for lunch. There are the occasions, when the weather is good, that we put together a barbecue and enjoy lunch while taking in the sites at one of many beautiful locations in Port Macquarie.

What’s the aim of the Men’s Shed program?

Garden Village management recognised the need for our men to have some opportunities provided for them. On a suggestion from our manager, I was able to research the Men’s Shed movement to see what we could do. We developed the process and selected a suitable location, and GV’S Men’s Shed was born.

Our goals and purpose are ...

Purpose – Garden Village Men’s Shed is a program designed to promote the mental health and wellbeing of male residents at Garden Village.

Goals A. To promote social interaction among our male residents.

B. To identify and to connect with past life skills and to provide an opportunity for the resident to re-engage those creative skills.

C. To promote a sense of self-worth through the accomplishment of specific projects.

D. To provide a common area that will encourage the “at home” environment that is of great value to our male residents.

E. To provide a format for our male residents to pass on life skills to the next generation.

Why do you feel it’s important for groups, such as the ones you coordinate at Garden Village, to exist?

It is a well-known fact that the majority of residents in the aged care environment are women. Because of this demographic, most of the programs are organised for our ladies. That is why it is so important that we provide good quality programs for our men. And as most men and women know, guys like to get their hands dirty sometimes and to do that at home could cause a problem. We provide that opportunity!

What’s some of the feedback you’ve received from members of the men’s groups?

One man had a clinical appointment that was going to interfere with his involvement in our men’s coffee morning. He responded, “What’s more important: my physical health or my mental health?” Another man in his nineties said, “There are a lot of things that are not much fun, but the Men’s Shed is great!”

Interestingly, one of our ladies once told me, “I don’t know what they’re doing in that men’s shed, but the guys are now a lot friendlier!”

What are some of the personal benefits you’ve received through being involved with these groups?

I remember years ago watching the older retired men sit around at the local diner or pub and swap stories. You know they enjoyed this, because they were there most every day. What we have provided with our men’s programs is an opportunity for them to ether work shoulder to shoulder with other men or just sit around and swap stories. For me, this lets me know that I have had a part in making a difference in the lives of our men.

What plans do you have moving forward

through 2014?

We plan to continue the development of our men’s programs and we also plan one day to take our guys to an AMSA (Australian Men’s Shed Associations) meeting. We are just waiting for one to be close enough for us to attend.

We also plan to further develop our interaction with Westport High School Students, which allows our men to pass along their skills and their stories to the next generation.

Final words …

Since its beginning, the Men’s Shed at Garden Village has been a collaborative effort. When the concept was introduced, it was our men that joined together in building the Shed. With two carpenters with a combined experience of 80 years in the building trades as well as various skill sets among our residents, it was easy to bring the project to completion. Garden Village provided the material; our residents provided the skills.

However, GV’s Men’s Shed has also had an outward focus. Over the last few years our men have been able to build and provide interesting items to charities in the community. The Base Hospital Children’s ward, Joey’s House and the local chapter of the Diabetes Association have all benefited from our toy trains and motorcycle rocking horses that are all hand made in our shed. Our men have also designed and built various pieces of custom furniture for many of these organisations.

We have also teamed up with our ladies craft group to build wooden cradles with accompanying bedding and dolls. But, our most consistent and ongoing project is to build and repair furniture or whatever it may be for our residents. This interaction promotes a very positive relationship between our men and the greater Garden Village Community.

Thanks Tony. Interview by Jo Atkins. greater port macquarie focus 85

focus_business.

with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce mmerce

Hadyn Oriti.

New 2014 Sea-Doo Range Come and check out the new Sea-Doo 2014 range at Port Macquarie Sea-Doo. We have some great Sea-Doo models in store, such as the GTI SE 155, which remains one of the most efficient ways to get your family onto the water. It comes standard with a touring seat and a reboarding step, along with features like the Intelligent Brake and Reverse (iBR) system and Learning Key to let you and your loved ones ride with total confidence and complete control. Let the family fun begin!

The Sea-Doo GTR 215 model features a powerful engine that gives you the ultimate performance. With a supercharged engine and high-performance Variable Trim System (VTS), this personal watercraft takes you

straight from zero to heart-pounding thrills.

The Sea-Doo WAKE 155 model sets the towline higher, thanks to a retractable ski pylon with spotter handles. It is designed to give you the edge for on-water sports. With features like a supportive seat, quick connect removable board rack, and seat strap, grab handle and footrest for the spotter, it has everything you need for optimum comfort and stability.

MINDING YOUR

business THE PORT MACQUARIE REGION IS A WONDERFUL PLACE TO LIVE AND RAISE CHILDREN. IT HAS TOP-NOTCH SCHOOLS FOR OUR CHILDREN AND WE CAN ACCESS FIRST CLASS MEDICAL SERVICES. NOW WE CAN PURSUE TERTIARY EDUCATION RIGHT HERE IN TOWN.

All models have a 2 year warranty.

Port Macquarie Sea-Doo has a wide range parts and accessories to set up your new Sea-Doo just how you like it.

So if you are thinking of getting out on the water, now is the time to get into Port Macquarie Sea-Doo and get a great deal!

hose facilities are available because of the efforts that many people in government, the community and business have made over the generations. Many people make their contributions through community voluntary organisations. The Chamber is one such organisation.

T

One of the reasons I joined the Chamber of Commerce was to work with others to lobby for opportunities for young people in Port Macquarie: career and academic. Others join the Chamber to make contacts and network. Some join to publicise their services. We welcome people, whatever their reasons for joining. They are all legitimate and worthwhile.

The Chamber is an organisation made up of business members drawn from the diverse and healthy regional economy of the Port Macquarie and the Hastings Valley. Our members are individuals and organisations who are clearly interested in developing their own businesses, improving the broader business environment in the region and wishing to be heard in relation to business matters. Our objective is to develop a sustainable, diverse, broadly based local economy.

We are always keen to ensure we have new and engaged members. It is our members who drive Chamber’s business and fill the voluntary positions on its board. Our members are the ones who make the difference working to improve business environment that then flows through to lift the quality of life for everyone in the region.

Part of my challenge as President of the Chamber is to encourage those businesses who aren’t members to join the Chamber. They ask; well, what’s in it for them? In terms of member benefits, I am very pleased to say that all members of the Port Macquarie Chamber have access to the New South Wales Business Chamber services, allowing them to access an 86 greater port macquarie focus.

online legal toolkit, save money on electricity, obtain online resource subscriptions with respect to workplace information and occupational health and safety, together with member discounts.

In addition to the benefits that come from our alliance with New South Wales Business Chamber, our members are able to network each month with local businesses, get connected with potential partners, customers and suppliers. We are able to assist them with publication through our newsletters and other advertising campaigns, website listings to promote our members’ products and services.

We have member to member benefits on which people can save money in relation to electricity, stationery, insurance plus Qantas Club offers and corporate health plans.

We have four levels of membership, from base membership through to corporate membership, gold sponsor and platinum sponsor. The benefits accruing to each level of sponsorship is reflected in the membership fees paid. If you are interested in specific membership benefits, please go to the Chamber website www. portchamber.com.au Membership activities are designed to foster business within the area and to provide a base from which we can then fulfil our role as the voice for local business.

It is always important that business be heard.

As our Prime Minister says, “You can’t have strong communities without strong economies to sustain them, and you can’t have strong economies without profitable private businesses”.

So, if you are in business, I encourage you to consider joining the Chamber. The benefits are tangible, the connections worthwhile and you’ll be helping to ensure that the Chamber achieves its objective of creating a vibrant, sustainable and diverse local economy - not just for us, but for our children and the broader community.

focusrealestate

estellegough.

Ask Greg UPDATE

TREES THAT PLEASE It’s a hot summer. Aren’t you glad we have so many trees here?

I

f you have looked up to see a koala in one of those trees, maybe you’ve wondered: “What is that tree’s name?”

Chances are the koala tree was a Tallowwood. This tree is covered with verticallyridged brown bark that’s spongy and soft to the touch, providing a safe and comfy grip for koalas. So boughs of Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys) are used in the Koala Hospital.

trunk, due to koala or possum feet. If there were also ‘scribbles’ made by tunnelling moth larvae on the trunk, then it’s a Scribbly Gum. With its smooth greyish-white trunk covered in calligraphy, its modest size and its tolerance of poor soils, this tree is ideal for gardens. Koalas browse the grey-green leaves, and the nectar produced by its flowers attracts other fauna.

Scribbly Gums (E. haemastoma) provide nest holes too.

Koalas like to eat the small, bright green leaves on the spreading branches of this Apart from Eucalypts, you may superb large tree. The name also have noticed Broadleaved comes from its timber, which Paperbark trees (Melaleuca t Ko alas like to ea has a golden colour and is quinquenervia) in our the small, bright reputed to make a great swampy areas. Layers of the green leaves on dance floor. petal-soft creamy bark es of reading branch sp cover the trunk, yet the Another tree you’re e tree. this superb larg leaves are hard. Please from likely to notice in The name comes s don’t pull off the bark ha our town is the its timber, which d is – it’s like pulling out an Blackbutt. Sometimes a golden colour great a e your hair, and it hurts ak the protective brown reputed to m ” . the tree. or bark at its base has been dance flo

“

blackened by a fire – hence the name.

This shaggy brown bark often extends up to its lower branches then gives way to smooth cream, grey and brown coloured limbs. Koalas eat the leaves of this large eucalypt too.

Blackbutts (Eucalyptus pilularis) are notorious for pruning themselves by dropping branches, so don’t park your car under them. But the dropping of limbs often creates hollows, which are essential to provide nests for many Australian birds, including parrots.

Blackbutts attract Yellow tailed Black Cockatoos, which listen for grubs in the branches then bite through to pull the grub out. This means more fallen branches, but a healthier tree, and happy cockatoos!

Maybe you became curious about a different kind of tree after noticing scratch marks on the

I

G Greg T Trembath b t answers wers your real estate questions. stions.

’m always reading about the Sydney property boom. What is the Port Macquarie market doing at the moment? Ben, Port Macquarie.

A. You are right, Ben: much of what is reported in the media relates to capital city markets, so I’m very happy to share what has been happening locally and what is likely to be experienced in coming months.

Demand for all properties in the Port Macquarie area remains strong, with the number of properties sold in the last three months (350) estimated to be 26% greater than the same period last year (source Residex).

capital cities aggregate $540,000.

The growth in local unit sales numbers has largely been in the mid price range favoured by downsizers, investors and self-managed superannuation fund buyers. With the median price for units now at $268,000, my tip is that this type of property could be the big mover over the next few months.

One aspect of the local market that hasn’t changed is lifestyle appeal. More and more people are keen to make Port Macquarie their home, and this is what underpins the consistent population growth. Partner this with significant investment in health and education, and the upward pressure on the demand for housing is likely to continue, which will also drive up purchase prices and weekly rents. Overall, it is a positive picture indeed.

... the number of properties sold in the last 3 months is estimated to be 26% greater than the same period last year.

Considering annual house sales numbers are up 10% and units up 18% (as reported by RP Data) then the momentum is particularly solid.

The median price for a house in Port Macquarie is now $425,000 which is an increase of approximately 5% over the previous year. While the percentage rise is less than cities like Sydney, the markets are distinctly different, so comparisons are not always relevant.

Investors are more than aware of the value and affordability offered by property in our area when comparing the Sydney median house $655,000 and

Answers are general comment, and readers should always seek their own independent professional advice.

Send your real estate questions to greg@gregtrembath.com.au Greg Trembath is Principal/Licensee at Greg Trembath Real Estate. Licensed Real Estate Agent – Licensed Auctioneer.

Paperbarks have flowers loaded with sweet nectar, and their aroma is one of the joys of summer here. The flowers are a banquet for fruit bats, honeyeaters and insects.

Growing in waterlogged and saline soils, Paperbarks are farmed locally to produce an essential oil that has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Yet, they also taste good to koalas …

A very different tree that you are sure to notice here is the stately Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria hererophylla).

It has rough brown bark and tiny curved, scalelike leaves, which crowd along the branches.

It’s not a native, but evolved in isolation on Norfolk Island. It has been introduced as an ornamental and thrives here, growing tall and symmetrical despite salt-laden winds.

Contributed by Julie Ho. greater port macquarie focus 87

focus_media.

Jane Hillsdon, Principal Consultant of Dragonfly Marketing

Confessions of a Social Dragonfly How Google+ Can Help You Be Found Online There are currently over 350 million users of Google+ making it the second biggest kid

Print, Design & Websites

on the social media block after Facebook.

Snap Port Macquarie has been supporting your business, efficiently and cost effectively. the local community for over two decades.

While printing is in our DNA, websites and online We have a wealth of experience working with services are now at the core of our business local business and are a fully too. Snap recently passed a significant functional Centre for print, milestone of 500 websites built for design and websites. Our its clients, and to celebrate we’re clients come to us for g tin giving businesses the opportunity While prin , everything from print and A N D r to win a mobile website of is in ou e lin graphic design to online on d an their very own. To enter, simply websites w no and direct marketing, e ar es visit snap.com.au/win and tell servic r ou of and we deliver on all re co e us in 25 words or less how your th at counts. business too.” business would benefit from a

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mobile website. You don’t even need to be a current client to win!

Entries close 31 March 2014. Terms and conditions can be found at the link above.

The team at Snap Port Macquarie hopes you win, so we can help you deliver your best mobile website yet. Good luck, and we hope to see you in Centre!

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when th ople have a be tt ey offer a good er opinion of br mobile ex an perience. ds < 60% of mobile sh while in oppers us a store, e their another 50% to finsmartphones d a busin < 50% of ess. sm device as artphone owne rs us their prim ary intern e their mobile et source .

The primary reason you should consider integrating Google+ into your social media strategy is that it plays a major role in Search Engine Optimisation i.e. securing a much coveted Page 1 position on Google Search.

Google have very cleverly integrated the activity associated with Google+ into all of its different platforms, including Google Search, YouTube (owned by Google), Google Maps, Gmail, AdWords etc.

As an example of how this integration can work in your favour, when you conduct a search on Google for Dragonfly Marketing Port Macquarie, underneath the heading of my listing are the words ‘by Jane Hillsdon - in 50 Google+ circles’. Here Google has not only recognised my personal Google+

activity, but it’s now demonstrating a little ‘social proof’ (think how a busy restaurant can create more desire than an empty one) for my visitor.

Just as with any other social profile, in order to augment your results you must optimise your page and profile and post good content often. Use relevant keywords within your posts so that they will show up in your followers’ searches and seek out relevant users and conversations to connect with.

So who’s using Google+? In a nutshell people who are attracted to the ‘New’.

Innovators, techies and as far as I can gauge - its user base still has a stronger Gen Y male skew.

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88 greater port macquarie focus.

Jane Hillsdon 0420 853 283 jane@dragonflymarketing.com.au dragonflymarketing.com.au

Sign up for our regular e-newsletter which is packed to the brim with useful marketing advice at dragonflymarketing.com.au.

focusabode.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

property guide

shipway constructions greater port macquarie focus 89

focusabode.

shipway constructions

Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of viewing the renovation in Hastings Avenue that has transformed a once dated house into a modern, contemporary family home. enovated by Shipway Constructions, the home is an excellent example of the quality workmanship you will receive from Anthony and his team of highly skilled tradesmen; every time.

A standout in the street-scape, the home looks and feels brand new, you would never know that it was a renovation. The utilisation of James Hardie claddings and a mix of bold colours and textures add to the overall appeal.

Entry through a 1200 timber and horizontal glass panelled entrance door is into a hallway that divides and leads you through the home.

Bamboo flooring from Verde Bamboo, is the choice throughout all living areas of the 2

R

90

greater port macquarie focus.

storey dwelling and creates a warm contrast to the earthy tones of the walls and crisp white ceilings, expertly painted by Glenn of GN Painting & Decorating.

The ground floor comprises rumpus room, guest bathroom and rear deck. The rumpus provides a fantastic space for family members to entertain, and has external access to a Merbau deck through 3 glass stacker sliding doors, supplied by Mid Coast Windows.

Bamboo flooring continues throughout the living areas on the top level of the home with all bedrooms fully carpeted.

The 2nd level is made up of lounge, dining, kitchen, Master Bedroom with en-suite, 3 bed-

rooms and family bathroom. It is finished off perfectly with a screened balcony overlooking the back yard. Wonderful river and town views add to the appeal.

All bedrooms are of a good size and have been given a fresh coat of paint, installation of mirror fronted built-in robes from Robes @ Port, white timber shutters on the windows, new carpet and ceiling fans.

Bedroom 4 is the Master with en-suite. A generous room, it has a walk around wall to the his/hers walk in robe and en-suite, plus it's own access to the rear balcony. A stylish ensuite has been tiled floor to ceiling with white on three walls and a cream toned floor tile

on the remaining wall of the frameless glass shower recess.

The wall hung chocolate coloured vanity adds a touch of class along with the thin rectangle light fitting placed above the vanity mirror.

It is obvious that a great deal of collaboration by all involved has gone into the completion of this transformation; it is testament to the quality workmanship you receive every time from Shipway Constructions.

FROM THE BUILDER What was the home like before the reno, what did the owners want to achieve?

It was a partly renovated 2 bedroom build-

focusabode.

Quality Workmanship E ve ry Time “four bedroom triple garage, three bathroom home with an extra rumpus room and a rear entertaining area that maximises space, the view and the sea breeze, it is great for entertaining. ”

INNOVATIVE | AFFORDABLE | INDIVIDUAL

Proud to be associated with Shipway Constructions

Designing New Homes & Renovations for the Mid North Coast for over 10yrs

T: 6583 4411 www.collinswcollins.com.au DESIGN|COUNCIL|GRAPHICS|BASIX|ENERGY RATINGS

ing covered in Asbestos. The garage was not ideal, and was used for storage rather than car housing.

The main aim for Tim and Mel was to get a really nice 4 bedroom home with separate living areas and a down stairs bathroom for guests. They also wanted to make the most of the great outlook they have of the Hastings River and middle of town.

Were their any major problems during the build?

Apart from trying to get Tim and Mel back into their home ASAP, we had the Asbestos issue. This slowed things down a little while it was removed, I can safely say that there is no more Asbestos in the building.

With any renovation of this size, there will always be unforeseen situations, but we work with what we find and deal with it as it comes. Derek Collins from Collin W Collins worked with Tim and Mel to design the home to suit their needs and also worked the design for ease of construction. I am very pleased with the result and hope Tim and Mel enjoy their new home.

FROM THE OWNER – TIM HILLIER You chose Shipway Constructions for your renovation, how has it been working with Anthony?

Anthony and his crew have been extremely encouraging, reassuring and pleasant, and sometimes very comical which helps to relieve stress, throughout the whole process. Nothing has been an issue including normally stressful situations such as changes to roof line and deck, all has been dealt with in a professional manner exceeding our expectations.

I think I should mention that my wife Mel was very happy with Anthony from the first time we held discussions. Anthony never thought any of our ideas about the renovation were unobtainable and would offer advice and find a way to make it happen.

What's has been the major difference made to your home?

Size. We went from a 2 Bedroom, one bathroom single living area and single garage to a four bedroom triple garage, three bathroom home with an extra rumpus room and a rear entertaining area that maximises space, the view and the sea breeze, it is great for entertaining.

Would you recommend Shipway Constructions?

Absolutely without hesitation. The way he dealt with requests extras and changes of mind was amazing. We always felt we were on the same page with Anthony and there were never any nasty surprises with budget and or extras that often occur with a major renovation. Being both renovation novices and working to a rather tight budget Anthony made everything happen to our liking.

Thanks Tim.

focusabode.

shipway constructions

Anthony brings us another home in Beacon Court, an absolute stunner, the home has everything a young, growing family could want and more. The facade is eye-catching from street level, with a striking combination of varied roof lines, a modern colour palette combining a mixture of exterior claddings. uxurious from the onset, entry is via a Merbau timber entry landing, that is screened with white vertical panelling, through an aluminium framed extra wide glass entry door into the foyer.

Beautiful Southern Beech hardwood flooring is underfoot and has been used throughout all living areas,including the staircase to the upper level. Raked ceilings in the open plan living, dining and lounge rooms have a spacious, relaxed feel. An array of windows from Mid Coast Windows, have been placed at varying heights to allow for maximum air flow and also allow in plenty

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PROUD SUPPLIER TO SHIPWAY CONSTRUCTIONS

Amber PORT MACQUARIE 193 Lake Rd Ph: 6581 5066

92

amberport.com.au facebook.com/ambertiles

greater port macquarie focus.

of natural light making the home very comfortable. Both stylish venetian and roller blinds from Topstich Curtains & Blinds have been installed on all windows throughout allowing for both intimacy and privacy when desired.

An open plan living/dining opens out through glass stacker doors to the Merbau rear deck. Easily accessible from the kitchen, a fantastic entertainment space is provided with an outlook to the fully landscaped garden surrounds.

The modern kitchen has a bulk head ceiling line, it has been supplied and installed by the team at Port Kitchenworld and is a home

focusabode.

SH IPWAY NS CO N ST RU CT IO D IL ST R IV ES TO BU O M ER ST W H AT TH E CU BE ST E TH WA N TS TO , TY LI BI A R O F TH EI R W E ST R IV E FO D A N A CE EN LL CE EX FI N IS H TY LI H IG H Q UA O R K .”

IN A LL O U R W

“ cooks dream with all the mod cons in place.

From the Omega in bench induction hotplate with glass splash-back to the double Abey stainless steel sink and both under bench and over head cabinetry nothing has been forgotten. The large Caesar-stone island bench doubles as a breakfast bar and has deep, soft close drawers for further storage below.

Cleverly disguised is the home office, hidden away behind closed doors, it is found in the hall adjacent to the dining room and alongside one of the homes two linen presses.

A separate family room has been centrally located in close proximity to the children's bedrooms, along with a family bathroom with nice deep square set bath, glass walled shower , separate WC and laundry.

The carpeted Master bedroom with walk in robe and en-suite, is at the front of the home and is an ideal Parent's Retreat. Very spacious, the room has a walk in robe by Robes@Port that has plenty of storage, both

hanging and shelving one side and an ensuite the other. The en-suite has a fantastic, wide two draw wall hung vanity with large mirror above, glass walled shower recess, a ceiling fan and downlighting..

Remaining two bedrooms are fully carpeted, have a ceiling fan and built-in robe, they are very comfortable.

Overall the home is a brilliant design, it takes full advantage of it's varied roof line giving character internally via both raked and bulk head ceiling lines in the living areas. By having a mix of window styles, natural light and ventilation the home will be comfortable all year round and a pleasure to call home.

F R O M A N T H O N Y / S H I P W AY CONSTRUCTIONS Tell us a bit about your business - How long have you been operating and what

do you specialist in?

Shipway Constructions was formed 3 years ago, but I have been working in the construction industry in Port Macquarie for the past 13 years.

I am very proud to have a close association with many skilled local tradesmen and suppliers. This enables me to keep up to date with the newest innovations in products and services keeping Shipway Constructions at the forefront of the local building industry. My talented team of Nathan, Steve, Tom and our apprentice Matt strive to always provide a high quality of workmanship for our clients.

Shipway Constructions strives to build what the customer wants to the best of their ability, we strive for excellence and a high quality finish in all our work.

If potential owners have specific requirements do you accommodate and are your designs flexible?

Everything is flexible and I think that with a little planning and input from our clients, we can meet everyone’s personal requirements.

Our houses and developments are designed to look great, be wonderful to live in and are constructed using best building practice. For the buyer, this means two things: having the benefits of a beautiful, architect designed house that you love, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home will be built without delay and compromise.

How do we go about commissioning you to build for us?

Contact me by phone 0402 681 987 or email to anthonyshipway@live.com to discuss your new home or renovation. We can go over your requirements, whether you have a plan or not, maybe you have just an idea, I can take this and go from there.

Thanks Anthony.

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

property guide

E M O H D re a m

S A E ID

KITCHEN

caesarstone Since 1987, Caesarstone has been creating quartz surfaces in our state of the art manufacturing facilities utilising the most advanced technologies available with the highest standards of quality control and environmental responsibility.

Our Caesarstone Classico collection combines style and functionality with colours and designs that are ideal for numerous applications in both residential and commercial interiors, such as kitchen benchtops, splashbacks, bathroom wall panelling, custom made furniture and more.

Keena Kitchens is a HIA Kitchen Industry Award winning business specialising in kitchen design, renovations and new kitchens, owned and operated since 1983 by Graham and Sue Keena. We are proud to be associated with Caesarstone® and North Coast Marble and Granite, who offer a great variety of colour, choice and inspirational ideas for your new kitchen.

Caesarstone® is not only stylish, luxurious and super functional, but is hardwearing to cope with everyday use.

Our high standards in design, workmanship and personal service have been rewarded with HIA kitchen awards, along with numerous accolades from satisfied customers.

D re a m

HOME

IDEAS

1.

Sue and Graham are proud of their award winning reputation, which they recognise can only be achieved by having such a talented and devoted team behind them who are looking forward to being of service to you. ble & Granite North Coast Mar are pleased to The kitchen e® and Caesarston hen is not just for ce to have the kitc offer you the chan ed of at a discounted eam cooking anyyou’ve always dr hens, ith Hastings Kitc w er more, but the culinary th price. Toge aw’s Kitchens Sh d an ns he to socialise, tc trinity - the Ki Keena fering discounted new of e ar e w y, er entertain, sink, stove, in & Jo your nchtops as part of . Select run an ofrefrigerator, Caesarstone® be 14 ch 17 - April 11, 20 kitchen from Mar in the Caesarstone fice … Our all elegantly urs from 6 great colo ve your kitchen a goal at Hastincorporated d gi 20 mm range an l ings Kitchen with plenty of esarstone® is wel Ca . tz superior finish ar qu in er ad Company is hidden storage, le t arke recognised as a m e perfect choice if to reflect this, putting all your th benchtops and is a new kitchen.*” g together with kitchen essentials in you are consider innovative design conveniently at hand styles, compositions while maintaining a clean and functionality using the and clutter free kitchen. best quality materials.

For people who take cooking Hastings Kitchen Company Pty. Ltd., being a seriously, there is only one choice for bench tops. custom made joinery, can ensure easy access to Caesarstone® surfaces are resistant to stains and

“

scratches, leaving you with peace of mind that your bench tops will look as good as the day they were installed for a long time to come. With this special offer of Caesarstone® bench tops for the price of laminated bench tops, how can you choose anything else!

Shaws Kitchens and Joinery provides quality designer kitchens to your specifications.

Together with Caesarstone® and North Coast Marble and Granite, Shaws Kitchen and Joinery will be offering Caesarstone® 20mm benchtops at laminate price. Give your kitchen a superior finish with Caesarstone®. Call Shaws Kitchen and Joinery for an obligation-free quote today! *This offer is for a limited time and is for 20 mm benchtops only.

greater port macquarie focus 95

soft furnishings

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OME

IDEAS

2.

SPOTLIGHT PORT MACQUARIE

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potlight Port Macquarie has just been renovated and looks great. With so much to choose from and a store that covers everything from sewing, to party needs and soft furnishings for the home, Spotlight is your superstore here in Port Macquarie.

The renovations look great, Jo. Please tell us how the new look store will help all customers?

Our new store layout has a series of stores within our store, with separate ‘rooms’ for all the different types of stock we carry. There is, for instance, our bath area, which has all our bathroom products such as towels, shower curtains, bath mats, accessories etc. I think our customers will love the concept, as it makes it a lot easier to find the products that they are looking for, and everything is so bright and fresh.

96 greater port macquarie focus.

Spotlight has many different departments under one roof and a huge range of products and services. What some of these?

We have some exciting new additions in our new store. We now have a Spartys Inflation Station, where people can order their balloons for parties and purchase all their party supplies.

Over in Home Décor you will find our new appliance range, with samples on display of the appliances we carry. Our new cushion wall looks spectacular, and the rug department is much easier to shop, with all rug designs displayed for easy selection.

We have some stunning displays in the Sew Centre, which will inspire our customers to create and new self-serve pattern drawers, where you can select the right patterns for you.

If people were looking for that perfect finish when it comes to their home, how can

Spotlight help?

In the furnishing department we have a new self-serve kiosk where you can order curtains to your measurements and have them in 14 days. We also have a wonderful new Custom Made Curtain and Blind display and a new consultant, Robert, who is an interior designer who will come out to the home and measure and quote for all your window furnishing requirements.

Our Bouclair range is currently featured at the front of the store; the mix and match decorator accessories are designed in Canada and are the ideal finishing touch to any room.

The range changes every 12 weeks, so it keeps abreast of the latest trends in home furnishings.

Soft furnishings are an essential part to one’s home. Can you tell us why?

Soft furnishings are like the icing on the cake; they finish the room and turn a house into a home. They add warmth in the winter and bright pops of colour in the summer and truly express the home owner’s personality.

You can also save on power bills by adding curtains or blinds to your windows, so your house is better insulated and is naturally cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. If you add a pelmet over the top of the window, you stop the heat transfer occurring at the top of the window.

So please come and check out our wonderful new store; the team and I are very excited and can’t wait to make your shopping trip an exceptional experience. And even though we have a fantastic new look, you will still find Bargains Galore at Your Spotlight Store.

Tile & grout cleaning • carpet cleaning • pest control

before

after

3.

accredited cleaning & pest solutions We are your local owner operated business who thrive on referrals and are confident you will get the best service and results every time.

The WOW factor combined with affordable prices, quality, service and excellence.

Dirty Grout Accredited Grout Colour Sealing: looks and feels like grout • Creates clean and sanitary grout lines • Eliminates the need to remove and replace grout • Changes the feel of the floor by changing the colour • Brand new look, without the renovation price tag Our full range of services will suit all your tile and grout cleaning needs, both residential and commercial

Dirty grout services Tile cleaning, grout restoration, grout recolouring (old and new), tile and grout sealing and silicone replacement.

Dirty grout services recommended for: Home owners, developers, renovators, builders, strata managers, property managers, plumbers and sellers.

Mould removal and remediation If visible mould is present in your property - 'act quickly' especially after water damage, as this can lead to serious health problems.

Accredited Cleaning and Pest Solutions are experts in mould removal and remediation. We offer proven professional mould remediation techniques, to make your property safe.

We offer 24 hour wet carpet and flood emergency.

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Furniture

interior design

6.

7.

OZ DESIGN Furniture For over 30 years Oz Design Furniture has been focused on delivering a complete affordable and inspiring collection of furniture and homewares, creating beautiful living spaces for all Australians.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a stunning collection offering a wide range of looks to suit all homes and lifestyles. We have fabric and leather sofas, dining tables, entertainment units, storage solutions, accessories and much more. We understand that individual customers have different spaces, tastes and budgets. We are called Oz Design for a reason; we pride ourselves in giving choice to our customers. Our knowledgeable and friendly sales staff can encourage you to give great designs an individual touch, whether by colour, stain, size, material pattern or shape; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all up to you. Much of our furniture is Australian made and we make sure that quality, design, value and especially customer service, are the complete package at Oz Design. The entire team and ownership at Oz are locals and like you, we know how fortunate we are to live, work and play in this spectacular region. We are open 7 days with free parking and offer a local delivery service. We invite you to visit the shop at your earliest convenience.

DALLAPE CHANT Dallape Chant is an independent interior design studio that offers clients interior design, colour concepts, decoration, product sourcing and styling. Kathryn Hooper, owner of Dallape Chant, graduated in 2011 with a Diploma of Commercial Arts (Interior Decoration and Design) and is also a Graduate member of the Design Institute of Australia.

Since opening Dallape Chant in 2012, Kathryn has worked with both residential and commercial clients from simple interior and exterior colour schemes, kitchen renovations, bathroom makeovers, full interior renovations, boardroom installations and has even completed an event styling project.

When working with clients, Kathryn focuses on five main areas: planning, layout, materials, styling and execution. Her involvement in each project can be as little or as much as the client needs. t. 0438 262 095 e. kathryn@dallapechant.com.au w. www.dallapechant.com.au

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paint and wallpaper

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bristol paints and wallpaper Inspiration comes from many varied sources, so when you are looking for ideas and direction in choosing colours, look at what you surround yourself with. It may be the earthy natural tones from shells collected on the beach, or bright colours from floral arrangements that capture your eye. Your best starting point is to create a collage of photos and items that inspire you. Once you start, you will see a natural direction in which to head.

At Bristol we offer a complimentary design service, where we can assist you in bringing all of your ideas together to create the perfect space. You may be inclined to use blocks of colour to complement your space, or the purest of whites for simplicity, or even layering of textures and tones to bring a beautiful

warmth to your home. When designing your space, look at the overall picture, creating a space that flows effortlessly from one room to the next.

At Bristol can we advise you on both internal and external colour selections; come armed with photos, fabrics swatches and kitchen and tile selections, and let us assist you to bring your ideas to life.

Choosing colours and designing your space should be inspiring and a true reflection of yourself and how that space needs to work for you, your family, or even your workplace.

LIKE us on Facebook - BRISTOL PAINTS PORT MACQUARIE to keep up to date with the latest trends and in store specials.

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www.percival.com.au

M I C H E L L E

P E R C I V A L

M I C H A E L

REAL ESTATE

P E R C I V A L

MARCH IS THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE START OF MY REAL ESTATE CAREER

is not just about property; it is about people. At Percival Property we really focus on our clients; our aim is to deliver 'FIRST CLASS SERVICE' and build strong long term relationships.

30 NOT OUT!

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A

lot has changed in the world since I started in real estate in March 1984. The only tweets you heard in those days came from birds, the closest thing to Google was 26 big heavy volumes of Encyclopaedia Brittanica, and the only way to make your phone mobile was to attach it to a really long cord.

5 CRUMMER STREET SOLD PRIOR TO AUCTION More than 55 inspections during our three week campaign of this charming beach cottage resulted in a fabulous outcome for both the vendor and the purchaser. We achieved an unconditional exchange of contracts in less than 30 days and secured a brilliant new tenant at $400 pw for the new owner, commencing on settlement. To be able to offer the complete real estate service to our clients is paramount for us.

A WORD FROM OUR HAPPY CLIENTS â&#x20AC;Ś Kelly and I would like to extend our sincere thanks and gratitude for all of your hard work.

We were supremely impressed with your commitment and approach to selling our house. The confidence we drew from your tireless efforts was greatly welcomed. All the best for the future and continued success.

- Jeremy & Kelly (Vendors) My experience with Percival Property has been extremely positive from my first meeting at the open house with both Michelle and Jenny. The negotiating with the vendor through Michelle and finding tenants with Michael and his team has all been very professional, but also very warm and engaging. I have felt very informed throughout the entire process, and they have always had time to address any queries I had. I look forward to a long association with Percival Property and their team.

- Amanda (Purchaser)

PERCIVAL P R O P E R T Y

The rate and volume of change in the last 30 years has been quite mind boggling, with everything from communication to cars improving exponentially in ways that are almost impossible to believe if you hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t actually lived through the last three decades.

The real estate business has had a lot of changes since 1984 mainly in the way properties are marketed, the way we stay in touch with our clients and the widespread use of electronic tools to make our life a little easier.

When the internet burst onto the scene about 17 years ago I had a few misgivings, because I thought there was the possibility that our role in the process of promoting, selling and managing property might be diminished as a result of the introduction of the World Wide Web. As it turns out there is nothing that replaces the skills of a good agent in creating great marketing, giving the right advice to owners and purchasers and using their experience to facilitate the best result for everyone involved in the transaction.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OFFICE 4/111 William Street, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 7499

The one area of real estate practice that has seen the least change over 30 years has been property management. My recollections of the job back in the early eighties are of meticulously going through a home, conducting a very thorough inspection noting every mark and scuff, taking a lot of photos and ensuring that regular inspections took place, all with the aim of protecting the condition of the valuable homes we cared for.

Apart from using computers instead of paper, nothing has changed in the meantime, except perhaps that owners and tenants have higher expectations of the services an agent should provide.

If anything the skills and responsibilities of property managers have had to rise to keep up with the growing awareness of safety issues, the increasing costs of rents and repairs and the importance for owners to have continuity of income.

There is a reason why Percival Property employs a large number of skilled team members at our specialist property management office, and that is because of our strong desire to provide the highest possible service and take the best possible care of the valuable property that is entrusted to us.

30 years of experience has taught me that computers are good, but skilled people are better when it comes to caring for the assets of our clients.

SALES OFFICE 106 William Street, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 8606

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Getting Real with David Plews!

Well, the new real estate year has certainly commenced with a bang.

Leading real estate agents in Port Macquarie have a problem.

The last three months have been fantastic in the Port Macquarie real estate market with the volume of sales achieved; however, this is where the problem begins.

As I write this, www.realestate. com.au shows that Port Macquarie currently has only 562 properties for sale. It wasn’t unusual in recent times for the town to have near 1,000 for sale signs in the streets. This is almost a fifty per cent reduction of properties listed for sale.

A year ago, I had 18 properties for sale on my books, while today I have just six - so yes, I am one of those agents with a problem. Based on this data, it’s a fantastic time to sell.

Property values have increased and the days on the market for selling have dramatically decreased, so generally vendors are getting them sold and on their way.

You are so well ni orga sed - Shirley Barnett.”

“

As confidence has increased in the market place, so too has the interest of buyers, and the number of properties for sale has not kept pace. This has resulted in a rise in values across most property segments within Port Macquarie. According to RP DATA, the median selling price for the town in January 2013 was $388,000; however, the figure for January 2014 was $435,000.

If you are considering selling, feel free to contact me for a catch up about what the market may pay to get you on your way to live the life that you want.

On another note, I was recently reading the Sydney Morning Herald, and 20 economic experts from numerous financial institutions across the country were giving their predictions on the next move by the Reserve Bank in regard to interest rates.

They were virtually evenly split, which is quite interesting - who knows what the next move will be.

This article has been prepared in good faith with due care by David Plews.

No representation or warranty is made as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and readers should make and rely on their own enquiries as to the correctness of such information.

LOCAL | QUALIFIED | PROVEN mobile 0448 836 000 email david@portmacquariefn.com.au 69 Horton St, Port Macquarie

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PORT MACQUARIE AC A DE M Y OF

The Port Macquarie Music Academy has just opened the doors to their new premises.

Chrissy Jones spoke with proud owner Anne Russell ...

T

ell us about your brand new, purpose built facility.

Port Macquarie Academy of Musicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new premises at 22 Chestnut Road in Port Macquarie has 7 sound proof studios equipped with quality instruments, sound systems and internet facilities.

Our large concert/rehearsal room will be used for concerts, recording, band rehearsals, workshops, master classes, school holiday, toddler and adult music programs and music examinations. It boasts a stage complete with drum kit, piano, 55 cm flat screen TV, Yamaha Mixing Desk and internet facilities with an off stage area for performers.

The Port Macquarie Academy of Music has a

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dedicated room to store the many resources the teachers use to enhance students' learning. The kitchen is complete with a servery which opens into the concert room - great for refreshments at various functions.

What was the building used for prior to the renovation?

The building had been used previously by 2 food preparation entities that we know of, making the conversion to professional music studios a massive undertaking!

Who designed the layout?

Prior to lodging our development application with Council, my husband, Michael, and fatherin-law, John, and I spent many weeks drawing plans and considering what had worked for the

past 22 years in previous premises and what we would like to change for the better with our new place. We had an 8 week window to get a DA through Council and the works completed during the Christmas holiday period in readiness for lessons to recommence on 3 February 2014.

Any problems, hurdles or difficulties during construction?

Our biggest hurdle was whether we would be able to contract tradesmen to carry out the refit and purchase materials over the Christmas period in addition to getting Council approval in time to reopen. As often happens in major undertakings such as this, there was always going to be minor hurdles to overcome as the project progressed.

Fortunately, everyone was dedicated, punctual,

reliable and genuinely interested in the project.

Our planning ahead of settlement early in December was crucial in completing the refit a week ahead of schedule.

How did the new premises come about?

An opportunity to purchase a property presented itself at about the same time as our lease was up for renewal at the end of last year. We decided to take the opportunity to invest in the future of our expanding business. Although we had terrific contractors on the job, it was still necessary to put in many 12 hour days ourselves.

I remember painting the carpark by the headlights of the car at 10pm one Thursday night â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to get it done before Council inspection! The things you do!

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How does it benefit students?

The students now have the comfort of ducted air-conditioning in every studio, which is especially appreciated on very hot days; parents enjoy waiting in the cool reception area sitting on the comfy lounge!

The internet access in each studio enables us to harness the latest online learning tools and technology, which enhances the whole learning experience for our students.

Perhaps the biggest benefit of the new premises is that we no longer have to go off site for our concerts and workshops and we have instruments and sound gear permanently set on stage.

The Port Macquarie Academy of Music also has rehearsal facilities, so we can put more ensembles and bands together and we can record performances and compositions - another opportunity

for b budding musicians! HSC students in particular In March we will use the concert room for will benefit from the recording and performance theory workshops as candidates begin final oppo opportunities. preparations for their exams in May. Although The There are several studios; tell us about their these theory exams will have an independent individual purpose. supervisor, candidates will enjoy familiar We now have 7 teaching stusurroundings. dios and the rehearsal/conThe recording facilities have The internet cert room, but everything already been put to good use, access in each is interchangeable long with a local band recording to studio enables us term and there’s room some original tracks within st harness the late to add more studios if the fi rst 2 weeks of opens ol to online learning hich we need them in the ing, and we invite other w , and technology le ho future. Currently, the ensembles and bands to take w e enhances th r fo ce en ri pe studios are designated advantage of the rehearsal ex learning for singing, keyboard/ and recording facilities availour students.” piano, drums, guitar, violin able for hire at the Academy of and brass and woodwind with Music. internet and a sound system for Who are some of the music acadbacking tracks etc at the teacher’s fingeremy teachers, and what do they offer tips. Our ‘Toddler Tooters’ music classes for students? pre-schoolers are held in the concert room, All our teachers have formal qualifications in so we have plenty of space to dance, sing, play their chosen instrument and music theory and percussion instruments, and the wet area is ideal are approved for ‘Working with Children’. They for craft which is incorporated in these classes. have a wealth of knowledge and experience as

“

both teachers and musicians. Specialised training enables us to provide students of all ages the best opportunity to enjoy learning an instrument or singing either for enjoyment and relaxation, or with a view to following a career in music.

Teaching staff include: Anne Russell - piano, keyboard, theory, early childhood and adult classes.

Peter Harries - drums and theory.

Laurie Baxter - guitar, theory, early childhood, recording and composition.

Debbie Brown - piano, keyboard and theory.

Elisabeth Jurans - piano, keyboard and theory.

Greta Warner - voice and theory.

Josephine Galante - voice and theory.

Hylda Apps - violin and theory.

Ashleigh Wall - brass and woodwind instruments and theory.

How do readers contact you about lessons?

Anne from Port Macquarie Academy of Music can be contacted on 0412 071 162, email: music_academy@bigpond.com or via the website: www.portmacquarieacademyofmusic.com Thanks Anne.

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Frazzled Heron by Frank Kolver

Jenny by Wayne Kirk

HARRY BRYANT Hastings

Photography Group Inc. Nitty Gritty by Wayne Kirk

If you have a passion for photography, no matter what your skill level, and you would like to improve your skills under expert guidance, you’ll find a group of likeminded people in Port Macquarie. President of the Hastings Photography Group Inc, Harry Bryant, explains what’s involved with being a member of the group …

H

i Harry. What types of photography are you interested in?

I like to photograph people, landscapes, and I particularly like macro photography, such as insects and flowers.

Macro photography can be quite difficult, because you have to use the right camera settings, ensure you have the right light, and the creature you’re photographing has to stand still!

Where did your passion for photography start?

At the age of 18, I joined the Royal Air Force, where I served in Germany. After my service with the RAF, I returned to the UK and later came to Australia.

I have served in Papua New Guinea and on other overseas posts, and I’ve always had a camera with me. I even used it for work, when I was in the Papua New Guinea Police Force.

I used to do a lot of darkroom work – I could lock myself in the dark room and disappear for hours!

How did you become involved with the Hastings Photography Group?

I was invited to the group about two years ago by a member and friend of mine. I joined and was appointed to the job of print steward.

Then, late last year I was elected as President.

How long has the group been in existence?

It’s been in existence for just over three years now.

When and where do you meet, and what happens at these meetings?

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We meet in the St Thomas’ Church Hall.

The club has two meetings per month, on the first and third Tuesdays, starting at 7pm and concluding at around 9pm.

The first Tuesday is print night, where members submit their prints for competitions. The third Tuesday of the month is our digital night, and members upload and submit their digital images to our website.

At the meetings we view the images which have been sent to the independent judges by post; the digital images are judged on our website. The judges award scores from 0 - 15 and also provide written comments, which are read out to the members. These comments are very important, as they provide constructive criticism of the images.

Our judges come from all over NSW and are appointed by the Federation of Camera Clubs, NSW. The second part of our meetings involve a speaker - either someone from outside the club, or one of our own members, or we discuss a topic of interest.

In addition to this, we’ve started holding Saturday Tutorials in the morning, also in the St Thomas’ Church Hall. At our last tutorial, our experts showed members how to get the most out of their digital cameras. Next month we will hold a session on using flash.

From time to time we also organise outings to places of photographic interest.

How many members are currently in the group?

We have 50 members now, ranging from expert to beginner. The majority of people have single lens reflex cameras; Nikon and Canon appear to be the predominant cameras, but members can use any type of digital camera.

We have quite a few retired people experienced? who are members of the group, but some Some of our members have entered members who are still working - so there’s a national and international competitions. wide spread of ages.

One of our members, Kevin Ho, won a A lot of young people are showing an significant prize in 2012 and had his image interest and learning photography at school exhibited in an Australian travel magazine. these days, and we encourage them to join One of the regular competitions is the us too.

Northern Zone, where all the clubs from On average, we’d have around northern NSW can enter and submit 25 people turning up at entries, which are judged by a fortnightly Tuesday panel of judges. meetings.

If members win prizes, We have 50 , A huge focus for it enhances their members nowt to the group is individual reputation per ranging fromeex obviously the and the credibility ty ri o aj beginner. Th emsingle competition of our club as well. of people havmeras; aspect. Why is This competition is lens reflex ca on appear this? coming up in May, an C d Nikon an t an in m o d The general and there will be re p e to be th bers em m t u b belief is if you a large number of , as er cam e of p ty y an want to learn and clubs involved. se u n ca to improve your What fees are digital camera. ” photography, you’ll involved with being submit images, so an a member of the independent judge can group? critique them and give guidance The fees are $40 per year for about how you could improve your membership, and on Tuesday night images, either in photographing the meetings members pay a $4 attendance pictures or in post processing the images fee, which goes towards coffee, biscuits and on your computer. How much support club expenses. are you able to provide beginning How can those interested in joining the photographers? club find out more information?

We try to run sessions specifically for all First, I’d suggest looking at our website: levels including beginners; for example, if www.hastingsphotogroup.com.au there are a few new people, we would put They can call me on 6582 4036 or email them together with one of our experts - so me: harrybryant@bigpond.com they practice using their cameras under the People can also just turn up on a Tuesday guidance of a mentor. night, or they can download an application What are some of the achievements/ for membership from the website. successes various group members have Thanks Harry. - Interview by Jo Atkins.

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